An Olympic-Sized Announcement: $4.9 Million to Help Moree Artesian Aquatic Centre Redevelopment

Moree Plains Shire Council is delighted to announce that it has received $4.9 million to commence the redevelopment of the Moree Artesian Aquatic Centre (MAAC). The announcement was made yesterday, 29 June, by Member for Northern Tablelands Adam Marshall, who was joined by Mayor Mark Johnson, Councillors and Council staff.

The grant is the result of Council’s application to the NSW Government’s Multi-Sport Community Facility Fund, which was submitted in February 2022.

Moree Plains Shire Council Mayor Mark Johnson said this is wonderful news for the Shire and that it’s a big step forward.

“We would like to thank the community for its continued patience, and I am elated to finally share with you an update that is going to get things moving”, said Mayor Johnson.

“The MAAC is iconic and its redevelopment has been a high priority for Council.”

Mayor Johnson said the $16.3 million MAAC redevelopment project will first focus on the construction of a new 50-metre Olympic-sized swimming pool, seating and clubhouse, as well as the installation of a new heating plant.

“The project is going to be staged and—once the initial work has been completed—both hot pools and program pool will be upgraded”, said Mayor Johnson.

“This work also includes improving the gym entry, wellness centre and the reception/café areas.”

Mayor Johnson added that Council aims to sign off and approve the project at the July Ordinary Council Meeting.

“Following the approval process, Council’s goal is to go to tender by September and construction to begin in early 2023”, said Mayor Johnson.

“Moree has been without a 50-metre pool for far too long and it’s return will greatly benefit the community’s wellbeing and will bring more tourists to our beautiful town.”

In July 2021, Council was allocated $999,358 from the NSW Government’s Regional Sport Facility Fund to help in the clubhouse’s construction.

Council is also waiting on an application outcome from the Australian Government’s Building Better Regions Fund, which would also be utilised for the MAAC’s redevelopment if successful.

“I’d like to thank Adam Marshall MP and the NSW Government for their continued support”, added Mayor Johnson.

Photo- From left: Cr Kelly James, Deputy Mayor Susannah Pearse, Mayor Mark Johnson, Member for Northern Tablelands Adam Marshall and Cr Mekayla Cochrane at the site of the 50-metre pool redevelopment.