Local schools set to benefit from indoor pool

Published on 04 June 2026

Excitement is building across Moorabool Shire, with local schools and families looking forward to the long-awaited indoor aquatic centre following the signing of the Federal funding agreement.

The milestone confirms the project is moving ahead, bringing a year-round aquatic facility closer to reality and paving the way for local students to access vital swimming and water safety education right here in their own community.

Currently, many local schools are required to bus students outside the shire to access suitable facilities for swimming lessons – a challenge that will soon be a thing of the past.

Mayor Cr Steve Venditti-Taylor said the project would deliver lasting benefits for young people and families across Moorabool.

“This is an incredibly exciting step forward for our community, and particularly for our school students and families,” Cr Venditti-Taylor said.

“For many years, local students have had to travel outside the shire to access swimming programs. The indoor aquatic centre will change that, providing a modern, accessible facility right on our doorstep. Our Bacchus Marsh schools are excited, as are primary schools across the shire.”

Principal of St Patrick’s Primary School in Gordon Paul McDowell said the new facility would make a significant difference for students and staff.

“Having a high-quality indoor aquatic centre in Moorabool will be a game-changer for our school,” Mr McDowell said.

“At the moment, organising swimming lessons involves significant travel, time out of the classroom and additional cost for families. Being able to access these programs locally will make it easier for more students to take part.”

Principal of St Brigid’s Primary School in Ballan Jayne Bosworth said the centre would play a key role in building essential life skills.

“Learning to swim is a critical life skill, particularly in a country like Australia where water is part of everyday life,” Ms Bosworth said.

“This facility will help ensure our students gain the confidence and skills they need to stay safe around water, while also making lessons more accessible and consistent.”

The new indoor aquatic centre will provide dedicated learn-to-swim facilities and year-round access, enabling schools to plan consistent programs without the challenges of travel, weather or limited availability.

Cr Venditti-Taylor said the project would remove barriers for schools and families while supporting health and wellbeing outcomes.

“Having these facilities within our shire will make a huge difference for teachers, students and parents,” he said.

“It reduces travel time, lowers costs, and ensures more students can take part in regular swimming lessons.”

The indoor aquatic centre will also serve as a major community hub, delivering benefits for residents of all ages and abilities and supporting recreation, fitness and social connection.

Keep up to date on progress of this project via our website: moorabool.vic.gov.au/marc