News: New pool to be launched next month

The new Tennant creek Swimming Pool will be officially launched on 2 November.

Posted: Tuesday, 13 October 2015

Barkly Regional Council (BRC) President Barb Shaw has announced that the multi-million dollar pool complex will be opened by Senator the Hon. Nigel Scullion, Senator for the Northern Territory and Minister for Indigenous Affairs, on Monday 2 November at 2pm.
“We are honoured to have Senator Scullion attend our launch and look forward to celebrating the new swimming pool complex with the community,” President Shaw said.
Council secured funding of $3.6 million from the Federal Government’s Community Development Grant, which also included upgrading the amenities at the town’s main sporting oval, Purkiss Reserve.
Along with the Australian Government grant, other funding sources included BRC ($679,350), the NT Government ($250,000), Anyinginyi Health Aboriginal Corporation ($20,000), plus YDU Demons Football Club, Bella Hairdressing and the late Mr Eddie Taylor ($650).
Part of the project includes the innovative design of the 25m lap pool, a learn-to-swim pool and a toddler’s pool into a single structure, addressing accessibility issues with a beach-style entry for all patrons.
There’s also a water park splash pad for children, upgraded change rooms and a new administration building incorporating office, first aid, coffee shop, kitchen and mechanical water treatment equipment.
“The construction crew have been working extra hard to complete the complex in time for the launch,” President Shaw said. “It is an exciting development for Tennant Creek and its inhabitants and for people from outlying communities as well as visitors.”
Council is also calling on anyone who has photographs and memories of the pool when it was first built and the opening by celebrated Olympian swimmer Dawn Fraser on 17 December 1967.
Please email Ktima Heathcote, PR & Events Manager, on ktima.heathcote@barkly.nt.gov.au if you can assist.