Volume Two – Supporting Resources Sunshine Coast Aquatic Plan/media/Corporate/... · 2015-11-14 · Sunshine Coast Aquatic Plan Volume Two 5 1.1. DESCRIPTION OF CURRENT ASSET Location

Volume Two –Supporting Resources

Sunshine Coast

Aquatic Plan 2011-2026

Sunshine Coast Aquatic Plan Volume Two

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TABLE OF CONTENTS COUNCIL OWNED AQUATIC CENTRE FACILITY REVIEW.............................................................. 4

1. BEERWAH AQUATIC CENTRE.................................................................................................................. 4

2. BUDERIM AQUATIC CENTRE................................................................................................................... 8

3. CALOUNDRA AQUATIC CENTRE ........................................................................................................... 12

4. COOLUM-PEREGIAN AQUATIC CENTRE ................................................................................................ 17

5. COTTON TREE AQUATIC CENTRE ......................................................................................................... 22

6. EUMUNDI AQUATIC CENTRE ................................................................................................................ 27

7. KAWANA AQUATIC CENTRE................................................................................................................. 32

8. KINGS BEACH OCEAN POOL & SPRAY PARK........................................................................................ 36

9. NAMBOUR AQUATIC CENTRE ............................................................................................................... 39

10. NOOSA AQUATIC CENTRE................................................................................................................ 44

11. PALMWOODS AQUATIC CENTRE....................................................................................................... 49

12. TEWANTIN WADING POOL ............................................................................................................... 54

COMMUNITY AND SCHOOL POOLS FACILITY REVIEW ................................................................ 57

1. POMONA............................................................................................................................................... 58

2. COOROY SCHOOL POOL........................................................................................................................ 60

3. CONONDALE COMMUNITY POOL .......................................................................................................... 62

4. MALENY SCHOOL POOL ....................................................................................................................... 64

5. TEWANTIN STATE SCHOOL POOL ......................................................................................................... 67

6. KENILWORTH COMMUNITY POOL......................................................................................................... 69

7. MOUNTAIN CREEK ............................................................................................................................... 72

8. MOOLOOLAH COMMUNITY POOL ......................................................................................................... 73

BENCHMARKING ........................................................................................................................................ 76

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT.................................................................................................................. 78

1. COMMUNITY SURVEY........................................................................................................................... 78

2. AT POOL “INTERCEPT SURVEYS” ......................................................................................................... 93

3. SUNSHINE COAST FOCUS GROUPS...................................................................................................... 106

4. MEETINGS WITH COUNCILLORS.......................................................................................................... 110

5. MEETINGS WITH COUNCIL STAFF ....................................................................................................... 111

6. YOUTH CONSULTATION...................................................................................................................... 111


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7. STATE SPORTING ORGANISATIONS..................................................................................................... 113

AQUATIC LITERATURE REVIEW......................................................................................................... 116

1. SUNSHINE COAST REGIONAL COUNCIL CORPORATE PLAN 2009 - 2014............................................. 116

2. RECREATION STRATEGY FOR CALOUNDRA CITY-2004 ...................................................................... 116

3. NOOSA SPORT AND RECREATION PLAN, 2004 .................................................................................... 117

4. MAROOCHY SPORTS STRATEGY PLAN REVIEW, 2004 ........................................................................ 119

5. SUNROC REGIONAL SPORT & RECREATION FACILITY STUDY (2005 – 2020).................................... 119

6. HEALTHY NEIGHBOURHOODS: A REPORT ON PHYSICAL ACTIVITY LOCAL ENVIRONMENTS AND FOOD

HABITS ON THE SUNSHINE COAST AND IN COOLOOLA ................................................................................ 120

7. NOOSA COUNCIL PHYSICAL ACTIVITY REVIEW AND EVALUATION (DRAFT REPORT), 2006 .............. 121

8. PLANNING FOR A SUSTAINABLE SUNSHINE COAST A STATEMENT OF PROPOSALS FOR A NEW PLANNING

SCHEME, 2009 ............................................................................................................................................. 121

9. CALOUNDRA AQUATIC FACILITY NEEDS STUDY, 2005 ...................................................................... 122


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COUNCIL OWNED AQUATIC CENTRE FACILITY

REVIEW

1. BEERWAH AQUATIC CENTRE

Age: TBA Address: Roberts Rd, Beerwah

Main 25m pool Open air program pool


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1.1. DESCRIPTION OF CURRENT ASSET

Location

The Beerwah Aquatic Centre is located in another growing region of the Sunshine Coast. The facility is bordered by a large dry sports ground and school. Open Times

Beerwah Aquatic is open 5.30am to 6pm during the summer and 8-10am and 3-5pm during the cooler months. Features

Pool Water space Heated Shade10 lane 25m lap pool 625 m2 Yes No toddler leisure pool 72 m2 No Yes program pool 40 m2 Yes Yes

� The pool plant is in very sound condition and only minor maintenance is required � Because of the lush vegetation surrounding the facility, the operator is required to manually clean the

main pool, assisted by the use of a large portable vacuum. This is causing the pool surface (paint) to constantly deteriorate. It would therefore be advisable to consider tiling the surface of the 25m pool given that its structural appearance is sound.

� At present there are no aids/designs to facilitate pool access for persons with a disability. Car park

This area has plenty of potential for future growth. The facility has a major problem with insufficient parking Amenities

The amenities block and kiosk are all of sufficient size for the current operations. First Aid

There is a sufficient first aid room attached to the amenities building and of sufficient size for the current operations.

1.2. KEY RESEARCH FINDINGS FOR BEERWAH

Description or Feedback Source• The pool is highly regarded by the local population and is reportedly

working at capacity in 2010 Management & Council

• Development of Health and Fitness facility Community Survey • Development of 50 metre lap pool Community Survey • Growing region of the Sunshine Coast needs master planning. Rapid

growth took place from the early 1990s, with the population doubling between 1991 and 2006, a result of large numbers of new dwellings being added to the area.

Community Survey Project Observation Council Data


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• Satisfaction levels +54.5% v -36.4% Community Survey • More pool space required – Schools compete for bookings Community Survey

School Survey • Car Parking and overcrowding are causing dissatisfaction Community Survey

1.3. CURRENT MANAGEMENT ARRANGEMENTS

Management agreement to 31st July 2013

1.4. 2009/10 FINANCIAL IMPACT TO COUNCIL

Beerwah Aquatic CentreRevenues received by council $0.00 Expenses $198,203

Net Operating Profit / Subsidy $198,203 2009/2010 Capital works $80,000

Note, net operating subsidy figure above does not include depreciation of $37,868 due to inequities in depreciation figures attributed across various aquatic centres.

1.5. INDICATIVE BEERWAH 10KM POPULATION CATCHMENT

Based on a 10km population catchment area for this facility the catchment population as at the 2006 census is estimated to be 13,494 persons.

1.6. CENTRE FOR ENVIRONMENT AND RECREATION MANAGEMENT

BENCHMARK PROJECTIONS

Based on the 2008/09 CERM Benchmark for attendances and applying the estimated catchment population from the 2006 Census data , this Centre would be generating annual attendances of circa 17,500 per annum. (Group 5, CM = 1.3)

1.7. INDICATIVE ATTENDANCE BY SUBURB


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� Beerwah Aquatic Centre is a district facility servicing more than just the locality of Beerwah.

1.8. OTHER OBSERVATIONS

� Council has leased the operations of this complex to a private operator who is maximising the use of all water space through a number of programs.

� A master plan is being developed for this centre integrating it with the sports ground adjacent. There are investigations underway into the construction of a 50m swimming pool/leisure water and other improvements

� The area is extremely popular for visitors to Australia Zoo. � This locality may be a preferred site to construct a leisure water facility, as it is far enough away from

the beaches and could provide a significant aquatic feature and entertainment area for youth and the young families who are forecast to move to this area.

1.9. ASSESSMENT AGAINST BENCHMARKS

� Minor District with scope to investigate being upgraded to a Major District facility. It is regarded as the main hinterland training centre.

� Beerwah is an identified Major Activity Centre with in the South East Queensland Regional Plan. � Future growth indicated the need to investigate the future expansion, as detailed further in the

conducted Draft Beerwah Aquatic Feasibility Study (to be released for public review following the council October meeting cycle).

1.10. RECOMMENDATIONS AND CONCLUSIONS

� A Royal Life Saving Society safety audit will recommend upgrades to signage, etc., bringing it all into line with current standards.

� Review management arrangements with adjacent sportsfield, seeking synergies and maximising resource benefits.

� Implement recommendations identified in the Beerwah Aquatic Feasibility Study.


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2. BUDERIM AQUATIC CENTRE

Age: TBA Address: 44 Main St, Buderim

School Pool adjacent to Buderim Aquatic Centre Buderim 25 metre pool and Program Pool


Location

The Buderim Aquatic Centre is located in the centre of the main street of Buderim. It borders the local school which also has a swimming pool.


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Open Times

Buderim operates all year round.

Features

Pool Water space Heated Shade6 lane 25m lap pool 275m2 Yes No program pool 60m2 Yes Yes

The pool plant is in sound condition with only minor maintenance require for the heat pumps and water pumps. The facility is leased to a private operator who offers a number of programs including an indoor/outdoor gymnasium

Car Park

Even though carpark for this centre has recently been re surfaced, there is still limited parking at the site. A lot of users are having to park across the street in shopping centre parking.

Amenities

Although the construction of the amenities block is sound, they will require a refurbishment in the future.

First Aid

The First Aid Room has been consumed by gymnasium equipment will benefit from being converted back into a designated First Aid room.

2.2. KEY RESEARCH FINDINGS FOR BUDERIM AQUATIC CENTRE

Description or Feedback SourceNeeds more lane space Community Survey

Management Upgrade of change amenities will be warranted in future Project Observation Lack of storage space Management

Project Observation


The current lease is due to expire to 30th September 2010. A new management agreement is currently being finalised which is due to expire in June 2013.


Buderim Aquatic CentreRevenues received by council $30,636 Expenses $136,497

Net Operating Profit / Subsidy $105,860 2009/2010 Capital works -


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2.5. INDICATIVE BUDERIM 5KM CATCHMENT

Based on a 5km catchment area for this facility the catchment population as at the 2006 census is estimated to be to be 47,641 persons. The aquatic needs within this area are also serviced by council’s Cotton Tree facility and various other non council owned pools in this, and neighbouring, localities. The University of the Sunshine Coast has also announced the development of a 50m aquatic facility in the near future.



Based on the 2008/09 CERM Benchmark for attendances and applying the estimated catchment population from the 2006 Census data , this Centre would be generating annual attendances of circa 61,900 per annum. (Group 5, CM = 1.3)


� The Buderim Aquatic Centre is a community pool with majority of its patronage being within the immediate locality.



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� the population of this area is continuing to grow and the obvious problems like lack of car parking will continue to be an issue for this facility.

� Adjacent to the swimming pool are a number of tennis courts, and a huge open space which is part of the school grounds.

� There is a major problem with a lack of secured storage space.


� Current 5km catchment is over 47,000, though the locality is serviced by a number of district and community facilities in neighboring localities.

� Recent announcement of a 50m Pool at the University of the Sunshine Coast will require monitoring.


� A comprehensive Royal Life Saving Society safety audit should be conducted on this facility. This will highlight a number of deficiencies e.g., First Aid Room, signage, etc.

� Methods to improve the capacity of the site, including the potential inclusion of the adjacent school pool for community access should be investigated.

� A need to monitor the 50m pool development at the University and monitor impacts to Buderim facility.

� There may be an opportunity for a fully equipped gymnasium.


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3. CALOUNDRA AQUATIC CENTRE

Age: TBA Address: Central Park Road, Caloundra

Amenities Main 50m pool


Location

The local precinct includes a rugby league club, a Police Citizens Youth Club, and a school. All of these


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facilities collectively form the larger Central Park sport and recreation precinct.

Open Times

Caloundra Aquatic is open all year round with summer times from 5am to 7pm and winter times being 5.30am to 6.30pm.

Features

Pool Water space Heated Shade8 lane, 50m lap pool 1,000 m2 Yes No 6 lane, 25m lap pool 300 m2 Yes No Junior (rock) pool 136 m2 No No Toddler leisure pool 120 m2 No Yes Program pool 50 m2 Yes Yes

This is one of only two facilities which have a manager’s residence onsite.

Located in the centre of the complex is a land based training facility. This does inhibit line of sight to many areas of the complex.

The pool plant for each of the swimming pools is located and operated in isolation of one another. The disinfectant systems are quite simple in design and relatively easy to operate. The main chemical used for disinfectant is chlorine and CO2 gas is used to maintain a suitable pH level.

A skate park adjoins the aquatic facility which has easy access and incorporates security cameras.

Car Park

Adequate car park facilities are shared with the neighboring sports grounds.

Amenities

Although the construction of the amenities block is sound, they will require a refurbishment in the future.

First Aid

The first aid room has been converted into a crèche.


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3.2. KEY RESEARCH FINDINGS FOR CALOUNDRA

Description or Feedback SourceThe venue has the potential to be redeveloped into a major district aquatic centre. It has strong community support and sound management systems. The facility requires a master plan that can guide a redevelop the site in totality and not in an ad hoc or piece meal manner.

Community Survey Project observation Lessee

Change rooms need upgrading as they are aging and removed from all the pool areas

Lessee Project observation Community Survey

The state of the Pool Plant is fairly poor and should be addressed as an overall component of the master plan

Project observation

The gymnasium reduces the line of sight in the facility significantly and would be better situated where the current amenities block is located

Project observation

Venue is performing well, despite its age. Used well in off peak Community Forum Pool is dominated by swim squads/Learn-to-swim and requires greater supervision

Community Survey


The lease arrangements are currently being finalised. It is due to expire on the 30th June 2022.


Caloundra Aquatic CentreRevenues received by council $23,022 Expenses $228,475

Net Operating Profit / Subsidy $205,453 2009/2010 Capital works $1,500,000

Note: net operating subsidy figure above does not include depreciation of $67,505 due to inequities in depreciation figures attributed across various aquatic centres.

3.5. INDICATIVE CALOUNDRA 10KM CATCHMENT

The 2006 10km population catchment is estimated to be 56,108 persons. This population catchment base is shared with the nearby 25m ocean pool at Kings Beach, a regional facility at Kawana and a proposed district facility at Caloundra South.



Based on the 2008/09 CERM Benchmark for attendances and applying the estimated catchment population from the 2006 Census data , this Centre would be generating annual attendances of circa


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252,500 per annum. (Group 6, CM = 4.5: Group 6, 6,000m2 or more)


� This major district facility attracts users from across the region,


� A submission has been allegedly made to council with a master plan which includes swapping the gymnasium and amenities block. This submission has not progressed any further.

� The existing 25m is currently undergoing a major refurbishment. � A new heated indoor 17m x 10m swimming pool is being constructed. � The demographics of the local area features both a family orientated society and an active aging


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population. There is a solid commitment to a healthy and engaging lifestyle which is enhanced by the myriad of programs that are on offer at the aquatic centre, including learn to swim, swim coaching, triathlon training, etc

� The facility has extra-ordinary community support through its diligent management which offers programs enhancing the health and safety of local residents. The facility however, requires a master plan that can guide future planning and development.


� The current 5km catchment of 56,108 persons is also serviced by a regional facility at Kawana. � A proposed Caloundra South Aquatic Cnetre may restrict future expansion of this facility.


� The state of the pool plant is fairly poor and should be addressed as an overall component of a master plan.

� The location of the gymnasium reduces the line of sight vision in the facility significantly and would be better located where the current amenities block is located.

� The facility requires a comprehensive Royal Life Saving Society audit report, which will highlight the need for a designated First Aid Room, improved signage, and also focus on design, life guarding and shade.

� Further opportunity exists for the expansion of programs and activities, especially with the high number of “dry” sport and recreation activities coordinated in the area.

� Tenure arrangements should be finalised as a priority.


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4. COOLUM-PEREGIAN AQUATIC CENTRE

Age: 9 years Address: David Low Way, Coolum

Coolum 25m main pool – inappropriate shade trees Coolum Indoor Program Pool


Location

The Coolum-Peregian Aquatic Centre is located on the busy coast road, and suitable landscaping would improve its “shop window” to potential passing clients.


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This sporting precinct includes a number of dry sports including the Coolum Tennis Club, Netball Club, Basketball Club and the Coolum Australian Rules Football Club.

Open Times

This facility is open all year round.

Features

Pool Water space Heated Shade8 lane 25m lap pool 500 m2 Yes No Program pool 50 m2 Yes Yes

The main swimming pool plant and associated equipment was functional and a key feature at this facility is the large club room.

The program pool has been added after the completion of the main swimming pool. Its design is less than desirable and consideration should be given to the construction of a pool that is more functional and will serve to increase the number of programmed users in future.

Car Park

There is ample car parking in the immediate area for those visiting the aquatic centre.

Amenities

Sufficient amenities service the users of this facility.

First Aid

A good size First Aid Room is featured as part of a generous amenities block, however first aid area is not fully equipped,

4.2. KEY RESEARCH FINDINGS FOR COOLUM

Description or Feedback SourceNeed more shade Community Survey Need more lap lanes Community Survey Facility requires greater attention towards suitable landscaping, to be complimented by shaded cafe and sitting areas

Community Survey

Any future major works at the facility should include some leisure water, overall condition of the facility is quite sound

Management Project Observation

Learn to Swim pool has been added after the completion of the main swimming pool. Design is considered less than desirable and future consideration should be given to the construction of a pool that is more functional.

Project Observation

The Centre is well located on the busy coast road. Suitable landscaping would improve its “shop window” spontaneity to potential passing clients.

Management Project Observation



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Current lease is to expire on 21st December 2010.


Coolum-Peregian Aquatic CentreRevenues received by council $150 Expenses $97,099



4.5. INDICATIVE COOLUM 5 KM CATCHMENT

The 2006 5km population catchment is estimated to be 12,893 persons.



Based on the 2008/09 CERM Benchmark for attendances and applying the estimated catchment population from the 2006 Census data , this Centre would be generating annual attendances of circa 16,750 per annum. (Group 5, CM = 1.3, Group 5, 1,500m2 or less)

Photo: Coolum Administration and lawn area



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� This is regarded as a minor district facility servicing mainly a local population catchment.


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� The logistics of this centre would inhibit any future substantial growth, and this centre will not grow to become a Major District Aquatic Centre for some time but a 50 metre pool may take some demand of the Noosa Aquatic Centre.


� Coolum Aquatic Centres 5km catchment is 12,000 persons and there is a major district facility at Sunshine Beach.


� The facility requires a comprehensive Royal Life Saving Society Safety Audit focusing on signage, the First Aid Room, design, etc. The Facility requires extensive shaded areas and the vegetation selection have significantly reduced the line of sight visibility throughout the centre.

� Whilst this site has the capacity to be extended to a 50m, the proximity of the major district facility at Sunshine Beach would prohibit expansion in the life of this Plan.

� Any future major works at the facility should include some leisure water. � The Facility requires greater attention towards suitable landscaping, to be complimented by shaded

dining and spectator areas.


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5. COTTON TREE AQUATIC CENTRE

Age: 29 years Address: The Esplanade, Cotton Tree

Cotton Tree Aquatic Centre has limited car parking Rear of plant blocking river views


Location

The Cotton Tree Aquatic Centre is located adjacent to prime parkland on the foreshore of Maroochy River in Cotton Tree. Adjacent to the complex is large open space parkland and a council owned caravan park.


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Open Times

This facility is heated and opens all year round.

Features

Pool Water space Heated Shade8 lane, 50m lap pool 1,050 m2 Yes No 6 lane, 25m lap pool 375 m2 Yes Yes Junior (rock) pool 63 m2 No No toddler leisure pool 56 m2 No No program pool 96 m2 Yes Yes

The lessee is developing a new water leisure area, to be built in the area of the current activities pool. This is a significant project and will be a major attraction for families and children. The concept includes water features and water cannons

The back of house and plant room area at the eastern end of the facility is in very poor condition, however the plant room at the western end is well sized and in fairly good condition. The plant of the above ground program pool considered inadequate. The heat pumps installed by the lessee struggle to maintain significant heat source for the 50m swimming pool during the winter months.

The Lessee has added an outdoor fitness circuit, which provides the users with a total view of the Maroochy River. Dry activities on offer in the adjacent park and eating outlets both along the Maroochy River and across the street in Cotton Tree, attract visitors to the area from which the venue can leverage patronage.

Although the mound on the northern side of the facility does block the view of the Maroochy River, it does provide an elevated well shaded area for event spectators and visitors to the facility.

Car Park

Because of the community use and the rigorous programming of the facility, there is a consistent and significant shortage of car parking in the area. Lack of car parks is a critical issue and this should be addressed with any future development.

Amenities

The architectural feature and entry point is dominated by the amenity blocks.

First Aid

The first aid room has been converted into a crèche.

5.2. KEY RESEARCH FINDINGS FOR COTTON TREE

Description or Feedback SourceChange rooms and general upgrade of facility is required, including disabled toilet and parent change amenities

Community Survey Project Observation

Pool is often too crowded (well patronised) and at capacity and often requires additional supervision

Community Survey


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Description or Feedback SourcePools are dominated by programs including swim squads / learn to swim Community Survey Inadequate car parking and public transport Community Survey Issues with water temperature Community Survey Rated as a very popular pool Community Survey


Current lease is due to expire on 31st August 2021.


Cotton Tree Aquatic CentreRevenues received by council $150 Expenses $369,616



5.5. INDICATIVE COTTON TREE 10 KM CATCHMENTS

The 2006 10km population catchment is estimated to be 98,977 persons. Although this population catchment figure appears high, the aquatic needs within this area are serviced by another council owned facility at Buderim and various other non council owned pools in this, and neighbouring, localities..



Based on the 2008/09 CERM Benchmark for attendances and applying the estimated catchment population from the 2006 Census data , this Centre would be generating annual attendances of circa 445,400 per annum. (Group 6, CM = 4.5: Group 6, 6,000m2 or more)



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� This major district facility services a large area. � Well established programs draw users from outside the locality.


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� This facility is very busy. � Car parking is regularly an issue. � Well established programs draw users from outside the locality. This adds to the car parking issues,

appearance of over-crowding and reduction of general community access to space.


� This facilities catchment warrants the water space and embellishments of a major district facility within this principal planning area (as identified within the South East Queensland Regional Plan) of the region.


� The site needs an overall master plan to provide council’s vision for the future of the centre a. A comprehensive Royal Life Saving Society of Australia safety audit should be conducted as the initial point of analyzing what has been overlooked over time.

� Planning should be conducted to investigate the relocation of square water space to a central location with in the Maroochydore locality in the long term.

� The above relocation, along with leaving/expanding the leisure water components, will enhance the public open space options along the Maroochy River frontage.


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6. EUMUNDI AQUATIC CENTRE

Age: 2 years (2008) Address: Memorial Drive, Eumundi

Car parking is an issue at this venue during peak times


Location

Located in close proximity to the Eumundi Markets this is council’s newest aquatic centre.

Open Times


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This facility is heated and opens all year round.

Features

Pool Water space Heated Shade6 lane, 25m lap pool 300 m2 Yes No toddler leisure pool 36 m2 No Yes program pool 72 m2 Yes Yes

The line of sight vision around the facility is very good as no structures or vegetation had been positioned to inhibit the operators view from the entry point.

Only the bare necessities in buildings have been erected and there is a serious shortage of storage space for gear and equipment relevant to the pools’ operation, maintenance and mowing equipment and gear and equipment for programs.

Car Park

On three inspection visits, all the designated car parking was being used.

Amenities

The amenities are new and cater for the needs of user groups.

First Aid

There is no first aid room at the facility.

6.2. KEY RESEARCH FINDINGS FOR EUMUNDI

Description or Feedback Source• No feedback or comments were received in any of the surveys or

consultations


Leased to 25th January 2018


Eumundi Aquatic CentreRevenues received by council $182 Expenses $95,407



6.5. INDICATIVE EUMUNDI 10 KM CATCHMENTS


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Based on the 2008/09 CERM Benchmark for attendances and applying the estimated catchment population from the 2006 Census data , this Centre would be generating annual attendances of circa 73,300 per annum. (Group 6, CM = 5.1 Group 6 less than 1500m2)



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� Users travel to visit this site, similar to other hinterland venues.


� Since opening, the facility has reportedly enjoyed a good following by local families � The facility is surrounded by a lot of open space. Planting vegetation around the outside of the

perimeter fence, and landscaping the area would improve public appeal. � Users travel to visit this site, similar to other hinterland venues.


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� Current 10km catchment would not typically warrant a facility, however the facility has the ability to service many neighbouring hinterland localities.


� Because the facility is relatively new, and at the time of opening only the very basic structures were installed, there has not been enough time to fully establish the entire required infrastructure. Future developments need to consider:

a. The addition of more shaded areas; b. Increased secured storage; and c. The provision of a First Aid Room.

� Considerable improvements through landscaping would increase the ambience of this facility, and

also provide much needed shade provision. � Many young families are regular users of the facility and any interactive play areas (both wet and dry)

would add to the experience for visitors.


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7. KAWANA AQUATIC CENTRE

Age: TBA Address: Sportsman Parade, Bokarina

Kawana 25 metre pool Main entrance to Kawana


Location

The Kawana Aquatic Centre is located within the Quad Park Sports Precinct in the major activity centre of


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Kawana.

Open Times

This facility is heated and is open all year round.

Features

Pool Water space Heated Shade10 lane, 50m lap pool 1,250 m2 Yes No 7 lane, 25m lap pool 375 m2 Yes No 17m indoor pool 170 m2 Yes Yes Toddler leisure pool 96 m2 No No Program pool 50 m2 Yes Yes Dive pool and platform 225 m2 Yes No

The 50m pool has been designed to incorporate a water polo playing floor depth.

Although the entry is open and clean and the kiosk provides great peripheral vision, there is shaded area immediately outside in the raised dining section which includes a pergola type structure.

Although the main plant room is very well spaced and the gear and equipment is in good working condition, the smaller swimming pools have a less than adequate water treatment system. This is possibly the result of past lessees retrofitting gear and equipment at their own cost.

There is very limited shade around the grassed areas of the facility.

The KAC is the only facility on the Sunshine Coast which includes diving facilities.

Car Park

There is car parking for current needs however this will need to increase if programming and patronage of the centre increases. Many sporting activities are coordinated in the local area, and the facility adjoins a local school.

Amenities

The amenities block is sufficient for the users of this facility.

First Aid

The first aid room has been converted into a crèche space.

7.2. KEY RESEARCH FINDINGS FOR KAWANA

Description or Feedback Source This venue received very few comments or feedback Community meetings

and Surveys Shade is a priority requirement Community surveys Underutilised facility based on several inspections Project observation


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The management of the Kawana Aquatic Facility is the responsibility of the Quad Park Corporation. This is a unique business model, and has different connotations to the council run management model or the leased facility model. The current leased expires on the 30th April 2032.


Kawana Aquatic CentreRevenues received by council $0.00 Expenses $338,383



7.5. INDICATIVE KAWANA 10 KM CATCHMENTS

The 2006 10km population catchment is estimated to be 108,084 persons. Although this population catchment figure appears high, the aquatic needs within this area are serviced by two other council district facilities at Caloundra and Cotton Tree.



Based on the 2008/09 CERM Benchmark for attendances and applying the estimated catchment population from the 2006 Census data , this Centre would be generating annual attendances of circa 486,400 per annum. (Group 6, CM = 4.5 Group 6, 6,000m2 or more)


� Unfortunately this was not conducted at this site.


� Prior to the 2000 Olympic Games in Sydney, the Kawana Aquatic Centre hosted the Australian Women’s Water Polo Team, who won the Gold Medal. This evidences the facility has the attributes of a world class centre.

� The plant and associated equipment which has been retrofitted by consecutive private lessees is considered less than adequate for a facility of this size.

� This centre also offers significant potential for increasing and maximizing the use of water space and cross training opportunities with the adjoining “dry” activity sports.

� Where there have been ‘add ons’ made to this facility over time, this has reduced the line of sight vision around the centre. The deeper diving pool is located immediately beside a learn to swim pool.


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� This facility is located within the major activity centre of Kawana, as identified in the South East Queensland Regional Plan.

� Future transport linkages will make this facility easily accessible to the majority of the region and further outside the local government boundaries.

� The 10km catchment of this facility is also serviced by district facilities at Cotton Tree, Mountain Creek, Caloundra and the proposed University pool.


� The Kawana Aquatic Centre has the potential to be promoted and marketed as the Sunshine Coast’s main Regional Aquatic Centre.

o In consideration of this, there needs a determination on the management model, to either incorporate the facility under the auspices of council control or lease out the facility.

o Regional standard water space and embellishments should be considered in future planning for this facility, as outlined in the Standards of Service.

� A comprehensive Royal Life Saving Society of Australia safety audit would provide the basis for constructing a master plan for the facility. The master plan should also focus on the layout, safety, spectator areas and shade.


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8. KINGS BEACH OCEAN POOL & SPRAY PARK

Age: TBA Address: Kings Beach Foreshore

Kings Beach ocean pool Kings Beach Foreshore ‘splash pad fountains’


Location

This is a popular swimming facility given its unique location directly on the beach at Kings Beach.

Open Times

This site in unsupervised with entry permitted 24/7.


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Features

Pool Water space Heated Shade25M lap pool m2 No No Spray Park m2 No No

The Kings Beach Ocean Pool is a free form concrete swimming pool ideally located on the foreshore at Kings Beach, Caloundra. The operations of the swimming pool are quite unique as the pool water is sourced from the ocean, pumped through a filtration system, and then regularly dumped back into the ocean.

Maintenance of the pool plant is outsourced to a private contractor.

Council will need to be committed to both minor and major maintenance costs for this facility given its position in such a harsh natural environment and the source water is drawn directly from the ocean.

Car Park

The high demand for parking will be a constant control mechanism, and will cause a “cap by stealth” for visitors wishing to utilise the facility. Lack of parking will be constant issue, as there are a number of other public attractions and commercial activities to the adjoining sites

Amenities

Sufficient amenities are provided with in the Foreshore Precinct.

First Aid

The council lifeguard service provides supervision and first aid during summer.

8.2. KEY RESEARCH FINDINGS FOR KINGS BEACH POOLS

Description or Feedback SourceNo comments were made about Kings Beach in the User Survey Community meetings acknowledged that built aquatic infra structure like Kings Beach had been done well by council

Community meeting


Operated and Maintained by council.


Kings Beach Ocean PoolRevenues received by council $0.00 Expenses $11,374


Note: net operating subsidy figure above does not include depreciation of $1,346 due to inequities in


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depreciation figures attributed across various aquatic centres.


There were no on-site staff to undertake this component of the study.


� The concept of the Kings Beach Ocean Pool is quite unique, and as an ocean front swimming pool it will present unique problems over its lifetime. The poor water clarity (because of the utilisation of sea water) may attract undesirable acts of vandalism. The height of the fence of the facility makes it easily accessible on all perimeters. This facility will require a diligent management regime and a set of site specific policies and procedures to accommodate its unique operation and location.


� The current 1km population catchment indicates close to 5,000 people. � This venue and locality experiences high tourism attendances.


� A comprehensive Royal Life Saving Society safety audit needs to be conducted to report on signage, supervision, design, first aid room, etc. Because the source water is sea water, extra attention should be paid to the supervision of the centre given that the clarity of the water can be extremely poor at times.

� Council will need to be committed to both minor and major maintenance costs for this facility given its position in such a harsh natural environment and the source water is drawn directly from the ocean.

� Continue to monitor the role and function of this venue to support community access and attract tourism to the Kings Beach area.


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9. NAMBOUR AQUATIC CENTRE

Age: TBA Address: Petrie Park Road, Nambour


Location

This facility is located within Petrie Park which is within walking distance from the Nambour town centre. The centre suffers from a lack of exposure given its remote location from the main part of town in Nambour.

Open Times

This facility is heated and is open all year round.

Features

Pool Water space Heated Shade8 lane, 50m lap pool 1,100 m2 Yes No 6 lane, 25m lap pool 300 m2 Yes Yes Junior (wading) pool 84 m2 No No Toddler leisure pool 9 m2 No No

Although the Nambour swimming pool has a very “dated” appearance, it offers large areas of water space; additionally the 50m swimming pool has 30m of 2m deep water ideal for playing water polo.

It features a very functional grand stand providing an enormous shade area, making the facility ideal for large


40

swimming carnivals.

The swimming pool plant is old but appears to be in sound working condition.

Car Park

The number of car parks is dysfunctional and disproportionate to the size and capacity of the centre.

Amenities

The size of the Nambour Aquatic Centre, complete with its grandstand, makes it an ideal venue for major events. Dated amenities however, detract from the functionality of the centre.

First Aid

There is no First Aid room at this facility.

9.2. KEY RESEARCH FINDINGS FOR NAMBOUR

Description or Feedback SourceNambour Pool looks dated and need more maintenance Community meetings

Pool Management Limited car parking causes issues – Can be up to 1,100 person per carnival

Community meetings

Nambour was perceived relatively poorly across lap swimming, learn-to-swim and swim squad, but was perceived far more positively by respondents who mainly visited the pool for recreational swimming

Community meetings

Too crowded – dominated by program and Squads Community meetings Not enough variety of facilities Community meetings 31.6% of all people stated car parking as an issue attended the Nambour pool).

Community survey


The current leased is due to expire on 23 April 2011.


Beerwah Aquatic CentreRevenues received by council $0 Expenses $262,128



9.5. INDICATIVE NAMBOUR 10 KM CATCHMENTS


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Based on the 2008/09 CERM Benchmark for attendances and applying the estimated catchment population from the 2006 Census data , this Centre would be generating annual attendances of circa 182,400 per annum. (Group 6, CM = 4.5 Group 6, 6,000m2 or more)



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� This district facility is a major hinterland training pool, with patrons travelling distances to use. � It is also located next to a major regional hospital. Staff and patients from all over the coast utilise this

pool.


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� The population of the Nambour area is continuing to grow and the need for a district aquatic centre in Nambour should be an incremental part of a master plan for Sport and Recreation in the Sunshine Coast Region.

� Because the facility is bordered by a number of residential properties, and because of its location in a natural canyon, locals are often disturbed by the noise protracting from the facility. Major swimming meets exacerbate this problem.

� Written submission received about booking issues for people with a disability groups and specific needs of individuals.

� When major events and/or carnivals are held, noise curfews limit the operational hours due to the location of bordering residential homes.

� This pool’s grandstand is a major feature, attracting major carnivals (therefore patrons from a wider area).

� This is further evidence of the need for a venue that can cater for major swim meets in the Sunshine Coast Region.


� This facility is with in the major activity centre of Nambour as identified in the South East Queensland Regional Plan.

� Current and future catchment warrants the provision of water space and embellishments consistent with a major district facility.


� Any future master plan should address; a. lack of parking; b. remoteness and lack of visual presence changing demographics of the Nambour area; c. the need for a Major District Aquatic Centre; d. upgrade of plant and equipment; and e. upgrade of amenities.

� Research investigating other potential sites for a district aquatic centre. It may prove far beneficial to construct a new facility than to try to redevelop this remote site. Other suitable sites in Nambour should be investigated with the view of constructing a new venue.

� Future planning should also include the provision of leisure water components.


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10. NOOSA AQUATIC CENTRE

Age: 11 years Address: 6 Girraween Court, Sunshine Beach

Recently added Noosa 25 metre pool Cafe and toddler viewing area


Location

For non residents, this facility can be challenging to find. The aquatic centre and neighbouring Noosa Tennis Club are integral to the surrounding sporting precinct and Sunshine Beach State School sports oval is


45

opposite.

Open Times

The Noosa Aquatic Centre is open 5.30am – 8pm during the summer and 5.30am to 7pm during winter.

Features

Pool Water space Heated Shade10 lane, 50m lap pool 1,250 m2 Yes No 8 lane, 25m lap pool 450 m2 Yes No Toddler leisure pool 80 m2 Yes Yes Program pool 160 m2 Yes Yes

Gymnasium, crèche and sports medicine facilities provide additional service.

Since the addition of the 25 metre pool there is a lack of shaded areas around the facility and some of the plant and equipment will require both minor and major maintenance in the future.

This site is one of two which include and onsite residence.

Car Park

There are sufficient car park spaces for this current patronage, although they could be made more formal.

Amenities

The amenities block has just been refurbished and meet the current needs of users.

First Aid

The Lifeguard Station and First Aid Room is ideally located in the centre of the facility providing excellent line of sight vision around the entire complex.

10.2. KEY RESEARCH FINDINGS FOR NOOSA

Description or Feedback SourceNot a venue that works well for persons with a disability Written submission Needs considerably more shade (especially after losing existing shelters when 25m pool was built in 2006)

Community survey

Increased car parking is required to cope with attendances Management Staff communication with user groups is good Community meetings All water space is reportedly at near capacity despite addition of 25m pool in 2006

Project observation

Highest level of dissatisfaction mainly due to crowding Community survey Business model may choose to outsource marginal or non core business Management


Operated and maintained by council. Recently, the business model has changed with private operators


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now responsible for the delivery of services like swim coaching, and the running of the cafe


Noosa Aquatic CentreRevenues received by council $1,422,006 Expenses $1,791,742



10.5. INDICATIVE NOOSA 10 KM CATCHMENTS




Based on the 2008/09 CERM Benchmark for attendances and applying the estimated catchment population from the 2006 Census data , this Centre would be generating annual attendances of circa 150,600 per annum. (CM = 4.5: Group 6: 6,000m2 or more)

As Noosa was one of the centres that provided attendance figures, it can be reported that this centre recorded 190,072 for the year 2008/09.



47

� This facility services the wider Noosa community.


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� The Noosa Aquatic Centre is a flagship facility on the Sunshine Coast. Effort has been made to its design, layout and construction over the past ten years. The Noosa Aquatic Centre is a “lifestyle” centre, managed and operated by professional council employees

� The facilities appeal has benefited greatly from an overall functional master plan, and any additions have not been included in an ‘ad hoc’ fashion

� The business model at the Noosa Aquatic Centre appears sensitive to the needs of the fitness market. This culture should be investigated for relevance in all other council facilities


� This major district facility services the major activity centre of Noosa, as identified in the South East Queensland Regional Plan.

� Current location and catchment areas warrant the existing water space and embellishments of a major district facility.


� All of the available water space is fully utilised during peak times. Future additions should include a program pool. The residence which is located on the western boundary could eventually become a modern functional gymnasium.

� Future service delivery and management models may need to be investigated. � Consideration is required to making car parking arrangements more formal.


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11. PALMWOODS AQUATIC CENTRE

Age: TBA Address: Palmwoods-Montville Rd, Palmwoods

Palmwoods Granstand to main pool Palmwoods heated enclosed program pool


Location

The Palmwoods Aquatic Centre is located within a multi-use sports precinct just outside the Palmwoods township. There is plenty of open space bordering the swimming pool with a number of “dry” activities including tennis courts and a skate park


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Open Times

This facility is open all year round.

Features

Pool Water space Heated Shade7 lane 25m lap pool 375 m2 Yes No Toddler leisure pool 32 m2 Yes Yes Program pool 50 m2 No Partial

A key feature is the covered grand stand on the western side of the 25m pool. The pool plant and all associated equipment is in very sound condition. The toddler leisure pool construction has just recently been completed by the pool manager.

Car Park

Many schools utilise the facility however limited parking is a constant problem for the operator.

Amenities

There are sufficient amenities for the users of this facility.

First Aid

There is no first aid room at this site.

11.2. KEY RESEARCH FINDINGS FOR PALMWOODS

Description or Feedback SourcePalmwoods venue is valued as something done well by council Community survey Pool is too crowded Community survey Pool is dominated by swim squads and program Community survey Poor availability of shade cover Community survey Poor quality change rooms Community survey Potential site for 50m pool if required to the west of the existing Grandstand Project observation Many schools utilise the facility however limited parking is a constant problem for the operators.

Management


The current lease expires 31st December 2017.


Palmwoods Aquatic CentreRevenues received by council $55,877 Expenses $86,223



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11.5. INDICATIVE PALMWOODS 10 KM CATCHMENTS

The 2006 10km population catchment is estimated to be 40,533 persons. However, the aquatic needs within this area are serviced by another other council district facility at Nambour.



Based on the 2008/09 CERM Benchmark for attendances and applying the estimated catchment population from the 2006 Census data , this Centre would be generating annual attendances of circa 52,700 per annum. (Group 5, CM = 1.3 Group 5, 1,500m2 or less)



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� Users travel to visit this site, similar to other hinterland venues.


� The facility requires a minor maintenance schedule focusing on issues like the amenities block. � Families with young children are regular users of the facility and the addition of interactive play

equipment (both wet and dry) will value add to a day at the pool. � Expansion opportunities exist to the west if demand increases.


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� This facility falls with in the catchment of the major district facility at Nambour.


� A comprehensive Royal Life Saving Society safety audit should be conducted on the facility focusing on signage, First Aid Room, etc.

� Monitor usage and review facility planning prior to the expiration of existing lease. � Future planning should include the expansion of car parking arrangements.


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12. TEWANTIN WADING POOL

Age: 25yrs + Address: Parkyn Ct, Tewantin

Tewantin Toddler Pool Unsupervisewd plant and chemical room abutts pool


Location

A very unique small wading pool which is located on the Noosa River, just below the Tewantin council chambers.

Open Times


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Access at all times, year round. Note there is zero supervision provided.

Features

Pool Water space Heated ShadeToddler pool 78 m2 No Partial

The swimming pool is fully fenced and entry is through a self latching gate. There is limited space surrounding the pool, and the pool is something similar to a shallow domestic pool.

Car Park

There is ample car parking surrounding the pool site.

Amenities

The swimming pool adjoins a public amenities block and there is a boat ramp and skate facility in close proximity.

First Aid

It is unsupervised venue with no on-site staff dedicated to the facility.

12.2. KEY RESEARCH FINDINGS FOR TEWANTIN WADING POOL

Description or Feedback SourceNo public comments were received regarding this venue


Operated and maintained by council.


Tewantin Wading PoolRevenues received by council $0.00 Expenses $8,831


Note: net operating subsidy figure above does not include depreciation due to inequities in depreciation figures attributed across various aquatic centres.


� No programs are conducted at the pool and there is limited shade. � There is historical significance regarding water space at this site. � Confirmation is required of what policies and procedures are in place regarding its operation. � Evaluation of the site suggests the council may be exposed by both the position and lack of

supervision of such an unusual place to locate a public swimming facility.


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� The facility is exposed to vandalism after hours, and easy access can be gained over the pool fence. � There is minimum security.


� A comprehensive Royal Life Saving Society safety audit should be conducted. This will provide direction regarding the risks associated with this facility and will assist to determine the future of the pool in its current form, future management and operational requirements.

� A major refurbishment should be conducted based on place making planning to incorporate more contemporary leisure water opportunities for the youth cohort.


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COMMUNITY AND SCHOOL POOLS FACILITY

REVIEW

Additional to the ten main aquatic facilities, in 2009/10 council provided $134,919 to seven school and community swimming pools. This is done to enable community access to pools situated mainly in the Sunshine Coast hinterland regions. The pools include:

� Tewantin Primary School 25 metre outdoor pool � Cooroy District High School 25 metre outdoor pool � Pomona State High School 25 metre outdoor pool � Maleny State School 25 metre outdoor pool � Mooloolah State School 25 metre outdoor pool � Kenilworth Community Pool 25 metre outdoor pool and wading pool � Conondale Community Pool 25 metre outdoor pool and wading pool

Council’s involvement with Mountain Creek State High School was through a Joint Development Agreement, which involved a capital contribution for initial construction in return for ongoing community access to the facility.

The use of school facilities by the community holds significant benefits to all parties and these are considered to include:

� fosters closer links between schools and community groups; � provides Community Access to facilities that may not otherwise be available; � promotes a positive image of the school, within the community; � increases the perception of the school as an integral part of the community; � provides scope for additional revenue sources for the school; and � highlights the important role that schools in remote arrears play in relation to community use of

school facilities that may not otherwise be available to the community.

In regard to the school aquatic facilities, Education Queensland (and respective School Principals) has developed the ‘Policy for Community Use of Education Facilities’.

The policy notes users shall be accountable for any costs resulting from use of the school facility. This can include:

� cleaning; � electricity; � water; � replacement of damaged items;

� security callouts; � cost for key cutting/provision; and � insurance requirements.

The fee structure is to be determined by the principal, bearing in mind the following considerations:

� nature of the proposed use; � benefit to the school and local

community; � the facility required; � access times; � any equipment required; � size and nature of the user group; � increased maintenance costs;

� comparable charges levied by other schools/venues;

� any special requirements, such as need for storage, cleaning etc.;

� possible staff time required for administration of the use; and

� capacity for user to pay.


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1. POMONA STATE SCHOOL POOL

Age: 26 years Address: Station St, Pomona

25 metre, 6 lane pool Pool shaded Grandstand

1.1.1. DESCRIPTION OF CURRENT ASSET

(a) Six lane outdoor 25m pool (consistent with historical Education Queensland design)

(b) Covered concrete grandstand,

(c) Building with plant room and amenities,

(d) Shed for storage and kiosk, .


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1.1.2. CURRENT MANAGEMENT ARRANGEMENTS

Owned by Education Queensland and operated outside of school hours by private lessee.

1.1.3. FINANCIAL IMPACT TO COUNCIL

2009 / 10Revenues received by council $0.00 Expenses $6,000

Net Operating Profit / Subsidy $6,000



1.1.4. INDICATIVE POMONA CATCHMENTS

The 2006 5km Catchment is estimated to be 3,7295


1.1.5. INDICATIVE ATTENDANCE BY SUBURB

This pool did not participate in an attendance survey.

5 ABS, 2006

6 ABS, 2006


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2. NOOSA DISTRICT STATE HIGH SCHOOL POOL

Age: 35 years Address: Tulip St, Cooroy


(a) Six lane outdoor 25m pool (consistent with historical Education Queensland design)


(c) Covered marshalling areas either side of pool

(d) Building with plant room, amenities and kiosk,

2.1.2. LEASE INFORMATION

Owned by Education Queensland and operated outside school hours by the local swimming club.





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2.1.4. INDICATIVE COOROY CATCHMENTS




7 ABS, 2006

8 ABS, 2006


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3. CONONDALE COMMUNITY POOL

Age: 39 years Address: Maleny-Kenilworth Road, Conondale


(a) Four lane outdoor 20m pool

(b) Children’s rock / wading pool

(c) Covered marshalling area

(d) Building with plant room and basic amenities with outdoor showers

(e) Shed for kiosk


Pool is a community owned and managed facility.





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3.1.4. INDICATIVE CONONDALE CATCHMENTS

The 2006 5km Catchment is estimated to be 4369



This pool did not participate in an attendance survey.

9 ABS, 2006

10 ABS, 2006


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4. MALENY STATE SCHOOL POOL

Age: 27 years Address: Landsborough-Maleny Road, Maleny

Main Maleny School Pool on EQ Land Learn to Swim Pool on EQ Land


(a) Six lane heated outdoor 25m pool (consistent with historical Education Queensland design)

(b) Uncovered, above ground learn to swim tub - not considered suitable for aged, disability or rehabilitation programs due to steps

(c) Small separate building for clubrooms and storage

(d) Building with plant room, amenities and kiosk / reception

(e) Car parking provisions considered unsafe and inadequate for mixed use facility


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Pool is owned by Education Queensland and operated outside school hours by the Maleny Swimming Club. The swimming club has a pool management agreement with a coach / pool manager.

4.1.3. 2009/10 FINANCIAL IMPACT TO COUNCIL





4.1.4. ESTIMATED MALENY CATCHMENTS



11 ABS, 2006

12 ABS, 2006


66



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5. TEWANTIN STATE SCHOOL POOL

Age: 20 years Address: Cnr Cullinae & Goodwin Sts, Tewantin

Tewantin Swimming 25 metre pool Tewantin Pool Amenities block and admin


(a) Six lane heated outdoor 25m pool (consistent with historical Education Queensland design)


(c) Building with plant room & amenities.


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(d) Shed for club room & kiosk.


Owned by Education Queensland and operated outside schoo hours by a private lessee.


2009 / 10Revenues received by council $24,494 Expenses $60,205




5.1.4. INDICATIVE TEWANTIN 5 KM CATCHMENTS


13 ABS, 2006


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6. KENILWORTH COMMUNITY POOL


70

Age: 13 years Address: Maleny-Kenilworth Road, Kenilworth (within showgrounds)

Kenilworth Community 25 m Swimming Pool Kenilworth Community Swimming Pool Wading Pool


(a) Six lane outdoor 25m pool, with slippery slide into main pool

(b) Children’s wading pool,

(c) Building with amenities, plant room, office and kiosk,

(d) covered marshalling area & paved play areas


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(e) The pool plant has been adapted utilizing domestic size pumps and filters.

(f) Structures and pool plant require attention due to age of facility.


Pool is a community owned and managed facility.


2009 / 10Revenues received by council $0 Expenses $26,750




6.1.4. INDICATIVE KENILWORTH CATCHMENTS

The 2006 5km catchment is estimated to be 43414

The 2006 10km catchment is estimated to be 1,13015


Kenilworth Community Pool did not participate in an attendance survey.

14 ABS, 2006

15 ABS, 2006


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7. MOUNTAIN CREEK STATE HIGH SCHOOL POOL

Age: 10 years Address: Lady Musgrave Drive, Mountain Creek

Mountain Creek State High School 25 metre swim pool Aerial view of catchment density


(a) Eight lane 25 metre heated outdoor swimming pool (b) Enclosed learn to swim pool (c) Children’s wading pool/leisure water (d) Separate buildings for amenities and kiosk


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Owned by Mountain Creek State High School and operations leased to a private operator (community access both inside and outside school hours, as well as servicing both the adjoining primary and secondary schools).


Council does not contribute to the operation of the Mountain Creek Swimming Pool, following initial capital investment.

7.1.4. INDICATIVE MOUNTAIN CREEK 5KM CATCHMENT

The 2006 5km Catchment is estimated to be 55,96916.


Mountain Creek School Pool did not participate in an attendance survey.

8. MOOLOOLAH STATE SCHOOL POOL

Age: Address: King Street, Mooloolah Valley

16 ABS, 2006


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(a) Six lane outdoor 25m pool (consistent with historical Education Queensland design) (b) Building with office, kiosk, amenities, plant room, (c) Covered marshalling areas


Owned by Education Queensland and operations outside school hours are leased to council until 2012. Council has sub-leased outside school hour’s pool operations to an appointed pool manager.




20010 / 11 (budget)Revenues received by council $0.00 Expenses $39,212



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8.1.4. INDICATIVE MOOLOOLAH CATCHMENTS

The 2006 5km catchment is estimated to be 6,70917



The Mooloolah Swimming Pool did not participate in an attendance survey.

17 ABS, 2006

18 ABS, 2006


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BENCHMARKING

Benchmarking the community access to aquatic facilities is complex. The below audits have only captured the opportunities provided by the Local Government entities. It is evident that the Sunshine Coast population is very well serviced for both the number of aquatic facilities and amount of water space provided when compared to like local government areas. One limitation to this benchmarking analysis is the omission of facilities provided by:

� Education organisations, including Education Queensland, TAFE, private schools and Universities;

� Religious organisations The tables below outline the results of benchmarking conducted as part of the development of the Sunshine Coast Aquatics Plan which indicate that the Sunshine Coast has approximately:

� 27.04m2 of water per person; and � Approximately 1 facility for every 29,403 residents.

These results will help inform the development of a standards of service for the final Plan.

Table 1: Audit of the amount of water space (m2) provided by each local government entity

Local Government M2 of Water Population M2 of Water per Person

Sunshine Coast Council 11,960 323,423 27.04 Redland City Council 2,855 140,691 49.27 Gold Coast City Council 8,762 515,157 58.79 Moreton Bay Regional Council 12,021 371,162 30.87 Toowoomba Regional Council 5,560 159,098 28.61 Mackay Regional Council 6,197 116,123 18.73 Ipswich City Council 3,359 162,383 48.34


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Table 2: Audit of the number of council owned facilities.

Local Government Population

(Estimated Regional Population 2009)

Type of Aquatic Facility

Number of Facilities

Facilities per person

Regional 6 District 4

Community 0 School* 0

Sunshine Coast Council 323,423

Leisure Water Park 1

1 facility for every 29,403 residents


Community 1 School*

Redland City Council 140,691

Leisure Water Park

1 facility for every

46,897 residents


Community 1 School*

Gold Coast City Council 515,157

Leisure Water Park


73,593 residents


Community 4 School*

Moreton Bay Regional Council 371,162



28,550 residents


Community 6 School*

Brisbane City Council 1,052,458

Leisure Water Park


55,392 residents


Community 3 School*

Cairns Council 164,356

Leisure Water Park


23,479 residents


Community 7 School*

Toowoomba Regional Council

159,098

Leisure Water Park


17,677 residents


Community 1 School* 1

Mackay Regional Council

116,123



19,353 residents


Community School*

Ipswich City Council 162,383

Leisure Water Park


40,595 residents


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COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

A range of community engagement sessions and surveys were undertaken to establish an understanding of community expectations and future needs regarding Sunshine Coast Council Aquatic Facilities.

1. COMMUNITY SURVEY

The community survey was distributed in an online format. 204 surveys were completed online, with 98% of respondents who started the survey completing all questions in the survey.

With the exception of a comparatively lower response rate from the 20-29 years age group (only 9.8%), there was a fairly even distribution of age groups contained in the households that returned surveys (refer Table 3Error! Reference source not found.). The higher means for average number of respondents in the 0-9 year age group suggests families with younger children are well represented in the sample. This is further supported by the higher proportion of households with members who were 40-49 years of age (41.2%). Both of these features, combined with the low proportion of households with 20-29 year old members suggest a strong response to the survey from family households with younger children, which may inform the issues identified later in the survey.

Table 3: Households with at least one person in the respective age group (percent)

HOUSEHOLD COMPOSITION % OF RESPONDENTS WHO HAD AT LEAST ONE PERSON FROM THE AGE GROUP RESIDING IN THEIR HOUSEHOLD

AVERAGE NUMBER (STANDARD DEVIATION) OF PERSONS OF THIS AGE GROUP IN HOUSEHOLDS

0-9 years of age 38.2 1.74 (0.95)

10-19 years of age 31.4 1.58 (0.87)

20-29 years of age 9.8 1.45 (1.23)

30-39 years of age 28.4 1.53 (0.77)

40-49 years of age 41.2 1.42 (0.59)

50-59 years of age 21.6 1.23 (0.57)

60 years of age and over 27.0 1.51 (0.61)

Table 4 provides an overview of the gender of the respondents to the survey. It is clear from Table 4 that the majority of surveys were completed by females on behalf of their households (67% of surveys were completed by female respondents). Survey research such as the current study does typically obtain a higher response rate for females compared to males, and so this result is expected. However, it may also suggest that issues that are of concern for women, and mothers of younger children as indicated in Table 3, may be more apparent in the survey responses.

Table 4: Gender of respondents

GENDER % OF RESPONDENTS

Male 33.0

Female 67.0


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Table 5 shows the age of the respondents to the survey. This profile can give an insight into issues raised in the survey, and whether issues being raised are generalised, or reflective of a disproportionate group within the sample. Over half (50.5%) of all surveys were completed by persons aged between 30 and 50 years of age, typically the community group with the highest proportion of parents with younger children. In contrast, very few surveys were completed by persons aged 20 -29 (only 2.9%), supporting the perception from Table 3 that this group (young adults) may be underrepresented in the survey findings. The higher response rate for over 60 year old respondents (20.6% of the total) is also consistent with much mail back community-based research, with higher response rates from older respondents typically encountered. However, although expected, the age of respondents may suggest that specific issues or concerns in relation to aquatic facilities for younger people may not be as well reflected in the survey responses as may exist in the general community.

Given the above age and gender constraints, survey results should be interpreted with caution and conclusions should be validated against other research and consultation findings.

Table 5: Age group of persons completing surveys on behalf of their household

AGE GROUP (YEARS) % OF TOTAL RESPONDENTS

Under 20 1.0

20 – 29 2.9

30 – 39 21.1

40 – 49 29.4

50 – 59 18.1

60 + 20.6

Table 6 outlines the residential postcodes of survey respondents. Overall there was a relatively even spread of responses from across the SCRC area. The largest single group of respondents came from postcode 4560 (17.8%), which includes the towns such as Nambour, Rosemount, Bli Bli and Dulong. A further 13.3 percent resided in postcode 4573 (for example, Coolum and Peregian Beach), with a further 9.4 percent from postcode 4556 (i.e., Sippy Downs, Buderim etc) and 7.8 percent from postcode 4567 (Sunshine Beach, Noosa etc).

Table 6: Postcode residence of respondents

POSTCODE % OF RESPONDENTS

4560 17.8 4573 13.3 4556 9.4 4567 7.8 4557 7.2 4551 7.2 4575 7.2 4555 5.6 Other 24.5


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1.1. BEHAVIOUR AND SATISFACTION IN RELATION TO POOLS IN THE

SUNSHINE COAST REGIONAL COUNCIL AREA

This section of the report details the current visitation patterns and behaviours at the pools in the SCRC area. Visitation rates, choice of pools visited, frequency of visitation and the main activities undertaken at each of the pools in the SCRC were assessed.

Table 7 indicates that the vast majority of respondents had used, or had a family member who had used, a council pool in the previous twelve months, with almost all (98.5%) respondents stating that they (or a member of their household) had used a council pool in the previous 12 month period.

Table 7: Have you or a member of your household used a council pool in the last 12 months

USED A COUNCIL POOL IN PAST 12 MONTHS % OF RESPONDENTS

Yes 98.5

No 1.5

No cross-tabulation analysis was required on use of a pool as almost all respondents stated they did use one of the pools in the region.

Table 8 outlines the pools that respondents stated they usually visited. It was clear that the Nambour Swimming Pool was the pool usually visited by the highest proportion of respondents (20.4% compared to Cotton Tree Swimming pool, the next highest, on 15.3%). This was followed by Palmwoods (11.4%) and Noosa Aquatic (10.4%). In contrast, Eumundi, Pomona and Tewantin were not cited by any respondents as the pool they usually visited.

Table 8: Pools usually visited

POOL % OF TOTAL RESPONDENTS

Nambour 20.4

Cotton Tree 15.4

Palmwoods 11.4

Noosa Aquatic 10.4

Caloundra 7.0

Coolum/Peregian 6.0

Beerwah 5.0

Buderim 5.0

Kawana 5.0

Mooloolah 5.0

Maleny 3.0

Kenilworth 2.5


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POOL % OF TOTAL RESPONDENTS

Cooroy 2.0

Conondale 0.5

Kings Beach 0.5

Mountain Creek 0.5

Tewantin Wading Pool 0.5

Eumundi 0.0

Pomona 0.0

Tewantin 0.0

No significant difference in the choice of pool attended was found based on gender or age of respondent. However, when compared against postcode of the respondent, a significant pattern emerged where the pool cited as the usual pool was closely tied to the postcode of the respondent. In essence, respondents tended to cite pools close to their home postcode as their usual pools, indicating a clear preference for attending local pools19.

How frequently respondents attend their usual pool, on average, is outlined in Table 9.

Table 9: How frequently do you or a household member visit your usual pool?

FREQUENCY % OF TOTAL RESPONDENTS

Daily 19.6

2-4 times per week 60.3

Weekly 13.1

Fortnightly 2.0

Monthly 0.5

Infrequently 4.5

It is clear that most respondents visited (or had household members that visited) their usual pool either 2-4 times per week (60.3%). Analysis with the main activity undertaken at the pool indicated that squad training and lap swimmers attended more frequently, with 96.6 percent of squad trainers attending at least 2-4 times per week, and 82.4 percent of casual lap swimmers attending at least 2-4 times per week. Very few respondents (4.5%) attended the pool, or had a household member that attended the pool, less than monthly.

19 5 �=1222.81; df=204; p<.001. The size of the Chi-square figure for this analysis indicates the strength of the association pattern between postcode of respondent and usual pool.


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This combined with the fact 98.5 percent of respondents do use the pools, suggests that the pools are widely used and regularly used in the community.

No significant difference in frequency of attendance was found based on gender or age of the respondent.

Table 10 outlines the main activities that were undertaken at the pool by respondents or members of their household. It is clear that lap swimming (53.9% of respondents/household members) and squad training (29.9% of respondents/household members) were the two most common activities undertaken at the pools. Surprisingly recreational swimming was only the fourth most commonly participated in activity, with 21.1 percent of respondents. Interestingly, a notable proportion of respondents/household members viewed the pools as a significant social space, with 11.2 percent of respondents citing socialising or hanging out at the pool as their main activity.

There was little variation in the proportion of respondents who cited lap swimming as their main activity based on their age. In contrast, recreational swimming was dominated by the 30-39 and 40-49 year age groups, who comprised just under three quarters (74.4%) of all recreational swimmers. This may be a reflection of the fact that most parents with younger children – groups that typically engage in recreational swimming more than other groups – tend to be aged in this age group. Learn-to-swim was also dominated by the 30-39 and 40-49 year age groups - again, most likely parents taking their children to classes, with over 80 percent (80.8%) of learn-to-swim attendees coming from these age groups. Notably more female respondents cited aquatic fitness (i.e., aqua aerobics) as one of the activities they undertook at the pool (85.5%).

Table 10: Main activities undertaken at the pools by respondent and/or members of household

MAIN ACTIVITIES UNDERTAKEN % OF RESPONDENTS20

Casual lap swimming 53.9

Swim squad training 29.9

Learn-to-Swim 25.5

Recreational swimming 21.1

Aquatic fitness programs 18.1

Socialising/hanging out 11.2

Sunbathing 1.5

20 Due to the multiple response option for this question, percentages exceeds 100%


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1.2. SATISFACTION WITH POOLS IN THE SUNSHINE COAST

REGIONAL COUNCIL

The overall level of satisfaction of respondents and their household members with the pools in the SCRC was examined in the survey. Participants in the survey were asked to rate their overall satisfaction on a three point scale from 1 (Very satisfied) to 3 (Not satisfied)21; with an option to state they were not aware or didn’t know about the pool (Don’t know). Responses to this item (Don’t Know) were excluded from calculation of the means for satisfaction.

Tables 11 and 12 outline the percentage of people who responded with Very Satisfied and Not Satisfied for each of the pools, as well as the overall mean and standard deviations for satisfaction for each of the pools22.

Table 11: Percentage of respondents who cited their satisfaction as either ‘Very Satisfied’ or ‘Not Satisfied’*

POOL % OF RESPONDENTS CITING AS VERY SATISFIED

% OF RESPONDENTS CITING AS NOT SATISFIED

Mooloolah 58.3 8.3

Caloundra 25.0 12.5

Palmwoods 52.0 16.0

Coolum/Peregian 31.8 22.7

21 This scale was reversed for the analysis in this survey (1=Not Satisfied to 3 = Very Satisfied) to maintain consistency with the sections on importance.

22 Standard deviation is a measure of how widely spread responses are. Higher standard deviations indicate more variation in responses among the sample. In this case the similarity of standard deviations across the pools indicates that the variation in responses were equivalent across pools. In other words, no one pool recorded significantly more widely dispersed or polarised responses than any other.


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POOL % OF RESPONDENTS CITING AS VERY SATISFIED

% OF RESPONDENTS CITING AS NOT SATISFIED

Cotton Tree 35.3 26.5

Nambour 23.3 27.9

Beerwah 54.5 36.4

Buderim 38.5 38.5

Kawana 23.1 46.2

Noosa Aquatic 3.6 46.4

Maleny NA NA

Kenilworth NA NA

Cooroy NA NA

Conondale NA NA

Kings Beach NA NA

Mountain Creek NA NA

Tewantin Wading Pool NA NA

Eumundi NA NA

Pomona NA NA

Tewantin NA NA

*NOTE: Figures for pools with fewer than 10 respondents are not provided (NA) due to unacceptable levels of accuracy. Pools with between 10-15 respondents are in lighter grey and figures should be viewed with caution.

Table 12: Mean and standard deviation for satisfaction for pools23 in the Sunshine Coast Council

POOL OVERALL MEAN FOR SATISFACTION*

OVERALL STANDARD DEVIATION FOR SATISFACTION24

Mooloolah 2.50 0.67

Palmwoods 2.36 0.76

Beerwah 2.18 0.98

23 Only pools that obtained more than ten responses are included in Table 17a

24 Standard deviation is a measure of how widely spread responses are. Higher standard deviations indicate more variation in responses among the sample. In this case the similarity of standard deviations across the pools indicates that the variation in responses were equivalent across pools. In other words, no one pool recorded significantly more widely dispersed or polarised responses than any other.


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POOL OVERALL MEAN FOR SATISFACTION*

OVERALL STANDARD DEVIATION FOR SATISFACTION24

Caloundra 2.13 0.62

Coolum/Peregian 2.09 0.75


Buderim 2.00 0.91

Nambour 1.95 0.72

Kawana 1.77 0.83

Noosa Aquatic 1.57 0.57

NOTE: Means were not calculated for pools identified as having less than 10 respondents in Table 17.

NOTE: Mean for satisfaction was reverse coded to aid consistency across tables. This results in a higher mean equating to a higher satisfaction

Figures from both Table 11 and Table 12 clearly show that Mooloolah Pool recorded the highest levels of satisfaction (M=2.50). In addition, it recorded both the highest proportion of respondents who stated they were ‘very satisfied’ with the pool (53.8%) and the lowest percentage of respondents who were ‘not satisfied’ with the pool (8.3%). However, for pools with more than 15 respondents, Palmwoods recorded the higher mean for satisfaction (M=2.36) and the highest proportion of respondents who stated they were ‘very satisfied’ (52%). In contrast, Noosa Aquatic recorded the lowest levels of satisfaction, with the lowest mean for satisfaction (M=1.57) and the highest proportion of respondents who stated they were ‘not satisfied’ with the pool (46.4%). Of note was that only 3.6 percent of respondents stated they were ‘very satisfied’ with the Noosa Aquatic facility.

No difference in satisfaction levels at any of the pools were found based on any of the key variables of interest, notably gender, age of respondent and postcode of residence. Finally, satisfaction levels were assessed against each of the four major activities participated in at each of the pools (lap swimming, recreational swimming, learn-to-swim, and swim squad). Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) was undertaken to identify if any significant difference existed in the means for satisfaction based on activity undertaken at the pool. Table 13 outlines the results of this analysis. Identification of the means for the pools by each of the main activities indicates a general trend to lower levels of satisfaction at Noosa Aquatic across all activities. Similarly Mooloolah recorded high satisfaction scores across all four major activities. This suggests a general perception of high performance at Mooloolah, rather than a pool that is particularly strong, or in need of improvement, in specific given areas.

In contrast, Palmwoods was perceived extremely positively by respondents in three of the four main activities. However, in recreational swimming, Palmwoods recorded a notable decline in satisfaction. This may be something management at the pool may wish to consider in more detail. At the other end of the spectrum Nambour was perceived relatively poorly across lap swimming, learn-to-swim and swim squad, but was perceived far more positively by respondents who mainly visited the pool for recreational swimming (Table 13).


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Table 13: Mean for satisfaction for pools by main activity undertaken

MAIN ACTIVITY AT THE POOL

POOL OVERALLSATISFACTION

LAPSWIMMING

RECREATIONALSWIMMING

LEARN-TO-SWIM

SWIMSQUAD

Mooloolah 2.50 2.63 2.43 2.71 2.33

Palmwoods 2.36 2.25 1.57 2.60 2.50

Beerwah 2.18 2.17 2.50 2.40 2.75

Caloundra 2.13 2.25 2.33 3.00 2.00

Coolum/Peregian 2.09 1.93 2.25 2.22 2.43

Cotton Tree 2.09 1.88 1.50 1.80 2.43

Buderim 2.00 2.20 2.00 2.25 1.57

Nambour 1.95 1.87 2.29 2.00 1.67

Kawana 1.77 2.17 2.67 1.75 1.20

Noosa Aquatic 1.57 1.50 1.43 1.63 1.80

Findings in Table 13 suggest that satisfaction with the pool will be heavily influenced by how well the pool meets the needs of specific user groups. Certain pools (i.e. Nambour) appear to perform best in relation to recreational swimming, whilst pools such as Cotton Tree appear to meet the needs of swim squad users comparatively better than other users of that pool. Clearly pools in the area generally appear to have specific strengths and weaknesses in relation to specific segments of their market

If respondents stated they were ‘not satisfied’ with the pools in Table 13, they were asked to provide a reason for why they were not satisfied. Table 14 outlines the reasons given for dissatisfaction at each of the pools, in terms of the proportion of respondents who cited it as a specific reason for dissatisfaction at the pool. It should be remembered that lower response numbers may artificially inflate certain percentages. Accordingly, a minimum of 5 cases is included as a cut-off to be considered an issue for dissatisfaction.

Table 14: Percentage of respondents at each centre who cited the reason

REASON FOR DISSATISFACTION BEERWAH BUDERIM CALOUNDRA COOLUM/PEREGIAN

COTTON TREE

Too crowded 14.5 NA NA NA 12.7*

Not enough programs and activities NA NA NA NA NA

Not enough variety of facilities 18.5* NA NA NA NA

Poor water quality NA NA NA NA NA

Pool is dominated by swim squads/Learn-to-swim 10.0* NA 12.0* NA 12.0*

Inadequate supervision NA NA 30.0* NA NA


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Not good value for money NA NA NA NA NA

Poor customer service NA NA NA NA NA

Difficult to get into/out of the water NA NA NA NA NA

Don’t feel safe NA NA NA NA NA

Water temperature NA NA NA NA 21.7*

Don’t feel welcome NA NA NA NA NA

Poor shade cover NA NA NA 12.5* NA

Poorly maintained NA NA NA NA 21.4*

Poor quality change rooms NA NA NA NA 20.8

Car parking too difficult 13.2* NA NA NA NA

REASON FOR DISSATISFACTION KAWANA MOOLOOLAH NAMBOUR NOOSA AQUATIC

PALMWOODS

Too crowded NA NA 12.7* 7.3* 23.6

Not enough programs and activities NA NA NA NA NA

Not enough variety of facilities NA NA 22.2* NA NA

Poor water quality NA NA NA NA NA

Pool is dominated by swim squads/Learn-to-swim NA NA 22.0 4.0 24.0

Inadequate supervision NA NA NA NA NA

Not good value for money NA NA 31.3* NA NA

Poor customer service NA NA NA NA NA

Difficult to get into/out of the water NA NA NA NA NA

Don’t feel safe NA NA NA NA NA

Water temperature NA NA 21.7* NA NA

Don’t feel welcome NA NA NA NA NA

Poor shade cover NA 17.5* 10.0* NA 12.5*

Poorly maintained NA NA 25.0* NA 14.3*

Poor quality change rooms 9.6* NA 26.4 NA 24.5

Car parking too difficult NA NA 31.6 NA 15.8*

NOTE: Those responses with an asterisk (*) contained more than 5 responses.

NOTEa: All percentages are determined from the total of respondents to each issue, not the total sample size (I.e. for ‘car parking too difficult’, 31.6% of all people who stated that as an issue attended the Nambour pool).

Overall, Table 14 indicates that the majority of pools do not have general issues of dissatisfaction. The large proportion of NA responses reflect very low responses on those issues by each pool. This suggests that, overall, the pools as a group are generally considered as having specific issues, rather than large


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general perceptions of dissatisfaction. Issues of dissatisfaction that recorded less than 5 responses across all pools are given in grey in Table 14. Clearly issues such as customer service, feeling welcome, feeling safe and pool water quality are considered generally very positively across all pools.

In terms of the individual pools, it is clear that for Cotton Tree pool, the dominant issues were crowding and other user issues (too crowded, pool dominated by swim squad/learn-to-swim: 12.7% and 12% respectively), poor maintenance (28.8%), and water temperature issues (for example, 21.7% of people who were not happy with water temperature visited Cotton Tree as their usual pool).

In contrast for Nambour pool, a number of issues were cited. These included car parking too difficult (31.6% of people with car parking issues attended Nambour pool), poor shade cover, poor maintenance, poor quality change rooms, water temperature, too crowded, pool dominated by swim squad/learn-to-swim. This general perception of dissatisfaction appears to impact on the perception of value for money at the pool, Nambour being the only pool cited by more than 5 respondents as representing poor value for money.

Major issues at Palmwoods were poor shade cover (12.5%), poor quality change rooms (24.5% - over ten respondents) and poorly maintained (14.3%). Similarly, crowding and other user issues (too crowded, pool dominated by swim squad/learn-to-swim) were also cited as reasons for dissatisfaction at Palmwoods. Finally, at Beerwah, crowding and other user issues (too crowded, pool dominated by swim squad/learn-to-swim) again were a potential source of dissatisfaction, with car parking too difficult and not enough variety of facilities also cited as possible issues.

A number of pools received very few specific negative citations on specific reasons for dissatisfaction (Kawana, Buderim, Coolum/Peregian etc). Consistent with the rating of Mooloolah in Table 12, for example, very few specific comments were received relating to reasons for dissatisfaction. It is important to note, however, that pools that received more responses (i.e., Nambour and Palmwoods) would be expected to attract more specific issues for dissatisfaction. This must be considered in interpretation of these figures, as must the low numbers (asterisked) of respondents to some issues at some pools. Refer to Table 18 to link these findings with comments on improvements to each of the pools from respondents to the survey.

1.3. BARRIERS TO PARTICIPATION

Respondents were then asked to identify any specific barriers or constraints they faced that may prevent them, or a member of their household, from using the council pools more frequently. This is outlined in Table 15 below.

Table 15: Main barriers to participation identified by respondents

MAIN BARRIERS TO PARTICIPATION % OF RESPONDENTS25

Limited access to pool facilities due to other venue programming priorities

20.6

25 Due to the multiple response option for this question, percentages may exceed 100%


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Cost of entry and/or program participation 20.1

Distance from place of residence/work. 10.3

Poor or insufficient facility mix 8.8

Poor customer service 4.9

Poor program or activity options 2.5

Other 31.8

Limited access to pool facilities due to other venue programming priorities was cited as the most common specific barrier (20.6%). This is consistent with the number of respondents across pools that cited crowding and conflicts with other users (i.e., lap swimmers and squad trainers) as reasons for dissatisfaction (see Table 14). Cost of entry/program participation was also cited as a major potential barrier to participants (20.1%).

When compared by characteristics of the sample, it was clear that limited access to pool facilities due to other venue programming priorities was perceived as an issue for both male and female respondents, as well as all age groups. However, respondents from postcode 4567 (Noosa area) did cite this as proportionally a greater issue (16.8% of people who cited this as a barrier came from this postcode, compared to 7.8% in the overall sample). Interestingly no other major differences in barriers were found based on demographics of respondents.

A high proportion of ‘other’ barriers were cited. The major ones are provided below in Table 16. Issues of maintenance and cleanliness appear to dominant responses, as does the issue of appropriate changerooms. As per the previous table, the issue of crowding and conflicts of use with others emerges once more as a barrier to participation.


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Table 16: Other barriers to participation identified by respondents

OTHER BARRIERS TO PARTICIPATION NUMBER OF RESPONSES

Needs upgrading/maintenance 6

Not clean/poor cleanliness 6

Changerooms (not enough, busy, no child’s change room)

5

Other users (Insufficient lanes, facilities taken over by others)

5

Poor consideration of disability access 5

Lack of open times/hours 4

Not enough shade 3

Sound system needs upgrading 3

In addition to being requested to discuss barriers to their participation, respondents were also asked to identify features that would improve pools in the SCRC area.

Table 17 presents the mean importance rating of respondents for each of the proposed improvements.

Table 17: Mean and standard deviation for importance for a variety of improvements to Sunshine Coast Council area pool

POTENTIAL IMPROVEMENT MEAN IMPORTANCE RATING

IMPORTANCE (STANDARD DEVIATION)

Redevelopment/ improvement of existing pools 4.19 1.15

Shading around the pool grounds 4.07 1.31

Modern, functional change and toilet amenities 3.92 1.29

Shading over pool water and marshalling areas 3.92 1.37

Efficient customer service 3.80 1.43

Efficient access for persons with disabilities 3.79 1.41

Development of new aquatic venues around the region 3.76 2.20

Effective management arrangements and systems 3.73 1.28

Effective reception/ access and circulation spaces 3.43 1.27

Sufficient, protected spectator seating/ grandstand areas etc 3.42 1.48

Equitable booking systems and access to venues 3.35 1.45

New/ improved health and fitness/ gym area 3.31 1.45


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POTENTIAL IMPROVEMENT MEAN IMPORTANCE RATING

IMPORTANCE (STANDARD DEVIATION)

Development of family 'Leisure water/ lagoon' style pools 3.20 1.61

New/ improved Cafe/ coffee shop facilities 3.14 1.48

Adequate time made to clubs and organisations 3.09 1.49

Club rooms/ multi-purpose indoor spaces 3.07 1.41

Longer hours of operation 3.04 1.61

More aquatic programs (e.g., aqua aerobics/ learn-to-swim) 3.01 1.40

It is clear that, as highlighted earlier in report, the need for redevelopment and improvement of existing pools (M=4.19) was cited as the highest ranked area for improvement of pools in the region.

Shading around the pools areas (shading around the pool grounds; M=4.07; shading over pool water and marshalling areas; M=3.92), is consistent with written comments from customers about the issues of lack of shade. Redevelopment or improvement of the existing pools was also ranked very highly as an important area for improvement (M=4.17). Finally, modern functional change and toilet facilities (M=3.92) is also cited as an area for improvement at the pools, again consistent with comments in Table 16.

In contrast issues relating to longer hours of operation (M=3.04) and more aquatics programs (M=3.01) were not rated as particularly important.

Detailed analysis (ANOVA) of importance ratings for areas of improvement at the pools highlighted that females recorded significantly higher importance ratings compared to male respondents in a number of areas. Specifically, modern functional change and toilet amenities were rated as significantly more important as an improvement by female respondents (M=4.16) compared to male respondents (M=3.40)26. Similarly females also stated a higher need for family leisure water/lagoon style pools as an area of improvement for the pools in the area (M=3.39 compared to M=2.74 for males)27. Female respondents to the survey (M=3.60 compared to M=2.81 for males) also recorded the need for equitable booking systems and access to venues as a greater need for improvement28, along with more efficient customer service29 (M=4.05 compared to M=3.30 for males), and efficient access for people with disabilities30 (M=4.05 compared to M=3.30 for males).

26 F=11.78; df=1, 1,148; p=.001

27 F=5.29; df=1, 1,141; p=.023

28 F=9.00; df=1, 1,126; p=.003

29 F=8.56; df=1, 1,130; p=.004

30 F=4.32; df=1, 1,128; p=.04


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In general, it was clear that female respondents tended to view a range of areas as more critical as improvements when compared to male respondents. This suggests that, firstly, female respondents tend to be more critical customers of aquatic facilities in the areas and secondly, that male respondents appear to have a lower level of expectation where it comes to service provision in local government aquatic facilities

Interestingly, no significant differences in improvements rated as important were found based on the age of the respondent.

Respondents were then asked to comment on specific areas of improvements at each of the pools. Table 18 outlines the main themes that emerged for each of the pools with enough responses (more than 10) to make comment on. As can be seen, similar themes emerge as to those identified in Table 14. Issues of shade at specific pools emerges from the comments, as does, specifically, the need to address car parking issues at Nambour pool. Finally, the issue of changerooms and the need for upgraded or improved changerooms emerges across a number of pools (see Table 18)

Table 18: Themed comments from respondents relating to specific improvements by pool

POOL THEMES OF IMPROVEMENTS

Mooloolah More shade required

Palmwoods Need 50metre pool. Changerooms need to be cleaner

Beerwah Gym, 50 metre lap pool

Caloundra Upgrade changerooms

Coolum/Peregian Shade. More lap lanes

Cotton Tree Changerooms. Upgrade facility.

Buderim More pool space

Nambour Car parking. Upgraded changerooms. More shade

Kawana Shade

Noosa Aquatic Shade

1.4. PRIORITISATION OF COUNCIL SPENDING

Finally, the survey requested respondents to rate spending on upgrading community swimming pools compared to other areas of council spending. Table 19 outlines the percentage of respondents who rated it as either higher, the same or lower priority than other areas of council spending. It was clear that the largest proportion of respondents felt spending on swimming pool improvements was about the same priority as other council areas (43.5%). However over quarter of all respondents did cite it as a higher priority than other spending (26.4%).

Table 19 Priority for spending on swimming pools compared to other areas.


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PRIORITY FOR SPENDING % OF RESPONDENTS

Higher priority than spending on other things 26.4

About the same priority 43.5

Lower priority than spending on other things 18.7

Can’t comment/don’t know 11.4

Examination of responses to this question based on key variables of interest indicated no significant differences in spending priority on swimming pools based on age or gender of the respondent, nor was a significant difference found based on the pool they usually visit, their residential postcode or frequency of visitation.

2. AT POOL “INTERCEPT SURVEYS”

In order to seek resident views more broadly about swimming pools, face-to-face surveys were carried out at 6 pools across the Sunshine Coast; Caloundra Aquatic Centre, Noosa Aquatic Centre, Cotton Tree Aquatic Centre, Kawana Aquatic Centre, Kings Beach Pool and Beerwah Aquatic Centre. A wide spread of ages and user groups was captured.

The majority of users did not access other pools on the Sunshine Coast and considered it unlikely they would ever travel to another pool. Participants were asked to highlight their highest priorities to improve the facilities, services or programs offered at the council pool in use. The survey contained a list of possible improvements which respondents could add to if they wished. Many additional improvements were suggested outside of the list provided. The repetition of certain dissatisfactions and subsequent suggested improvements by participants has created a clear set of priorities for council pools. It is clear that the issue of water temperature and increased provision of shade and seating are the dominant areas for improvements cited by respondents. For each pool, there was no major variation in levels of satisfaction of facilities and services offered by the pool. No recordings of ‘very dissatisfied’ or ‘dissatisfied’ were taken from any users across all the pools surveyed.


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Caloundra Aquatic Centre

What people liked:

� Cleanliness � Cafe area � Social scene within aquatic aerobics programs � Grassy areas around pool � Caters to all ages � Entry fees are reasonable

The priorities seen as being most important were:

� An indoor heated pool (incorporating hydrotherapy water area) � Expansion of learn-to-swim facility; larger pool and seating area (e.g. 6mths – 5 yr olds) � Upgrade of amenities block; fixing of drainage � Increase the shade provision over pools and seating areas � Increase car parking areas � A variety of heated and non-heated pools

The users at Caloundra pool consisted of mainly older females participating in aqua aerobics, mothers accompanying their children to learn-to-swim classes and middle-age males swimming laps for fitness in the 50m pool.

Noosa Aquatic Centre

What people liked:

� Cafe and menu � Amount of grassy areas � Aesthetically pleasing children’s pool (also, ability to sit at cafe and keep an eye on

children) � Great staff � Lawns are always well maintained and presentation is good � Good social interaction/ place to hold children’s birthdays


� Installation of shade sail over 50m pool � Provision of outdoor seating and shade near 50m and 25m pools � Increased lifeguards � Expansion of amenities and closer access to amenities from 25m pool � Increased car parking areas


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� Year round access to heated outdoor water

The users at Noosa Aquatic Centre almost entirely consisted of families. At the time of the interviews, children’s birthday parties were taking place so there were a large number of 5 to 10 year olds. Very little parents were actually using the pool, rather supervising their children, socialising and eating at the cafe. They were, however, regular users of the pool both for fitness and for their children’s’ learn-to-swim lessons.

Cotton Tree Aquatic Centre What people liked:

� Location and closeness to beach � Beautiful 50m pool � Heated indoor 25m pool � Great staff

The priorities seen as being most important were: � Installation of shade sail over 50m pool � Protective wind-barrier near 50m pool � Seating alongside 50m pool (for squads, supporters and parents) � Grandstand seating (for events – grass is never completely dry due to shade sail) � Upgrade of amenities and closer access to amenities at other end of 50m pool � Provision of youth facilities (water slides, diving board etc) � Year round access to heated outdoor water

The users at Cotton Tree Aquatic Centre consisted mainly of young squad groups and their parents.

Kawana Aquatic Centre What people liked:

� Well maintained and cleanliness of grounds � Social scene with aqua programs � Entry fees are reasonable � Diving board is a feature of the pool


� Disabled access to seating under pergola and into/ out of the water � Provision of lockers � Increased seating (both undercover and picnic areas) � Shade sails directly over (a section) of the pool � Seating alongside 50m pool � Increased car parking


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� Wind-shield for protection from strong easterly winds by the 25m pool � Upgrade and expansion of amenities

Users at Kawana Aquatic Centre included swimmers there for fitness and aqua aerobics groups. No divers were present and only a small number of young people; aside from young boys using the skate facility.

2.1. SURVEY INTRODUCTION

‘Face to face’ intercept surveys were completed by 323 people across six of the Sunshine Coast pools. It is clear from Table 20 that over half of all respondents were aged between 30 and 54 years of age (54.0 % of the sample), with only 9.4% of respondents being aged under 20 years of age and 3.4% being aged over 65. In general the age profile indicates a generally good representation of respondents across the different age groups in the community, although it should be noted that the low representation of 65 years and over respondents in particular may result in the opinions and issues relevant to this group being under-represented in the survey findings.

Table 20: Age of respondent

AGE GROUP (YEARS) % OF RESPONDENTS

15-19 years of age 9.4

20 – 24 years of age 7.4





65 years and over 3.4

Table 21 below provides an overview of the gender of the respondents to the survey. It is clear that more females (69.9%) responded to the survey. This however, is a commonly noted feature of community-based survey research, with a 10-20 percent deviation in gender representation well within normal acceptability. It is important, nevertheless, to consider that the higher representation of female respondents may mean that the views and opinions of female respondents may be over represented in the survey responses when compared to those of other uses of pools in the Sunshine Coast region.

Table 21: Gender of respondents

GENDER % OF RESPONDENTS

Male 30.1

Female 69.9

Table 22 outlines the home postcodes of respondents to the survey. Easily the largest single group of respondents came from postcode 4551, (32.5%), including regions such as Caloundra, Currimundi, Pelican Waters and Kings Beach. 10.8% of respondents resided in postcode 4519 (Beerwah and


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surrounding regions). A further 7.1% resided in 4575, including regions such as Minyama, Buddina and Wurtulla, with 4.3% coming from both 4567 (Noosa Heads, Sunshine Beach etc) and 4558 (Maroochydore, Cotton Tree etc). An interesting finding was that a notable proportion of respondents (9.9%) came from interstate, suggesting that a noteworthy proportion of users of the pools are not local residents.

Clearly, the relatively high proportion of responses from postcode 4551 may suggest that issues in relation to the pools raised in the survey may be focused on issues that are salient to people living in this region, with issues for respondents from other regions being less clearly articulated. Accordingly, to address this potential issue, cross-tabulation analysis of key variables by postcode of respondent will be undertaken. This will allow for comparative analysis to occur between respondents from different regions in relation to their responses to the survey.

Table 22: Postcode of respondents

POSTCODE % OF RESPONDENTS

4551 32.5

4519 10.8

4575 7.1

4567 4.3

4558 4.3

4557 4.0

4556 3.4

4561 3.1

Interstate 9.9

Other Queensland postcodes 20.6

2.2. USE AND PERCEPTION OF SUNSHINE COAST POOLS

A clear focus of the Sunshine Coast Council’s Aquatic Plan is to understand levels of current participation and visitation to pools in the region, reasons as to why people visit the pools, as well as to investigate current levels of satisfaction or dissatisfaction with any element of the pools in the region.

2.3. CURRENT VISITATION/ REASONS FOR PARTICIPATION

Table 23 outlines the pool respondents were visiting when they completed the survey. Kings Beach pool recorded the largest single group of responses (20.81%), followed by Beerwah (18.9%), Kawana (18.6%) and Noosa (17.6%). Of note is that all pools provided sufficient numbers to allow for comparative analysis to be undertaken.


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Table 23: Pool respondents were surveyed at.

POOL SURVEYED % OF RESPONDENTS

Kings Beach 20.1

Beerwah 18.9

Kawana 18.6

Noosa 17.6

Caloundra 14.2

Cotton Tree 10.5

Respondents were then asked how often they visited the pool, specifically when they last visited the pool prior to the current visit. Responses are outlined in Table 24 below.

Table 24: Last (previous) visit to pool surveyed at

LAST (PREVIOUS) VISIT % OF RESPONDENTS

First visit 9.9

In the last week 70.0

In the last month 10.8

In the last 6 months 6.5

In the last 12 months 1.2

Over a year ago 1.5

Table 24 clearly indicates that the majority of respondents visit their ‘regular’ pool31 frequently, with 64.1% visiting the pool within the last week. Only 9.2 % of respondents last visited their pool more than six months ago, whilst 9.9% were visiting the pool for the first time. When these figures were cross tabulated by postcode, it was apparent that, as would be anticipated, the majority (over 60%) of all respondents who were visiting the pool for the first time were also from interstate. When cross tabulated by pool, it was also clear that the pools that would expect higher numbers of tourists, for example, Noosa and Kings Beach, did indeed record significantly higher levels of first visitation32. In contrast pools such as Caloundra, Cotton Tree and Kawana recorded significantly lower levels of first visitation. This is outlined in Figure 1 below. Evidence therefore indicates that, clearly, the local community uses the pools, and uses them regularly.

31 The pool the respondent was surveyed at is considered their regular or home pool.

32 �=78.11; df=20; p<.001


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Figure 1: Last Visit by Pool Visited

No significant differences in visitation frequency were found based on either gender or age.

Respondents were also asked to identify the main reason they visited the pool. Table 25 indicates that the most commonly cited reason for visiting the pool was for lap or fitness swimming (38.1%). Visiting with the family was the next most commonly cited reason (28.2%), followed by learn-to-swim programs (18.0%) and club or squad activities (15.5%) and attending with friends (14.2%).

Table 25: Reason for visiting the pool

REASON FOR VISITING THE POOL % OF RESPONDENTS33

Lap/Fitness swimming 38.1

Family visit 28.2

Learn to Swim 18.0

Club or Squad 15.5

Attending with friends 14.2

Other Aquatic Programs 8.7

Other 2.8

33 Multiple responses to this question were allowed. Accordingly total percentage may not total 100%.


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When the reason for visitation was examined based on the pool the respondent was visiting, clear differences emerged. For example, Kings Beach and Noosa compared to other pools recorded significantly higher numbers of respondents who stated they were visiting with family34 (see Figure 2). In contrast, club and squad activities were significantly higher for respondents who attended Cotton Tree, Beerwah and Kawana, whereas other aquatic activities were significantly more commonly cited as a reason for attending by those respondents who attended Caloundra and Kawana pools35. Finally, it was apparent that learn-to swim sessions were cited as a reason for attendance at the pool by significantly more respondents from Beerwah and Noosa36. These are each detailed graphically in Figure 2 below.

Figure 2: Reason for Visit by Pool Visited

34 �2 significant at p<.001




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No significant differences were found in reason for visiting the pool by gender37 or age. However, although the reason for attending pools was not found to significantly differ based on age, some differences were apparent enough to note, whilst remembering they did not approach statistical significance. Younger respondents (aged 15-19 years) were more likely to attend pools with friends. Similarly, respondents aged 30-44 were more likely to attend learn-to-swim lessons (in most cases one would expect as parents of participants in the classes).

Table 26 provides a summary of the proportion of respondents who stated that they swam at other pools in the Sunshine Coast Council area, besides the pool they were attending at the time of the survey. Proportionally, the amount of people who stated they swim at pools besides the pool they were attending at the time of the survey is surprisingly low (approximately only 23% of the total sample also visit pools other than the pool they were surveyed at: 74 out of a total sample of 323). Kawana (6.8% of respondents who visited other pools stated they visited Kawana) and Caloundra (again, 6.8% of respondents who visited other pools stated they visited Caloundra) appear to generate the most visits of all the pools from visitors whose home pool is not either Kawana or Caloundra.

Table 26: Other pools respondents also visited

POOL SURVEYED % OF RESPONDENTS

Kawana 6.8

Caloundra 6.8

Cotton Tree 4.3

Nambour 2.5

Coolum 2.2

Extending the information provided in Table 26, Table 27 outlines the reasons given by respondents as to why they visited other pools.

Table 27: Reason for visiting other pools

REASON FOR VISITING THE OTHER POOL % OF RESPONDENTS38

Lap/Fitness swimming 10.8

Family visit 5.6

Club or Squad 3.1

Other Aquatic Programs 3.1

37 Via application of Kolmogorov-Smirnov tests

38 Multiple responses to this question were allowed. Accordingly total percentage may not total 100%.


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REASON FOR VISITING THE OTHER POOL % OF RESPONDENTS38

Attending with friends 1.5

Learn to Swim 1.5

Other 0.9

Again, lap/fitness swimming was stated as the main reason for visiting another pool by respondents (10.8% of respondents who visited another pool stated they did so for lap or fitness swimming reasons). Family visit was the second most common reason for visiting another pool, with 5.6% of respondents stating this as a reason for visiting another pool. However, low numbers of total responses to this question limit the level of comparative analysis that can be undertaken on this question.

2.4. SATISFACTION LEVELS WITH THE POOLS

Respondents were then requested to identify, on a 5 point scale (1 – very dissatisfied to 5 – very satisfied) how satisfied they were with the facilities and services offered by the pools they used. Given the limited number of responses to the visitation of other pools, it is inferred that the satisfaction and dissatisfaction reported here primarily relates to the home pool at which the survey was completed. Table 28 outlines the level of satisfaction and dissatisfaction by the main pool visited.

Table 28: Levels of satisfaction/dissatisfaction by pool respondents were surveyed at.

POOL SURVEYED AT SATISFIED OR VERYSATISFIED %

DISSATISFIED OR VERYDISSATISFIED %

MEANSATISFACTIONRATING (OUT OF 5)

Noosa 96.5 0 4.50

Kawana 89.5 0 4.33

Kings Beach 86.2 0 4.29

Caloundra 84.2 3.2 3.98

Cotton Tree 71.2 1 3.80

Beerwah 12.339 38.6 2.67

Overall it should be noted that dissatisfaction levels were very low at most pools where surveys were conducted, with Caloundra recording the highest dissatisfaction rate of only 3.2%. Noosa and Kawana recorded the highest levels of satisfaction (96.5% and 89.5% respectively). The one exception to this was Beerwah, where very low levels of satisfaction (only 12.3%) were recorded. In fact not a single respondent stated they were ‘very satisfied’ with Beerwah pool. In contrast over 38%

39 No respondent stated they were ‘very satisfied’ with the Beerwah pool


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of respondents stated they were either ‘dissatisfied’ or ‘very dissatisfied’ with Beerwah pool. This is dramatically different to the other pools in the region and suggests a more detailed satisfaction assessment of the Beerwah pool, focusing on reasons for the high current level of dissatisfaction may be warranted.

Although respondents were asked to outline their specific reasons for dissatisfaction, due to the exceedingly low numbers of people who actually reported being dissatisfied, reasons for dissatisfaction at each pool cannot be provided.

2.5. FACILITIES, SERVICES AND PROGRAM PRIORITIES

Respondents were then asked to identify priorities for re-development of the existing facilities, services and programs in pools in the Sunshine Coast Council area. This is outlined below in Table 2940.

Table 29: Priorities for improvements at the current pool

PRIORITIES FOR IMPROVEMENTS TO THE POOL % OF RESPONDENTS41

More shade directly over the pool 43.9 More shaded leisure spaces for picnics 30.7 More youth facilities (water slides etc) 28.4 Improved standard of change rooms and amenities 26.1 More/better furniture (seats, BBQ’s etc) 25.1

Year round access to heated outdoor water 22.8

Increased car parking areas 21.5

More water space for lap swimming 19.5

More modern kiosk and cafe areas 18.2 Include Health and Fitness (gym) facilities 12.9 Healthy food in kiosks 10.2 Increased lifeguards and focus on pool safety 8.9 Increased access for fitness swimming/lap lanes 7.9 More community programs and activities by council 7.3 Increased grassy/leisure spaces 6.6 More toddler play areas (shallow beach areas) 6.3 Reduce the cost of admission 5.9 Year round access to heated indoor water 5.6

Increased hours of daily operation 4.1

40 Only responses that received more the ten responses as a priority are included.

41 As multiple responses to these items (priorities) were allowed, percentages may exceed 100%


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Overall, Table 29 clearly indicates that more shade (both directly over the pool (43.9% of respondents) and shaded leisure spaces for picnics (30.7% of respondents) is the dominant priority cited by respondents to improve the pools in the area. This was followed by more youth facilities (28.4%), improved standard of changerooms and amenities (26.1%) and more/better furniture (25.1%).

When some of the priorities for improvements were examined by home pool, some interesting differences emerged. These are outlined in Table 30 below for the top priorities, as well as others with notable differences.

Table 30: Priorities (number of responses) by pool respondents were surveyed at42.

PRIORITY NOOSA KAWANA COTTONTREE

CALOUNDRA KINGSBEACH

BEERWAH

More shade directly over the pool 22 32 8 17 37 17

More shaded leisure spaces for picnics 29 17 9 6 22 10

More/better furniture (seats, BBQ’s etc) 12 28 7 3 17 9

Improved standard of change rooms and amenities

8 9 12 32 2 16

More youth facilities (water slides etc) 16 6 9 6 26 23

Year round access to heated outdoor water

4 3 10 6 6 40

More water space for lap swimming 7 2 8 11 19 12

More modern kiosk/café areas 5 4 6 9 15 16

Increased car parking areas 19 4 3 1 18 20

Table 30 indicates that specific priorities are related to each pool. For example, Table 30 shows that shade over the pool is a notable priority for improvement for respondents who typically visit Kawana (32) and Kings Beach (37), followed by Noosa (22), Caloundra (17) and Beerwah (17). In contrast, at Cotton Tree shade over the pool is not viewed as pressing a priority. A similar pattern was also found for more shaded leisure spaces. More space for lap swimming is clearly an issue at Kings Beach (19), Beerwah (12) and Caloundra (11).The need for better or more furniture is clear at Kawana (28), whereas Caloundra (32) is clearly dominating priorities for improved changerooms and amenities. Year round access to heated outdoor water is a major issue for respondents who use Beerwah as their main pool (40). Finally, Beerwah (20), Noosa (19) and Kings Beach (18) feature increased car parking areas as a major priority for improvement.

42 All pools �2 significant at p<.001


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Accordingly any examination of priorities must be conducted specific to each pool, rather than viewed in an overall sense.

2.6. PROBABILITY OF OTHER POOL USE

Respondents were asked to identify on a four point scale (1-definitely not to 4- definitely yes) how likely they would be to travel to another facility if their expectations in relation to improvements to the pool had been met. The mean43 and standard deviation44 of responses by pool, and in total, are outlined below in Table 31.

Table 31: Probability of travelling to another facility if improvements are made

PROBABILITY OF TRAVELLING TO ANOTHER FACILITY MEAN STANDARDDEVIATION


Kings Beach 2.31 0.81

Kawana. 2.26 0.88

Beerwah 2.22 0.84

Noosa 2.09 0.85

Caloundra 2.06 0.89

Total 2.21 0.86

Table 31 clearly shows that respondents who attended Cotton Tree (M = 2.47) as their ‘main’ pool would be most likely to still visit another pool, even if improvements were made to the Cotton Tree pool. This was followed by Kings Beach (M = 2.31). Respondents who visited Caloundra (M = 2.06) were the least likely to visit another pool if improvements were made. Interestingly, the pool with the highest dissatisfaction (Beerwah) recorded moderate levels of intention or likelihood to change pool. Reasons for higher likelihood or lower likelihood to attend another pool may be due to proximity or distance to another appropriate pool, which may constrain choice to attend another pool. In contrast, programs or facilities that are not offered or available at a home pool may provide a motivation to attend other pools, even if improvements were made.

43 The mean refers to the average for all respondents to the scale of interest, in this case a five point scale from 1 - strongly disagree to 5 strongly agree. Therefore the higher the mean, the higher the level of agreement with the statement. This scale was reverse coded from the original questionnaire to present the data is a more logical way.

44 Standard deviation is a measure of the spread or variation in responses to a particular question. A higher standard deviation indicates a lot of variability in responses, suggesting the sample is not homogenous in its perception of the question. This would be the case if there were different groups who view a particular feature from very different perspectives. A low standard deviation tends to suggest most people are responding to the question in a similar way, and there is general universal agreement on the issue in the sample.


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This is supported when cross tabulations of pool visited were conducted by home postcode of respondents. Select postcodes close to specific pools are outlined in Table 32 below. This clearly shows that most respondents attend local pools as a matter of course, and was found to be statistically significant via application of Kruskal-Wallis testing45. Accordingly, improvements in existing facilities may not result in substantial changes in visitor behaviour.

Table 32: Postcode of respondent by pool visited

POSTCODE NOOSA KAWANA COTTONTREE

CALOUNDRA KINGSBEACH

BEERWAH

4551 4 24 6 40 31 0

4567 13 0 0 0 1 0

4575 0 19 3 1 0 0

4557 0 3 9 0 1 0

4519 0 0 0 1 1 33

Interstate 11 1 1 0 19 0

The similarity of standard deviation figures across all six pools shown in Table 31 suggests that there is little variation among responses, again suggesting that decisions in relation to attending other pools may incorporate other issues beyond simply quality provision within the pool itself. This is also supported by the fact that comparative analysis of likelihood to visit another pool by age and gender through application of ANOVA46 found no significant differences based on either age of respondent or their gender.

3. SUNSHINE COAST FOCUS GROUPS

3.1. DISABILITY SERVICES

Being done well or should be continued or expanded

� Council staff response to community needs (physical disability problems with use of equipment)

� Noosa Aquatics Centre is good but requires a hoist

� Noosa Hospital hydrotherapy pool – parking is a problem

� Council staff are helpful and responsive finalising paper work

45 �=344.03; df=80; p<.001

46 Analysis of Variance is a statistical test where the mean (in this case of likelihood to visit another pool) is assessed against k groups.


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What needs to be improved?

� Policy to support sport and recreation to be more inclusive (H)

� Parking for disabled – need to be increased into the future (aging population) (H)

� Promotion of what services are available for people with disability (H)

� Access to amenities for people with disabilities (H)

� Access and upgrading to aquatic facilities to current standard for disabled – all facilities to be audited (H)

� Transport for people in their 50’s and 60’s

� Develop safe environments – specific mention of pools access and the need for hoists even if ramps are available.

� Some people can’t access water proof wheel chairs

� Support for very aged persons and chronic disease afflictions target them to engage and develop strategies to get them to become motivated

Barriers to Participation

� Pool in Pomona is unavailable

� Depth of Noosa Aquatics Centre pool is a barrier (25 metre)

� Attitudes from the general community and sport and recreation clubs

� Parking for disabled and/or suitable drop off zones

� Hinterland offers limited opportunities

Facilities that could be better used

� Pomona Pool

3.2. EDUCATION QUEENSLAND SPORTS COORDINATORS


� Noosa Aquatic Centre is well used and supported by local schools. Staff and facilities are excellent.


� The limited access to some SCRC pools (Nambour was cited as an example) at times make it difficult to coordinate subsequent District and Regional Championships timetables. Suggestion that some pools did not encourage or open school swimming carnivals at their venues (Nambour


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and Maroochy pools specifically mentioned).

� If a pool is built at the University it may take some of the pressure of the other pools. There are insufficient pools to meet the needs of all the schools that need to run their carnivals within a specified 3 week period each year.

� Some maintenance issues at Nambour mentioned (starting block) and lessee’s reference to council being slow to react to request for repairs at the venue.

� Caboolture Aquatic Centre has ongoing issues with timing system and the PA system which is inaudible.

� Shade at Noosa and Kawana is insufficient – Nambour has good shade provision


� Timing of school bookings of pools to make it possible to send representatives to the District and Regional swimming championships. Problem seems to be balancing Learn to Swim, intensive programs and school carnivals by the pool management.

� Transport to pools is a major issue for schools.

� Need to make sure there is more shade at all facilities as they are developed and upgraded.


� University had a good system of managing access for all to the University track – perhaps a similar model could be developed for school based pool booking requirements.

3.3. HEALTHY AGEING PARTNERSHIP


� Noosa Leisure centre and Noosa Aquatic centre are very good at delivering exercise classes and programs catering for older people. Directly delivered by council staff.


� PWD and access and equity


� Not a lot of knowledge in the group about other council’s previous services.

� Issue with committing to infrastructure (e.g. SUNROC Report).


� Don’t start programs “for the sake of it” Target and Activate to a plan. One size does not fit all, tailor programs and be flexible in accommodating community needs


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� Develop new initiatives but be ready to adapt.


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3.4. SUNSHINE COAST PHYSICAL ACTIVITY & NUTRITION NETWORK

Sport, recreation and aquatic facility design elements to consider:

� Catering facilities that support healthy menu choice outcomes

� Bike racks

� Parent/ baby change facilities

� Disabled use facilities (not just access)

� Shade

� Hinterland communities lack in sport, recreation and aquatic facility provision in comparison to coastal communities

� Access and transport to facilities is important to maximise broad community use and to support these venues becoming part of a central hub or a recognised community destination

� Co-locating medical/ retail outlets as part of the facility mix for facilities is likely to provide improved access to and awareness of the facilities and programs available

3.5. SUNSHINE COAST DISABILITY AGENCIES NETWORK

� Unable to access an aquatic facility in the Sept to December period, especially in the Nambour/ Maroochy area

� Noosa Aquatic Centre has dedicated times on Sunday mornings

� Need for training of pool staff/ teachers on behavioural awareness/ tolerance for people with a disability (PWD).

4. MEETINGS WITH COUNCILLORS

Meetings were conducted with elected officials to seek their views on sport, recreation and aquatics issues and opportunities that will impact on the region through to 2026.

� Pomona Pool (school) now has a model in place to guarantee opening hours and times. This venue had previously been closed for community use

� Cooroy Pool – well used and no problems

� Matthew Flinders School are building a pool

� Palmview includes the University of the Sunshine Coast. This catchment will be 6 to 7 times the population of Sippy Downs (i.e. 35 000-40 000)

� Nambour Pool inadequate according to some residents e.g. people with a disability access and


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unreliable performance of existing hoist47

� Nambour Pool is well used by schools

� Some complaints that pools are not adequately funded (e.g. Kenilworth)

� Eumundi Pool is well used

� Good Shepherd School has 8 lane 25m heated pool (Brian Steer has coaching rights)

� Peregian Beach Community College have a 6 lane 25m pool

5. MEETINGS WITH COUNCIL STAFF

5.1. SCRC FACILITY MANAGERS

� Need for a regional level facility for aquatics (e.g. major championships). Facilities tend to be at the same level – few higher standard

� Differences in levels of support for clubs in pre-amalgamated councils i.e. Lack of policy or ‘Standards of Service’ for determining what level facilities should be maintained at

� Demand for shade at sporting and aquatic facilities

� Schools are considered an underutilised resource and need to be encouraged to maximise their community use

� There are perceived inequities in the extent to which council funding is allocated to school pools

6. YOUTH CONSULTATION

Feedback from young people was sought directly from school students at a number of Sunshine Coast schools as school aged children and youth constitute a considerable percentage of aquatic facility patrons.

A “Youth @ School” forum was conducted with a number of schools in February, 2010 in an informal manner and explored how young people feel about aquatic facilities and programs, their likes, dislikes, suggestions for improvement and priorities.

47 Council is considering the replacement of this ageing device in the 2010/11 Budget


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All forums were conducted with Year 10 students with the following advice obtained:

SIENNA COLLEGELikesThere are a sufficient number of aquatic facilities within close proximity to most residents in the Sippy Downs area

Dislikes Standard of aquatic facilities are limited

Barriers to Participation None described

Suggestions for improvements Improve the standard and facility mix of existing Sunshine Coast pools

PrioritiesImprove the standard and facility mix of existing Sunshine Coast pools.

COOLUM BEACH STATE HIGH SCHOOLLikesCoolum pool is accessible

Dislikes Entry and program charges at Coolum Pool.

Barriers to Participation None described

Suggestions for improvements Improve standard of Coolum Pool, including program and learn-to-swim facilities Due to popularity of Kings Beach Ocean Pool, consider more sea water, free access pools Provide interactive equipment at pools for teenage children Upgrade standard of Coolum Pool

Priorities Improve standard of Coolum Pool facilities

MERIDIAN STATE COLLEGELikesAbility to use the Caloundra Pool when surf/ beach conditions are unsafe

Dislikes No aquatic issues stated

Barriers to Participation No aquatic issues stated

Suggestions for improvements No aquatic issues stated

PrioritiesNo aquatic issues stated

BEERWAH STATE HIGH SCHOOLLikesNo aquatic issues stated

Dislikes Coastal localities have greater access to modern facilities

Barriers to Participation No aquatic issues stated

Suggestions for improvements Increase aquatic options, including leisure water and interactive equipment Access to pools with sufficient water depths for sports such as water polo

PrioritiesNo aquatic issues stated


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NOOSA DISTRICT STATE HIGH SCHOOLLikesCouncil developed skate parks (not specifically mentioned but several are at aquatic centres)

Dislikes No aquatic issues stated

Barriers to Participation Lack of awareness of what programs and activities are available in the local area

Suggestions for improvements Increase aquatic options, including leisure water and interactive equipment Access to pools with sufficient water depths for sports such as water polo

PrioritiesIncrease access to leisure water

COOROY STATE PRIMARY SCHOOL

LikesNo aquatic issues stated

Dislikes Swimming pool located at the school has very minimal operating times available for leisure swimming on weekends, holidays and after school.

Barriers to Participation Swimming pool located at the school has very minimal operating times available for leisure swimming on weekends, holidays and after school

Suggestions for improvements Introduce “come n try” days to gain an understanding of and test what activities are available in the community

PrioritiesIncrease access to local Cooroy Swimming Pool

7. STATE SPORTING ORGANISATIONS

Interviews were conducted with State Sporting Organisations and Education Queensland to seek their views on:

� Any identified gaps in aquatic facility, program and/ or service provision on the Sunshine Coast;

� Future event and training opportunities;

� Special needs at existing Sunshine Coast pools;

� Any strategies to introduce and/ or expand current aquatic training, event and/ or services on the Sunshine Coast;

� The role of the Sunshine Coast as an elite training destination; and

� Any known plans for the development of new aquatic facilities on the Sunshine Coast. Interviews were conducted with the following organisations:

(a) Swimming Queensland; (b) Water Polo Queensland; (c) Royal Life Saving Society of Queensland; (d) Triathlon Queensland; and


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(e) Sunshine Coast School Sport.

7.1. SWIMMING QUEENSLAND

Whilst not specific to the Sunshine Coast, the largest issue affecting swimming in Queensland is a lack of suitable access to support athlete development and training. This problem is derived as a result of an increasing trend of local governments leasing out their pools to third party commercial operators which have the understandable primary focus on programs and activities that achieve the highest financial return to a venue.

Often swimming clubs and elite programs are afforded minimal access to lanes, whilst activities such as aqua aerobics, leisure swimming and learn-to-swim have priority access.

Swimming Queensland is seeking for local governments throughout the State to increase their recognition of the importance of swimming clubs and elite programs as part of achieving health and active outcomes for communities. Swimming Queensland recommend that this recognition be delivered in the form of conditions for third party operators included in lease/ management agreements whereby operators must provide a suitable amount of access to pools to support swimming clubs and elite programs.

Swimming Queensland recognises that this Plan may result in reduced lease rentals or increased requirements for subsidisation by local government however see this model as a necessary community outcome.

Swimming Queensland is aware of the ongoing population growth on the Sunshine Coast and is concerned that the current access restrictions will only increase in line with the subsequent community demand. Swimming Queensland supports aquatic facilities developed for specific purposes in terms of the separation of leisure focussed pools from program pools (i.e. Kings Beach Ocean Pool and Caloundra Aquatic Centre).

Following the recent announcement by the State Government that the Sleeman Sports Centre will be upgraded to include a second 50m swimming pool, Swimming Queensland advised it is unlikely to shift major competitions away from this venue in future.

7.2. WATER POLO QUEENSLAND

Water Polo Queensland is aware of the strong population growth on the Sunshine Coast and has existing strong school and club competitions based in this region. The Sunshine Coast is the largest regional centre for water polo in Queensland. Further, approximately 50% of participants in Brisbane water polo competitions reside on the Sunshine Coast.

Water Polo Queensland is in current discussions with water polo groups based on the Sunshine Coast to identify opportunities to reduce the requirement of water polo participants having to travel each week for training and competition purposes, however these discussions are in the early, formative stages. Initiatives being explored include the potential establishment of a high performance program on the Sunshine Coast. Age and gender events will continue to be allocated throughout Queensland such as the Queensland U16’s State Championship being held on the Sunshine Coast in April 2010 at Kawana,


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Noosa and Nambour.

7.3. ROYAL LIFE SAVING SOCIETY OF QUEENSLAND

RLSSQ support the development of the Sunshine Coast Aquatic Plan, however reinforced the importance of ensuring future aquatic facility design considers elements that support safety outcomes (i.e. maximised view of water from central reception/ café/ administration areas [unimpeded line of sight issues]).

7.4. SUNSHINE COAST SCHOOL SPORT

Sunshine Coast School Sport are satisfied that the issues relating to aquatic facility, program and service provision on the Sunshine Coast were adequately addressed in the Education Queensland Focus Group session facilitated by David Mason in 2009. However, Sunshine Coast School Sport wished to reinforce the increasing difficulty of schools being able to access pools during schools times as activities such as aqua aerobics, leisure swimming and learn-to-swim are given priority over school usage as they provide a higher return for third party commercial operators. Further, there is growing competition for access between public and private primary and high schools.

Therefore, any future increase in aquatic facilities on the Sunshine Coast is supported by Sunshine Coast School Sport, provided schools are provided with reasonable, school-time access.


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AQUATIC LITERATURE REVIEW

1. SUNSHINE COAST REGIONAL COUNCIL CORPORATE

PLAN 2009 - 2014

Council’s vision for the Sunshine Coast region is:

“To be Australia’s most sustainable region – vibrant, green, and diverse.”

Council’s direction until 2014 is guided by eight themes:

� Robust economy � Ecological sustainability � Innovation and creativity � Health and well-being

� Social cohesion � Accessibility and connectedness � Managing growth � Great governance

The ‘Health and wellbeing’ theme has direct implications for this study.

Council’s ‘Health and wellbeing’ objective is:

“An active and healthy community is resilient and enhances people’s quality of life. Council plays a role in community well-being through safety initiatives, preventative health and education programs, provision of community sport and recreational opportunities and facilitating community interaction...”

The ‘Emerging priority’ and ‘strategies’ of the Health and wellbeing theme most relevant to this study is:

� 4.1 Active Lifestyles

� Promote physical activity and recreation. � Support community-based sport and recreation organisations and programs. � Continue to develop the multi-purpose sports precinct at Quad Park.

� The Plan also includes a number of other pertinent strategies across the other emerging priorities and themes:

� facilitating partnerships with community, government and education sectors; � providing equitable access to facilities and services; � supporting programs and infrastructure that encourage interaction and contribute to place making

and a sense of community; and � providing parks, open space and community infrastructure that is consistent with identified local

and regional needs.

These themes, emerging priorities and strategies are key considerations when planning for the future aquatics provision for the Sunshine Coast community.

2. RECREATION STRATEGY FOR CALOUNDRA CITY-


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2004

The former Caloundra City’s Recreation Strategy provided direction to council and the community on the planning and development of recreational opportunities over a ten to fifteen year period.

The Plan covers active and passive recreation opportunities, formal and informal leisure pursuits (indoor and outdoor), aquatic and foreshore activities and arts and cultural opportunities. It contains a Recreation Action Plan and a Recreation Facilities Plan.

The Plan is underpinned by a Policy Statement:

“Caloundra City will be a vibrant and healthy community with access to a diverse and innovative range of sporting, cultural and recreational opportunities. Community involvement and participation in recreational activities will achieve positive social, economic and environmental outcomes for the City.”

The following are the Policy Outcomes of the Plan:

� Spaces and places for people to recreate � Working together to create good experiences � An active and involved community

KEY RECOMMENDATIONS/ OUTCOMES

Key ‘higher level’ and ‘city-wide’ outcomes relevant to the Sunshine Coast Aquatics Plan are listed below

� Review the Draft Sunshine Coast Aquatic Plan with the inclusion of shared facilities at Maleny and Mooloolah and develop a City-wide Plan

� Investigate the possible shared access to aquatic facilities with State Government/ private facilities – West Caloundra, Currimundi Recreation Camp (existing resource), Pelican Waters School.

� Review Regional Recreation Study

� Undertake a satisfaction/ customer survey of contractor managed recreation facilities on an annual basis (e.g. aquatic centre).

� Annually review the allocated resources for the management and maintenance of council-controlled recreation and aquatic facilities.

� Prepare a discussion paper for council to develop a policy position and draft memorandum of understanding for council/ Community use of Education Queensland facilities.

� Participate in regional planning for sport and recreation.

� Full life-cycle costing to be prepared on new facilities being planned in the City. � Undertake feasibility studies for major facility development in the City. � Further develop council’s position in relation to Public, Private, Partnerships (PPP). � Maximise economic benefits of selected recreational assets by providing commercial and business

opportunities. � Encourage community participation and involvement in planning, management and delivery of

services and events.

3. NOOSA SPORT AND RECREATION PLAN, 2004


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This document contains the following vision:

“An active and healthy community which has the opportunity of recreating in quality parkland settings and playing sport in quality facilities”

The plan also contains 13 Guiding Principles:

� Community involvement in provision of sport and recreation opportunities � Effective planning for sport and recreation opportunities � Sustainable use � High quality sport and recreation opportunities � Resourcing the provision of sport and recreation opportunities � Effective use of sport and recreation facilities � Effective management of sport and recreation facilities and events � Access to recreation and sport opportunities � Minimal impacts on surrounding land uses � Public safety at sport and recreation facilities � Co-operation with other providers of sport and recreation opportunities � Information about sport and recreation activities and programs � Promotion of Noosa as a destination for sport and recreation activities


Key ‘higher level’ and ‘city-wide’ outcomes relevant to the Regional

Aquatics Plan are listed below. Local level or facility specific recommendations are detailed in the relevant “Locality Summaries”.

� Support the staged expansion of the Noosa Aquatic Centre in line with an approved development and business plan. - Recommended a development plan and associated business plan to extend the facility’s

services and programs. Development plan to be integrated with provision of council, educational and private sporting facilities within the Girraween sports precinct. Possible improvements requiring more detailed investigation include an additional 25m pool, hydrotherapy pool and spectator seating.

� Jointly with Maroochy and Caloundra Councils, review the development of regional sporting facilities and identify those to be developed within Noosa Shire.


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4. MAROOCHY SPORTS STRATEGY PLAN REVIEW, 2004

This 5-year strategy contains recommendations under five key headings:

� Land use planning � Land use management � Communication and information � Community groups � Administration and funding


Key ‘higher level’ and ‘city-wide’ outcomes for consideration in the Sunshine Coast Aquatics Strategy are listed below.

� Review the accessibility of council pools for people with disabilities

� Develop an Aquatic Facilities Strategy for the Shire to determine the long term mix and location of swimming facilities.

“Note: The research for this project did not reveal a need for the development of facilities for swimming sports. There are seven council operated swimming pools including the shared use community/ school pool at Mountain Creek State High School. In addition a new shared use pool is proposed for Eumundi State School and Matthew Flinders College is considering the development of a new 50m pool which would be available for community use...An Aquatic Facilities Strategy would examine the long term facility mix, location, opportunities for rationalisation and suitable management arrangements for swimming pools.”

� Ensure adequate land is provided to meet community needs for sport, particularly in growth areas.

� Consider the co-funding of sporting facilities on school/ tertiary land where appropriate.

5. SUNROC REGIONAL SPORT & RECREATION

FACILITY STUDY (2005 – 2020)

This document proposes the following vision for sport and recreation on the Sunshine Coast:

“The Sunshine Coast will be recognised as a leading destination for events, training, industry development and innovation relating to sport and recreation.”

The outcomes that SunROC will strive to achieve are:

� Collaborative and cooperative approach to the development and operation of regional and higher level sport and recreation facilities and activities that are financially viable, and achieve effective and efficient use of resources.

� Communities that are able to access a wide range of sport and recreation facilities and opportunities.

� Partnerships with the private sector and/ or tertiary sector stimulate research and innovation and are a significant contributor toward economic prosperity in the region.


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� Our beaches, waterways and unique natural environments support a network of sustainable sport and recreation opportunities. These valuable assets continue to be protected.

� Events complement the lifestyle and environment of the sunshine Coast.


Key policy outcomes for consideration in the Sunshine Coast Aquatics Plan are outlined below. Specific activity recommendations are detailed in the relevant Locality Summaries.

� The development of a purpose-built new or upgraded facility for regional and higher level swimming/ water polo events or aquatic leisure facilities is not recommended.

� The Aquatic Facility Strategies of Noosa, Maroochy and Caloundra Councils should: - Consider the provision of an indoor heated pool (e.g. 25m) for year round swimming/

programming at on existing pool location in each Shire. - Ensure that one pool within each of the respective Shire has adequate covered

spectator seating for regional (e.g. school/ club carnivals) or higher level events for swimming and/ or water polo.

� Ensure that Planning Schemes or local laws protect and preserve existing sport and recreation areas and facilities from development for other purposes, particularly those within the urban footprint.

� Advocate to the State Government to include in their annual Infrastructure Plan and Program (Social and Community Infrastructure) funding strategies for the protection or acquisition of land for regional level sport and recreation.

� Liaise with the Department of State Development and Innovation to commission a study to determine the existing and potential economic benefit of high level events on the Sunshine Coast.

� Commit to maximising the usage and viability of facilities for regional and higher level events.

� Council’s should agree not to duplicate infrastructure for regional or higher level sport and recreation activities where such infrastructure is available in other local government areas, and can adequately met demand.

6. HEALTHY NEIGHBOURHOODS: A REPORT ON

PHYSICAL ACTIVITY LOCAL ENVIRONMENTS AND FOOD

HABITS ON THE SUNSHINE COAST AND IN COOLOOLA

This report provides local level information regarding participation in physical activity and healthy eating in Cooloola and the Sunshine Coast and identifies barriers and enablers on these areas.

Key points relevant to the Sunshine Coast Aquatic Plan are:

� Across the Sunshine Coast and Cooloola 49.3% of the sample respondents met the National Physical Activity Guidelines criteria for sufficient physical activity.

� Key areas for future focus include: � Women with children in the home; � People living in areas perceived to be “traffic heavy” or lacking supportive infrastructure for


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physical activity; � People who are not sufficiently active; � Access to parks/ recreation areas; � Improving facilities; � Addressing traffic concerns.

7. NOOSA COUNCIL PHYSICAL ACTIVITY REVIEW AND

EVALUATION (DRAFT REPORT), 2006

Two of the key findings of this document are relevant to the Sunshine Coast Aquatics Plan:

� Noosa has an ageing community, leading to demand for low impact exercise; and

� Structured sport is not a common form of activity for Noosa residents;

8. PLANNING FOR A SUSTAINABLE SUNSHINE COAST ASTATEMENT OF PROPOSALS FOR A NEW PLANNING SCHEME,2009

The Statement of Proposals is a formal requirement of the Integrated Planning Act 1997 in the preparation of the new Planning Scheme for the Sunshine Coast Region. The Statement of Proposals will inform the strategic planning component of the new planning scheme and as such it:

� Identifies key challenges facing the Sunshine Coast;

� Provides an overview of the current legislative and policy frameworks influencing planning on the Sunshine Coast;

� Provides a draft planning vision for the Sunshine Coast; and

� Identifies key directions for the new planning scheme based on the seven Corporate Plan 2009 themes, responding directly to the key challenges and the draft planning vision.

The key directions most relevant to the Sunshine Coast Aquatics Plan are:

� Managing Growth � Design centres and communities around walking and cycling and provide opportunities for

open space, sport and recreation, community facilities, education and entertainment opportunities to promote health and wellbeing.

� Recognise and protect the character and identity of individual communities.... design high quality public spaces and community facilities to encourage social cohesion and interaction.

� Robust Economy � Develop an integrated activity centres network comprising:

- Maroochydore as the Principal Regional Activity Centre; - Caloundra and Nambour as the dominant Major Regional Activity Centres;


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- Noosa, Sippy Downs, Kawana, Caloundra South and Beerwah as other Major Regional Activity Centres; and

- Tewantin, Cooroy, Buderim, Mooloolaba, Palmview, Maleny, Currimundi and Aroona, Caloundra South and Pelican Waters as District Activity Centres.

� Protect and provide for the further development of major sport and recreation and entertainment precincts;

� Continue to provide and plan for the provision of infrastructure necessary to support economic development including transport, telecommunications, open space, sport and recreation and community facilities and infrastructure;

� Health and Wellbeing � Retain and enhance existing urban open space, sport and recreational facilities to support

consolidation within identified urban areas at Maroochydore, Caloundra, Nambour, Kawana, Sippy Downs and Beerwah.

� Ensure that open space, sport and recreation and community facilities are provided prior to or in conjunction with new development, that it is designed and delivered to best practice standards and is maintained in public ownership for community use.

9. CALOUNDRA AQUATIC FACILITY NEEDS STUDY,2005

This Plan reviewed the aquatic facilities within the former Caloundra Shire, namely:

� Beerwah

� Caloundra

� Conondale

� Kawana

� Kings Beach

� Maleny

� Mooloolah

The study found that based on current utilisation of council’s aquatic facilities, forecast demand to 2016 could be catered for. It was recommended that council review the Strategy in 2010.



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Key/ general outcomes from this study for consideration in the Sunshine Coast Aquatics Plan are outlined below.

� To continue to provide the agreed level of provision of aquatic facilities for future population - include an infrastructure provision for aquatic facilities in the Local Growth Management Plan based on the current level of provision and issues relating to possible isolation.

� Monitor lease/ management agreements and implement regular inspections to ensure compliance with RLSSA Guidelines for Safe Pool Operation.

� Review lease arrangements to resolve commercial objectives versus community access, clarify expectations for community access and improve health and community outcomes.

� Further develop written policies and procedures and standardise reporting for lessees. Ensure a standardised software system is in use across contracted pools to track key information for council (i.e. attendance, gross receipts, gross expenditure, maintenance costs, labour costs, energy costs, entry fees received, and membership).

� Prepare a role and responsibility flow chart for contract management of aquatic facilities.

� Negotiate with lessees to include some recommended developments as part of their lease arrangements.

� Negotiate with lessees with a view to receiving a level of return for works undertaken by council.

� Facilitate access to hydrotherapy pools.

� Negotiate with lessees to implement a more equitable system for casual lap swimmers to access water space.

� Upgrade existing facilities to include more leisure water, shading, BBQ’s etc.

� Council and lessees integrate marketing of aquatic facilities

� Develop an Asset Management Plan that accounts for whole of life costs including provision for pro-active and reactive maintenance. Negotiate with lessees for a fixed contribution per annum towards maintenance.

� Undertake strategic site planning

� Purchase appropriate equipment (i.e. automatic timing equipment)

� Replace Education Queensland pools with council owned and operated facilities

� Undertake a facility audit in 10 years time.


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Documents

Volume Two – Supporting Resources Sunshine Coast Aquatic Plan/media/Corporate/... · 2015-11-14 · Sunshine Coast Aquatic Plan Volume Two 5 1.1. DESCRIPTION OF CURRENT ASSET Location