Premier hits out at Henderson’s ‘last-minute, desperate’ pool pledge

TORQUAY residents have been promised a 25m indoor swimming pool by Premier Daniel Andrews and not the 50m pool pledged by Corangamite MP Sarah Henderson.

Last October, Mr Andrews pledged a re-elected Labor State Government would deliver $10 million towards the Torquay Aquatic and Leisure Centre.

Speaking at the time, the Premier said the $25 million project, including $15 million from federal Labor if elected, would include an indoor 25metre pool, a learn to swim pool for littlies, a gym and group fitness room.

Ms Henderson has pledged $20 million towards the Torquay Aquatic and Leisure Centre, including a 50-metre pool. Speaking on a visit to Torquay, Mr Andrews said he would build the swimming pool promised last year.

“We will build the swimming pool in Torquay that people voted for last year,” he said.

“If we committed to a 50m pool, no doubt Sarah Henderson would be out there promising a 100m pool.”

Mr Andrews described the $20 million Liberal pledge as “last-minute, desperate stuff from people who’ve had six years in office”.

“They’ve had every opportunity, that amazing gift of government, and they have delivered nothing,” he said.

“I think the people in this electorate see past these last minute election giveaways, particular from someone who has delivered nothing for six long years.”

Surf Coast Aquatic and Leisure Centre Action Group president Colin Fowler said the group wanted a 50m pool.

“We have been pushing for a FINA approved 50.3m pool so we can attract swimming competitions, school competitions, and the Commonwealth Games and Olympic Games.”

Ms Henderson said the $20 million secured for a Surf Coast Aquatic Centre was contingent on there being a 50-metre pool.

“No-one in the community including local surf clubs and swimming clubs wants a 25metre pool,” she said.

“Daniel Andrews and my Labor opponent are just not listening to the community. A 25-metre pool is shortsighted.”