When we were preparing our strategic plans, we devised a list of Councillor priorities that aligned with community feedback. People told us they value local sport, leisure and recreation and we’ve made this one of our key priorities.

During this term of Council, we’re focusing on improving accessibility and modernising our facilities through targeted works programs. Within our Delivery Program, we’re allocating:

• Sporting Facilities Works Program: $35M for upgrades to floodlighting, irrigation, signage, car park sealing, cricket wickets and more.
• Sporting Amenities Works Program: $10.5M for amenities buildings and car park upgrades for ovals and fields.
• Playspaces Works Program: $10.2M for refreshing local play spaces, shade sails, soft fall and fitness equipment in parks, reserves and community centres.
• Leisure Centres Works Program: $9.2M for upgrades to fitness equipment, courts, sports flooring and more.
• Skate Parks, BMX and Hard-Court Facilities Program: $5.4M for skate parks, BMX and basketball court renewals.
• Parks and Reserves Works Program: $4.5M for upgrades to lighting, pathways, barbecues and fencing.
• Recreational Aquatic Infrastructure Works Program: $3.4M for improvements to boat ramps, jetties, swimming baths and enclosures.
• Pool Facilities Renewals Program: $1.9M for pool, filter, pump and equipment renewal.
• Surf Life Saving Clubs Program: $1.3M for surf club and kiosk refurbishments.
• Tennis Facilities Renewal Program: $303k for tennis court lighting and fencing.

We also want to increase participation in sports though delivering programs like Girls Get Active, Mums Basketball and adult learn to swim programs.

We’ll be promoting accessible beach opportunities and delivering playspace upgrades with inclusion features that align with ‘Everyone can Play’ guidelines.

And we’ll be continuing to provide a high level of service for users of our parks and reserves.

We’ve recently completed consultation on our draft Leisure and Aquatic Strategy 2025-2035, and we’re now incorporating community feedback. Once adopted, this 10-year framework will guide the infrastructure upgrades, asset management and program expansion for leisure and aquatic services across the Coast.

You can view the draft Leisure and Aquatic Strategy and have your say on our future plans on the Your Voice Our Coast website.

Mayor Lawrie McKinna