Exceeding all expectations, Bay Pavilions, a new aquatic arts and leisure centre in Batemans Bay, has reinvigorated its community.
This is why the outstanding new facility was noted for its excellence. Last month, it was awarded the 2023 NSW/ACT Community Facility of the Year Award at a Parks and Leisure Australia (PLA) event.
Bay Pavilions also stood out amongst the strong field for its outstanding health and well-being outcomes, environmental facility practices, and fostering of community pride.
Structural brilliance aside, the state-of-the-art swimming, leisure, and cultural hub Bay Pavilions has injected the Shire with a true gathering precinct that has transformed the town for the better.
The unique venue includes a stellar aquatic centre, theatre, art gallery, and café, combining the activities and events associated with the arts, leisure, and recreation programs.
The Eurobodalla Shire Council and ratepayers are forecast to save over $5 million annually with the joint use of the facilities, shared resources, and outsourced management model.
The project has also generated a significant economic impact within the coastal community, creating jobs for 147 residents.
Most importantly, 95.28% of people who visit the new facility feel it has helped their physical and mental health.
This number is telling, considering in the opening month of operation, Bay Pavilions achieved 19,500 visits, 1,213 Members, and 764 Swim students – this equates to roughly 13% of the Eurobodalla community at the Centre within its opening days, underlining its community importance.
Eurobodalla Arts and Leisure Manager Chris Tague said he was please to receive the award.
Bay Pavilions has been an outstanding community asset, and it is very humbling to receive this award as a bit of recognition for how its impact compares across the state.
Chris Tague, Eurobodalla Arts and Leisure Manager
“The building has morphed from a significant piece of infrastructure into ‘our’ gym, ‘our’ pool, and ‘our’ theatre, for locals to the area.
“It is exciting for all involved, and we look forward to continuing to manage Bay Pavilions as it goes from strength to strength.”
PLA’s Awards for Excellence were held in Albury in May.