Extensions to leisure centre at Australind opened

1/7/01
The heavy use of the Leschenault Leisure Centre proves the facility will have a big impact on Australind and the surrounding communities, Sport and Recreation Minister Alan Carpenter said at the official opening today.
The $4.1 million extension added two indoor multi-purpose courts, two indoor heated pools, a steam room/spa, administration area, change rooms and food facilities.
"Since the extension was opened a month ago, groups ranging from school children to mothers with babies, competitive swimmers and seniors have flocked to the facility," Mr Carpenter said.
"About 330 school children are doing the centre's swimming classes with another 120 next term; the Education Department's in-term swimming has 250 students; there are three-aqua aerobics classes a week for seniors and eight classes a week for mothers with babies as well as use by clubs and individuals.
"With about one-third of Australind's population of 10,000 under the age of 19, this centre will be the major focus of the area providing for a number of sport, recreational, social and community activities.
"However, the benefits of the centre extend beyond Australind to surrounding communities such as Harvey, Binningup, Burekup, Dardanup, Eaton, Rowlands, Benger and Brunswick.
"Even more impressive is the community effort that has helped bring about the extension to the centre.
"Individuals, clubs, groups, the shire and local companies have worked together from the project's conception 10 years ago.
"The result is that the $4 million dollar extension came in on budget and is an integral part of the community."
Mr Carpenter said the centre was one of the best in the State and had already been recognised as the best managed regional centre in 1993 and the best managed facility in the State in 1995.
The number of visits to the centre is expected to increase from 230,000 to 400,000 a year reflected in an increased turnover from $600,000 to $1.2 million a year.
The extension was jointly financed by the community, shire and the State Government.

Media contact: Owen Cole 9213 6800