Construction work has begun on the Gippsland Regional Aquatic Centre (GRAC) thanks to a $63 million investment from the Victorian Government.
It is part of the $85 million Latrobe Valley Sports and Community Initiative (LVSCI),and includes the construction of a 50-metres competition pool with spectator seating, a 25-metres outdoor pool, warm water pool, indoor water play areas, water slides, a gym, geothermal heating and wellness centre.
The Traralgon Indoor Sports Stadium will also be expanded and include additional courts for netball, basketball, badminton and other indoor sports.
Up to 120 workers are expected to be on site at the peak of the GRAC building cycle, with an additional 275 ongoing operational and support roles at the completed facilities.
Local subcontractors are being contacted, with the Industry Capability Network and GROW Gippsland engaged to ensure maximum opportunity for local work on the projects.
Related stories:
- Builder selected for $150M La Trobe Uni sports park
- Sydney Olympic park to undergo $50.5M upgrade
- Royal Wolf tasked to protect Western Sydney Stadium’s builders
Both the aquatic centre and the indoor sports stadium will use 90 per cent local content.
Victorian Minister for Regional Development Jaclyn Symes said the State Government is ensuring the Latrobe Valley community has access to world class sporting facilities.
“The state-of-the-art Aquatic Centre and indoor sport stadium will provide benefits to the region for generations to come,” she said.
Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing said the centre will boost local pride, competition and liveability in the Valley.
“Projects like this are creating local jobs, improving health and wellbeing and will also bring more world-class competition and events to Gippsland for locals to enjoy.”
Construction is expected to be completed on both projects by 2020.