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Brooker Builders to lead $23M Aqua Energy Leisure Centre redevelopment at Sale in Wellington Shire

Aqua Energy Leisure Centre in Sale undergoes $23M redevelopment led by Brooker Builders for enhanced accessibility and new facilities. Construction starts in October 2023, creating local jobs and aiming for completion in June 2025.

By news@gippsland - 16th August 2023 - Back to News

Progress is being made on the major redevelopment of Aqua Energy Leisure Centre in Sale, with council announcing local contractors, Brooker Builders to lead the $23 million redevelopment. The multi-million redevelopment project is set to transform the centre, with accessibility at the forefront of the design.

Rendered image of the newly designed Aqua Energy Leisure Centre in Sale

Upgrades in the facility

Once complete the redeveloped facility will boast an entirely new wet area, including:

• New state-of-the-art 25-metre pool and hall
• Zero depth water play area
• Fully accessible single level pool deck for universal access
• Brand new change facilities
• Changing Places Facility
• New sauna
• Long-awaited dedicated Learn to Swim office
• Coordination space

The gym will see 24-hour access provided, improving accessibility and providing members with access when it suits them best.

Community-focused investment

Wellington Shire Council Mayor, Cr Ian Bye said that the redevelopment is a once in a generation project that will deliver state-of-the-art aquatic facilities to the Wellington community. "The project is a key component of our council plan and one that represents a major investment in the long-term health and wellbeing of our community."

"We have worked closely with the community and key industry stakeholders to design a contemporary community facility that is focused on accessibility and sustainability, meeting the needs of local people, regardless of where they come from, or their socio-economic background."

"Aqua Energy is a treasured community space with an excellent reputation, however the current facility needs a major upgrade to service our growing community. I thank the local community for their support and patience through years of planning to deliver this new and improved leisure facility, and I look forward to construction getting started in just a few weeks' time." Cr Bye said.

Local jobs, construction ahead

Following a comprehensive and transparent tender process, construction of the redevelopment project has been awarded to local Gippsland contractor, Brooker Builders. It is expected that the multi-million project will create 60 new jobs, 28 of which will be directly related to the project and a further 21 benefiting from the flow-on-effects of such a significant project. It's estimated that 80% of construction work will remain in the Gippsland economy, with a focus on sustainability practices also a key consideration throughout the tender process.

Construction is due to commence in October 2023, starting with preparation works in the coming weeks. It is not expected that preparation work will impact current leisure services, however visitors should be prepared for some service impacts as construction progresses starting October.

Council is finalising service continuity plans to ensure there is minimal disruption to usual services and programming, providing more information in the coming weeks. Users are encouraged to sign up for the Aqua Energy mailing list available on the Aqua Energy website to ensure they receive important redevelopment updates, including changes to services and programming. More information about the project can also be found at Aqua Energy Leisure Centre website.

Diverse funding sources

The Aqua Energy Redevelopment project is funded by Wellington Shire Council, the Victorian government through a Changing Places Grant and Local Sports Infrastructure Fund (Sport and Recreation Victoria), the federal government's Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program and local philanthropist, The John Leslie Foundation.

The total project cost is $23 million, including construction, contingencies, facility fit-out, furniture and equipment. The new Aqua Energy Leisure Centre is expected to be completed in June 2025.

Pictures from Wellington Shire Council website.

Source: www.gippsland.com

Published by: news@gippsland.com

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• South Gippsland Shire Council extends footpath trading permits amid system update and upcoming fee changes
  South Gippsland Shire Council is updating its Footpath Trading Permit system. Current permits are automatically extended until December, with new fees applying next year. Businesses will receive updated information once finalised.
• Baw Baw Shire Council approves Roadside Trading Policy and Open Space Strategy following community feedback
  Baw Baw Council has adopted its new Roadside and Footpath Trading Policy and Open Space Strategy, following extensive community consultation to guide safe, vibrant, and accessible public spaces.
• Baw Baw Shire Council information session on Warragul and Drouin Development Contributions Plans review on 12 December 2025
  Baw Baw residents are invited to an information session on 12 December to learn about the Warragul and Drouin Development Contributions Plans review and future infrastructure planning.
• Baw Baw Shire Council endorses 2026 - 2029 Domestic Animal Management Plan to promote safety, welfare, responsible ownership
  Baw Baw Council has endorsed the 2026-2029 Domestic Animal Management Plan to promote responsible pet ownership, enhance animal welfare, ensure community safety, and guide strategic animal management over the next four years.
• Baw Baw Shire Council awarded $140,000 in community grants to support sustainable, healthy, and thriving community projects
  Council has awarded over $140,000 in Community Grants to 36 groups, supporting events, projects, and minor capital works that strengthen community sustainability, health, and wellbeing through not-for-profit initiatives.
• Bass Coast Shire Council celebrates local community groups’ achievements and grants at inspiring event
  Bass Coast Council celebrated 92 local community groups, awarding $294,000 in grants, including $40,000 for climate projects, supporting creativity, connection, and resilience across the region at a vibrant celebration.
• Bass Coast Shire Council endorses Quarterly Performance Report, showing progress, achievements, and positive financial outlook for December 2025
  Bass Coast Council’s Quarterly Performance Report shows strong progress on 2025–26 Action Plan, key projects advancing, and a $2 million operating surplus, reflecting strategic achievements and responsible financial management.
• Bass Coast Shire Council invites public submissions on Inverloch Surf Parade one-way proposal for shared path completion by 1 April 2026
  Bass Coast Council invites public submissions on Inverloch Surf Parade one-way proposal, enabling final shared path stage, preserving car parking, addressing coastal erosion, and completing safe Inverloch-to-Wonthaggi trail connection.
• Baw Baw Shire Council endorses 10-Year Master Plan to preserve and enhance Drouin’s Alex Goudie Park
  Baw Baw Council has endorsed a 10-year master plan for Drouin’s Alex Goudie Park, guiding future improvements, protecting its natural and cultural heritage, and enhancing amenities for community enjoyment.
• East Gippsland Shire Council issues additional ferry passes for Raymond Island landowners and renters ahead of new system
  East Gippsland Council will mail additional 2025/26 ferry passes to Raymond Island landowners and renters, ensuring fairness while developing a new sticker-based pass system launching August 2026.
• East Gippsland Shire Council urges protect health and air quality, burn dry wood and maintain heaters to reduce smoke this winter
  Residents are urged to burn only dry, untreated wood, maintain heaters, and consider alternatives to reduce smoke, protecting health and improving air quality this winter.
• South Gippsland Shire Council invites you to submit EOI for Coal Creek food vendor on Living Heritage Days by 14 February 2026
  Coal Creek seeks a local food and drink vendor for Living Heritage Days, held monthly from 7 March. Businesses can boost trade and connect with customers. Applications close 14 February.
• South Gippsland Shire Council congratulates the nominees and winners of 2026 South Gippsland Australia Day Awards and other updates
  South Gippsland celebrated the 2026 Australia Day Awards at Meeniyan Hall, recognising outstanding citizens, youth, and community events, with winners Valerie Wilson, Erica Begg, Rhiannon Rawlins, and Loch Food and Wine Festival.
• Baw Baw Shire Council meeting snapshot - Wednesday 26 November 2025
  At its 26 November meeting, Baw Baw Council extended Mick Cummins as Acting CEO, adopted the Roadside Trading Policy and Open Space Strategy, and progressed key planning and governance decisions.
• Applications for Baw Baw Shire Arts and Culture with grants up to $2,000 is now open until 8 February 2026
  Baw Baw Shire Council is offering grants up to $2,000 for local artists and creatives, supporting community-focused arts projects, collaboration and creative development, with applications open until 8 February 2026.
• Baw Baw Council extends Acting CEO Sally Jones’ term until June 2026 supporting leadership continuity
  Baw Baw Shire Council has extended Acting CEO Sally Jones’ term until June 2026, ensuring strong leadership and continuity while CEO Tilla Buden focuses on health and recovery.
• Bairnsdale Nicholson Street Mall set for revitalisation with investor support, safety measures, and redevelopment plans
  Bairnsdale Nicholson Street Mall holds redevelopment potential, with council pursuing funding, investor support, and short-term activations while addressing anti-social behaviour and ensuring safety for traders and the community.
• Join South Gippsland Shire '16 Days of Activism' event with the theme 'Walk Against Family Violence' on
  Join Council's Walk Against Family Violence on 26 November in Leongatha. Wear orange, take part in the Respect photo pop-up, and support the 16 Days of Activism campaign.
• Kickstart your career locally with Bass Coast Shire Council’s 2026 Traineeship Program send applications by 26 January 2026
  Bass Coast Shire Council’s 2026 Traineeship Program offers young people and career returners real-world experience, Certificate III qualifications, flexible work, and pathways to permanent roles across seven diverse disciplines.
• East Gippsland Shire Mayor, Cr Jodie Ashworth's Christmas message
  A Christmas message celebrating East Gippsland’s community spirit, kindness and connection, encouraging care for one another, support for local businesses, warm hospitality for visitors, gratitude for workers this season together.
• Danny O'Brien commends South Gippsland Shire for securing Nyora transport study funding, urges further state investment
  Danny O'Brien has praised South Gippsland Shire Council for securing state funding for the Nyora Transport Study, urging the Allan Labor Government to follow through with real investment and road upgrades.
• South Gippsland immunisation sessions extended with extra times to support community after Leongatha Healthcare Centre closure
  Following Leongatha Healthcare Centre closure, immunisation sessions have been extended, offering full-range vaccines for children, adults, pregnant women, and at-risk groups, with extra times available for community bookings.
• Melina Bath demands Allan government release clear construction timeline for Wonthaggi Hospital redevelopment stages
  Melina Bath demands the Allan government release a clear construction timeline for Wonthaggi Hospital Stages 2 and 3, warning delays leave healthcare workers overburdened and residents facing escalating patient demand.
• Cowes Primary students visited Berninneit, meeting Mayor Halstead, exploring community spaces, learning about leadership and environment
  Curious Cowes Primary students meet Mayor Halstead at Berninneit, exploring local government, community spaces and environmental leadership during community walk visit.
• Jodie Ashworth elected Mayor of East Gippsland Shire Council, with Cr Tom Crook as Deputy Mayor
  Jodie Ashworth, first elected in 2024, has been elected Mayor of East Gippsland Shire Council, with Cr Tom Crook as Deputy Mayor, pledging strong, transparent, and future-focused leadership.
• David Littleproud slams Labor's 2035 emissions reduction target as costly, and damaging to families, jobs, and communities
  Nationals leader David Littleproud criticised Labor's 2035 emissions target as reckless and costly, warning it would raise taxes, increase energy bills, hurt regional communities, and threaten jobs, families, and industries.