Gippsland › Latest news › Latrobe Local News
Gippsland Regional Aquatic Centre leads the way at 2022 Local Government Professionals awards
The Gippsland Regional Aquatic Centre (GRAC) has been recognised as a leading community facility in Victoria at the 2022 Local Government Professionals awards.
Latrobe City Council took out the Community Assets and Infrastructure (over $2.5 million) Initiative category for its delivery of the $57 million aquatic centre. The role of local community collaboration in the design and scope of GRAC contributed to the award. A project reference group, including an eclectic cast of local stakeholders, was engaged to ensure GRAC aligned with community expectations and needs.
The facility was funded through the Latrobe Valley Authority's $85 million Sports and Community Initiative, Sport and Recreation Victoria and Latrobe City Council
Modern and inclusive facility
The result was a modern, inclusive facility that reflects the growing community's needs into the future, underpinned by improved health and wellbeing outcomes. Accessibility features were recently bolstered by the creation of an 'Access Key' - a customised guide to the centre's programs and facilities tailored to people living with a disability.
Innovative design features, such as the implementation of geothermal energy throughout the facility, were also key to GRAC's recognition. Harnessing geothermal energy has led to annual savings of about $639,000 and a reduction in carbon emissions by some 840 tonnes per year. In just over a year of operation, the aquatic centre has welcomed more than 140,000 visitors through the doors despite the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Pride for the community
Latrobe City Mayor Kellie O'Callaghan said, "The Gippsland Regional Aquatic Centre has been a point of great pride for the Latrobe City community since opening last March. It has made a significant contribution to our regional city's overall health, wellbeing and visitor economy."
"Being recognised by LGPro and our local government peers as a leading regional facility is a wonderful accolade and a tribute to the council staff, local community members, state government partners, contractors and many others who combined to deliver this exceptional project." Cr O'Callaghan said.
Pictures from Latrobe City Council website.
Source: www.gippsland.com
Published by: news@gippsland.com
Community feedback strengthens Wellington's Road Management Plan, highlighting priorities for road upgrades
East Gippsland kids invited to join and send entries for National Water Week poster competition by 12 September 2025
Future Wellington Community feedback shapes draft plans, final input invited before 16 July 2025
Gippsland Water commits to keeping customer bills affordable despite cost of living pressures
Have your say on Latrobe's draft Domestic Animal Management Plan 2026 - 2029 until 29 July 2025
Latrobe City Council endorses new Council Plan and Community Vision 2025-2029 to guide Latrobe's future growth
Wellington Shire Councillors advocate for region's needs at National Local Government Assembly in Canberra on 24 - 27 June 2025
East Gippsland tourism and hospitality masterclass to build sustainable, resilient businesses and grow positive
Southern Rural Water celebrates 30 years of service with modernisation, partnerships and sustainable water
