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Darren Chester welcomes Aqua Energy redevelopment completion with modern aquatic, fitness, community facilities

Darren Chester welcomed the upcoming completion of Aqua Energy's multi-million-dollar redevelopment in Sale, delivering modern pools and accessible facilities, boosting community health, sport, tourism, jobs, and long-term regional wellbeing.

By news@gippsland - 19th September 2025 - Back to News

Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester has welcomed the upcoming completion of the largest capital works project in Wellington Shire, the Aqua Energy redevelopment. Formerly known as Sale Swimming Pool, Aqua Energy has undergone significant works, with accessibility at the forefront of the design.

Darren Chester has welcomed the upcoming Aqua Energy redevelopment competition, which is set to provide long-term social, health, and economic benefits to the Sale and surrounding communities

Investing In wellbeing

Redevelopment works include a new wet area, including a new state-of-the-art 25-metre pool and hall, a zero-depth water play area and a fully accessible single-level pool deck for universal access, brand new change facilities, a new sauna, a 24-hour accessible gym, as well as a dedicated Learn to Swim office and a coordination space.

The multi-million-dollar transformation, set to provide long-term social, health, and economic benefits to the Sale and surrounding communities, will be unveiled next month with the official opening on Monday, October 6.

Backing community infrastructure

Mr Chester said the project was made possible through significant funding commitments from federal, state and local governments, together with generous philanthropic support from the John Leslie Foundation.

"This project is a great example of all levels of government working together to deliver vital infrastructure that supports local jobs, boosts the economy, and delivers long-term health and wellbeing benefits. The redevelopment, which began in October 2023, managed by Wellington Shire Council and delivered by Gippsland business Brooker Builders, is a major investment in our region's sporting and social infrastructure," Mr Chester said.

Stronger regional future

Mr Chester said the official opening will be a celebration for the community. "This project is about investing in the future of our community and making sure we have the facilities we need to support local sport, tourism and community connections."

"The redeveloped Aqua Energy will provide opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to stay active, support ongoing employment for skilled workers, and become a hub for health, wellbeing and community life for years to come," he said.

Pictures from Darren Chester MP website.

Source: http://gippsland.com/

Published by: news@gippsland.com

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• New drinking fountains installed in Sale and Briagolong Parks to promote health, sustainability and community wellbeing
  Gippsland Water and Wellington Shire Council have installed two new drinking fountains in Sale and Briagolong, promoting health, sustainability, and reusable bottles. Featuring artwork by Gunai artist Alice Pepper, they support community wellbeing.
• Bass Coast Shire Council delivers new shared path linking Cowes and Ventnor, boosting transport safety and community connectivity
  Bass Coast Shire Council will deliver a new 2km Ventnor Road Shared Path, linking Cowes and Ventnor, improving safety, accessibility, and community connectivity. The $1.96m project is jointly funded with the Australian government.
• Bass Coast Council launches mid-term review of Climate Change Action Plan, celebrating achievements and inviting community input
  Bass Coast Shire Council is reviewing its Climate Change Action Plan 2020-2030, celebrating renewable energy achievements and inviting community feedback through surveys, pop-up sessions, engagement events, and a special film screening.
• Drouin Picnic Racing Club receives $13,519 upgrade boost through Allan Labor government's Regional Customer Facilities Program
  Drouin Picnic Racing Club will receive $13,519 to upgrade facilities and enhance race day experiences, part of the Allan Labor government's $730,000 investment improving regional racing venues statewide.