General News
11 July, 2025
State Government grant received for swimming pool
One million dollars has been secured by Hindmarsh Shire Council for Dimboola Swimming Pool through the State Governments Round 2 of the Regional Community Sports Infrastructure Fund.
The project, which includes an additional $275,000 contribution from council and $10,000 from the Dimboola Progress Association, will see a total of $1.285 million spent.
"It is a fantastic outcome for the community where a project of this size is secured by council cash contribution of less than 25 per cent of the total project cost," Hindmarsh mayor Ron Ismay said.
"It is great to see Dimboola Progress Association partnering with the Council by making an additional cash contribution of $10,000.”
The works will include a wet deck conversion to the pool, installation of a balance tank and pool hydraulics, crack and expansion joint repair, construction of all abilities access ramp to improve access to the pool, construction of a disabled carpark, updated landscaping, and upgrade of the paved area within the swimming pool.
“This upgrade will encourage participation of people with mobility difficulties and increase the utilisation of Dimboola Swimming Pool," Cr Ismay said.
In 2023, Hindmarsh Shire Council commissioned aquatic engineering reports on the condition of all four pools within the shire which showed that a significant amount of work and funding is required to keep the pools operational as they are predominantly at the end-of-life stage in the asset cycle.
During January and February 2025, council ran a “Have your say” campaign which showed overwhelming support from the community towards this project.
Council extended their thanks to everyone who took the time to provide valuable feedback and support.
Hindmarsh has also been successful in securing $40,000 for Key Strategic Sport and Recreation Master Plans through the same fund which will see master plans for Dimboola Recreation Reserve, Jeparit Tennis Club and Caravan Park Precinct and Nhill's Davis Park developed.
A contribution of $45,000 will be given by council.
“The development of a masterplan for the Dimboola Recreation Reserve has been a council and user group priority for several years, with at least eight user groups, plus public use within the reserve, it is imperative that any future proposed developments include multi-use, gender equality and all abilities access considerations," Cr Ismay said.
Given its close proximity to the Wimmera River, the recreation reserve was considered one of the best in western Victoria, but most facilities and infrastructure are in need of significant redevelopment.
Planning for the delivery of the projects will commence shortly after the funding agreement is signed with the State Government.
The community will be informed about the construction commencement dates at the Dimboola Swimming Pool and any other significant milestones via council’s communication channels.
For more information, please contact Ram Upadhyaya, Director Infrastructure Services, on 03 5391 4444 or email info@hindmarsh.vic.gov.au