AusLeisure

Mornington Peninsula Shire and Belgravia Leisure have announced that the opening to the public of the new Yawa Aquatic Centre will be delayed until Friday 9th July.

Scheduled to open today (Friday 25th June), the event has been impacted by the latest round of lockdowns imposed by Victoria’s Chief Health Officer.

In a joint statement, the Council and management contractor “while construction has been able to continue under the latest restrictions, the lockdown has limited access to the centre and halted essential training.

“Despite best efforts, Belgravia Leisure has not been able to host new staff on site to undertake important and mandatory swim teacher, lifeguard and emergency management training.

“To be able to open, all staff must be trained, qualified and importantly, be familiar with the Centre.”

With restrictions slowly easing, Belgravia Leisure is back on site working hard, albeit with smaller staff groups, to complete the essential training.

The Yawa team is also hopeful that the current COVID-19 limit of no more than 50 patrons per venue indoors will increase significantly so when the facility does open it will be able to welcome more patrons into the centre.

Commenting on the delay, Mornington Peninsula Shire Mayor, Despi O’Connor stated “it’s bitter-sweet to be in this position. Coronavirus has again thrown a spanner in the works. While the building is looking fantastic and is ready for use, it’s frustrating that we have to wait another couple of weeks.

“I want to thank our community and our new members for their patience and the Shire and Belgravia teams for their hard work in getting us to this point.”

Centre Manager, Dan Andrews added “the window between the end of construction and the opening of the facility was scheduled for critical staff training and qualification activities. Unfortunately, this has been impacted due to the current COVID-19 restrictions. As restrictions ease, we’ll endeavour to complete all test operations throughout the coming weeks.

“I can’t wait to welcome the Shire community into the centre and thank you all for your understanding and patience.”

Main image show works approaching completion at the Yawa Aquatic Centre. Credit: Mornington Peninsula Shire.

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