Geelong Council prepares to reopen playgrounds and outdoor pools

September 8, 2020

The City of Greater Geelong is preparing to reopen its playgrounds and outdoor pools from next week, in line with the easing of some Coronavirus lockdown restrictions in regional Victoria.

With Regional Victoria moving to the ‘Second Step’ of the Victorian Government’s roadmap from 14th September, playgrounds can reopen - although visitors are urged to maintain physical distancing and keep at least 1.5 metres apart from others.

The city's outdoor pools will also be able to operate, with limits to be placed on the use of the facilities.

The Council toda revealed that it is awaiting further information on the Victorian Government’s directions, including density requirements, before finalising details of Kardinia Aquatic Centre’s reopening.

Options for opening Lara Aquatic Centre ahead of its normal season launch in November are also being considered.

A number of facilities, such as aquatic and recreation centres, indoor sport arenas and cultural venues, are required to remain closed under the Second Step restrictions.

The City has started preparations for the potential move to the Third Step on the roadmap, which the Victorian Government has indicated will not come into effect before 28th September.

Planning work is focused on supporting our retail, accommodation and hospitality businesses - who would experience an easing of restrictions under the Third Step - in recognition of the ongoing hardship small businesses across the region are facing.

Image: Kardinia Aquatic Centre. Courtesy of the City of Greater Geelong.

6th September 2020 - Melbourne’s Stage 4 Coronavirus restrictions extended for two weeks as Chief Health Officer says ‘gyms are a high-risk setting’

31st August 2020 - National Sports Convention events to address the future of aquatic, recreation and sports facilities

25th August 2020 - Royal Life Saving introduces new conflict management course for the aquatic industry

12th August 2020 - Site chosen for Geelong’s North Bellarine pool

30th July 2020 - New research has potential to reduce risk of drownings at Australian aquatic facilities

22nd July 2020 - Report shows how Australia’s aquatic workforce provides essential community leadership

12th May 2020 - Industry alliance provides guidance on community aquatic, recreation and sport operations in eased Coronavirus environment

18th March 2020 - City of Greater Geelong closes facilities in Coronavirus response

9th January 2020 - Geelong pools introduce new water safety measures

15th December 2019 - Geelong Council delivers $3 million funding for sport and community facility upgrades

3rd July 2019 - Hawthorn Aquatic and Leisure Centre receives LSV’s Platinum Pool Award

8th May 2019 - Kardinia Park launches new water station initiative

3rd May 2019 - Kardinia Park Stadium Trust and Geelong FC partner to offer sensory inclusive experience

4th September 2018 - Geelong Leisurelink’s staff development initiatives awarded by Royal Life Saving

23rd November 2018 - Bellarine Aquatic and Sports Centre marks 10 years of operations

9th June 2016 - ARV releases guidelines for managing outdoor seasonal pools

4th May 2015 - Outdoor seasonal pools under ongoing threats

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