By Jennifer Kent
MALENY residents are set to endure their third summer without a local pool after a contract to operate the facility fell through at the last minute.
While the Maleny Swimming Club had secured staff to operate the pool for the 2022/23 Summer season, it is understood the contract had to be cancelled.
“Due to unforeseen circumstances, the person contracted to open our pool to the community for the summer swimming season is unable to meet this commitment,” the Maleny Swimming Club stated.
“We understand this is very disappointing news for the many people who were looking forward to the season starting. We are disappointed too.”
A position is now being advertised for a new pool manager.
“It has been extremely difficult to find someone who is prepared to accept the conditions of access to the pool, and who can make it work as a business. The model is awkward and difficult to sustain,” the club stated.
Division 1 councillor Winston Johnston said the outcome was “tragic” for locals, but it was very difficult to secure a manager given some of the constraints on operating hours.
As the pool is built on Education Department property it is only available for public use outside of school hours.
There was some hope that new census data might provide a case for the Sunshine Coast Council to consider funding for a public pool, but that is not the case, Cr Johnston said.
“We had a look at the census data, but while we are getting towards that level, we are probably still another census away,” he said. “As much as I’d like to see it happen and a pool built on the Precinct, it’s unlikely to happen.
“When they build another pool it has to be undercover and heated.”
It is understood that build costs alone could reach $8 million -$10 million and that is before the annual operating costs.
Despite this, it is understood a committee is currently exploring design plans with hopes that fundraising and grants may deliver a new pool facility.
