General News
17 April, 2026
Investigations continue at pool
THE technical investigation into the Port Fairy pool facility is progressing as planned, with detailed on-site assessments nearing completion.
It is anticipated a final report will be tabled at the May 2026 meeting of council.
Community members may have noticed increased activity and equipment noise at the site in recent weeks.
Specialist consultants have been undertaking live testing of key systems within the facility, including pool pumping and filtration infrastructure, to fully understand their condition and performance.
As part of the investigation, consultants are also undertaking intrusive inspections of the building, including removing sections of roofing and cladding to assess the structural integrity of the facility and identify the extent and causes of deterioration.
The investigation is designed to provide council with a comprehensive understanding of the condition of all major components of the facility.
This includes structural elements, plant and equipment, and compliance requirements.
Moyne Shire mayor Cr Jordan Lockett said the detailed nature of the investigation was critical to ensuring council has clear, evidence-based information.
“This is a thorough and methodical process. We will take the time to fully understand the condition of the facility before making any decisions about its future,” Cr Lockett said.
“We understand that the community is interested in the investigation work, however we remind community members to be respectful of council staff and contractors while carrying out investigation work.”
Council acknowledges the importance of aquatic facilities to the Moyne Shire community and noted that funding support was not included in the shire’s five priority projects for the 2026 Victorian state election.
Mayor Lockett said this was a strategic decision about pursuing funding support at the right level of government and at the right time.
“To apply for any government funding, council must provide a strong case backed by evidence,” Cr Lockett said.
“Specific projects must be shovel-ready but at this stage council does not know the full condition of the Port Fairy pool facility, what works might be required, and how much they would cost.
“When the full report on the technical investigation into the Port Fairy pool facility is presented to councillors and the public at the May 2026 meeting, next steps can be considered.”
Cr Lockett added that, at the same time, council was working towards the completion of the Moyne Aquatic Facilities Strategy, which will use an evidence-based approach to inform council’s long-term planning, investment, management, and delivery of aquatic services across the shire.
“In the meantime, we are raising pool funding as a critical issue with all the local members and ministers we are meeting, at both state and federal levels of government,” he said.
“We have also endorsed motions calling for dedicated pool funding programs to the Municipal Association of Victoria’s state council meeting in late May 2026, and the Australian Local Government Association’s upcoming National General Assembly in June 2026.”
