Cash splash has pool afloat

THE Noble Park More Than Just a Pool project is in the swim of things with $1 million funding announced on Tuesday.
At a community barbecue for local residents to view the pool plans, Dandenong MP John Pandazopoulos announced the funding boost for Stage two of the project.
Last week, the Dandenong Star launched the Splash for Cash campaign in conjunction with the City of Greater Dandenong asking for the State Government to provide funding so the project could stay afloat.
The council was calling on the State Government for $1 million for the indoor warm water pool component. And on Tuesday the State Government committed to providing just that.
Stage two of the project will cost $4 million, with the council to fund the remaining $3 million.
Stage two will include the development of an indoor warm-water pool, toddlers’ play area, change rooms and plant room to proved Noble Park residents with a chance to be active all year round.
Mr Pandazopoulos said the project would provide a boost for Noble Park and inject new life into the Noble Park Outdoor Pool. “These works will ensure the new-upgraded pool facilities are tailored to suit the needs of local people,” Mr Pandazopoulos said.
“Once complete the new/upgraded pool will provide the ideal place for swimming carnivals, water aerobics, lap swimming and warm water therapy and water play opportunities for children and families.
“Most importantly, these improvements will help re-establish the pool as a place where locals can swim, meet up with friends, enjoy time with the family, learn new skills, exercise, develop a sense of belonging and have fun for years to come.”
Mr Pandazopoulos also said he would help push for funding for Stage three of the project.
The council is still seeking funding for $1.8 million for Stage three, which would include a youth precinct with volleyball courts, basketball courts and a skate park.
Members of the Liberal Party have also showed their support for the Noble Park ‘More Than Just a Pool’ campaign.
South Eastern Metropolitan Region Member Inga Peulich said she supported the redevelopment of Noble Park pool.
“Greater Dandenong has been enriched with a high rate of migrant settlement and the pool will increase learn-to-swim and water safety initiatives, something that I have been campaigning for since 2006,” Ms Peulich said.
Lyndhurst Liberal candidate Tony Holland has promised to fight for funding for the Noble Park pool as part of a Baillieu Government.
Mr Holland said the pool was an important sport and recreational facility that offered a positive recreational activity for Greater Dandenong youth.
“The Noble Park community can be assured that I will fight to secure funding for the aquatic facility if I have the privilege of being elected on November 27th,” Mr Holland said.