Mark Dreyfus (Isaacs, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Hansard source

I rise today to acknowledge the significant progress being made on the new aquatic centre in Mordialloc, in my electorate of Isaacs. The pool is a major investment in our local community. I'm proud to say it is also one of the largest community infrastructure projects being undertaken by the City of Kingston. When the doors open, it will provide exceptional modern and accessible aquatic and leisure facilities for everyone in our community.

I want to emphasise the community contributions that have helped shape the design of the Mordi Aquatic Centre from the beginning of the project. More than 10,600 community submissions were received and, along with the work of the community reference group, have helped to guide the design and the planning process. The name Mordi Aquatic Centre was chosen by the community, with almost 4,000 votes cast. It reflects the strong local identity and the pride that people have in Mordialloc and the surrounding area.

The Mordi Aquatic Centre includes a 50-metre lap pool, a learn to swim pool, warm water exercise pool, gym and fitness facilities and so much more. It has been designed with accessibility at its core, including parking, change facilities, ramps, hoist access and rehabilitation spaces to ensure that the centre can be enjoyed by the whole community. The Mordi Aquatic Centre is jointly funded by the City of Kingston and the Australian government, and is an investment in, and for, the community that brings with it tremendous benefit.

Local pools are places where families meet, children learn to swim, seniors stay active and local sporting clubs train. They are also places where Australian Olympians are made. We're a nation of champion swimmers, and I am certain a future star will be born at the Mordi Aquatic Centre.

Construction is now well underway, and I know that the community is excited to see the doors open. I've been there on multiple occasions with the mayor and councillors to check progress during the course of construction. It is going very well. I'm looking forward to doing my first laps in the new 50-metre pool. I thank the City of Kingston, community members, local sporting groups and everyone involved in bringing this important project to life.

See this speech in context