Tara Murray
Brimbank council will analyse the affordability of the new Brimbank Aquatic and Wellness Centre after many residents have provided feedback that it is unaffordable.
Councillor Maria Kerr said at the September council meeting that many people couldn’t use the facility which had been open for a couple of weeks.
The council will now receive a report outlining the fees charged at the Brimbank Aquatic and Wellness Centre as compared to other local government aquatic and leisure facilities in Melbourne’s north- west and an analysis of the affordability for families, seniors and people receiving government support payments.
“There is no doubt this is a world class facility and our rates payers are to be congratulated for having funded over $60 million of this project,” Cr Kerr said.
“Therefore it is vitally important that this centre is inclusive and accessible to the entire community.
“I have received feedback from residents that they want gym only memberships available so they are not paying for services they will not utilise.
“I’ve also received emails from residents explaining they can simply not afford the rates… Our community deserves to be able to attend this truly amazing facility.”
Leisure memberships start from $17.05, while premium access memberships start from $31.10.
Access to use the gym and pool for a single visit costs $19.20 for adults and $15.30 for concessions with group fitness classes costing the same.
Casual swim fees from adults are $7.90, while it’s $6.70 for people with concessions. Access to the spa and the waterslides cost more.
The new facility opened last month and offers top-grade leisure facilities including a 50 metre pool, ten-lane competition pool, warm water program pool with adjoining spas, sauna and steam room, a large gym with 24-hour access and group fitness studios.
