By PETER DOUGLAS
AS THE region starts to heat up, Dandenongs residents can take solace in the likelihood of the Olinda Pool re-opening on the promised date.
Both Yarra Ranges councillor Jason Callanan and James Edge from the Olinda Community Pool Association are pleased with progress as the 5 December deadline nears, with the proposed date previously being described as tight.
Preparations for the works officially began in late July after confirmation of $500,000 in State Government funds, matching the contribution from Yarra Ranges Shire.
Works will include installation of a liner to the swimming pool, renewal of filtration equipment, refurbishment of existing toilet and bathroom facilities, and construction of a new accessible toilet for people with disabilities.
Mr Edge said the community should be feeling excited as hopes are high the pool will return to its former glory.
“All works are progressing on schedule, weather like we’ve been having is great because we can get plenty done,” he said.
“Preparation for the liner is underway, while the disabled toilets are almost finished.
“The next part is the hydraulic system, but they will work in tandem with the liner people.”
Yarra Ranges Council closed the pool two summers ago due to cracks.
The council resolved last year to repair the pool back to its original state, and a project control group was established to monitor the project.
The group comprises ward councillor Jason Callanan and community representatives Mr Edge, Janine McClelland and Sue Smith.
Cr Callanan praised the co-ordination of the works.
“Everything is on track as expected – we’ve factored in room for hold-ups, but they haven’t taken place yet,” he said.
“It’s in budget and we’re pleased with how it’s proceeding.”
Cr Callanan believed there would be a ceremony planned before the official opening, possibly in late November or early December.
Meanwhile, the Olinda Community Pool Association will be holding a stall to raise funds for the pool at the car boot sale on Saturday, 31 October, near the Olinda Community Hall.
Mr Edge encouraged the community to attend.
“Council has offered to reinstate the pool to its former state, but it’s up to us to continue to improve the pool,” he said.
“We will eventually be looking at things like seating, barbecue and a solar blanket.”
