Funding win for Central Goldfields Shire Council – Maryborough Olympic Pool Restoration

What We’ve Achieved

Central Goldfields Shire Council has secured a combined $7.5 million in State and Commonwealth funding to restore and reopen the much-loved Maryborough Olympic Outdoor Pool, a rare and significant heritage-listed community asset that has been closed since 2022.

Grantus worked closely with Council to develop a robust business case and suite of funding submissions that demonstrated the urgent community, heritage and economic need for investment. By aligning the project with regional priorities and clear public value, Grantus delivered a compelling evidence base that unlocked both State funding through the Regional Community Sports and Infrastructure Fund and a Commonwealth matched election commitment.

The result is a transformative funding win that ensures this iconic facility can be rebuilt, restored and reopened for the community.

Funding Context

The Regional Community Sports and Infrastructure Fund support projects that improve liveability, expand participation in community sport, and upgrade ageing or inadequate community facilities. The Maryborough Olympic Pool Restoration was a strong fit due to its clear alignment with community wellbeing, regional growth priorities, heritage preservation and socio-economic need. The Commonwealth matched commitment further recognised the national significance of restoring one of Australia’s few heritage-listed outdoor Olympic pools. Timing was perfect and advocacy paid off as this was the second bid to the Commonwealth. With an election looming, the funding came through, because all the preparation had been done.

Why It Matters

• Reopens a vital community asset that has been closed since 2022.
• Supports children and young people to learn to swim safely and locally.
• Restores and preserves an important Art Deco heritage complex.
• Improves community wellbeing, liveability and social connectedness.
• Enhances accessibility with disability compliant design and inclusive facilities.

About the Project and Next Steps

The restoration will rebuild the 50 metre Olympic pool, upgrade the Art Deco pavilion, deliver modern filtration systems and reconstruct paths, concourses and accessible entry points. Once complete, the pool will again support school swimming programs, clubs, recreational users and visitors, providing year-round value for one of Victoria’s most socio-economically disadvantaged communities.

Construction will proceed following finalisation of tender documentation, with the restored complex set to become a revitalised centrepiece within the broader Princes Park precinct.