The Federal Government made a big splash across the Toowoomba Regional Council (TRC) area earlier this year with news of a Sustainable Pools Project promising a funding grant of $2,645,640.

That promise became a reality today (Monday, November 2) when a ceremonial “sod turning” was held at the Pittsworth Swim Centre in Yandilla Street to mark the start of the project.

Speaking at the event, Cabinet Minister and Queensland Senator Joe Ludwig thanked the Pittsworth community for supporting the project and reminded them of the significant benefits to come from sustainable efficiencies.

His thoughts were echoed by Toowoomba Regional Council Mayor Peter Taylor who said the funding would see the region’s swimming pools become ‘smarter’ in terms of saving water and energy in their operation, as well as reducing our carbon footprint.

Cr Taylor, who was joined by his fellow councillors at the event, said the TRC would also be contributing $292,250 towards the various projects.

“I am delighted TRC is working with the Federal Government to provide improved infrastructure to our residents and, at the same time, also address climate change. We are also keen to demonstrate that the large regional governments that are now in place can deal directly with the Commonwealth Government to make the tax payer’s dollars go further than before.

“I have said it before that this is a truly regional project as all TRC swimming pools will be able to benefit from the funding. Whether you swim here at Pittsworth or at any of our nine public pools you will still see improvements at each of our swimming facilities.”

Cr Taylor said the community could expect to see rainwater capture and reuse, solar heating and quality pool blankets wherever possible.

“There will also be noticeable efficiency improvements through new fittings such as water-saving showers and energy efficient lighting being installed,” Cr Taylor said.

“We’re eager to save water around the pool as well, so will be utilising drought-tolerant plants and landscaping to add visual appeal without impacting on water reserves.”

Cr Taylor said the first of seven phases of the nine-facility project is now set to start, with the contract to audit the sustainable efficiencies of council's pool facilities having been awarded to AECOM.

Caption: TRC Mayor Peter Taylor, Marvyn Whittaker (pool lessee) and Senator Joe Ludwig joined swimmers James Bailey, Cameron Smith, Thomas Flegler and Darcy Murphy at the Pittsworth Swim Centre for the launch of the Sustainable Pools Project.