The council has awarded the management contract for its pools to BlueFit.
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A council spokesperson said that to ensure the ongoing delivery of high quality aquatic services for the local community, from July 1 2019, BlueFit will have management rights for the pools in Kendall, Laurieton, Port Macquarie and Wauchope.
They take over from Swimwell who have been managing the day-to-day operations of all Council-owned pools since 2014. (Swimwell have managed the Port Macquarie Pool since 2003).
Council Director, Melissa Watkins said that a number of high quality proposals were received during the competitive tender process.
"We were particularly impressed with the submission received from BlueFit, who have experience in managing pools in regional markets, including the pools in Coffs Harbour, Woolgoolga and Sawtell.
"They demonstrated an alignment with Council's objectives to deliver comprehensive key aquatic services for all pool users and groups within our community, and deliver great value for rate payers" said Ms Watkins.
"Importantly, there is also a commitment from BlueFit to ensure that they are supporting local employment by retaining existing staff that work at our pools."
All parties will now work on implementing a comprehensive transition plan to ensure the change in management has minimal impact on the community, and that strong relationships with existing users continues.
Services provided within the new management agreement include:
- market-leading learn to swim programs for children of all abilities
- innovative programs and events including special needs programs, open days and Seniors Week activities
- a focus on customer service and increasing attendance across all pools
- comprehensive minimum training requirements for staff to ensure the safe and successful delivery of aquatic services for a broad range of community members
- detailed workplace health and safety practices and environmental management initiatives
Through this tender process Council has considered options to extend the swimming season at Kendall, Laurieton and Wauchope pools. Under the current contract these pools open on the first day of September school holidays and operate until Easter Monday.
From 2020 Council has determined that Kendall and Laurieton pools will remain open until 25 April and Wauchope Pool will remain open until 31 May.
"With such a rapidly growing community it is important that we look to the future, and support the increasing popularity of our pools and related facilities," added Ms Watkins.
"Swimwell have provided a great service to our community over the past 16 years, and Council would like to thank them for their service and commitment."
For more information on the aquatic facilities across the Port Macquarie-Hastings region visit www.pmhc.nsw.gov.au/swimmingpools
Wauchope pool will close for the season on Easter Monday April 22.
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