Following a competitive process, during which three tenders were received, Edward River Council has awarded a three year management contract to the Deniliquin Aquatic Community Group Inc.
It is made up of many of the same community members who managed the pool from 2013 to 2022, then known as Deniliquin Outdoor Pools Inc.
The tender decision was unanimously supported by council when tabled for voting in confidential committee on Tuesday morning.
The news has also been enthusiastically welcomed by the Edward River community, especially after the controversy that surrounded the awarding of the management contract due to expire this season.
In 2022, the community committee was overlooked for Sydney-based Lifeguarding Services Australia (LSA) despite having managed the facility for 10 successive years with success.
It sparked community outrage, but the council of the day described LSA’s 2022 submission as “impressive”, and then general manager Phil Stone said they offered “value for money”.
Since LSA’s arrival at the facility, there have been complaints made to the Pastoral Times and via social media each year about the organisation and running of learn to swim programs at the facility.
Some parents reported difficulty registering or even accessing the lessons.
It prompted some locals to start offering private swimming lessons since 2022, but they were not allowed to run them at the swim centre.
In response to community requests, the Deniliquin Aquatic Community Group Inc successfully ran its own swimming lessons program, with the support of LSA, at the swim centre earlier this year.
Edward River Mayor Ashley Hall said it was one way the group has proven its commitment to developing a positive swimming culture in the region.
“They have continued to conduct swimming lessons, including this year’s Town Swim, which was very popular with 140 children participating in learn to swim lessons and many volunteer swimming teachers engaged.
“We appreciate the dedication and years of service the Deniliquin Aquatic Community Group has given to our local pool.
“Their work has been foundational in making this facility a valued part of our community, and council is looking forward to partnering with them over the next three years.”
Cr Hall said council was pleased to note the capacity of the Deniliquin Aquatic Community Group Inc in securing the contract.
“The successful tender submitted by the group outlined the benefits of strong community support, reinvestment of operational surplus back into the facility, and its record of consistent, high quality aquatic management.
“While Deniliquin Aquatic Community Group is an incorporated association with community at heart, it is also an experienced and professional pool manager who ticked every box of our tender requirements.
Council confirmed that LSA did not re-tender for management of the swim centre.
Council will work with Deniliquin Aquatic Community Group to ensure a smooth transition to the new contract of management, which commences on October 1.
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