Million-dollar funding for hydrotherapy pool

A long-running campaign to establish a more accessible hydrotherapy pool at Council’s Monckton Aquatic Centre moved a step closer to fruition, with today’s confirmation of State Government funding.

Council welcomed the announcement by NSW Member for Northern Tablelands Adam Marshall that $1.1 million would be provided through the Regional Growth Fund.

During an event to announce the funding, Councillor Peter Bailey said a public indoor hydrotherapy pool, readily accessible to the community, had been a council priority for almost two years.  It also topped the list in a community survey earlier this year to identify the most important projects for funding through the Regional Growth Fund.

“The NSW Government’s contribution and Adam Marshall’s commitment to the project are invaluable in securing an important asset for the whole region,” Cr Bailey said.

“It will be valuable for the rehabilitation of people recovering from injury or illness, and for treatment and recovery of local sports people.  Learn to swim services can also be based at the new complex.

“While the hydrotherapy pool at Armidale Hospital has assisted many people over the years, it isn’t readily accessible to the public seven days a week and demand often exceeds available times.”

Cr Bailey said the region’s aging population and increased recognition of the health benefits of hydrotherapy - and other low-impact aquatic exercise – further emphasised the need for a public facility.

Council will contribute more than $364,000 to the facility, which could be heated to the optimum temperature for hydrotherapy activities and include modern design features.

Published on 18 Sep 2018