NOOSA AQUATICS CENTRE UPGRADE PLAN AND NOOSA AQUATICS FACILITIES STRATEGIC PLAN · Report

GENERAL COMMITTEE MEETING                                                           6 OCTOBER 2026


2) Demand, utilisation and trends

   •   NAC utilisation is high at peak periods, constraining flexible programming and community
       access. Broader trends show strong demand for flexible lane space, aqua fitness and
       learn-to-swim year-round.

   •   Demographic change (ageing population; rising prevalence of disability and limited mobility)
       points to increased demand for wellness and rehabilitation, and for universal design across
       all upgrades, inclusive of potential warm-water therapy.

3) NAC Upgrade Plan highlights (built form & operations)

   •   Critical works: Renew NAC pool filtration systems (with provision for pool cooling).

   •   Accessibility & amenities: After design finalisation, deliver compliant, gender-inclusive, family
       and PWD amenities, undertake site-wide equitable-access upgrades inclusive of a new 25M
       amenities block.

   •   Shade, seating, safety: Expand shade across pool decks; provide covered spectator
       seating/grandstand for the 50m pool, establish a new lifeguard office with enhanced
       sightlines.

   •   Program & wellness capacity: Enlarge gym with 24-hour access; add program rooms and a
       wellness hub; upgrade water play elements; increase storage for clubs and lifeguards.

   •   Site circulation & access: Reconfigure car park (including PWD bays, bus set-down,
       after-hours access to a gym/MP room offering), provide secure bike storage (Bikeep-style),
       improve wayfinding, and coordinate with active transport strategies.

   •   Sustainability: Pursue solar PV replacements/expansions (including potential shaded solar
       canopies over parking) and consider batteries once loads are verified; landscape with
       endemic species.

   •   Future options: Investigate a movable bulkhead for the 50m pool to increase flexibility for
       squads, water polo and community use, with a feasibility study as a final project to look at a
       warm-water pool for rehab/allied health.

4) Governance, partnerships and data

   •   Adopt a consistent network data framework (utilisation, customer satisfaction, financial and
       environmental metrics) and five-year strategy review cycle.

   •   Continue tripartite MOUs with DoE/lessees; refine Council operational and financial support
       settings to sustain community access, align programming across NAC and school pools to
       relieve peak pressure.