A Splashtacular Win for the Moree Artesian Aquatic Centre (MAAC)
Council is pleased to have received acknowledgement of having successfully obtained grant funding of $9,641,761 under Round 1 of the Australian Government Growing Regions Program.
The grant success now ensures works on the multimillion-dollar project can continue with a limited burden to our ratepayers in delivering the capital works, consisting of a new 50-metre pool, children’s play area, grandstand and clubhouse at the Moree Artesian Aquatic Centre (MAAC).
Mayor Mark Johnson excitedly acknowledged his gratitude to the Federal Government and in particular Minister of Infrastructure Catherine King stating, “This announcement is a game changer, we have been working hard to deliver this project and to receive this significant amount of funding, we can confidently work on the continuation of the project”.
Next week, earthworks will commence on the decommissioned location of the previous 50-metre pool.
Moree Plains Shire Council was one of 40 successful applicants to receive funding from the Growing Regions Program. This Program aids in delivering community and economic infrastructure projects across regional and rural Australia.
Moree Artesian Aquatic Centre (MAAC) - Update 1
As works continue to progress on the redevelopment at the Moree Artesian Aquatic Centre, this week, work will commence to prepare the site for the 50-metre pool, with the clearing of the vegetation.
Following on from that, Council has engaged a major local company to commence the earthworks to further prepare and stabilise the site.
The next stage in the site stabilisation will be laying the pier foundation in an area of 50m x 25m, where 180 piers/piles will be drilled into the ground up to 13-metres deep.
These foundation works are critical to the stabilisation of where the 50-metre pool will ultimately sit.
What has been occurring.
Gym
Gym users have stepped into a new era of fitness with new equipment and 15mm rubber impact flooring tiles. (As seen in the image right)
Active Pool
The Active Pool has had the concrete poured, each pour needing 6 weeks to cure. Alongside of the concrete pouring has been the commencement on the pool wall and scum gutter/wet area.
Wellness Pool
The form work has been installed for a concrete pour that will form the walls in the Wellness Pool. (As seen in the image below)
Wellness Studio
Expression of interest in the wellness treatment spaces for wellness and allied health professionals, such as Massage Therapists, Beauty Therapists, Physiotherapists, Osteopaths, and Myotherapists to occupy the rooms at the Wellness Facility are welcomed. Expressions of Interest should be sent via email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
“It was fantastic to see so many utilising the pools and waterslide on Australia Day, with 144 people enjoying the free entry offered between 1pm to 3pm”, informed General Manager, Kelvin Tytherleigh.
MAAC Project Set to Go Full Steam Ahead in 2024
Moree Plains Shire Council continues to progress works on the Moree Artesian Aquatic Centre redevelopment, with Council closing out the year by signing off on the final tender for Stage 1A of the project.
At its Ordinary Council Meeting on 14 December 2023, Moree Plains Shire Council accepted a lump sum tender from Hennessy Construction & Demolitions Pty Ltd to construct the grandstand, clubhouse and concourse.
"We are so pleased to be closing out the year having approved contractors for all key project works at the MAAC," said Acting Mayor, Cr Susannah Pearse.
"Council is just as keen as our community to see the 50m pool and grandstand project delivered soon and delivered well, and approval of this tender is the final formal step before works commence in earnest in early 2024."
Cr Pearse acknowledged the frustration with how long the project has taken to get off the ground, but noted the substantial progress made, "In our Council term, we have gone from there being no funding for this multimillion-dollar project, to having secured over $8m in grant funding for the project, all of which has come from the NSW Government."
"We are keen to limit burden on our ratepayers for this sizeable project, and as such Council also has a $9m funding application under the Australian Government's Growing Regions Program underway, which has pleasingly progressed to the second stage of the program."
Cr Pearse explained that many of the hold ups with the project have been due to faults in much of the infrastructure, "There were substantial issues with much of the MAAC complex, including leaks in the other pools and splash play area which were seeping into the 50m pool cavity. These had to be rectified before works on the 50m could occur".
To date, Council has completed:
- redevelopment and reopening of the slide;
- addressed leaking program pool through relining;
- addressed leaking active & wellness centre pools by decommissioning of the existing structures and renewing plumbing, with new concrete to be poured early 2024;
- refurbished function area and amenities.
Stage 1A of the redevelopment project (as per the site plan) includes:
- 50m Olympic standard 8-lane concrete pool (tender awarded to Crystal Pools Pty Ltd October 2023);
- concreted tiered undercover grandstand seating to be located on the southern side of the 50m pool;
- construction of new clubhouse and amenities to be located on the western side of the 50m pool and adjacent to the existing clubhouse;
- chemical storage and plant room; and
- works to the concourse.
Stage 1A is set to commence in early 2024, starting with preliminary earthworks.
Additional stage 2 and 3 works Council is progressing funding applications for include:
Stage 2:
Stage 3:
- Structural revisions and building alterations to existing buildings;
- Construction of the combined leisure, learn to swim and toddlers’ pool, with assorted water features;
- Upgrade of splash pad and features;
- Construction of concourses.
Council's General Manager Mr Kelvin Tytherleigh remarked, "Since joining Council as General Manager 6 months ago, the MAAC has been the number one issue that community has raised with me time and time again. It is clear that there is no more important project to this community, and I am not only proud of the work that our team has completed to date, but excited for what's to come."
"This project when fully completed will not only see the MAAC fully restored, but a bigger and better, quality regional facility for our Shire."
Image - Moree Artesian Aquatic Centre Architectural Perspective 50m pool
Moree Artesian Aquatic Centre - Expression of Interest - Wellness Centre
Expression of interest in the wellness treatment spaces at the Moree Artesian Aquatic Centre is now open.
The Moree Artesian Aquatic Centre are looking for wellness and allied health professionals, such as Massage Therapists, Beauty Therapists, Physiotherapists, Osteopaths, and Myotherapists to occupy the rooms at the Wellness Facility.
Expressions of Interest should be sent via email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. by 17 November 2023.
Tender Awarded For The Construction Of A 50-metre Pool At The Moree Artesian Aquatic Centre
Council resolved at its Extraordinary Council Meeting this morning, Thursday 12 October 2023 to award the tender for the construction of the 50-metre pool at the Moree Artesian Aquatic Centre (MAAC) to Crystal Pools Pty Limited.
Crystal Pools Pty Ltd is a leading Australian commercial pool builder, owned and operated since 1957. Having been in the business for over 65 years, they are certified for Federal, State and Local Government commercial swimming pool design and construction, making them familiar with regulations and requirements.
“My fellow Councillors and I are very excited to have secured a reputable company to complete the 50-metre pool for the community and our visitors, as we are all aware the artesian water brings tourism to our Shire. To have the centre completed with its cold-water pool will help us reinstate us as the ‘Artesian Capital’.
We understand the frustration this process has caused in the community, however, we needed to ensure our due diligence was done regarding this project. The awarding of the tender today marks a significant step forward to returning this iconic asset to our Shire" stated Mayor Mark Johnson.
View the Site Plan
See the list of commercial pool projects completed by this award-winning company.
Crystal Pools Capability Statement
As we continue to keep the community connected to the project, below is the current timeline for redevelopment works at the MAAC.
Current/October 2023
- All pools at the MAAC are currently closed. Belgravia Leisure remains operating the centre to allow customers access to the gym and café and to assist patrons with any enquiries from 6am to 7pm.
- Tenders for the club house and grandstand are open for a further two weeks, closing 31 October.
November 2023
- 6 November - The Program and Passive Pools will re-open.
- The ‘Learn to Swim’ Program will recommence.
- Les Mills Virtual Program will be introduced at the gym, these virtual programs will add to group exercise in cinematic-quality classes from some of the world’s best instructors.
- New additions and refreshed painting to the function area
December 2023
- Mid- December - Re-opening of the Wellness Centre.
- Waterslide Summer hours recommence, 3pm to 6pm.
January 2024
- Mid-January - Active Pool reopening
- 15 January - Gym flooring and equipment upgrades to commence
- Mid- January - Earthworks to commence bulk excavation where the previous 50-metre pool was, with piling and back filling.
April 2024
- Construction of the 50-metre pool will commence, with a build time of approximately 15 months.
To enrol in the ‘Learn to Swim’ program or the ‘Les Mills Virtual’ program book online
Any enquiries regarding the current construction and pool closure should be directed to council by emailing: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or phoning (02) 6757 3222.
Moree Artesian Aquatic Centre Update
Essential works progress at the Moree Artesian Aquatic Centre (MAAC) with the relining of the Program Pool well underway.
After draining the Program Pool, demolition commenced on removing the existing pool liner and existing scum gutter tiles.
To prepare to lay the new liner, surfaces have been grinded back to remove any rough or irregular surfaces.
This week the installation of a new stainless steel scum gutter, and stainless steel handrails continue to be polished ready for the new liner to be installed.
Closure of the pools at Moree Artesian Aquatic Centre (MAAC) will continue while we deliver these fundamental upgrades. During the closure of the pools, Belgravia Leisure will remain open, allowing customers access to the gym and café and assisting patrons with any enquiries from 6am to 7pm.
Council will hold an extraordinary meeting at the Council Chambers, Thursday 12 October to resolve the tender evaluations for the development of the 50m pool at the complex.
Any enquiries regarding the current construction and pool closure should be directed to council by emailing: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or phoning (02) 6757 3222.
Extraordinary Council Meeting
There will be an Extraordinary Council Meeting held in the Council Chambers, Level 1, Max Centre, Moree from 8.30am on Thursday 12 October 2023.
Council can call an Extraordinary Meeting to discuss or decide upon an urgent matter that is time sensitive.
In this instance, Council will discussing tender evaluations for the Moree Artesian Aquatic Centre (MAAC).
Aquatic memberships on hold while we close for essential upgrades at the Moree Artesian Aquatic Centre (MAAC)
Aquatic members will have their memberships placed on hold while we close to undertake essential works at the Moree Artesian Aquatic Centre (MAAC) from Tuesday 3 October 2023 for five weeks.
While the tender evaluation for the 50-metre pool reconstruction process continues, Council has secured a contractor to complete fundamental upgrades on the Passive and Program pool(s). Works to be undertaken include a full relining of the Program Pool, tile maintenance on the Passive Pool and continued works on the Active and Wellness Pools.
“While we are understanding of the disruption this causes to pool users, it is necessary that we undertake a full relining of the Program Pool, which is required every ten to fifteen years to ensure of its continued operation” stated General Manager, Kelvin Tytherleigh.
During the closure of the pools, Belgravia Leisure will remain open allowing customers access to the gym and café and assist patrons with any enquiries from 6am to 7pm.
What changes you can expect to see.
October
- Belgravia Leisure is adding new healthy additions to their menu in October, including a catering menu for internal and external functions.
- In mid-October the Les Mills Virtual Program will be introduced, these virtual programs will add to group exercise in cinematic-quality classes from some of the world’s best instructors.
November
The Learn to Swim Program will recommence – 6 November 2023
December
Re-opening of the Wellness Centre in mid-December 2023
January 2024
Active Pool reopening mid-January 2024
Gym flooring and equipment upgrades – commences 15 January 2024
We anticipate resuming pool operations at the MAAC from 6am Monday 6 November 2023.
Any enquiries regarding the current construction and pool closure should be directed to council by emailing: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or phoning (02) 6757 3222.
Tenders for the Moree Artesian Aquatic Centre (MAAC)
Recent tenders for the construction of a 50m pool, clubhouse and grandstand at the MAAC have now closed.
Council received two tenders, which are being assessed.
A Short Closure of The Moree Artesian Aquatic Centre (MAAC) Pools
Council would like to inform the community that due to urgent maintenance works all pools at the Moree Artesian Aquatic Centre (MAAC) will close on Tuesday 8 August for 4 days as Council has secured a contractor to complete these essential works.
While we understand that this is short notice, we expect operations to resume at the MAAC from 8am, Saturday 12 August, allowing patrons access once again to the Passive and Program Pools at the Centre.
Acting General Manager, Nick Tobin stated “We understand that this closure may cause inconvenience and disruption to patrons plans while we undertake repairs to the liner in the Program Pool and tile maintenance on the Passive Pool.
During the closure, the reception at the MAAC will remain open allowing Belgravia Leisure to operate the gym and café, and assist patrons with any enquiries from 6am to 7pm.
I would like to advise that Council has already gone out to selective tender for the clubhouse, 50m pool and grandstand, with applications closing on 14 August 2023.
As contractors become available, progression continues on the Active and Wellness Pool with the newly laid re-enforcement in place, with concreting to commence in the Wellness Pool, while the Active Pool is at the stage of having plumbing works tested”, said Mr Tobin.
We apologise to users of the MAAC for this brief closure, however, it is necessary for the outcome of a larger scope of work to be conducted for the MAAC redevelopment.
Council remains committed to the MAAC redevelopment with $16,668,389 in budget, including $6,735,270 secured in NSW State Government funding.
Moree Artesian Aquatic Centre (MAAC) Update
Reconstruction works continue at the MAAC, although slowly due to unforeseen delays and hidden additional works.
What have we been doing?
- The myrtha skin/panelling which had been used as a waterproofing membrane within the existing pools has now been completely removed from the wellness and active pools, allowing us to bring the pools back to their bare bones.
- A complete reinforced concrete structure will replace the myrtha structure.
- All existing plumbing and electrical services will be retested and replaced if required.
- Pour concrete flooring – fully reinforced and form up for the new seats and scum gutter (pool grate). The wet deck system will be implemented to aid with the filtration of the pools.
- The removal of the kids splash pad area and replaced with astro turf.
- We are aiming to have the active pool completed in August.
Where to next?
- Council has been proactively looking for specialised pool builders.
- Council has reached out to individual pool builders to ascertain interest in responding to a tender for the reconstruction of the 50m pool.
- Tenders are to be called this week with an August closing date for construction of the new 50m pool.
Splashtacular School Holidays
We’ve heard your feedback!
With the return of the popular waterslide at the Moree Artesian Aquatic Centre (MAAC), slide users can now enjoy the newly restored slide, with the entry fee included in the pool entry price until 1 July 2023.
The slide will be operational on the following days and times.
During school holidays
Everyday 12pm to 4pm
After school holidays
Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday
2pm to 5pm (until the end of May 2023)
Height restrictions of 120cm apply to ride the slide.
Pool Complex operational times.
Monday to Friday - 7am - 5.30pm (until 1 May)
Saturday and Sunday - 7am to 5.30pm (until 1 May)
Current pool price fees
(Residents and Ratepayers)
Adult - $6
Child - $4
Children under 5 - $Free
(General Admission)
Adult - $8
Child - $5
Children under 5 - $Free
Council appreciates the community’s patience while ongoing works at the MAAC continue.
For further information on the MAAC visit >> www.moreeartesianaquaticcentre.com.au
Moree Artesian Aquatic Centre (MAAC) Update
Tenders called for in November 2022, for the 50m Olympic pool, grandstand, and clubhouse at the Moree Artesian Aquatic Centre (MAAC) were considered at Council’s Ordinary Meeting on 16 March 2023.
Unfortunately, no tender submissions met Council’s requirements, and as such Council will now undertake a select tender approach with experienced pool builders.
Council understands the frustration in the Community regarding the length of time this process is taking but is committed to making sure this is done thoroughly to enable the best outcome.
Council will continue its pursuit to find a reputable and adequately resourced company and we will continue to keep the public informed of the progress.
In the meantime, the works schedule continues at the Moree Artesian Aquatic Centre:
• Commencing Tuesday 21 March, the reconstruction and reinstating of the newly refurbished water slide will take place with testing of the slide to be conducted over the next four weeks
• Demolition of the wellness and active pool has already commenced and the installation of reinforced steel, formwork and plumbing occurring
• Concrete to be poured, with a curating time of six weeks after which the tiling of the pool (and concourse) will occur
• Followed by grouting with a wait time of a week until the filling of the pool(s). The active and wellness pool is forecast to be completed in June 2023
• Works on the passive and program pool will commence in June 2023 to coincide with the reopening of the active and wellness pool(s).
Moree Artesian Aquatic Centre (MAAC)
Patrons visiting the MAAC will notice a disruption to the ambience at the pools as works take place on the Active and Wellness Pool(s) between the hours of 7am to 5pm, for approximately 3 weeks (weather permitting).
We apologise for the additional noise while we continue to work on the improvements at the MAAC.
$777,778 Cash Splash for Moree Sports and Community Facilities
Popular Moree water slide to be repaired & re-opened
NORTHERN Tablelands MP Adam Marshall has made a giant splash in Moree today – or at least a cash splash – announcing a $777,778 State Government grant for Moree Plains Shire Council to upgrade local sporting and recreational facilities, including re-instating the popular water slide in Moree.
Mr Marshall was joined by Mayor Mark Johnson for the announcement of the funding this morning at the Moree Artesian Aquatic Centre (MAAC), which will receive $350,000 to repair and re-open the mothballed water slide and water slide tower.
“The giant water slide has been out of action for almost two years now due to damage and corrosion of the slide tower, so the news that the slide will be repaired and back in action is really welcome news for the community,” Mr Marshall said.
“The water slide was easily the most popular feature of the MAAC, especially for local youngsters, and council is hoping all the required work can be completed ahead of the Christmas school holidays, which would be brilliant.
“This is just the latest funding for council to improve the MAAC, on the back of just over $6 million provided previously for the new 50-metre pool and associated amenities.”
Mr Marshall said $127,778 would also be spent upgrading the existing canteen, changeroom, storage and toilet facilities at the Ron Harborne Sporting Precinct.
“Ron Harborne is the home of Moree sport with cricket, netball, soccer and athletics just some of the codes utilising the precinct and sharing facilities,” Mr Marshall said.
“Upgrading the shared amenities and kiosk will be a huge boost for all sporting codes and make playing sport even more enjoyable for participants.”
The remaining $300,000 will be used by Council to expand the scope of the $2.4 million upgrade of the Moree Civic Precinct, currently underway, to include a new stage and some audio visual equipment.
“Built in 1923, the Moree Civic Precinct comprises the Memorial Hall, the Banquet Hall and the Moree Community Library,” Mr Marshall said.
“The facility, while grand, lacks the modern facilities required to meet the needs of local theatrical and dance groups, visiting stage shows, schools and community organisations.
This additional funding will be the ‘cherry on top’ for the current upgrade project, allowing council to complete the whole renovations, leaving nothing out.”
Cr Johnson welcomed the funding boost and said it would allow council to undertake the essential upgrades immediately, rather than holding off until sufficient funds were found.
“This is a wonderful bonus that we weren’t budgeting for, especially as we lead into the festive season,” Cr Johnson said.
“Fixing up the water slide will be a big bonus for the younger people in the community and we’re really looking forward to getting it up and running again.
“I’m pleased to say that work on the slide will begin next week, so we can get that operational again as soon as possible.
“A big thank you to the State Government for providing Moree with this funding to allow us to proceed with these longstanding community projects.”
Media Release - Adam Marshall
Member for Northern Tablelands Adam Marshall, left, and Moree Plains Shire Mayor Mark Johnson at the soon-to-be repaired and re-opened Moree water slide today, which is one of the projects sharing in the $777,778 cash windfall today from the State Government.
Refurbishment of the MAAC Water Slide Tower
Moree Plains Shire Council is seeking 'Tenders' from appropriately qualified, suitably experienced and adequately resourced companies to submit quotations for the following contract:
~ Contract – RFT21/12 Refurbishment of MAAC Water Slide Tower
The Contract will commence in October 2022.
As part of the Conditions of Tendering, tenders will only be accepted from Contractors who have registered on the Vendor panel Portal.
https://www.vendorpanel.com.au/PublicTenders.aspx?emcc=1CF13F591A43
The closing date for submissions is 2pm Monday 19 September, 2022. Submissions will be received via the Vendor panel online portal ONLY. Hard copy submissions received via post, fax or hand delivered WILL NOT be accepted.
This Tender will be managed in accordance with the Moree Plains Shire Council Procurement Policy, the Local Government Act 1993, and the Local Government (General) Regulation 2005.
The Active Pool at the Moree Artesian Aquatic Centre (MAAC) is Closed
Due to recently discovered maintenance issues, the Moree Artesian Aquatic Centre's Active Pool will be closed from today until further notice.
Council and Belgravia Leisure apologise for the inconvenience caused.
MAAC coming back under Belgravia Leisure
Liquidator Clout Advisory has ceased the occupancy mode of the Moree Artesian Aquatic Centre (MAAC) as of 7pm today, Wednesday 19 January 2022.
All the facilities within the complex will be undergoing a deep and thorough clean over the next two days, Thursday 20 January and Friday 21 January.
Re-opening on Saturday 22 January, under the management and operations of Belgravia Leisure.
Mayor Mark Johnson said that "The community will be able to once again take advantage of the MAAC and be able to enjoy a soak in the famous artesian waters. Although the MAAC will be functioning again it will be without all facilities functioning”.
The MAAC will re-open on Saturday with the following facilities available
✓ 1 to possibly 2 artesian pools
✓ Program pool
✓ The children’s hydroplay area (splash pad)
✓ The café
✓ The MAAC’s gymnasium and group fitness operations
Facilities that will be unavailable are
✕ The Slide is not operational as it is undergoing repairs
✕ Wellness pool
✕ Wellness centre
✕ Wellness sauna
The MAAC will be operational weekdays 6am to 7pm and weekends 8am to 6pm.
We appreciate the community for your continued patience while Council works hard to finish the redevelopment.
