Thank you Chair.
I rise to speak in support of Item E – the reappointment of Just Sports n Fitness as the operator of the Bellbowrie swimming pool for a further 15 years.
This company’s record as pool operators not only at Bellbowrie but at other locations in Brisbane, Ipswich and regional towns in Queensland and northern NSW, speaks for itself.
Having worked with the Just Sports and Fitness team at Bellbowrie since my election as Pullenvale Ward Councillor just over two years ago, I’ve seen first-hand their passion and enthusiasm in encouraging the local community to become involved in water based activities to suit all ages.
The Bellbowrie pool offers opportunities for recreational and lap swimming, water exercise and swim lessons. There is a 50 metre outdoor pool with eight lanes, as well as a 25 metre heated, covered pool.
The pool has been an important community hub since it was built in 1974 . More than 550,000 patrons have passed through the turnstiles over the past decade.
There have been enhancements at the pool since, such as the installation of a fully equipped gym, shaded seating areas, a café, kids water facilities and landscaping to enhance the customer experience at the pool.
I know they have big plans for the future such as enclosing the 25 metre pool and converting the gym to a 24/7 operation.
It should come as no surprise that the person behind the success of Just Sports n Fitness is none other than 1984 Olympic bronze medallist, Justin Lemberg, who was trained by the legendary Lawrie Lawrence.
Just spend 10 minutes with Justin and you can see where his motivation and passion for all things water sports comes from.
I’ve seen him there after school coaching and encouraging our young swimmers to realise their potential in the pool. Who knows, one of his young charges might yet emulate his achievements at the 2032 Brisbane Olympics?
Chair, the pool was affected by flood waters earlier this year but thankfully there was no structural damage done.
But a mammoth clean-up operation was necessary and I commend our Connected Communities and Community Facilities officers, and Justin’s team for undertaking that work, ensuring all will be in readiness for when the pool re-opens on the 17th September following the winter break.
And when it does, we’ll be rescheduling the movie night at the pool we promised the Bellbowrie and Moggill communities earlier this year, but was unfortunately postponed because of the flood.
I look forward to working with Justin and Jacqui and the team there again going forward and seeing what they have planned to ensure the pool remains a key hub in the Bellbowrie community.
Thank you.