With the Victorian Government committing $3.95 million and Campaspe Shire Council allocating $5 million of its own funds, a further $3.95 million is needed to deliver the $12.9 million project.
Campaspe Shire Council formally sought matching contributions of $3.95 million from both the Victorian and Federal governments in March, after the project's design was finalised in December last year.
State Member for Northern Victoria Wendy Lovell, a long-time advocate for the new facility, welcomed the state government’s funding commitment.
“I fought long and hard for the state government to fund a new pool for Rochester and I’m pleased to hear that the government has finally come to the table and contributed toward the funds required to build an aquatic facility,” she said.
“In a time when we hear of far too many children drowning in dams or channels, regular access to a local pool is essential for children to gain the confidence they need to remain safe in the water.”
Ms Lovell said she would continue to advocate for Rochester to secure the support it needed.
“As a local member, I have relentlessly advocated for Rochester to get the support it needs to recover from the floods — whether that’s counselling services, land tax relief, or funding for the town swimming pool,” she said.
Following the state government's funding announcement, Campaspe Shire Mayor Daniel Mackrell renewed calls for the Federal Government to back the project.
“This generous co-funding gives us real momentum — now we’re focused on securing the remaining funding and getting construction under way,” he said.
“We’re that much closer to delivering a modern, flood-resilient aquatic facility that restores what was lost and builds a stronger future for Rochester and its district.
“We now call on the Australian Government to co-fund this project so the Rochester community can get back in the water sooner.”
Federal Member for Bendigo Lisa Chesters was contacted for comment.
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