Every public swimming pool and aquatic centre in regional Western Australia will be in top shape this summer, thanks to a funding boost made possible by Royalties for Regions and The Nationals WA.

Nationals WA Member of Parliament Paul Brown MP, welcomed this week’s announcement of almost $3 million in funding for the Community Pool Revitalisation Program – which will be put towards 94 aquatic centres, swimming pools and water playgrounds in regional communities.

“The program was a Nationals WA election commitment, and will help local governments with the funding necessary to maintain and upgrade their aquatic facilities, purchase new equipment, provide staff training, or to subsidise the cost of entry to the pool,” Mr Brown said.

“With the warm summer weather we’re currently experiencing, there’s no better time to get down to the pool and cool off. As well as being a recreational hub, local pools are often the first place many regional residents learn and develop a love for swimming.”

In the current round of the Community Pool Revitalisation Program $2,938,667 has been made available through Royalties for Regions. Annual funding of up to $32,000 per aquatic centre and $10,000 per water playground, when attached to a primary aquatic facility, is available.

Mr Brown said the City of Greater Geraldton will receive $32,000 each for the Geraldton Aquarena and the Mullewa Swimming Pool.

“Royalties for Regions is ensuring community swimming pools continue to be safe and vibrant places to enjoy physical activity and a healthy lifestyle,” Mr Brown said.

Minister for Sport and Recreation and acting Minister for Regional Development, Mia Davies MLA, announced the funding this week.

“Particularly in regional and remote communities, aquatic centres are important facilities because there’s evidence that when they are well patronised, they contribute to a reduction in chronic disease and improved educational and social outcomes,” Ms Davies said.

“We also know that active children learn better, aside from the mental and physical benefits, there are also great community and social outcomes for kids who are active.

For a full list of successful Community Pools Revitalisation Program recipients, visit www.dsr.wa.gov.au/cprp-successful.