Friday 19 April 2024
As communities across the region continue to grapple with the aftermath of the devastating October 2022 floods, the future of the Rochester swimming pool remains uncertain.
During a special sitting of the Legislative Council in Echuca, Nationals Member for Northern Victoria, Gaelle Broad, pressed Minister for Emergency Services, Jaclyn Symes, on the urgent matter of the Rochester pool’s reconstruction.
Regrettably, Minister Symes, who also represents Northern Victoria as one of the five Upper House members in the region, declined to commit immediate funding for the project.
“The refusal to allocate funding for the reconstruction of the Rochester swimming pool means that the Campaspe Shire Council and Rochester community will be continuing to fight for this project,” stated Ms Broad.
The pool was constructed in 1956, an Olympic year, succumbed to October 2022 floods, leaving residents to travel to neighbouring towns for swimming lessons, fitness and cooling off in the summer months.
Peter Walsh, Leader of The Nationals and Member for Murray Plains, emphasised the urgent need for action from the Allan Labor Government regarding the pool’s future.
“Seventeen months have passed since the floods devastated Rochester, and yet this vital piece of local infrastructure remains in limbo. Its reconstruction is crucial not only for the community’s physical well-being but also for their emotional recovery and restoration of normalcy,” stressed Walsh.
Estimates suggest replacing the Rochester swimming pool will require an investment ranging between $8 and $13 million and is funding The Nationals will continue to fight for.
“It’s incredible, Labor Minister for Emergency Services, Jaclyn Symes, continues to blame-shift towards the local council for an apparent lack of communication. The Minister should be proactive and engage with the council and local community to deliver a solution, not cause more stress in a community that is still recovering.” Walsh stated.
“Communities like Rochester, rely heavily on government assistance during natural disasters, but also for the years of recovery that come after. It is the Minister’s failure to directly engage with the community that is leading to unnecessary delays to the reconstruction of Rochester’s pool.
“With the State Budget on the horizon, I urge the Allan Labor Government to recognise the urgency of this situation and allocate the necessary resources for the reconstruction of the Rochester swimming pool. Our community’s well-being hangs in the balance as the damaged pool stands as a scar and reminder of the devastating floods,” said Walsh.
As Rochester residents continue to navigate the challenges posed by the aftermath of the floods, the restoration of the swimming pool stands as a priority and a beacon for the community as they continue their path to recovery.