ATTENDANCE figures for Goulburn Aquatic Centre have increased substantially from last year, according to an annual report released to Council by the YMCA.
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The figures are up seven percent on last year with 89,988 visitations, and swimming lesson numbers increasing from 495 in June 2013 to 638 in June this year.
Annual turnover also increased by 49pc (or $276,000) to $839,000 in 2014.
Swimming lessons were one of a few key income streams for the centre, at $310,000 (up from $155,000 last year), along with recreational swimming at $172,000 (similar to last year), health and fitness at $112,000, (up from $80,000 last year), the café ($86,000) and family memberships ($58,000).
Centre Manager Dallas Watt said there had been a good increase across the board in all aspects of the Goulburn Aquatic Centre’s programs.
“We’re keen to still keep working with Council to provide a service to the community,” Mr Watt said.
“We will talk with them over the New Year period to see how we can keep improving attendance figures, swimming lessons, etc.”
Mr Watt also confirmed that the centre received a grant of $30,288 for re-investment into the Goulburn Aquatic Centre. The money will be used on enclosing the outdoor toddler pool and the upgrading of play equipment.
An amount of $29,398 is also payable to Council as per a profit sharing arrangement with the YMCA.
Council’s Operations Director Matt O’Rourke explained the profit sharing arrangement.
“Council entered into a contract with the YMCA for the management and provision of services to the Goulburn Aquatic Centre in July 2013,” he said.
“As part of this contract, it was agreed that with regard to any ‘profit’ resulting from the contract that it would be shared equally between Council, the YMCA and the facility. Hence, Council has received 33pc of the ‘profit’ as a result of the past financial year’s performance.”
He also confirmed the negotiations between Council and the YMCA for renovations to the centre.
“The options to be considered are subject to further consultation and planning with the relevant groups and Council,” Mr O’Rourke said.
“There has been no decision made on the final expenditure of the proceeds. Further, any expenditure would need to be considered in a holistic manner, rather than as an individual project across the facility.”
The Goulburn Aquatic Centre also provides assistance to community programs including Fee Assistance, the SPACExpo, Seniors Week and the new Brightside program, which offers those with a mental illness the opportunity for free access to the centre for two months, a customised exercise program and one-on-one support.
For more information on what programs the Goulburn Aquatic Centre can provide, contact them on 4823 4834 or visit www.ymcansw.org.au/centres/goul burn.
