TREES were cleared across a large parcel of vacant land at Boandik Lake Terrace recently ahead of the construction of a $4.8m wellbeing centre.
Earth works will be completed at the site before construction begins early next year.
Concept plans for the building include a gymnasium, change rooms, treatment rooms, outdoor rehabilitation space and a long-awaited hydrotherapy pool.
Boandik chief executive Gillian McGinty said while a detailed design was still being developed, clearing the trees and preparing the site marked the next phase of the project.
“The concept design is now being developed into a detailed design and the tender process will likely begin in November,” Ms McGinty told The Border Watch.
“At this stage we expect the build to start in January.”
Ms McGinty said the vision for the wellbeing centre was for the facilities to be used primarily by the broader community.
Extended opening hours will allow access to the hydrotherapy pool in the early morning and late evening and the pool will be available for sporting clubs, allied health professionals and individuals.
Boandik launched a community partnership program in July to help fund the multi-million dollar project.
“The community partnership has raised $145,000 so far,” Ms McGinty said.
“Through the program, we hope to develop ongoing relationships with our partners and work together to meet the needs of the community.
“We have not set a target, we are appreciative of whatever we receive and up to this point a number of community-minded people have donated generously.”
The project was given a kick start when it received $150,000 in State Government funding through the now defunct Fund My Neighbourhood program.
Remaining funding will be generated through Boandik reserves, fundraising and the partnership program.
