Update on Belfast Aquatics, Port Fairy

Published on 20 January 2026

Moyne Shire Councillors and CEO attended the community rally for the Port Fairy pool and fitness centre on 11 January 2026.

Mayor, Cr Jordan Lockett said there had been many letters and conversations with community members over the last few weeks about the closure of the facility.

“We hear the concerns, and acknowledge the questions, frustration and sense of hurt many are feeling,” said Cr Lockett.

With the end of the overholding lease on 16 January 2026, the facility has been handed over from the Belfast Aquatics committee to Moyne Shire Council.

“Council acknowledges and appreciates the committee’s efforts in the lead‑up to the handover. As a Councillor group, we received a full debrief on the transition today. We understand there has been interest from the community, and while Council has appeared silent in recent weeks, this has been out of respect for the formal handover process and the legal and operational requirements involved,” he said.

We will continue to keep communication as open and transparent as possible moving forward.”

“Council will now consider all options available to it for the facility now that the lease has concluded.”

“Moyne Shire residents and groups will have the opportunity to make submissions to our Aquatic Facilities Strategy, which opens for public feedback soon. We heartily encourage participation in this process and will communicate widely all the opportunities for public engagement.”

The strategy will inform Council's future investment and provision of services in community pools and will recommend a staged implementation plan to guide future decisions.