Dumbleyung's $5.5 Million Pool Redevelopment Unveils Secret Designs After Contract Signing
The Shire of Dumbleyung has taken a major step forward in reviving a beloved community asset by signing a $5.5 million contract with Wet Deck Pools for the complete redevelopment of its long-closed swimming pool. Fresh, never-before-seen designs for the modern aquatic facility have been revealed, marking a significant milestone five years after the pool's closure due to safety concerns.
Contract Approval and Design Evolution
On March 4, the Shire of Dumbleyung officially approved the multimillion-dollar contract with Wet Deck Pools, moving the project from planning into active construction. The pool was initially closed in October 2021 after mechanical, electrical, and structural failures were discovered in the 40-year-old plant room, water treatment, and filtration system.
Further investigations throughout 2022 revealed additional issues, including groundwater and clay-based material blocking underground water flow, which potentially contributed to the deterioration of nearby buildings. The original shire-drawn design was published in March 2023, and partial demolition of the site occurred between August and October 2024.
In mid-2025, Wet Deck Pools was awarded the construction tender and proposed an alternative blueprint, which the council selected and kept confidential until now. This modern design includes a new 25-meter, six-lane main pool with all-abilities access, a beach-entry toddler pool, accessible ablutions, and updated plant and water filtration components.
Community and Leadership Reactions
Shire President Amy Knight expressed immense pride in the contract signing, emphasizing its importance in restoring a safe, inclusive, and cherished community resource. "Today is a really proud moment for our community," she said. "The swimming pool is about far more than recreation. It's where our kids learn to swim, where families come together in summer, and where people of all ages can stay active and connected."
Knight acknowledged the community's patience and support since the pool's closure in 2021, stating that signing the contracts allows the shire to move confidently into project delivery. Shire Chief Executive Gavin Treasure highlighted the project's evolution from addressing urgent safety issues to delivering a full replacement facility that meets modern standards and community expectations.
"This important project has evolved from addressing an urgent safety situation to delivering a full replacement facility that meets modern standards and community expectations," Treasure said. "With contracts now executed, the shire and our contractor can move into the next phase, including final programming, site preparation and mobilisation; while continuing to keep the community informed as works progress."
Funding and Project Details
The $5.5 million project is fully government-funded, with the shire securing financial support from multiple sources:
- $1.6 million from the Federal Government's Growing Regions Program
- $1.6 million from the State Government Community and Recreation Facilities Fund in 2024
- $1.6 million from the Dumbleyung Future Fund
- $700,000 from the shire's swimming pool reserve
This comprehensive funding package reflects sustained community advocacy and careful planning, ensuring the new facility prioritizes safety, accessibility, and long-term value for residents. The redevelopment represents a significant investment in regional infrastructure, aiming to enhance recreational opportunities and community well-being in the Wheatbelt town.
