Celebrating the start of the Alkimos Aquatic and Recreation Centre

10 January 2025

Australian Prime Minister shoveling dirt in ceremonial ground breakingConstruction is officially underway for the much-anticipated Alkimos Aquatic and Recreation Centre (AARC) in Perth’s northern suburbs, a significant milestone celebrated by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, Federal Member for Pearce Tracey Roberts, and Mayor of Wanneroo Linda Aitken.

This state-of-the-art facility, nestled in the heart of the Northern Coastal Growth Corridor, promises to be a transformative space for community engagement, health, and recreation.

The $88 million project is a collaborative effort, with funding from the Albanese Government, the Cook Government, and the City of Wanneroo, embodying a shared vision of building vibrant, resilient communities.

As Prime Minister Albanese remarked, “Strong communities need good quality community infrastructure. That’s why my Government is building Australia’s Future and investing in these important local facilities.”

From an indoor learn-to-swim pool to a 50-meter competition pool, a health suite, multi-use sports courts, and community spaces, the AARC is designed to meet diverse community needs. It will not only provide a space for physical activity but also foster social connections and create a hub for volunteerism, all while supporting 250 construction jobs and 42 ongoing roles post-completion.

Peter Leaversuch, CEO of Royal Life Saving WA, shares a deep enthusiasm for the project's potential to enhance water safety and community well-being. He emphasizes that the AARC will be instrumental in addressing drowning risks among culturally and linguistically diverse communities, offering vital programs like Swim and Survive, Bronze Medallion training, and youth leadership initiatives. These efforts aim to build a 'water safe' community, nurturing a culture of safety, inclusivity, and skill development.

The AARC is more than a facility; it’s a beacon of opportunity, promising to enrich the lives of residents in Perth’s north for generations to come.

You can take a virtual tour of the new facility below. 

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