Local pool upgrades finished

Renovations to Finley’s War Memorial Pool amenities block are in the final stages.The $410,000 project will create a modern, fit-for-purpose building incorporating change rooms and toilets, tailored for families and the disabled.The structure will also feature a new kiosk area.‘‘The Finley Pool project was largely funded by the Federal Government as part of the first round of the Drought Communities Programme,’’ Berrigan Shire director corporate services Matt Hansen said.‘‘The only council-funded part of the project was the construction of the car park and landscaping out the front.’’Mr Hansen said the works will reduce costs at the facility in the long run, because it will be easier to maintain.Fresh painting complements the upgrades, with a variety of blue hues and new signage making the pool complex easier to identify from Murray St.Pool manager and committee member Paul Burns said it improves what is already a great asset for the community.‘‘I believe our patronage will grow once the building reopens for the swim season in November,’’ Mr Burns said.‘‘It looks really good from an aesthetic point of view, and I believe the signage will also help people recognise the building.‘‘Before the renovations some people had no idea it was actually a pool.‘‘The outside will be a lot easier to maintain once it is finished, and the four main rooms in the building have improved natural lighting.‘‘That was another of the failings of the old building. It felt old and the lighting made some children hesitant to use the facilities.‘‘Now there will be plenty of natural lighting getting through, so that’s a major improvement.‘‘This facility is for the whole community and I believe the upgrades will bring more people in from other towns.’’