The Greater Geelong community is invited to join a free farewell celebration for Waterworld, before the iconic Norlane aquatic and leisure centre closes its doors for the final time.
We’ve lost a lot of iconic buildings, destinations and businesses over the last few decades, each special in their own uniquely-Geelong way.
Now there’s one more to add to the list, with the closure of Waterworld – the iconic Norlane aquatic and leisure centre which is set to close its doors for the final time this month.
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The loved but ageing facility will be closed as of Sunday 18 June to allow for continuing construction of the brand new Northern Aquatic and Community Hub on the same site.
On Saturday 17 June, Waterworld will be farewelled with a community event featuring free entry all day and family-friendly activities, music and food between midday and 3pm. Attendees will also have the chance to see photos of Waterworld history and secure an early bird membership discount for the Northern Aquatic and Community Hub.
“Waterworld has brilliantly served Geelong’s northern suburbs and surrounding communities since its opening in 1965,” says Mayor Trent Sullivan.
“Thousands of members of our community will have very fond memories and we encourage all of these people to come along on 17 June to say goodbye.”
Waterworld was famous for its large outdoor waterslides, which were removed in 2018 to make way for the new Barwon Health North healthcare centre.
Since that time, Waterworld has continued to offer a range of swimming and gym facilities for members and visitors.
These services will all be offered in world class form as part of the $65.6 million Northern Aquatic and Community Hub when it opens early in 2024. The aquatic centre and health precinct will specifically include a 25-metre pool, a hydrotherapy pool, a Learn to Swim pool, water play area, a water slide, a spa, a sauna and a steam room, as well a café, gymnasium and occasional care facilities.
“This is a place where thousands of people have learned to swim, got fit, or spent their summers having fun,” adds Deputy Mayor Anthony Aitken.
“While there’s no doubt it’s a little sad to see it go, the exciting part is that we have this amazing new facility not far away.
“The Northern Aquatic and Community Hub is going to be incredible, and just like Waterworld, it will very quickly become a cherished place for our local community.”
The City’s Swim, Sport and Leisure team will operate a pop-up gym facility for Waterworld members at the nearby Corio Leisuretime Sports Precinct on Anakie Road until the Northern Aquatic and Community Hub opens.
Waterworld members also have reciprocal access to the City’s other Swim, Sport and Leisure facilities.
The Northern Aquatic and Community Hub is being jointly funded by the City of Greater Geelong ($48.84 million), the Victorian Government ($8.5 million) and the Australian Government ($8.26 million).
