Council appoints new operator for aquatic facilities

Lockyer Valley Regional Council has awarded the future management of the Lockyer Valley Sports and Aquatic Centre in Gatton and the Dal Ryan War Memorial Pool in Laidley to SEQ-based aquatic and recreation facility operator Just Sports N’ Fitness, following a competitive tender process.

The new management agreement follows advice from current operator BlueFit that it wished to be released from its existing contract, which was due to continue until July 2029.

Lockyer Valley Regional Council Sport and Recreation Portfolio Councillor, Anthony Wilson said Council had undertaken a comprehensive procurement process to ensure the region's aquatic facilities delivered quality services, programs and value for money for the community.

"Council engaged independent industry experts to assist with the tender and evaluation process to ensure we secured the best outcome for our community," Cr Wilson said.

"Our priority has always been to maintain high-quality aquatic and recreation services while ensuring the management arrangements represent value for money for ratepayers.

"Following a thorough assessment process, Council resolved to appoint Just Sports N’ Fitness as the future operator of both facilities."

Just Sports N’ Fitness currently operates nine pools and five gyms across the Brisbane, Ipswich and Somerset regions.

Cr Wilson said a transition period would be required to support the handover between operators.

"Council is currently working through transition planning and contractual arrangements associated with the change in management,” he said.

“While Council's preference is for Just Sports N' Fitness to commence operations ahead of the summer swim season, final transition arrangements and timing are still being finalised.

"Our priority is to ensure the community continues to receive high-quality aquatic and recreation services while the transition occurs in an orderly and responsible manner.

"We acknowledge BlueFit's contribution to the operation of these facilities and thank its staff for their service to facility users over recent years.

"Our goal is to ensure swimming clubs, schools, residents, user groups and visitors continue to enjoy safe, accessible and well-managed facilities with minimal disruption during the transition," he said.

“Council will continue working through the necessary arrangements with both operators and will keep the community informed of any confirmed changes affecting facility users.”

Cr Wilson noted that staffing arrangements following the transition would be a matter for the incoming operator.

"Council understands many current staff members are local residents who have made a valuable contribution to these facilities, and while employment decisions are a matter for Just Sports N’ Fitness, we hope opportunities may exist for existing staff members as the transition progresses," he said.

Further information regarding transition timing and operational arrangements will be provided as details are confirmed.