The contract for the independent safety assessment of the Bairnsdale Outdoor Pool has been awarded.

East Gippsland Shire Council decided in August to commission the independent audit to ensure a safe environment for staff and the community.  

Council has a legal and ethical obligation to ensure a safe environment for its staff and the community.  

Chief Executive Officer Fiona Weigall said this independent assessment will give us a clear understanding of the facility’s condition, the extent and causes of these risks, how they might be mitigated, and the cost of any identified repairs and upgrades that could make the pool safe to operate.

While the assessment is underway, the pool will remain closed. Council will keep the community updated through the process and of any necessary measures, such as draining the pool, to allow for detailed inspections.  

The assessment will provide a comprehensive review of the facility, including:

• Compliance with legislation and relevant standards.

• Inspection of plant equipment, infrastructure, and buildings.

• A dilapidation and structural integrity report.

• Identification of required remedial works, risk mitigation strategies, and cost estimates.

The independent safety assessment will be completed by local and interstate contractors, with the outcomes of the assessment to be presented to Council in a briefing in the New Year for consideration.

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