AusLeisure

West Wyalong company L&R (Leisure & Recreation) Group have been appointed by Cootamundra Gundagai Regional Council (CGRC) to manage the Cootamundra Aquatic Centre and Sports Stadium with the intent to deliver a much wider variety of recreational activities and improved customer service.

CGRC engaged @leisure Planners to complete a full review of the Aquatic Centre and Sports Stadium operations and associated service delivery and it was decided to place both facilities out to Contract.

Following the review, @leisure Planners assisted Council with an Expressions of Interest process for which Council received four very high submissions, three from national companies and one local company containing a very broad range of experience in operating similar facilities. 

Council will now enter into a partnership with the L&R, owned and operated by West Wyalong-based Angus Westaway. The Council will commence negotiations with Westaway with the intent to have L&R Group in a timely position for the upcoming outdoor summer swimming season.

L&R's vision for the two Cootamundra facilities is based on delivering a much wider variety of recreational activities and improved customer service. The company will be undertaking consultation with the local community and user groups with plans to offer better services around the needs of the community while initiating further discussions that will be based on a more regional level.

L&R have committed to keep costs to a minimum, and through improved activities and new initiatives hope to substantially increase patronage, resulting in opportunities for expansion and improved facilities.

Westaway’s foundation for success is based on building partnerships with Council, the community and related groups that meet the expectations of all user groups.

Westaway notes “we consider ourselves to be a locally based business, heavily involved in the region, with a country approach.

“Our experience in managing these types of facilities is fundamental and has given us the opportunity to understand what communities expect.”

L&R manage aquatic centres for the Bland, Lachlan and Cobar Shire Councils and plan to introduce an all access passport which will enable patrons from CGRC and the neighbouring councils to access all facilities with L&R management.

Westaway added “we know the area and are imbedded in the region. We know people and we know what they want and will build strong relationships and facilities that the community will be proud of.”

Cootamundra Gundagai Regional Mayor, Abb McAlister said the appointment will bring a new dimension to the management and use of the Aquatic Centre and Indoor Stadium and advised “we will see a host of new programs offered to the community, and the economic benefit to Council will be an advantage for all.

"The contract sees a reduction in costs for Council, an improvement in services for the Community. Existing employees have been offered redeployment opportunities to service other areas of Council’s operation and L&R will soon be offering job opportunities for locals.”

Image: Cootamundra Aquatic Centre. Courtesy of Visit NSW.

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