Delos Delta worked with the Western Downs Regional Council in 2023 to develop its Aquatic Facilities Strategy and Showgrounds Strategy.

Showgrounds Strategy

The Strategy sets out a holistic five-year plan for the future direction of the Western Downs’ showgrounds, ensuring the delivery of ongoing community benefits.  The Strategy reviewed the strengths and opportunities of Council’s six showground facilities, leveraging current usage trends, asset management conditions, and future goals.

The Strategy’s vision is to continue the transformation of these facilities, ensuring they become thriving hubs that foster a sense of community and deliver economic benefits to the region.

The Strategy builds on the four strategic pillars of Council’s Corporate Plan:

• Strong, diverse economy
• Active, vibrant community
• Quality lifestyle
• Sustainable organisation

Considering the unique value of these facilities within the Western Downs, the local community was heavily involved in the development of this Strategy.  Through engagement with management committees, user groups, community members, Councillors, and Council staff, the Strategy has been developed to reflect stakeholder insights into the current and future use of the facilities.

Aquatic Facilities Strategy

The Strategy outlines a five-year plan for Council’s aquatic facilities, ensuring their future direction balances community priorities, needs, and benefits.  With many of the swimming pools nearing the end of their usable life, the Strategy ensures that steps are taken to pursue future opportunities and possibilities for preserving or renewing the facilities.

Informed by community and stakeholder engagement, the Strategy’s vision is for the region’s aquatic facilities to support social, athletic, education, and recreation opportunities and outcomes for all user groups.  It is hoped the facilities will be fun, safe, and accessible for the whole Western Downs population.

Five guiding principles have been outlined to shape the future of the region’s aquatic facilities:

• Accessible
• Well-maintained
• Future proofed
• Diversified
• Activated

The Strategy is a high-level guiding document that will inform future analysis into short-term investment options to manage and maintain the aquatic facilities.

“Aligned with Council’s Corporate Plan, the endorsed strategies reflect Council’s commitment to providing modern, attractive, and accessible infrastructure for residents, while balancing the needs and priorities of the community.” – Cr Megan James

Both Strategies were considered and formally adopted by Council on 21 June 2023.