The Louise Aquatic Centre Committee received $5000 through the Westoba Credit Union Inspire program in support of their fundraising efforts for the new Louise Aquatic Centre. 

Fundraising for this initiative was pushed into high gear with the news that the existing pool, built in 1970, does not meet current safety standards and will not be able to open past this current year, states Municipality of Louise Rec Director, Kelsey McLaren. "Our current pool is over 50 years old and it's starting to really show its age. There's lots of maintenance issues and costly fixups," she adds.

The $3.4 million aquatic centre will replace the current pool located in Pilot Mound and will feature 3 water slides, diving board, lazy river, lap swim area, and a gradual entry to be accessible to everyone.

Louise Aquatic Centre committee member, Gail Maxwell said this facility provides a life skill opportunity for many.  “We believe that learning to swim is a life skill important to all ages and abilities,” she said. “Having a pool in our area will provide the opportunity for people of all ages to learn this life skill. The Aquatic Centre will be promoting fitness, fun and water education.” 

Westoba Branch Manager for Swan Lake and Pilot Mound, Jackie Shoemaker said upgrades to the pool will also lend to the community economy. "What an amazing opportunity for Westoba to be part of the Louise Aquatic Centre project! As a co-operative we love investing back to our communities and this is a fantastic way to do just that. Upgrading the local pool is a great way to drive business to the community, all while promoting fitness and family fun.  We look forward to seeing the project come to life," said Shoemaker. 

A rendered photo of the new Aquatic Centre to be constructed at the same location as the current pool.A rendered photo of the new Aquatic Centre to be constructed at the same location as the current pool.

Construction of the new approximate 5,000 sq ft centre will begin mid-August and continue throughout the following 10 months with a tentative completion date of a July 1st, 2024, opening.

The Louise Aquatic Centre also received $300,000 from the Province's Building Sustainable Communities Grant earlier this year.

"To receive these grants is really encouraging and will help us reach our goal quicker and ramp up our donations for sure," shares Rec Director McLaren.  "We're looking to be close to the $1 million mark which includes a grant from our municipality, as well as donations and fundraising efforts, as well as these most recent grants."

The funding from Westoba Inspire is part of Westoba’s 60th anniversary celebration and used to support the purchase of pool equipment.