Thousands of local lap swimmers and families in Albany Creek are bracing for a massive logistical reshuffle as the officials initiate a top-to-bottom refurbishment of their highly trafficked aquatic centre.
The Scope of the Overhaul
Work on the extensive upgrade is scheduled to begin on 5 May 2026, marking a significant investment in the longevity and safety of the popular community hub. The renovation project will require the total closure of the indoor program pool for approximately seven weeks, while work on the outdoor 50-metre pool will extend until mid-August.
During this time, construction crews will strip away the existing pool shell finishes, repaint the surfaces, and completely replace all underwater tiles, including the specific finger grip tiles located at both ends of the 50-metre pool. Further structural updates include the installation of compliant depth and warning tiles, new wet-deck grates, and the replacement of backstroke anchors, posts, and stair handrails.
The moveable bulkhead will also undergo a complete refurbishment, alongside improvements to the surrounding concourse and pool furniture. Council representatives stated that these improvements are part of an ongoing effort to maintain and modernise crucial community infrastructure, ensuring high-quality facilities for the long term.
Keeping the Community Afloat
Rather than leaving members high and dry during the months-long closure, facility management has arranged a comprehensive relocation strategy to keep the community active. Swim-only members and visit pass holders are being offered seamless access to both the Ferny Hills Pool and the Lawnton Aquatic Centre at no additional cost.
Those who prefer to stay dry also have the option to temporarily convert their swimming passes into gym memberships for the duration of the construction, while others can choose to simply suspend their accounts until the upgrades are complete. Management staff noted their commitment to clear communication and a smooth transition throughout the renovation period, acknowledging the disruption while focusing on the long-term benefits for the area.
Squad Relocations and Upcoming Plans
The reshuffle requires significant coordination for local sporting groups, particularly the competitive swimming squads. To maintain consistency in their training schedules, Junior, Intermediate, State, and National squads are being temporarily relocated across the Ferny Hills and Lawnton facilities. These relocations are carefully split between morning and afternoon sessions to accommodate the large influx of athletes. For casual fitness enthusiasts, morning SwimFit sessions will be integrated into existing groups at Ferny Hills, though evening sessions are temporarily paused.
Meanwhile, facility leaders are actively finalising alternative arrangements for GOswim lessons and aqua aerobics classes. These plans include potentially hosting classes at partner pools and introducing gentle, land-based fitness sessions directly at the Albany Creek location, ensuring that all age groups and fitness levels remain engaged while their primary pool receives its much-needed facelift.
Published Date 31-March-2026
