Design for new Chinchilla Aquatic Precinct makes a splash

Council has revealed the first look at the detailed design of its new aquatic precinct in Chinchilla. 

Detailed design is now at 30 per cent complete for the new Chinchilla Aquatic Precinct, which will be developed at 35-41 Villiers Street and includes a new eight lane 50-metre pool, 25-metre indoor lap pool, and an learn-to-swim and toddler pool.  

The plan also features flexible spaces for aquatic support areas, allied health and rehabilitation gym areas, café/kiosk, amenities and change areas, outdoor recreation areas, and administration spaces. 

Western Downs Regional Council Mayor Andrew Smith said the detailed design had been revised to vastly lower operational costs and increase the long-term sustainability of the facility, while retaining the important inclusions of the draft concept plan.  

“Consultation with local stakeholder reference groups included representatives from the local swimming club, health service, volunteer groups and chamber of commerce," Mayor Smith said. 

"Their collective feedback was at the forefront of discussions around making improvements to the draft concept we shared with the community this time last year.  
 
“During 2025, Council examined several new aquatic facilities across Queensland and New South Wales to explore opportunities to reduce operational costs by making improvements to the concept design and functionality of the outdoor pool.  

"When looking at the draft concept design, my fellow Councillors and I felt there were long-term implications around the operation of the outdoor 50-metre pool, with operational costs forecast to be significantly more than expected initially.  

"To provide the community with a facility that is sustainable and able to be enjoyed by future generations is a high priority for Council and we are excited to be sharing the plan for this incredible new aquatic precinct.” 

Mayor Smith said the plan, developed by Facility Design Group and Rounsefell Design, reaffirmed Council's commitment to providing new community facilities with responsible, manageable operational costs to ensure long term viability. 

"We are a financially responsible Council and always looking to how best service the community now and into the future," he said. 

"Through the release of the concept design for the aquatic precinct and our extensive community engagement on this project, we've been able to partner with Chinchilla residents to provide a brand-new facility that caters to a broad range of sporting, recreation and community applications. 
   
“Each of the three new pools will service different needs in the community, including a learn-to-swim pool that is connected to the toddler pool, creating a more integrated space for families to enjoy. 

“A full breakdown of the exciting new updates and updated FAQs, including the new renders and video fly-through are available to view on Council’s Have Your Say website." 

The tender process is due to commence in August 2026, with finalisation of the detailed design expected in November 2026.  

For more information, including updated Chinchilla Aquatic Precinct detailed design masterplan, visit wdrc.au/Chinchilla-Aquatic-Precinct.