Moree Artesian Aquatic Centre upgrades unveiled

The Moree Artesian Aquatic Centre has officially reopened its artesian hot pools, marking a major milestone for the region’s community and tourism sector.

Moree Plains Shire Council mayor Susannah Pearse joined fellow councillors and general manager Natalia Cowley on Thursday, April 9, to cut the ribbon and celebrate the long-awaited return of the facilities.

“Today is an incredibly exciting day for our community. Witnessing the joy in the faces of families and visitors taking in the waters has been such a reward for our Councillors and team, following the reinstatement of one of the key jewels in the Moree Plains’ crown,” Cr Pearse said.

The mayor highlighted the long-standing significance of artesian water to the town, noting its role in shaping Moree’s identity.

“The artesian water has been a part of Moree’s identity since 1895. The love of artesian water and its thermal properties is a world-wide phenomenon, and we are so very lucky to have it here, beneath our feet, and now, back for people from all over the world, or just down the road, to enjoy,” she said.

The reopening follows a period where the full range of artesian facilities had been unavailable, which Cr Pearse said had been challenging for both the community and the local tourism industry.

“Being without our full complement of artesian facilities for some years has been frustrating for our community, and also for our tourism industry.

“We know the return of tourists, ahead of what is actually the busiest period for that market, is going to reinvigorate our local businesses as a time when that is much needed.

“It’s why we knew these artesian baths had to be a priority.”

While acknowledging further work remains, Cr Pearse said the reopening demonstrated council’s commitment to delivering for residents.

“Today demonstrates that we are a council that can, and will, get the job done.”

General manager Natalia Cowley also recognised the collaborative effort behind the redevelopment, thanking project manager David Mangelsdorf and contractors.

“This has really been a huge team effort utilising both specialist and local expertise,” Ms Cowley said.

“Thank you to our team and all of our contractors for their hard work in delivering for our community.”

The redevelopment of the hot artesian pools was funded through a mix of government programs and council investment, including $892,000 from the NSW government’s Stronger Country Communities Fund Round 5, $675,000 from the Commonwealth’s Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program Round 4, and $1,656,000 from Moree Plains Shire Council.