Construction has started on the new Dandenong Wellbeing Centre at Mills Reserve, Dandenong.
The centre will replace the ageing Dandenong Oasis and provide a place for community connection, health, water safety and fitness.
Greater Dandenong Mayor, Cr Jim Memeti recently joined with Cleeland Ward Councillor Rhonda Garad and Federal Member for Bruce, Julian Hill, to turn the first sod at the site.
Cr Memeti said the project was not just about concrete and construction, but about people.
“This is the single largest investment Council has ever made in our city and I’m incredibly proud it’s an investment in health, wellbeing, inclusion and water safety,” Cr Memeti said.
“This centre will provide a place where everyone – no matter their age, culture or ability – can connect, move and thrive.”
The creation of a time capsule to install at the new centre will preserve the history of the nearly 50-year-old aquatic centre and how much it has meant to the people.
“So many members of our community have incredible memories of Dandenong Oasis and we will continue to collect these to reflect on the past and celebrate visions for the future,” Cr Memeti said.
The Federal Government has contributed $20 million to the Dandenong Wellbeing Centre. Federal Bruce MP Julian Hill said the project “is all about bringing world-class infrastructure into the heart of Melbourne’s southeast for generations to come, helping families keep active without having to leave their neighbourhood”.
The new centre will open in 2027.
Visit the Dandenong Wellbeing Centre webpage to keep up-to-date on the project.
