I WOULD like to clarify a discrepancy I believe was published in the Bulletin (August 17).
Collie has never had a previous referendum on an indoor heated pool.
There have, however, been surveys conducted.
One such survey was conducted by an independent company in the mid-1990s with Collie Kids in Need, the Shire of Collie and the Ministry of Sport and Recreation to gauge the community’s thoughts on such a project.
The survey went out to every household and had a good 30-40 percent return. The result was 67 percent for the indoor heated pool and 33 percent against.
The funds were raised to cover the cost of this survey via the community and mining companies.
The project with a concept plan drawn up was to build a 25-metre, six-lane pool and a 20-metre recreational/rehab warmer pool at Roche Park Recreation Centre at a cost of around $3.3 million. This was a very contentious project, with the probable closure of the 50-metre Collie Mineworkers’ Memorial Pool.
The council conducted the next survey around 2000, with the results against the project at Roche Park, with the possibility of heating the 50-metre pool.
Now, another 23 years down the track, and still no indoor heated pool to provide community members this proven health benefit, and giving children the ability to learn to swim all year.
This indoor heated pool facility can be utilised by much of our community from the very young to our aged community.
What other facility can be utilised by a broader scope across the Collie community?
Please consider the benefits of this facility for the broader community and those less fortunate.
Ann Briggs
Hull Road, Collie

Editor's note: Collie Shire Council passed a motion in October 1999 to or