The dedicated Friends of the Mirboo North Swimming Pool group have been overwhelmed by the response to their call to “buy a tile” for the redevelopment of the pool. The pool, which has been operating as a local swimming spot for over 100 years, is due to open for the summer season 2020/21 and will boast a 9 lane 25-metre pool, a children’s pool and splash park in the beautiful bush setting.
“We had hoped we would raise around $10,000, so it was amazing to add it up and realise that $32,000 had been raised,” said Fred Couper, Treasurer of the Friends of the Mirboo North Swimming Pool. “And every dollar of that will be matched by the Mirboo North & District Community Foundation, through their challenge fund.”
“We were surprised not only by the level of generous donations, but also to receive donations from people interstate and internationally. It goes to show that many people hold the memories of this pool close to them, and regard it as a special place, even if they don’t live here at the moment.”
“We will now consult with the architect to decide the placement of these tiles. We want something that’s visually exciting and will attract attention, while not becoming dated,” continued Fred.
At present the Friends of the Mirboo North Swimming Pool group has raised more than $950,000 of its $1 million community contribution to the project. As part of this the Mirboo North & District Community Foundation agreed to match all funds raised by the Friends dollar for dollar up to $100,000 (in addition to a direct grant of $450,000).
“The Community Foundation is delighted that as of this week, we have matched more than $87,000 of community donations, from the buy a tile campaign as well as donations and other fundraisers,” said Ruth Rogan, Executive Officer from the Community Foundation. This leaves $13,000 more to match, and we will have doubled the $100,000 raised to $200,000.”
While the personal “Buy a Tile” campaign has now closed, business sponsorships are now open, with three packages starting at $1,000 (and payment plans available).
“We are offering businesses colourful tiles that will pop-out in colour on the featured honour wall, rustic benches and picnic tables with business names engraved, special acknowledgements at our grand opening and rolling advertisements on our monitors for at least 2 summers,” said Jodie Pincini, Secretary of the Friends of the MN Swimming Pool. To find out more detail, please email jodie.pincini@westnet.com.au .
“The Community Foundation is also able to provide tax deductible receipts for any further donations coming up to the end of financial year on June 30,” added Ruth Rogan, Executive Officer from the Community Foundation.
All agree that the enthusiasm of the fundraiser indicates that many people are looking forward to using the new pool facilities.
“It is the primary summer gathering space in our district, encouraging social and physical activity and hosting community events. Not only does it increase community vitality, it also brings economic and tourism benefits to our district as visitors also value it highly,” said Jodie.
You can donate to the swimming pool fund by emailing info@mirboodistrictfoundation.org.au or donating online.
