The design is product of a rich codesign process with Wadawurrung Traditional Owner Aboriginal Corporation (WTOAC), having developed a For Country design response that embeds First Nations Culture and design narratives. Through collective experience and inclusive collaboration, the theme of Healing Country harnessed to create a learning landscape across the project.
Between the hills and the waterways, surrounded by red gum trees, with birds in abundance, this land (Dooliebeal) has been a rich cultural landscape for Wadawurrung People for thousands of years. It is heartening that there will be recognition of our people through Wadawurrung storytelling that will be seen in the façade design and across the precinct
The building is designed to be accessible and intuitive with its grand entrance gesture. The entry sequence features a place making marker that acts as a way finding element, driving people towards the building. Meanwhile, the internal axis provides for connection between dry and wet sports that allows for an ease of navigation and cross-pollination between different facility users.
The facility seeks to engage its users and the wider community by blurring the internal and external boundaries and energising the precinct. Climbing walls, outdoor courts, walking and running trails, dynamic seating elements and an enveloping landscape make this public offering a full-activated cohesive whole.
This project is being delivered by Development Victoria in partnership with Sport and Recreation Victoria and the Greater City of Geelong to ensure the sports centre caters to the local community and delivers positive outcomes for the region.
