Woodhead, in association with Multiplex, won the competition for the design and construction of an indoor aquatic centre attached to the existing council aquatic facility in Geraldton. The new facilities include a 33m x 25m multi-purpose pool, leisure pool with beach entry, program pool, hydrotherapy pool, waterslide, administration centre, a cafeteria and retail facilities.

The key to the winning of this competition was our innovative and cost-effective layout of the various pools, which has enabled the operator to minimise the number of staff necessary for supervision of the various pool areas. The indoor aquatic centre's orientation relates well to the existing pool, enabling future growth whilst minimising solar heat gain and introducing natural light through continuous skylight.

Our pool hall design enabled a central two storey plant room for pool filtration and mechanical air-conditioning equipment to efficiently serve all pools. Some of the balance tank structures to serve as retaining structures on the sloping site.

The selection of building materials is critical in pool hall design. The Geraldton Aquarena features materials that are cost effective, robust and low-maintenance. The facility is a composite structure of steel, concrete block work and tilt-up concrete walls. Twin wall polycarbonate sheeting was used in some areas instead of glass for its superior thermal performance and its cost-effectiveness.