Council focuses on operational efficiencies at WIRAC
In 2012 Southern Downs Regional Council will begin implementation of a three year Action Plan to maximize efficiencies at Warwick Indoor Recreation and Aquatic Centre (WIRAC).
“While community recreation facilities will always be an overall expense, we believe we can better manage recreation facilities to minimise negative effects on Council,” said Tony Minuti, Director Community Services.
“The Action Plan is based on an independent review of WIRAC’s operations by recreation centre specialists, the YMCA of Brisbane,” Mr Minuti said. “Council thanks the YMCA for their assistance, which was provided at no cost to Council.”
The confidential WIRAC Services and Operational Review report was presented to Council on 5 December 2011 identifying some areas where some efficiency can be achieved over time and outlining recommendations for Council consideration.
“The review involved an on-site audit by three YMCA professionals with experience in the key areas of operations of indoor recreation centres, as well as desk top audit and benchmarking” Mr Minuti explained.
“WIRAC staff worked with the YMCA to complete the audit and review.”
In the report, the YMCA identified a number of areas for improvement, recommending that “priorities should be items with immediate and significant financial returns or savings.
“The centre provides important community and social infrastructure to Warwick and the surrounding areas, but can do so at lower expense,” the report said.
Mr Minuti said the Action Plan to implement the YMCA review’s recommendations was developed by his department including WIRAC’s centre manager and staff.
“Council has the potential to achieve significant cost savings over time by improving overall efficiency at WIRAC while continuing to provide appropriate service levels for the public,” Mr Minuti said.
“The YMCA of Brisbane has been professional in the conduct of this review and has undertaken the review at no cost to Council. Council greatly appreciates the work undertaken by YMCA as a community service. Council will review progress with implementation of the Action Plan after 12 months.”
Centre manager Don Warrener welcomed the Action Plan as the next stage in a series of improvements at WIRAC started three years ago.
“We installed an automated pool dosing system in 2008 to save on chemical usage, and last year we installed an automated solar heating system with the help of state subsidies which we estimate has already saved $22,500 in gas and electricity costs in just six months.
“We’ve also already implemented many of the recommendations in the YMCA review such as new policies around refunds on missed Learn to Swim classes, to bring them in line with industry standard practices.
“Some of the Actions recommended are more complex and involved and we will be working to implement them over the coming three years.”
ENDS
Media queries - Janine Crawford, 07 4661 0305 or janine.crawford@southerndowns.qld.gov.au
