Published on Friday, 21 November 2025 at 1:10:19 PM
MEDIA RELEASE
Narrogin Regional Leisure Centre Secures $535k Federal Boost for Major Clean-Energy Upgrade
The Shire of Narrogin welcomes the Federal Government’s announcement of $535,358 in federal funding to electrify the Narrogin Regional Leisure Centre’s aquatic facilities, replacing the ageing gas boiler with a high-efficiency heat pump supported by a 200kW solar installation.
Shire President Leigh Ballard said the upgrade represents one of the most significant energy-saving initiatives the Shire has undertaken.
“Council identified very early that the existing gas boiler was one of our highest operating costs and one of the greatest opportunities for improvement. This project has been driven by a shared commitment from Council and the Administration to reduce energy costs, cut emissions and secure the long-term sustainability of our facilities. We are extremely grateful for the Commonwealth’s support, which allows us to fast-track this transformation for our community,” he said.
Mr Ballard said the concept originated within the Shire’s Recreation Services Team as part of its broader asset renewal and clean-energy strategies.
“Our team recognised that the boiler was nearing the end of its service life, and replacing it with modern electrified technology was a smart, future-focused solution. It’s practical climate action that makes financial sense for a regional community like ours.”
Chief Executive Officer Dale Stewart said the upgrade will deliver very substantial savings for ratepayers.
“Once the new system is operating, LPG and Electricity expenditure at the aquatic centre will drop by more than $379,000 every year. That is money we can redirect into other services and projects for the Narrogin community. On top of that, emissions will reduce by 523 tonnes annually, which is a major contribution to state and national decarbonisation goals. This is a win for our finances, a win for our environment, and a win for the future resilience of our community assets,” Mr Stewart said.
Mr Stewart emphasised that the Shire will deliver the project over the next 12 months, with careful planning to maintain service continuity.
“We will stage the works thoughtfully to minimise disruption to pool users. Our goal is to ensure the community can continue enjoying the facility while we modernise its core operating infrastructure.”
Manager Recreation Services, Brendan Firman, said the project will also improve reliability and day-to-day operations of the aquatic centre.
“The current gas boiler is costly, maintenance-heavy and at the end of its technical life. Moving to an advanced heat-pump system supported by solar generation gives us better performance, more stable water heating, and far less operational risk. For pool users—families, schools, clubs and visitors—the experience will remain seamless, but behind the scenes we will have a far more efficient and dependable system,” Mr Firman said.
Mr Stewart added that the project will also demonstrate leadership within the region.
“There is a big opportunity here for Narrogin to help show other Wheatbelt councils what electrification can achieve. The data and performance results from our upgrade will be incredibly valuable for neighbouring communities looking to reduce energy costs and embrace clean technology.”
In closing, Shire President Ballard said the funding will deliver benefits for decades to come.
“This is about building a resilient, modern and efficient facility for the people of Narrogin. We’re proud to be taking a leadership role in regional energy innovation, and we look forward to sharing updates as the works progress.”
To view the Federal Government’s Media Release, please click here: Joint media release: More WA communities to benefit from $100 million energy upgrades | Ministers
– Ends –
Further information on this media release may be obtained by contacting Dale Stewart, Chief Executive Officer, via enquiries@narrogin.wa.gov.au or telephone 08 9890 0900.
Approved by:
Dale Stewart
Chief Executive Officer
Shire of Narrogin
PO Box 1145
Narrogin WA 6312
Email: enquiries@narrogin.wa.gov.au
Back to All News