Hedland aquatic facility 

The Town of Port Hedland has prioritised a new aquatic facility for Hedland, with the current South Hedland Aquatic Centre (SHAC) and Gratwick Aquatic Centre (GAC) in Port Hedland nearing end-of-life.

An aquatics masterplan was endorsed by the Council in 2021, which confirmed the need for a new facility and the intention to co-locate the facility at the Wanangkura Stadium site in South Hedland.

Since 2007 the Town of Port Hedland has spent more than $7 million on critical repairs and maintenance for the two facilities, so they can remain open to the public.

In 2023 the Town was forced to close the South Hedland Aquatic Centre for the majority of the year to address critical failures.

Both aquatic centres are at the end-of-life and cost $1 million per year, per centre to ensure they can stay open for the Hedland community. 

At the Town's Ordinary Council Meeting in July 2025, a preferred site was adopted adjacent to Wanangkura Stadium to allow the creation of a people-centric plaza that will link the two main buildings.

The plaza will be used for community events and activities.

The Town has received $22.5 million from the WA Government and $20 million from BHP through the Resources Community Investment Initiative for construction of the aquatic centre, with further funding avenues being pursued.

Concept designs

At the May 2026 Ordinary Council Meeting, concept designs and cost plan for the $93 million South Hedland Aquatics Facility were endorsed.

The facility will include a 50m pool, a dedicated learn-to-swim pool and a family-friendly play pool.

Supporting amenities include a creche, cafe, and shaded areas with partially covered roofing to provide sun protection, including over the learn-to-swim pool for year-round use.

The play pool zone is designed to support a range of users including families, children and recreational swimmers. It features shaded seating, interactive water elements and an accessible layout.

The café is positioned to cater for pool users and the wider community, enhancing the facility as a social destination. 

The Town’s draft Long Term Financial Plan allocates $94 million for the project. 

 

 

4 June 2026

The Town of Port Hedland welcomes today’s announcement that BHP will contribute $20 million through the Resources Community Investment Initiative for a new Hedland aquatics facility. 

Mayor Jacinta Behrend said the Town’s advocacy for funding contributions from the RCII started in 2023 after the WA Government set up the initiative in late 2022. 

“A new aquatic facility is a Town priority so it is pleasing to see BHP is investing $20 million through the RCII,” Mayor Behrend said. 

“The RCII is designed to fund transformational projects across the State, and this project fits the bill perfectly. 

“The new aquatic facility will provide year-round health and wellbeing outcomes as well as increased community safety and economic benefits. 

“Providing stronger social connection and community cohesion are core priorities for both the Town and BHP. 

"The Town has collaborated with BHP for many years on many projects and programs, and this commitment shows their willingness to invest in Hedland’s future.”  

Speaking of BHP's overall investment of $160m into Hedland through the RCII, BHP Western Australian Iron Ore Asset President, Tim Day said: “These projects will transform how Port Hedland locals experience education, recreation and everyday life in the town – ensuring modern facilities that support a thriving regional centre. 

“They will reward our teachers and students, deliver long-term community benefits, and help to support the workers who keep Port Hedland running.”

Concept designs and a cost plan for the $94 million South Hedland Aquatic Centre were endorsed at last week’s Ordinary Council Meeting. 

The facility will include a 50m pool, a dedicated learn-to-swim pool and a family-friendly play pool to be built on a site adjacent to Wanangkura Stadium in the South Hedland Integrated Sports Hub. 

Also included in the facility will be a creche, café, and shaded areas with partially covered roofing to provide sun protection, including over the learn-to-swim pool for year-round use.  

The play pool zone is designed to support a range of users including families, children and recreational swimmers.  

The Town has now secured $42.5m for the aquatics facility following the Western Australian Government’s $22.5 million contribution. 

"The Town acknowledges and thanks Member for Pilbara Kevin Michel for his work in advocating for the Cook Labor Government to invest in our new aquatics facility," Mayor Behrend said.

“We are continuing to pursue other funding opportunities and we’re hopeful other industry partners will also see the value the aquatics facility will provide for Hedland."