Published on Friday, 27 February 2026 at 11:00:00 AM
The Shire is pleased to share that major upgrades to the changerooms at the Donnybrook Recreation Centre (DRC) have commenced in February 2026. This marks another milestone in Council’s ongoing commitment to renewing the community facilities residents rely on every day, following the recent renewal of the Donnybrook Scout Hall.
The refurbishment of the DRC’s changerooms is part of the Shire’s multi‑year asset renewal program which focuses on upgrading existing buildings and infrastructure to extend their life, reduce reactive maintenance and ensure they remain safe, functional and accessible for community use.
Simon Peppler, the Shire’s Manager Community Services, said the project has been warmly welcomed by users of the centre.
“It’s fantastic to see the changeroom upgrades now underway at the Donnybrook Recreation Centre. These facilities have served our community since 1994, so this refurbishment is an important investment in bringing them up to a modern standard.
The upgrades will significantly improve privacy, accessibility and overall amenity for our members, local sporting clubs and pool users. We are very grateful for the support received through the Community Sporting and Recreational Facilities Fund, together with Council’s commitment to improving community infrastructure.”
Shire President Vivienne MacCarthy said the project demonstrates how a planned approach to asset renewal turns long‑term financial planning into visible improvements for the community, and is also an example of reducing the reliance on rates through grant funding.
“The Donnybrook Recreation Centre plays a central role in the health and wellbeing of our community, and these changeroom upgrades will make a meaningful difference for the thousands of people who use the facility every year.
This project is a clear example of Council’s commitment to renewing the places that matter most to our residents – and it also demonstrates how disciplined asset management delivers long‑term value. By renewing facilities like these before they reach failure point, we avoid higher repair costs, extend asset life and keep essential services operating for the whole community.”
Image: Simon Peppler on-site at DRC as changeroom demolition begins (first stage of upgrade project)
Why this renewal matters
The DRC changerooms have supported thousands of local swimmers, gym members, school groups and sporting clubs for more than 30 years. Over time, many parts of the facilities had reached the end of their useful life. Without this renewal, the Shire would have faced increasing maintenance costs, declining reliability, and growing accessibility issues.
This upgrade aligns with the Shire’s long‑term Buildings Asset Management Plan and is jointly funded through the 2025-2026 Budget, the Community Sporting and Recreational Facilities Fund, and the Shire’s dedicated asset renewal reserves.
By renewing assets before they fail, the Shire can keep community spaces safe, modern and dependable while supporting long‑term financial sustainability. You can see how rates, grants, fees and reserves are being used in the 2025-2026 Budget, and learn more about the Asset Optimisation Project, by looking at the information on our website.
2025-2026 Annual Budget Information (Latest News)
2025-2026 Budget & Rates Information (Brochure)
More about the Asset Optimisation Project (AOP)
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