YMCA WA will no longer manage the Warnbro Community Recreation Centre  from next month.
Camera IconYMCA WA will no longer manage the Warnbro Community Recreation Centre from next month. Credit: Supplied/Supplied

City of Rockingham takes over management of Warnbro Y, ending 22-year run of YMCA

Vanessa SchmittWeekend Kwinana Courier

YMCA WA has managed the Warnbro Community Recreation Centre (the Warnbro Y) for 22 years, but this arrangement will finish on June 30.

YMCA WA service delivery executive manager Shane Mauger said the YMCA had delivered many popular recreation programs that had been enjoyed by thousands of residents and visitors

“The current management contract for the facility is due to expire on 30 June,” he said.

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“Earlier this year the City indicated they planned to manage the services internally and as a result in February this year YMCA WA formally advised the City they would not be seeking to renew the contract.

“This means the current range of group fitness classes will cease on Friday, June 29.”

Mr Mauger said most staff had been retained by the YMCA and engaged in Warnbro, St Bernadet and the Waikiki Out of School Care programs.

“Three staff, the centre manager plus two administration staff, were unable to be suitably placed within YMCA WA,” he said.

“However, YMCA WA negotiated with the City of Rockingham for these staff members to be considered for similar roles within the council.”

City of Rockingham Mayor Barry Sammels said the facility (on Okehampton Road) would not have any permanent staff and will operate as an unstaffed venue with rooms being available for hire.

“This model will allow some of the current popular programs to continue and also provide the opportunity for new hirers to commence bookings at the facility,” he said.

“All the existing regular hirer groups at the WCRC will continue including badminton, indoor soccer and martial arts groups.

“In addition the City is currently working on developing a group fitness program that can also be delivered at the facility, this includes retaining some of the existing classes.

Mr Sammels said council was under no obligation to find similar roles for YMCA WA staff, although if available opportunities arise any person with suitable qualifications and experience is invited to apply.

Mr Mauger said YMCA WA staff hoped to continue operating some activities, including netball, children gymnastics and Pilates, within the Centre through a venue hire arrangement with the City of Rockingham.

“Through this arrangement YMCA WA is able to continue its service and support to the local community but not on a full-time basis,” he said.

A petition, Save the Warnbro Y, had more than 750 signatures.

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