East Gippsland Shire Council has engaged University of Melbourne to investigate options for geothermal heating/cooling systems to displace natural gas consumption at the Bairnsdale Aquatic and Recreation Centre and other high energy consuming public services in West Bairnsdale.

Objective and scope

The primary objective of this project is to identify and compare options for producing geothermal energy from local aquifers. This energy could be used at Bairnsdale Aquatic and Recreation Centre (BARC) and at other nearby sites. Integrated options for cooling will also be considered.

Outcomes will include recommendations and conclusions regarding the techno-economic viability of geothermal district heating (± cooling) relative to other energy technologies.

Consultation and community engagement

On 15 November 2023 close to 40 people attended the Forge Theatre for the Geothermal Energy Information Session hosted by experts from the University of Melbourne.

There was a presentation on the success story of geothermal energy powering the Gippsland Regional Aquatic Centre in Traralgon. Attendees learned how geothermal is a sustainable solution and can not only reduce operating costs but also pave the way for high-energy gas replacement and emissions reduction.

We look forward to the findings as experts investigate the potential of geothermal energy to supply the Bairnsdale Aquatic and Recreation Centre (BARC), Bairnsdale Regional Health Service, West Bairnsdale Oval and schools in the precinct.

Thanks to the panel, comprising Adrian Bromage (Metung Hot Springs), Dr Graeme Beardsmore (Melbourne University), Paul Keen (G-TET) and Nathan Misiurka (Manager Sustainability and Waste Minimisation at Council).

The feasibility study will take 6 months, and will reveal insights into the potential of geothermal energy for the BARC, which is currently Council's highest gas using facility.

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