Council working through Recreation Centre lease with health provider

Published on 01 May 2026

Council and Colac Area Health (CAH) are in discussions regarding a lease agreement for the Colac Youth and Recreation Centre.

Mayor Jason Schram said a recent Expression of Interest (EOI) process identified CAH as the preferred manager of the venue, which would provide a base for CAH Neighbourhood House programs and community user groups.

“Identifying a preferred proponent is an important step, but it is not the end of the process,” Mayor Schram said.

“Council and Colac Area Health are working to explore options that support shared and complementary use of the Colac Youth and Recreation Centre.” he said.

The centre, commonly known as the Colac Youth Club building in Hearn Street, has supported a range of community uses over many years. The current licence arrangement with the Colac Youth and Recreation Club Inc expired in late 2025 and Council invited submissions from the community to manage the centre for broad community benefit.

The EOI sought proposals around how the facility could be best managed to deliver community‑focused programs, encourage shared use, and ensure the facility’s long‑term sustainability.

CAH Chief Executive Officer Fiona Brew said the organisation welcomed the opportunity to continue working with Council and the community.

“Colac Area Health is pleased to be progressing lease discussions with Council and is committed to working together to explore how the Colac Youth and Recreation Centre can be activated in a way that supports both wellbeing and community connection,” Ms Brew said.

“We recognise the centre’s strong history of community use and the importance of continuing open and constructive engagement with our community.”

Subject to further discussions, Council and CAH will engage with potential user groups over the coming weeks to explore where there may be opportunities for participation in a shared‑use approach.