Surgeon Shirhan Ho and medical practitioner Anna Windsor have publicly backed a “Yes” vote in the September 13 poll, but Bowral GP and Labor council candidate Ann Parker has argued that the money would be better spent on walking and cycling tracks.

Dr Ho said, as a surgeon, he was aware of the problems faced by many patients who were obese, mobility impaired and suffering from conditions that prevented them from doing weight-bearing exercise.

“These people would most certainly benefit from a multi-purpose facility and, in particular, exercise programs in a bright, welcoming, warm and inviting indoor pool,” he said.

“For the general population, swimming for exercise and fitness has long- term benefits, both for the individual and general community in the form of a healthier population and reduced healthcare costs.

“These benefits apply from childhood through to the elderly and encompass swimming and aqua-exercise classes that can potentially prevent accidental drowning, provide opportunities for social interaction and be part of a healthier lifestyle.”

But Bowral general practitioner and Labor council candidate Ann Parker said that while a leisure centre would be beneficial to some members of the community, it was a luxury the shire could not afford at this stage.

Dr Parker said she did not believe a central leisure centre would be cost-effective or practical in a shire as splintered as Wingecarribee.

For the full story see the Southern Highland News, Friday, September 5

editorial.highlandnews@ruralpress.com