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HAVING ramped up its support for the construction of the planned Kangaroo Flat aquatic centre this week, the Kangaroo Flat Community Enterprise has now suggested the pool honour a Bendigo swimming legend.
The group is calling on the $30 million pool to be known as the Faith Leech Aquatic Centre, honouring the Olympic gold medalist and one of the city's most recognisable and favourite sports stars.
At this stage, the proposed pool is officially known as the Greater Bendigo Indoor Aquatic Leisure and Wellbeing Centre.
Kangaroo Flat Community Enterprise spokesperson Sarah Mulqueen said the group wants both a concise and significant name for the proposed structure.
"While describing perfectly what it is, and the benefits it will bring, the current name is too long," she said.
"Bendigo has a perfect opportunity to create a landmark building and top quality pool, and it is only natural to name it after someone who has made a significant contribution to Bendigo, Australia and swimming in general."
At 15 years of age, Faith Leech won gold at the 1956 Melbourne Olympics in the 4 x 100 metre relay team alongside Dawn Fraser.
She also won bronze in the 100 metre freestyle at the Melbourne games.
Mrs Mulqueen said naming the pool in honour of Leech would be a worthy way to recognise her legacy.
"When she died in 2013, Bendigo lost a hero. This is a great chance to remember her contribution to the sport and to the city," she said.
“I was pleased when her family let us know they supported our suggestion.”
The State Government announced a $15 million contribution to the Kangaroo Flat aquatic centre in May last year.
The City of Greater Bendigo is yet to announce a financial contribution to the project and is expected to wait on a business case ensuring the financial viability of the $30 million pool.