But some members of the community already have their hearts set on a moniker for the aquatic facility.

The City of Greater Bendigo announced the naming competition today at the Browning Street construction site, where the 50-metre-long pool is ready for concreting.

Mayor Margaret O’Rourke said it was an opportunity for the community to become involved in the city’s largest ever project, valued at $30 million.

The state government contributed $15 million to the project, while the City of Greater Bendigo chipped in $10.1 million and the federal government gave $4.9 million.

A goal to fundraise $1 million to offset the pool’s operating costs was well on its way, with donations totalling $620,000. 

The figure includes a $25,000 pledge from the Mulqueen family, also announced today. 

But the Kangaroo Flat Community Enterprise, which has led calls for the facility, has referred to the pool development as the Faith Leech Aquatic Centre since 2015. The late Ms Leech was the only Olympic gold medallist to be born and raised in Bendigo.

Chair Jack Lyons said his group was already in contact with the swimmer’s family and also spoke with Olympic champion Dawn Fraser about the possibility of her being involved in the centre’s opening.

He hoped the name would emerge the victor from the selection process. 

Councillors, city staff and members of the community will make up the judging committee ahead of the pool’s opening next May.

Suggestions can be submitted online at bendigo.vic.gov.au/nameourpool. 

The construction has previously courted controversy when councillors rejected a city recommendation the pool measure just 25 metres and again when a survey found most residents did not support demolishing the Kangaroo Flat Leisure Centre, which once stood on the site.