Board members from Tamworth City, Scully Park and Kootingal-Moonbi Swim Clubs, as well as representatives from Tamworth Water Polo, attended the first official meeting of the Tamworth Aquatic Group (TAG).

Tamworth City president and TAG chairman Grant Simm said it was a huge leap towards making the proposed centre a reality.

“The group discussed matters pertaining to the existing facilities and previous attempts to make an aquatic facility a reality,” Mr Simm said.

“Also on the table was the proposed infrastructure requirements, recommended timelines and location of the new development, the attraction and hosting of major sporting events and their value to the Tamworth regional economy.”

“We have a combined consensus among the group of what is needed and when it is needed by.”

“We will detail that in our renewed submission to council and we will continue to work as a group to make a new Aquatic Centre for the Tamworth region a reality."

The group insists that now is the perfect time for Council to put the centre on its agenda, following the Centre for Sporting Excellence getting the green light.

“The meeting was imperative to demonstrate to Council how important the issue is now, and that the push is not only from Tamworth City but all the major user groups,” Mr Simm said. “Council really needs to take this matter seriously. No more mucking around - we are not interested in wasting anymore time.”

Previously, Tamworth City board members have met individually with six councillors and the Mayor, to push the cause and gauge interest in the facility being built.

A TRC spokesperson said there is no question that the Aquatic Centre is a priority for this term of Council.

“Participation by local sporting groups is welcomed and is an imperative part of the consultation process,” the spokesperson said.