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MYUNA BAY RECREATION CENTRE NOW PERMANENTLY CLOSED

A new sport and recreation centre will be built by Origin Energy in Lake Macquarie after an independent review found the existing Myuna Bay centre was not safe to re-open.

A second independent expert report found the risk to life was ‘intolerable’ and considered ‘unacceptable’ if the coal ash dam wall collapsed in the event of seismic activity.

Following the evacuation of the centre in March during an international water skiing competition, the Lake Macquarie community was shocked and started a petition to see it re-opened.

Memeber for Lake Macquarie Greg Piper says the community was rightfully very angry about the centre’s sudden closure, but happily welcomes a brand new state of the art complex, funded by Origin Energy.

Origin Executive General Manager Greg Jarvis says the company will also remediate the ash dam wall, as well as revegetate the current Myuna Bay site.

“With today’s announcement we’re focused on finalising compensation arrangements, supporting the relocation of the centre and progressing dam wall stabilisation works.

“Detailed technical designs for the ash dam stabilisation works are well advanced and we will shortly select a preferred contractor to commence construction works that are targeted for completion by early 2022,” Mr Jarvis said.

Compensation will also be paid to the waterski club and Morisset Rotary Club, which were impacted by the unexpected closure of the centre.

Acting Minister for Sport Geoff Lee says there are opportunities for the Myuna Bay staff to be re-posted, but he can’t guarantee everyone will still have a job.

The staff will remain on full pay while they are consulted on their options going forward.

“We understand the Sport and Rec Centre is an integral part of the Lake Macquarie community and fast-tracking a replacement is our priority,” said Mr Lee.

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