4 December 2024

Morisset Hospital land secured for new sports facility

I was joined today by the Minister for Sport, the Hon Steve Kamper, to announce the Office of Sport has secured land on the grounds of Morisset Hospital to build its new sports facility.
The 7 hectare site is at the northern end of the Morisset Hospital complex and takes in the existing bowling club and sports oval. Ideally situated on the shores of Lake Macquarie, water sports enthusiasts will also enjoy easy access to the lake.

The process of finding a suitable replacement site for the Myuna Bay Sport and Recreation Centre, which closed without warning in 2019, was complex. After 5 long years, I'm thrilled the best location for the new facility has finally been secured. I can confidently say it is second to none.

The transfer of land from NSW Health to the Office for Sport ensures the strong heritage and cultural value of the site is preserved and remains accessible to the public. I'm delighted the site will continue to serve our community and future generations for years to come.

The Myuna Bay Sport and Recreation Centre closed suddenly in 2019 after an independent review found that, if the ash dam wall at the nearby Eraring power station failed in the event of major seismic activity, there was serious potential risk to people at the centre. For 5 years, the loss of this much loved community asset and local employer has been deeply felt by the Lake Macquarie community.

The new indoor and outdoor facility will be purpose built to support growing demand for sporting and recreation facilities in Lake Macquarie.

The Office of Sport will now work with NSW Health, Lake Macquarie City Council, NSW Government agencies and local community to plan and design the new sports centre. Construction will commence after existing health services at Morisset Hospital are relocated to Maitland Mental Health Rehabilitation Facility.