Myuna Bay to stay in public hands

The fight to save Myuna Bay and Point Wolstoncroft sport and recreation centres from privatisation has been won with the State Government announcing that the operations of both will stay in public hands.

Independent Member for Lake Macquarie Greg Piper said the announcement was a victory for common sense and the many thousands who joined the campaign.

The State Government had been investigating the potential sale of operations at all 11 sport and recreation centres throughout NSW. It announced late on Friday that no service would be privatised.

“There was a very real fear that a private operator would not retain all of the unique programs and services which have made Myuna Bay so popular, particularly for many disabled groups and people with special needs,” Mr Piper said.

“As I have said many times during the campaign, Myuna Bay’s success over six decades is due largely to its capacity to adapt and to the dedication of its qualified staff to training and educating young people.

“There would be few local people who haven’t spent time at Myuna Bay or Point Wolstoncroft over the past 60 years as part of a school camp, a corporate training program or sports training event. It really has a great association with the local area and that’s why people rallied strongly to save it.

“I should add that Myuna Bay has never been a financial burden on taxpayers. In fact it actually makes money which is used to subsidise other sport and recreation centres.

“Now, after a 12-month fight, Myuna Bay’s future is assured. I congratulate everyone involved in the campaign, particularly the PSU and its members who do a fantastic job of educating our young people.

“I also acknowledge Premier Mike Baird and Sports Minister Stuart Ayres for listening to the community and really understanding what the Myuna Bay and Point Wolstoncroft centres mean to our local area.”