Morisset Showground Plan of Management and Master Plan Issues and Opportunities Paper

Lake Macquarie City Council

Morisset Showground - Plan of Management & Master Plan Issues and Opportunities Paper February 2021

Acknowledgment of Country Locale Consulting acknowledges the traditional custodians of the land over which this document was prepared, the Awabakal People, and we pay our respect to all Aboriginal people of this land and to Elders past, present and future.

ABN: 73 140 973 735 T A P E W

0419 700 401 1/27 River Street Woolgoolga NSW 2456 PO Box 53 Woolgoolga NSW 2456 info@localeconsulting.com.au www.localeconsulting.com.au

in conjunction with

Document Control

Job Number: 2020-60618/438 Job Name: Morisset Showground - Plan of Management and Master Plan Client: Lake Macquarie City Council Job Contact: Rachel Robson - Community Land Planner (Projects) Document Name: Issues and Opportunities Paper Version

Date

Author

Reviewer

Approved

1

22.12.2020

Steve Thompson, Keelan Birch, Stuart Drury

Stuart Drury

Steve Thompson

2

05.02.2021

Steve Thompson, Keelan Birch, Stuart Drury

Stuart Drury

Steve Thompson

Disclaimer: Whilst care and diligence has been exercised in the preparation of this report, Locale Consulting Pty Ltd does not warrant the accuracy of the information contained within and accepts no liability for any loss or damage that may be suffered as a result of reliance on this information, whether or not there has been any error, omission or negligence on the part of Locale Consulting Pty Ltd, their employees or sub-contractors.

Contents 1.

Introduction

1

6.

Strategic Directions by Theme

17

1.1

Purpose

1

6.1

Showground use

18

1.2

Desired project outcomes

1

6.2

Events

22

1.3

Issues and Opportunities Paper format

2

6.3

Community and sporting facilities

28

1.4

Site overview

3

6.4

Equestrian and related activities

32

2.

Strategic and Legislative Context

5

6.5

Camping and tourism

35

2.1

Community Strategic Plan

5

6.6

Passive recreation and public use

38

2.2

Tourism, events and economic development

5

6.7

Indigenous and European heritage

41

2.3

Youth Strategy

6

6.8

Environment and sustainability

44

2.4

Transport and access

6

7.

Other Project Considerations

47

2.5

Community, recreation and sports

6

7.1

Ongoing management

47

2.6

Land use planning

7

7.2

Maintenance

47

3.

Initial Consultation

8

7.3

Need for flexibility

48

3.1

Key insights from initial consultation

9

7.4

Potential priorities

48

7.5

Project costs and funding

48

4.

Current Site Conditions

10

4.1

Site analysis

10

8.

Where Next?

50

4.2

Morisset Showground area – Overview

12

4.3

Land including Multi-Purpose Centre – Overview

14

5.

Emerging Vision and Principles

16

Lake Macquarie City Council Morisset Showground Master Plan and Plan of Management – Issues & Opportunities Paper

1.

Introduction

1.1

Purpose

1.2

Desired project outcomes

The purpose of this Issues and Opportunities Paper (Paper) is to review and

The desired outcomes of the project are to establish strong strategic

analyse the existing situation and potential future options for Morisset Showground. The project is being undertaken by Lake Macquarie City

directions to guide the future provision, management and continual improvement of Morisset Showground and the adjoining Council land.

Council (Council), with an aim of enhancing Morisset Showground and

To ensure that the project is able to deliver on these outcomes in a positive

adjoining Council land as a place that provides a valuable contribution to the

and engaged way, the project is being undertaken utilising a collaborative

current and future generations of the community and visitors to the area.

approach via a series of stages. Presentation of this Paper presents the third stage of a six-stage process as highlighted in the project outline below.

The need for the project has been identified by Council and the community as they seek to support environment, recreation, sporting, social and community activities and events in the area through a place-based approach.

The Issues and Opportunities Paper will inform the overall Morisset Showground Plan of Management and Master Plan which are forward planning documents that provide for the next phase of the site and its role within the Lake Macquarie community.

Lake Macquarie City Council Morisset Showground Master Plan and Plan of Management – Issues & Opportunities Paper

PAGE 1

1.3

Issues and Opportunities Paper format

This Paper incorporates the findings of initial project stages as outlined on the previous page. The Paper is set out in nine (9) sections as follows: o

Section 1 - establishes the background to the report and the existing situation with respect to the site and its use

o

Section 2 - reviews the strategic and legislative context of the project, including strategic guidance from Council's strategies and other plans

o

The options and directions articulated through the Paper are designed to be tested through Council, stakeholder and community engagement to inform the further stages of the project.

It is noted that the concepts identified herein have been developed to highlight key directions and ideas at any early stage. These are not final, and are still to be tested through consultation, design refinement and in response to further site investigations as required.

Section 3 - provides a brief summary of consultation activities based on the initial period of Council, stakeholder and community engagement

o

Section 4 - provides information relating to the existing site and reviews the current conditions of the facilities

o

Section 5 - proposes initial versions of the vision and principles for future use and development of the site

o

Section 6 - focuses on the potential issues and opportunities associated with broad themes that have been established for the study area being:

o

-

Showground use

-

Events

-

Community and sporting facilities

-

Equestrian and related activities

-

Camping and tourism

-

Passive recreation and public use

-

Indigenous and European heritage

-

Environment and sustainability

Section 7 - identifies some other project considerations, including management, maintenance and potential funding sources

o

Section 8 - provides a brief summary of the next stage of the project

Lake Macquarie City Council Morisset Showground Master Plan and Plan of Management – Issues & Opportunities Paper

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1.4

Site overview

The overall site comprises just over 20 hectares and consists of an area of Council owned community land and an area of Council managed Crown land (being Reserve 65735). The site is centrally located, around 700m from the town centre of Morisset. The site is also well located for external visitor access, being less than 1km from Morisset train station and less than 2km from the Pacific Motorway.

The project site in context of the broader Morisset area is shown adjoining in Figure 1.

The site borders Freemans Drive to the west, Awaba Street to the north, Dora Street to the south and Morisset Uniting Church and vegetated land around Clacks Creek to the east.

The area of Council managed Crown owned land is located at 38 & 40 Ourimbah Street and is around 13 hectares in size. It consists of a predominately cleared, gently sloping site comprising the showground and its’ associated facilities (noting that the site contains a number of large flat areas resulting from previous cut and fill of the site).

The area of Council owned community land is located at 143 Dora Street and 5 Freemans Drive and is around 7.5 hectares in size. It contains the Morisset Multi-Purpose Centre as well as the Yunung Community Garden. The area also consists of a large area of native bushland between these facilities and the Showground reserve. The southern end of the community land borders Dora Street and the former Morisset Country Club site.

Figure 1: Site context

Figure 2 illustrates these two areas, with additional site details provided in Section 4.

Lake Macquarie City Council Morisset Showground Master Plan and Plan of Management – Issues & Opportunities Paper

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Figure 2: Site overview

Lake Macquarie City Council Morisset Showground Master Plan and Plan of Management – Issues & Opportunities Paper

PAGE 4

2.

Strategic and Legislative Context

The following provides an overview of the site context with respect to previous planning undertaken by Council and other government plans and

2.2

Tourism, events and economic development

strategies. Many of these documents provide an important insight and direction for the current planning processes.

2.1

Community Strategic Plan The development of the Plan of Management and Master Plan for Morisset Showground is supported by and links at a high level to Council’s overarching directions outlined in the 2017 Community Strategic Plan (CSP) - "Our Future in Focus”.

The CSP Vision identifies that “Lake Macquarie is a City

Council’s Event and Festival Strategy and Action Plan 2019-2024 lists Morisset

with a lake at its heart encircled by distinctive towns and

Showground as a strength and opportunity of the Lake Macquarie Region

villages. We balance our cherished environments with our

with potential to be a key location for events and festivals. The strategy

need for great spaces to live and visit, smart transport options and a thriving

identifies Morisset Showground as having the infrastructure, parking, utilities

economy; which adapt and strive to be fair for all”.

and suitable zoning to support a major weekend festival of up to 15,000

The CSP identifies a series of core values to direct the vision for Lake

people.

Macquarie. Whilst branching across all, the project has a particularly strong

The long-term strategic document for the area, Lake Mac 2050, also highlights

alignment with the strategies of the Lifestyle and Wellbeing focus area. These

the need for improvements to local parks and community facilities to

relate to a range of community wellness, festivals and events as well as future

reinforce their role and function as community focus points across Lake

development of spaces and facilities to meet and support community needs.

Macquarie. The central location and accessibility of Morisset Showground

Other related strategies include Mobility and Accessibility which identifies the

provides an opportunity to reinforce and strengthen this role in the future.

value of active transportation that meets community needs - primarily

The Destination NSW Management Plan Sydney Surrounds North identifies the

walking and cycling infrastructure, and Connected Communities, that value

key tourism market of “families and caravan & camping” for Lake Macquarie.

diverse cultures, as well as empowering the community to adopt sustainable

The provision of camping at Morisset Showground provides some alignment

behaviours and enhance community spaces with urban and public art, place

to this, including for a range of events and activities that are, or have the

making and place activation.

potential to regularly occur at the site.

Lake Macquarie City Council Morisset Showground Master Plan and Plan of Management – Issues & Opportunities Paper

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2.3

Youth Strategy

The Lake Macquarie City Youth Strategy aims to highlight the needs of young people who reside in Lake Macquarie and contains strategies and actions to meet the needs and challenges facing young people aged 12 years to 24 years old. The strategy supports the 10 year CSP, ‘Our Future in Focus’, as well as Council’s four-year delivery program and related Council community and operational strategies.

The key findings of the Strategy can be directly related to the Morisset Showground project.

These findings include having events and activities that are affordable and accessible to youth, opportunities for young people to participate in arts and music and addressing the health of young people.

With the Morisset Multi-Purpose Centre and a range of onsite opportunities becoming available through spaces and events, ensuring that youth

Footpaths along Dora Street allow relatively easy access to the site for pedestrians, though poor access conditions on Ourimbah Street would need to be considered. Vehicle access is available from Dora Street to the MultiPurpose Centre area, and from Ourimbah Street and Awaba Street to the Showground. Internal connectivity through the site is relatively informal, with a number of access roads through the area, but no formal pedestrian facilities.

As the site was not under Council management during the preparation of the Development Contributions Plan 2012 – Morisset Contributions Catchment, there are no projects identified on the site. This Contributions Plan does however identify a roundabout at the intersection of Awaba Street and Freemans Drive which is due for implementation in 2025. It is likely that the access arrangements will be further considered as part of Council’s preparation of the Transport Management Plan.

2.5

Community, recreation and sports

participation on the site will be a key aim of the project.

2.4

Transport and access

The ability to move to and around the area is critical to it being attractive to both locals and visitors and to encourage the active and healthy lifestyle attributes that are desired of such a prominent location. As one of three economic centres in the broader area, there is a known need to plan for transportation needs and a Transport Management Plan for Morisset is being developed by Council in the near future.

The Morisset Town Area Plan (part of the Lake Macquarie DCP) identifies a

With the regional transport network being located within 1km (Morisset

town hub area within the nearby Morisset town centre. Concept plans for

Station), bus stops located within 600m of the site, and the M1 Pacific

this area were developed and exhibited in 2015, seeking to bring together a

Motorway within 2km, there are a range of access opportunities to consider.

centralised library and community space as envisaged by the contributions

Lake Macquarie City Council Morisset Showground Master Plan and Plan of Management – Issues & Opportunities Paper

PAGE 6

plan. Whilst the project has not progressed beyond this stage, it is

generally (Actions 1.4, 3.22 and 4.2). All these directions hold relevance to

understood to form part of the short-term review of land use and transport

the long-term future of the area.

planning framework and is identified as a long-term key project through Council’s recently adopted Local Strategic Planning Statement (LSPS) - see Section 2.6 below.

Under the provisions of the Lake Macquarie Local Environmental Plan (LEP) 2014, the site is located on public land zoned RE1 - Public Recreation. Areas to the east and north are largely identified as residential areas (R2 and R3

Morisset Contributions Catchment Recreation, Open Space and Community

zones), with some areas of E2 – Environmental Conservation coinciding with

Facilities and Services Study 2012 provides a detailed analysis of the open

the native bushland to the north/east. An area west of the site is identified

space and recreational facilities that exist within the Lake Macquarie City

as a rural transition zone (RU6) that is likely to be used for more intensive

Council Developer Contributions Plan 2012 – Morisset Contributions Catchment.

commercial/industrial activities in the longer-term. Land to the south is

The study lists one rugby league field, being Les Norris Oval, located at

zoned as private recreation (the former golf course site) and to the south-

Morisset Showground.

west is the Morisset industrial area (IN2 zone). These areas are shown in

Council is currently preparing a new Lake Mac Sports Strategy 2020 - 2030.

The previous Lake Macquarie City Council Sports Facility Strategy 2015 – 2020 identifies issues relating to the lack of sporting fields in the Lake Macquarie

Figure 3. The only major hazard constraint associated with the site is bushfire. Mapping for this comprises ‘category 1’ vegetation (red area) and their buffer / surrounds (100m) (yellow area), as seen in Figure 4.

LGA. Whilst the 2015 - 2020 Strategy does not identify the need for additional fields at the Showground, the growing population and difficulty/cost of establishing new fields in other locations, means that there may be growing demand in the future.

2.6

Land use planning Council’s recently adopted LSPS aims to focus growth in the City’s economic centres to allow more people to live closer to the services and with the facilities they need.

In particular, the LSPS identifies Morisset as being one of three key ‘strategic economic centres’ of the future.

With respect to Morisset, the LSPS identifies the development of a new planning framework for the area (Action 3.22), town centre revitalisation (Action 1.6), as

well as a focus on pedestrian and cycle access and transport planning Lake Macquarie City Council Morisset Showground Master Plan and Plan of Management – Issues & Opportunities Paper

Figure 3: Land use zone map

Figure 4: Bushfire prone land

PAGE 7

3.

Initial Consultation

The initial engagement process for the Morisset Showground Plan of Management and Master Plan project was undertaken between 6 October and 2 November 2020. This initial phase of engagement involved meetings with Council staff, Showgrounds users and community groups, organisations and businesses associated with, or who have an interest in the Showground and adjoining Council owned land. Consultation was undertaken via face to face meetings, pop up stalls, email and telephone, as well as through the

SIDEWALK STICKERS

survey and mapping on the ‘Shape Lake Mac’ consultation webpage.

The focus / aim of the consultation was to understand how the community values the area and what their vision for the Showground may be in the future. The process also sought to obtain initial ideas and priorities to further progress the master planning process.

In total more than one hundred community members were involved in the initial consultation as follows: o

Showground user groups - 6+ groups

o

External stakeholder meetings - 6+ groups

o

Pop-up stalls - 15+ participants

o

Initial project survey - 75+ respondents

o

Social PinPoint page - 3 comments / 6 contributions

o

Written submissions - 6 received

In addition, more than 500 visits were made to the Shape Lake Mac consultation website.

The outcomes of this engagement have been used to inform the opportunities and directions presented in this Paper with key insights explored on the following page.

SOCIAL PINPOINT MAP

Lake Macquarie City Council Morisset Showground Master Plan and Plan of Management – Issues & Opportunities Paper

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3.1

Key insights from initial consultation

The predominant key insight was a strong appreciation of the

and any new or enhanced facilities need to be created to benefit as many

Showground’s history in providing valuable services and facilities that are

event types, groups, individuals and age groups as possible.

generally community focused. Combined with the surrounding natural environment / setting and the presence of camping on the site, the area was generally seen to be well used, but having great capacity to continue to service the growing Morisset community.

There was a strong desire to protect the open feel and natural features of the space with the laid-back nature of the Showground near a growing urban centre considered to be an attractive feature of the site. Recognising the heritage attributes, which largely relate to the historical showground use and site context, were considered to be important, including through enhancing views and retaining the natural backdrop and treed enclosure of the space.

However, the site can also feel ‘isolated’ from the nearby town centre and growing urban areas, with poor quality entry / access arrangements for both pedestrians and vehicles needing to be addressed. It was highlighted that this feeling of isolation is exacerbated by the lack of directional signage and opportunities for advertising “what’s on” at the Showground on the nearby Dora Street.

There was a strong emphasis on increasing access to community facilities, replacing those that have become unavailable in the area, whilst also supporting the traditional Showground functions. Infrastructure for markets and food events as well as for agricultural pursuits typical of traditional showgrounds were strongly supported to enable the future

Further camping infrastructure upgrades including a camp kitchen, sullage and electrical powerheads were all identified as being needs to the continuation of camping on-site. Albeit the need to reduce conflicts between campers and other sites users was raised by many - either through a more appropriate layout, and / or the provision of an onsite caretaker.

Many believed that there were opportunities to integrate pathways and walking tracks through the site, particular through the bushland at the southern end, with potential to connect through to the Multi-Purpose Centre beyond. This may include interpretation and viewing opportunities, as well as the potential for fitness equipment to be spread along these paths.

Support was generally apparent for the continuation of equestrian sports, with the opportunity to grow a presence at the site. Other sports were not as frequently identified, though some felt that other organised sports may be appropriate, e.g. cricket, AFL or other football codes in the future.

In a broader context, the site’s relationship within the ‘whole of Morisset’ also needs to be recognised. Significant commercial and community development projects are earmarked for both Cedar Mill and the Morisset town centre area, and these will need to be carefully considered. In the short-term, getting the simple things right, with the opportunity to grow and expand into the future will be key.

growth of annual large-scale events. Becoming a flexible multi-use site for year-round events was seen as being critical to the success of the site Lake Macquarie City Council Morisset Showground Master Plan and Plan of Management – Issues & Opportunities Paper

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4.

Current Site Conditions

The facilities at both the Showground and the Multi-Purpose Centre attract a wide variety of individuals and community groups. The Showground is utilised for a range of activities including the annual Morisset Lake Macquarie Agricultural Show, RFS events, Christmas carols, monthly markets, circuses, festivals and many more. The Multi-Purpose Centre likewise has a variety of users, though typically in a more formal way through organised programs and activities for various sectors of the community.

This section aims to highlight issues, culminating in identification of emerging common issues and opportunities that are then further explored by different themes in Section 6.

4.1

Site analysis

As identified in the site analysis plan overleaf, there is a wide range of activities and facilities that occur on the site. The upper terraced sports field (Les Norris Oval) and adjoining camping / parking spaces, as well as the main Showground oval (Neville Frost Arena) provide key flat event spaces.

Between these, there are a range of uses and facilities, with conflicts identified, particularly between areas of camping and other uses. Working towards providing more deliberate and dedicated spaces has been identified as a key task to address this concern.

Other key site analysis considerations include issues with access arrangements and internal roads, as well as the presence of significant vegetation and opportunities to provide biodiversity links.

Lake Macquarie City Council Morisset Showground Master Plan and Plan of Management – Issues & Opportunities Paper

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Lake Macquarie City Council Morisset Showground Master Plan and Plan of Management – Issues & Opportunities Paper

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4.2

Morisset Showground area – Overview

Morisset Showground is on Council managed Crown land (Reserve 65735), reserved for the purpose of Public Recreation on the 10 January 1936 with an additional reserve purpose of Communication Facilities added on 4 August 2017.

The Showground is located on a gently sloping, predominately cleared site comprising around 13 hectares of public land. As well as the main Showground oval (‘Neville Frost Arena’), the site also contains an generally underused and undersized sports field (‘Les Norris Oval’). Together with

Other facilities are in reasonable condition, such as the office building and main amenities block, but their functionality and location are not optimal, and their replacement may be preferable to any major upgrade works.

Conversely, there are a number of buildings and structures that have a much longer life expectancy, such as the recent Men’s Shed, smaller amenities and the breezeway structure.

Working with those assets that are functional and in good condition, whilst designing for new or replacement facilities that work with these will be a key direction moving forward.

open camping and unformed parking spaces, these ovals provide a sense of

Existing use

openness to the site, which is fast becoming part of the broader Morisset

Prior to the current pandemic, and over recent years, the Showground has

urban area.

Existing building and structures Buildings and structures located on the site include: o

A large amalgam of buildings that include the main office, kitchen and functions spaces, pavilion ‘sheds’ and an open ‘breezeway’ structure

o

Two small, recently constructed / refurbished amenities buildings, and one large older style amenities buildings that is the main camping area facility

o

Equestrian area facilities including horse stables and riding arena (slightly undersized open dressage style arena measuring approximately 55 x 22m)

o

Horse and other animal day stalls / corrals

o

A Men’s Shed building is also present.

Condition of buildings is variable, with many requiring short and longer-term works and some, such as the pavilion buildings, expected to reach the end of their useful life well-within the next 10 years.

Lake Macquarie City Council Morisset Showground Master Plan and Plan of Management – Issues & Opportunities Paper

been used for a relatively wide variety of events and activities - often requiring larger open spaces. Typical events undertaken at the site include: o

Annual Morisset Lake Macquarie Agricultural Show, historically held in February, but proposed to be held later in 2021

o

Equestrian events and activities, utilising both Neville Frost Arena and the riding arena area

o

RFS, Scout and car club events, utilising large portions of the site

o

Christmas carols and other community based events

o

Regular markets, including both farmers style food markets, and monthly general markets

o

Other typically large scale occasional events, such as circuses and festivals.

Outside of major events, the site is also used for what is referred to as ‘primitive camping’ under the Local Government (General) Regulations 2005.

This results in regular, but not intensive use of the area throughout the year.

Nonetheless, consultation also highlights a number of conflicts between the camping activities and other uses, including larger events and issues relating to damage caused be campers in key locations, such as the dress circle area

PAGE 12

between the main oval and office / pavilion buildings. Conflicts have also

1

2

3

4

5

6

arisen between camping and equestrian uses - particularly during larger events.

Other uses of the site are relatively minor, but includes the largely selfsufficient Southlakes Men’s Shed, and informal recreation such as those that walk through and around the site.

Key community values and needs o

Open, laid back feel of the area

o

Improving access and circulation to and within the site

o

Connecting to history and heritage attributes of the site

o

Continuation and support of annual and larger events

o

External and on-site signage to engage visitors and inform locals

o

Formalisation of low-cost camping activities

o

Upgrading of existing facilities

Lake Macquarie City Council Morisset Showground Master Plan and Plan of Management – Issues & Opportunities Paper

1 HORSE STABLES ADJOINING RIDING ARENA

2 MAIN (OLDER) PUBLIC AMENITIES

3 MEN’S SHED CONSTRUCTED IN 2018

4 SHOWGROUND ENTRY AREA

5 PAVILION / OFFICE & BREEZEWAY BUILDING

6 NEVILLE FROST ARENA / SHOWGROUND OVAL

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4.3

Land including Multi-Purpose Centre – Overview

Existing use

Community Land located to the south of the Showground contains Council

The utilisation of the Morisset Multi-Purpose Centre varies considerably as it

owned community facilities that are leased to operators of a range of

provides office space for government and non-government uses. It generally

community and social activities. The site has its prominent frontage to Dora

has a high level of usage through the meeting and activity rooms for

Street, with a secondary frontage to Freemans Drive. The area is around 7.5

community groups. It is currently leased to community-based organisation

hectares in size and mainly consists of native bushland, with the area

Southlake Community Services Inc which provides permanent staff,

containing Morisset Multi-Purpose Centre, community garden and some

management and program coordination at the centre.

cleared land areas located along the southern boundary.

Existing buildings and structures Buildings and structures located on the site include a: o

Large multi-purpose building facility that contains three larger format activity / function spaces, offices and consulting rooms, and various other staff, kitchen and amenity facilities.

o

Large outdoor activity space located to the west of the main multipurpose building identified above

o

Smaller outdoor storage and refuse building space that adjoins the multi-purpose building and outdoor activity space.

o

Smaller kitchen and outdoor dining space, combined with a garage space and undercover car parking area located between the multipurpose building and community garden area

o

Community garden, including shipping container for storage, located at the south-eastern end of the site.

The condition of buildings is generally good and suitable for current

Among the many projects and services located here includes the Southlake Neighbourhood Centre, Southlake Youth Centre, Southlake Out of School Hours Child Care, Yunung Bush Tucker Community Garden, Happy Hippo Toy Library Service and the Community Bus Service. All these projects and services are located within the Morisset Multi-Purpose Centre except for the Yunung Bush Tucker Community Garden which is located outside towards the eastern corner of the site.

A significant area of this Precinct contains Coastal Plains Scribbly Gum Woodland and number of threatened flora and fauna which is further discussed in section 6.2. There currently exists informal tracks that loops through this area, although it appears their condition and use has diminished over time.

Key Community Values o

Extent of services available in one hub

o

Natural vegetated areas around the site

o

Large community garden space

purposes, even if operating at or near to its capacity.

Lake Macquarie City Council Morisset Showground Master Plan and Plan of Management – Issues & Opportunities Paper

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1

2

3

4

5

6

1 & 2 MULTI-PURPOSE CENTRE CARPARK AND BUILDING BEHIND 3 NATURAL VEGETATED AREA NEAR GARDENS

4 KITCHEN AND OUTDOOR DINING AREA

5 YUNUNG COMMUNITY GARDEN

6 COMMUNITY GARDENS STORAGE CONTAINER

Lake Macquarie City Council Morisset Showground Master Plan and Plan of Management – Issues & Opportunities Paper

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5.

Emerging Vision and Principles

The outcomes of the consultation activities and area based discussions in the previous two sections highlight a number of principles and an overarching vision for the area which are presented, in draft form, below. It is these overarching principles and vision that will also be used to further develop future stages of the project.

AN ENVIABLE EVENT SITE The Showgrounds’ central location and access to transport links means that it is an enviable event space that has a range of markets - meeting local to regional needs. Creating spaces and facilities to meet event needs will be important to maintain the site’s relevance to future community activities

DEFINED AND BALANCED SPACES

EMERGING VISION Into the future Morisset Showground will continue to be a place that is available and accessible to a wide spectrum of

Ongoing planning will seek to define the role and function of individual spaces within the site, reducing conflicts, whilst providing flexibility in use. Design elements / infrastructure will facilitate ongoing use opportunities – including for community, recreation and event activities.

the community, which recognises and embraces its history, and provides a hub for a variety of community groups and visitors to enjoy events and activities within the space.

Morisset Showground will be managed in ways that enhance and accentuate its natural environment with improvements being simple, effective and flexible to

HISTORIC SHOWGROUND IDENTITY An opportunity exists to reinforce the area in the context of its historical Showground and community uses and its natural setting. A modern and progressive Showground will provide a base for continued growth, use and experiences for all users, both young and older.

enable the area to continue to evolve and grow with the broader Morisset area over the long-term.

SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE When considering both the Showground and MultiPurpose Centre, there is great opportunity for improved integration with the broader area to ensure a community space that is accessible and can provide for current and future needs.

Lake Macquarie City Council Morisset Showground Master Plan and Plan of Management – Issues & Opportunities Paper

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6.

Strategic Directions by Theme

This section explores the issues and opportunities for the site under eight theme areas: o

Showground use

o

Events

o

Community and sporting facilities

o

Equestrian and related activities

o

Camping and tourism

o

Passive recreation and public use

o

Indigenous and European heritage

o

Environment and sustainability

Each theme is presented in terms of the existing situation, the key opportunities identified to date, and future opportunities / options that may be available for further consideration in the Master Plan and Plan of Management.

Lake Macquarie City Council Morisset Showground Master Plan and Plan of Management – Issues & Opportunities Paper

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6.1

Showground use

The primarily acknowledged tourism and visitor attraction asset of the site is the annual Morisset Lake Macquarie Agricultural Show which commenced in 1954, celebrating its 66th event in 2020. The annual show requires and has largely dictated the site’s large open spaces and existing infrastructure.

Respecting and growing the use of the site from a base of retaining the annual show is paramount to future directions for the site. It is also apparent however that show time use is also a relatively limited portion of the overall calendar of events and use and any future works also need to facilitate other activities. The site therefore needs to be flexible to provide for a broad spectrum of events, including the annual show, of otherwise risks being suitable to only one annual event.

Key use areas of the site during show time activities are outlined in Figure 5, with images of various activities and uses identified below.

1

2

Figure 5: Annual Show indicative layout Existing key benefits and constraints The long-term presence of the annual show provides a platform and function 3

4

to the site that is an anchor to future directions. Key benefits and constraints of the current situation include: o

Presence of the very large and flat Neville Frost Arena that can continue to be a ‘centrepiece’ of open spaces within the area particularly for large events and with a slightly reduced size if needed

1 RODEO ON EASTERN SIDE OF OVAL

2 ANNOUNCERS BOX ABOVE FUNCTION ROOM

3 WOODCHOP DISPLAYS

4 EVENT STAGE IN BREEZEWAY

Lake Macquarie City Council Morisset Showground Master Plan and Plan of Management – Issues & Opportunities Paper

o

Opportunity to better utilise Neville Frost Arena by rectifying constraints including drainage, access and spectator amenity

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o

o

Many existing buildings and infrastructure are nearing their end of

Option A: This option largely retains and improves the existing facilities

life or are not fit for purpose, with potential to replace with more

generally within their current location, with the opportunity included to

appropriate facilities that are able to respond to broader site and

establish a grandstand and community facility on the western side of the

year-round user needs

main oval. Whilst this would provide additional viewing capacity and comfort

Presence of ample space to provide necessary parking and back-of-

for some events, it also dislocates the space by providing an additional facility

house needs during events - including to provide separation of public and back-of-house activities for safety and security.

in a new location that currently has limited use. To ensure substantial use to justify the cost of such a facility, this option may require a team sporting use

Future opportunities and directions With a solid basis and long history already in place, there is significant opportunity to facilitate the ongoing use of the site as the home of the

of the oval, as well as potential for other community activities.

OPTION A

“Morisset Lake Macquarie Agricultural Show”. Core to this is creating spaces and infrastructure that benefits both the show time use and other yearround activation. Opportunities and directions to engage with the theme of showground use include: o

Ensuring that buildings and other infrastructure are present to meet the ongoing show time needs, including their relationship to surrounding spaces to provide connectedness of the broader site and uses

o

Making greater use and user comfort around Neville Frost Arena through greater integration of the oval to the broader site and via increased / improved spectator seating and viewing areas

o

Improving access, parking and back-of-house arrangements to cater

o

for large-scale annual events, including the annual show Providing opportunities for the return of lost infrastructure, such as the dog rings that were previously removed (subject to need / demand)

Master plan options Based on the above opportunities and directions, the following options have been developed for further consideration within the context of the master plan (a comparison of the four option plans is also provided in Appendix A): Lake Macquarie City Council Morisset Showground Master Plan and Plan of Management – Issues & Opportunities Paper

PAGE 19

Option B: This option resizes the main oval to accommodate a new / larger

Option C: This option is not dissimilar to Option B and parts may be

central viewing / gathering space between the renewed existing or entirely

considered as being interchangeable (e.g. the sideshow alley area may work

new central buildings in the same location as the existing buildings. This

in either locations for both options). However, this option envisages a shift of

envisages the removal of camping and relocation of roads to provide a

the main buildings to be closer to the main oval, with a large open grassed

people-orientated event amphitheatre space overlooking the main oval. This

area then remaining for smaller events and activities on the southern side.

space could wrap around to the western side with shade by trees or smaller covered seating structures (potentially portable).

Spectator seating on the main oval would be spread along southern and western edges, still catering for larger events, but with a smaller capacity /

New main community buildings could be re-orientated to this area, opening

number of spectators than Option B. Unlike Option B however, this option

out onto a lawn and events space to accommodate a range of larger event

would have two separate event spaces rather than one large multipurpose

activities. Back of house activities and animal pens etc. would be located

one, activating the new buildings to both the north and south. Both option B

further to the north, opening up spaces centrally for additional activities.

and C also envisage a secondary access from Freemans Drive, catering for an

OPTION B

increase in site usage.

OPTION C

Lake Macquarie City Council Morisset Showground Master Plan and Plan of Management – Issues & Opportunities Paper

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Option D: This option provides a more substantial redesign of the area, with a greater number of fixed buildings (and associated external areas) that have year-round use, potentially including commercials uses such as cafes, bars and restaurants. This could be described as a central ‘village hub’ type

Questions to consider o

remainder of the year?

development, with external spaces then being used for events.

It is also noted that this may require greater use of surrounding open spaces

o

OPTION D

Will a new building on the western boundary of the oval risk being isolated from other activities?

for other show-time activities. For example, the main oval size is further reduced to create for ‘back of house’ activities on the northern boundary.

How can show time facilities best accommodate uses throughout the

o

Are the existing buildings worth retaining, or should planning assume their removal?

o

Do you think a ‘village hub’ with commercial facilities, such as cafes, bars or restaurants, is desirable at the site?

Lake Macquarie City Council Morisset Showground Master Plan and Plan of Management – Issues & Opportunities Paper

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6.2

Events

Part of the mix of tourism attraction and potential to expand recognition of the area is through a healthy range of appropriate events that builds on

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existing activities including the annual Morisset Lake Macquarie Agricultural Show. Council’s Event and Festival Strategy and Action Plan 2019-2024 lists Morisset Showground as a strength and opportunity of the Lake Macquarie Region with potential to be a key event and festival location.

The strategy also identifies Morisset Showground as having the infrastructure, parking, utilities and suitable zoning to support a major weekend festival of up to 15,000 people. With this increasing scale and opportunity comes the need to plan and establish well located spaces that are adaptable to meet event needs.

It is also recognised that a current event site (Cedar Mill) is being proposed for the former Morisset Country Club site, and the positioning of the showground area within this context is likely to be limited to smaller scale and more community-based activities. Over time, the balance of events between the sites is likely to become more apparent, with the current pandemic casting some question marks over the long-term shape of largescale events (although this is likely to quickly change).

Ultimately, events bring increased economic opportunities as visitors stay longer, spend more and then return more frequently - often with other family or friends. Whether this is occurring at the ‘Cedar Mill’ site or at the Showground, the importance of events in Lake Macquarie is strongly

1 MARKETS LOCATED ALONGSIDE BREEZEWAY

2 SCOUT JAMBOREE ON MAIN OVAL

3 RODEO DURING SHOW ON MAIN OVAL

4 POULTRY AUCTIONS WITHIN PAVILIONS

5 CLASSIC CAR AND BIKE SHOW

6 RFS TRAINING / EVENT ON MAIN OVAL

recognised by Council.

Lake Macquarie City Council Morisset Showground Master Plan and Plan of Management – Issues & Opportunities Paper

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Existing key benefits and constraints

o

greater integration of the oval to the broader site and via increased

The open space context and long-term use for show purposes provides a

/ improved spectator seating and viewing areas

platform for the ongoing use of a range of events and potential for formalised sporting activities. Key benefits and constraints of the current

o

o

o

Several large and flat open spaces that are relatively easy to use for

Master plan options

large scale events, either individually or in combination with each

Based on the above opportunities and directions, and in keeping with the

other (including for parking and event camping opportunities)

options identified for annual show use in Section 6.1, the following options

Relatively high levels of access via public transport, though some

have been developed for further consideration within the context of the

improvements to pedestrian access to the site would be desirable

master plan (note a comparison sheet of the four option plans is also

Increasing urbanisation to the north, potentially limiting more noisy

provided in Appendix B):

events that may have historically occurred (e.g. speedway) o

Improving access, parking and back-of-house arrangements to cater for small through to large-scale events, including the annual show

situation include: o

Improving spectator comfort around Neville Frost Arena through

Potential for conflict between events and sporting activities would require careful consideration.

Future opportunities and directions

Multi-Purpose Centre area: The Multi-Purpose Centre area has the potential to hold events, including in association with the existing community garden and adjoining areas. This potential would be assisted by access tracks from the Showground. As a

With a long history of show time use, there is significant opportunity to

longer-term strategy, there may also be opportunities to increase or provide

continue to facilitate and increase the ongoing use of the site as a key event

a community / event facility focus on land that corners Dora Street and

area that complements the future Cedar Mill proposal. Core to this is

Freemans Drive, albeit this would need to be part of broader planning for the

creating spaces and infrastructure that establishes year-round activation and

area.

use, and which minimise conflicts between activities. Opportunities and directions to engage with the theme of event and sporting use include: o

Creating easily accessible and affordable spaces that create an impetus for events, with a view to building up the event capability of the site over the longer-term to meet ongoing needs

o

Ensuring that buildings and other infrastructure are present to meet event needs, as well as ongoing annual show activities, all within the functional space requirements and connectedness of the broader site and uses

Lake Macquarie City Council Morisset Showground Master Plan and Plan of Management – Issues & Opportunities Paper

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Showground area Option A: This option largely retains and improves existing facilities and areas

OPTION A

for events, but includes a grandstand on the western side of the main oval that could improve spectator comfort for larger events held on the main oval.

This would provide additional viewing capacity, though would also dislocate the space by providing an additional facility in a new location that currently has limited use. The grandstand would also be a fixed element and surrounding activities would need to be designed to suit its ongoing use.

Smaller events may also still occur on the southern portion of the oval, within the breezeway area and on the open space and roads to the immediate east as many events currently do.

Option A: Events in keeping with current format and traditional showground uses

Lake Macquarie City Council Morisset Showground Master Plan and Plan of Management – Issues & Opportunities Paper

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Option B: This option provides for a similar set of event spaces to existing, though provides a more dedicated open amphitheatre style area for

OPTION B

spectators to the south of the (reduced sized) oval and through smaller portable style grandstands. This area would only be a gentle slope, and could be graded or terraced to facilitate smaller events again, such as markets.

A new main community building area orientated to the oval could replace the existing buildings. Adjoining open lawn and undercover events space would be included in this area. The undercover areas would continue the event function of the existing breezeway, however it would have better connectivity to the oval and adjoining spaces.

Option B: Undercover space for events, opening to amphitheatre and undercover events

Lake Macquarie City Council Morisset Showground Master Plan and Plan of Management – Issues & Opportunities Paper

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Option C: This option is not dissimilar to Option B, with the exception that the main buildings are closer to the main oval, with a separated large open

OPTION C

grassed area for smaller events and activities to the immediate south – e.g. for markets.

In this option, spectator seating on the main oval would be spread along southern and western edges, still catering for larger events, but with a smaller capacity/number of spectators than Option B. Both option B and C envisage a secondary access from Freemans Drive, catering for an increase in site usage.

This option, as opposed to option B, would have two distinctly separate event spaces rather than one large multipurpose one. The new building would then be designed to be activated for a range of events on both the northern and southern sides.

Option C: Smaller informal event / market spaces and more formalised events use of the main oval

Lake Macquarie City Council Morisset Showground Master Plan and Plan of Management – Issues & Opportunities Paper

PAGE 26

Option D: This option provides a more substantial redesign of the area, with a greater number of fixed buildings that have year-round use, potentially

OPTION D

including commercial uses such as cafes and restaurants, as well as potential commercial events spaces – potentially as a ‘central village hub’ or an ‘entertainment quarter’ style of use, prompting longer site visitation informally and before and after events.

The extent of use also results in a more simplified access and egress arrangement to facilitate additional traffic movements – including direct access to Freemans Drive to avoid conflict between vehicles and pedestrians.

Option D: Night markets, café style facilities and outdoor eateries etc.

Questions to consider o

Should the site be more commercially orientated with dedicated events spaces that are available for hire from external providers?

o

Given the large size and limited use of the northern end of the main event oval, could the oval be reduced in size whilst still accommodating a range of events?

o

Should the site support multiple event opportunity types (e.g. large / small / indoor / outdoor) or just cater for one large event format?

Lake Macquarie City Council Morisset Showground Master Plan and Plan of Management – Issues & Opportunities Paper

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6.3

Community and sporting facilities

There are already a number of largely community-based facilities and buildings located within the project area. These include a number of general facilities within the Showground, as well as the facilities located within or in conjunction with the Multi-Purpose Centre on Dora Street.

Within the Multi-Purpose Centre area, a range of programs and events occur within their activity rooms, as well as outdoor spaces to the north. The facility also contains a smaller kitchen and outdoor dining area that adjoins the Yunung Community Garden. The Centre is in generally good condition and

Both the Les Norris Oval (upper terraced area) and the main Neville Frost Arena (main oval) have previously been used for formal team sports – namely the South Lakes Rugby League Club. Both these areas have poor surfaces that would not be suitable for most sporting activities in their current condition. There is also a likelihood that many sporting uses would conflict with other events and this would likewise need to be carefully considered.

Nonetheless, with a growing population and existing cleared open spaces, there is potential for formalised sporting activity in the future.

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requires no immediate large-scale upgrades, though operates at or near capacity, suggesting that additional facilities of this kind will need to be considered in the broader Morisset area over time.

Within the showgrounds, a wide variety of community facilities and buildings exist with a range of condition and purpose. The primary community facility and buildings are located in the middle of the site consisting of office buildings, pavilion sheds and breezeway structure and public amenities.

These facilities adjoin the Les Norris Oval and Neville Frost Arena as well as horse stables, dressage arena and the men’s shed.

The pavilion shed built in the 1950’s, is a metal shed constructed of a concrete slab and steel frame with hardwood members. The pavilion shed requires immediate repair in the short term – particularly to assist in waterproofing. The office amenities, large public amenities, breezeway and horse stables were constructed in the 1970’s to 1980’s and are in generally good condition with only minor repairs required. The main office building has almost 100 solar panels which were installed in 2015.

On the sporting side, whilst equestrian sports activities are already occurring at the site (see further in Section 6.4), there are limited other sporting

1 MAIN SHOW BUILDING VIEWED FROM OVAL

2 VIEW THROUGH BREEZWAY, PAVILIONS ON LEFT

activities and no sporting clubs are currently accommodated at the site.

3 EXISTING MAIN AMENITIES BUILDING

4 REFURBISED AMENITIES - NORTHERN BOUNDARY

5 MEN’S SHED AREA – PARKING ON RIGHT

6 MULTI-PURPOSE CENTRE VIEWED FROM NORTH

Lake Macquarie City Council Morisset Showground Master Plan and Plan of Management – Issues & Opportunities Paper

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Existing key benefits and constraints The long-term involvement in the site by many community groups and

identified opportunities and directions relating to the theme of community and sporting facilities include:

organisations highlights the importance of the site for community facilities

o

use. Key benefits and constraints of the current situation include: o

diverse use, that can accommodate occasional use or activities that may be associated with show time activities

There is a range in size and use of existing facilities across both the o

Showground and Multi-Purpose Centre sites, enabling the

space do not compete with this strategic centre

Renewal and restoration of some buildings provides a new platform o

for use and momentum with respect to engaging new users o

of planning for the growing Morisset catchment o

undertaken

sporting activity in the future (e.g. ensuring that the width of Neville Frost Arena is not reduced beyond the size of side by side

needs for a growing population

rectangular fields)

A number of existing private and public community facilities have been removed or become unavailable, exacerbating a sense of shortages in the availability of community spaces for hire

Future opportunities and directions The use of the site for a variety of activities, including regular user groups and

Ensuring that future sporting use opportunities are maintained through appropriate design of spaces that may be converted to

Large, flat and cleared sites are difficult to find, so investment to improve surfaces and facilities may be appropriate to meet sporting

o

Retain the existing Multi-Purpose Centre with a view to considering the need for additional community space within the broader context

That said, some buildings are nearing the end of their useful life which raises the prospect that more substantial change could be

o

Considering the importance of development of community spaces within the town centre, ensuring that the facilities identified for the

engagement of a wide spectrum of the community o

Ensuring that any future facilities have high levels of preferably

Master plan options Based on outcomes of the above opportunities and directions, the following options have been developed for further consideration: o

Option A: Upgrade the main community facilities (pavilion, breezeway

regular / irregular events, means that there is a diverse need for community

and functions / office buildings) and Multi-Purpose Centre to continue to

spaces. These needs also require consideration of the broader planning for

accommodate the current activities with a view to focusing costs and

the growing population of the Morisset area. In particular, plans have been

efforts on other aspects of the project area

progressed, albeit not finalised, around the proposed development of the Morisset Library and Community Building in the Morisset town centre. Whilst the community has raised concerns around access to facilities following the closure of the Morisset Memorial Hall, the redevelopment of the site including substantial community spaces needs to be considered. As such the

Lake Macquarie City Council Morisset Showground Master Plan and Plan of Management – Issues & Opportunities Paper

o

Option B: Development of a new grandstand and associated building on the western edge of the main oval. The new building would contain sufficient facilities to cater for events and other uses, have substantial storage and be integrated to the broader Showground area in terms of access.

PAGE 29

Potential future users may include: -

Regular internal user groups such as spinners and weavers

-

Regular external user groups such as sporting teams

-

Irregular users as part of events held on the oval

Cost of such a facility is likely to be high in order to meet accessibility standards, changes in grade of the area and the relative complexity of the construction (for example the Leeton Showground Grandstand has just been completed at a cost of $2 million for a 203 seat grandstand,

Option C1: More substantial permanent buildings, designed and constructed for

sporting change facilities, storage and 100 seat function room. The Tully

commercial scale use

Grandstand project was $7+ million for a 600 seat grandstand, four

o

change facilities and function space that support there sporting teams).

Option C2: Retain existing buildings in the short-term, whilst a new buildings arrangement consistent with Option C is developed in an area between the existing building and the main arena. Existing buildings can then be removed in stages or in their entirety to leave an open events space connecting through the new buildings to the main oval beyond.

Space / cost allowances may include: -

500sqm undercover space = $550,000+

-

Buildings in 200sqm formats = $400,000+ each (staged implementation of up to five buildings)

Option B: Grandstand examples (Leeton left, Berry centre, Tully right) o

Option C1: Develop a broader range of community and commercial facilities under a more substantial change of the area to an ‘entertainment quarter’ style facility with a mix of buildings and uses undertaken throughout the day and night. Development costs would be higher, though these would not all be met by Council with some level of commercial activity assisting in meeting redevelopment costs.

Lake Macquarie City Council Morisset Showground Master Plan and Plan of Management – Issues & Opportunities Paper

o

Option C3: Consider the redevelopment of the existing breezeway, pavilion and function / office buildings with a series of (or single) new community buildings and undercover space that opens out to the main oval area (and associated amphitheatre space). These could be relatively simple multi-purpose buildings that are located adjoining or under the main covered space, creating flexibility in use, but with a focus to the main arena area. Building costs and configurations are likely to be similar to Option C2.

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Option C3 & C2 Character examples: Large scale covered area opening to grassed oval or ampitheatre

Questions to consider o

Is a new separate / isolated building required for the site, or should facilities be consolidated to the core part of the area?

o

Would a larger capacity amphitheatre style area be preferable to a smaller capacity grandstand style viewing area?

o

Are community facilities (e.g. pavilions / indoor spaces) more important than sporting facilities in the foreseeable future?

o

Given sports fields have potential to conflict with event usage in terms of access to facilities and impact on playing surfaces, how much of a priority should sports facility be given at the Showground?

Figure 6: Community facilities and sport site options plan Lake Macquarie City Council Morisset Showground Master Plan and Plan of Management – Issues & Opportunities Paper

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6.4

Equestrian and related activities

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Equestrian activities and sports have long been associated with the Morisset Showground site and with annuals shows more generally. The Watagan Equestrian Club and Watagan Pony Club both identify the use of the Morisset Showground, having previously been based on the site and seeking to again become a more permanent user of the facility.

Existing facilities for horses and equestrian activities are located in different areas of the site, including a sand-based riding arena (approx. 55m x 22m), stables (eight stalls), wash bay and day yards along the eastern boundary, with horse corrals and wash bay also located near the western boundary of the site. Club activities and events typically utilise the smaller arena area, or the middle/southern portion of the main Neville Frost Arena.

Whilst there is unlikely to be significant growth in equestrian participation generally, Council’s nearby Cooranbong Recreation and Equestrian Grounds are understood to already cater to a number of groups and is near capacity.

As the Showground is already used by a number of equestrian groups for

1 MAJOR EVENT ON MAIN OVAL

2 EXISTING SAND-BASED RIDING ARENA

3 STABLES ADJOINING RIDING ARENA

4 HORSE DAY STALLS ADJOINING CAMPING AREA

Existing key benefits and constraints

events - such as the regional Jamboree, the use of existing and potential for

The use of the site for equestrian activities has a distinct connection to the

ongoing growth of facilities is recognised.

history of the Showground itself and the agricultural nature of show activities

In addition to this more localised use, the proximity of the site from the M1 Pacific Motorway suggests that the site may also have potential for larger events into the future, particularly as equestrian clubs are forced out of high growth centres in Sydney. One example of this was in 2018 where the Pony

more generally. The existing facilities also provide for a base level of use, with key benefits and constraints of the current situation having the potential to include: o

potential for shared spaces and infrastructure

Club of NSW held a successful State Showjumping & Jumping Equitation Championships at Morisset Showground with 185 young riders taking part.

Complementary activity to broader show time uses, including

o

Potential for growth considering the pressure of Sydney based clubs and relative accessibility given the site’s proximity to the M1 motorway

o

Base level of existing facilities, albeit these are separated between the western and easter portions of the site and greater consolidation of use would be preferable

Lake Macquarie City Council Morisset Showground Master Plan and Plan of Management – Issues & Opportunities Paper

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o

Conflict is experienced between camping activities and horses, including issues such as camping in the showring, electrical leads on the ground and misuse of horse facilities by campers

o

Lack of covered day stalls and covered arenas to enable greater use of the site and facilities through coaching, training and higher-level competition

Master plan options Based on the above opportunities and directions, the following options have been developed for further consideration within the context of the master plan. The location of each option space is identified in the plan overleaf. o

Future opportunities and directions

for covering of the arena, improve paddock area, better access to main Showground arena and dedicated camping spaces. This would be the

With a range of potential activity levels and use areas available, there is

lower cost localised response, with the main arena still being used for

potential for equestrian activities to be focused on a smaller area for local

larger events.

use, or through to a larger dedicated area with a view to establishing greater equestrian event tourism opportunities. Opportunities and directions to engage with the theme of equestrian and related activities include: o

Reducing the potential for conflict between horses and others by providing dedicated facilities within discrete locations

o

Establishing opportunities for growth in larger events through the staged implementation of infrastructure to facilitate market testing and flexibility in site layout

o

Ensuring that facilities are designed to assist and / or not interfere with the delivery of the annual show time activities and other major events

o

Ability to combine functional space requirements and

Option A: Retain and improve existing facilities in the current location.

Providing for more effective use of the existing space through potential

o

Option B: Retaining existing facilities, but expanding use to the northern part of the site for additional camping spaces and day use facilities (e.g. covered day stalls), with access provided to the east of the main Showground oval to link with the current facilities. An option exists to utilise the northern end of the main Showground oval for larger equestrian events subject to drainage improvements.

This option would be designed around the need for a larger footprint for activities, whilst retaining the direction to establish a deliberate space for equestrian purposes. This would also be a mid-cost option, building on potential improvements from Option A, but with additional camping and stables / wash bays and the like in the northern portion of the site.

connectedness to the broader site and uses (e.g. through co-use of spaces for parking)

Option A & B: Float parking, covered day stalls, small covered facility in existing location Lake Macquarie City Council Morisset Showground Master Plan and Plan of Management – Issues & Opportunities Paper

PAGE 33

o

Option C: Establishing a dedicated equestrian area on the southern upper level area, with potential to grow infrastructure and facilities to allow for higher-level events - e.g. a dedicated indoor riding facility. This option envisages equestrian facilities being more separated from existing uses, and utilising the upper terraced area for both camping, facilities and event spaces. In this locality there is potential to see the longer-term development of a dedicated indoor or undercover equestrian centre, building the area into a higher-level facility in the longer term.

Option C: Smaller grassed arenas leading to larger scale use and associated facilities in the long-term

Questions to consider o

What potential is there for the growth in equestrian uses on the site?

o

Can the existing facilities be reused for other showground activities?

o

Should equestrian facilities be separated from other activities due to the damage that horses cause to the surface of the spaces?

Figure 7: Equestrian facility site options plan Lake Macquarie City Council Morisset Showground Master Plan and Plan of Management – Issues & Opportunities Paper

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6.5

Camping and tourism

western boundary were there are horse stalls and other infrastructure (e.g. wash down bays)

The Showground site contains a total of 40 camping sites under a “Primitive o

Camping” approval under Local Government (Manufactured Home Estates,

Presence of camping sites to the east of the breezeway, where they can conflict with markets and other events

Caravan Parks, Camping Grounds and Moveable Dwellings) Regulation 2005.

o

These sites are located throughout much of the site as outlined in Figure 8.

Lack of supervision of where camping occurs despite a system of site allocation being made through booking procedures.

Several groups identified the potential need for a caretaker on the site to supervise and co-ordinate camping, as well as undertaking other maintenance and improvement tasks.

In a broader sense, and as discussed further in Section 6.2, the range of events held at the site also provide benefits from tourism. In some instances, this also extends to the provision of event related camping as an integral part of the activity, such as Scout Jamboree and larger scale equestrian events.

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Figure 8: Approved camping site locations Whilst the presence of camping is generally supported by most, there are a number of existing conflicts that exist between those camping in the area and other users. In particular, concern was raised regarding: o

Presence of camping sites between the main site buildings and the

2 CAMPING SITES AROUND HORSE STALLS

Existing key benefits and constraints

main oval - sometimes referred to as the show ring area. This

The long-term presence of camping on the site has been shown to provide

concern relates to the presence of campers when events are due to

significant benefits for the site and its user groups. Key benefits and

occur, as well as damage caused to the grounds in this area from

constraints of the current situation include:

camping activities and access roads to these sites o

1 CAMPING SITE WITHIN ‘SHOW RING” AREA

Presence of camping in areas where there is horse activity, particularly around the show ring, as well as camping sites along the

Lake Macquarie City Council Morisset Showground Master Plan and Plan of Management – Issues & Opportunities Paper

o

General popularity for paid onsite camping, which whilst not a major component of the site use, has been part of its past use for many years

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o

o

o

The availability of spaces that are currently underutilised, but which

Option A: Retain the current camping layout, seeking to improve regulation of

may be more effectively used in the future to reduce conflicts

the site and existing basic facilities, such as upgrading of existing amenities to

between uses

meet regulations as previously planned, and greater enforcement of camping

High costs associated with the presence of an on-site caretaker, and

to avoid use conflicts.

the lack of suitable accommodation facilities, meaning that

Option B: Given the underutilisation and isolated location of the previous

alternative ways of resolving issues may be more appropriate A need for on-site camping in some form for many events – particularly where care for stock or horses is part of the event activities.

Future Opportunities and Directions The existing situation for both paid camping and event camping indicates general support for this use to continue in some form into the future.

Opportunities and directions to engage with the theme of camping and tourism include: o

A need to resolve conflicts in use, whilst ensuring that the site remains as an attractive location for paid camping to occur to

o

support the financial needs of the site into the future Identifying locations for equestrian uses that reduce conflicts with

playing field area on the upper terraced area, there may be an opportunity to utilise both the existing parking space, as well as the underutilised sports field for paid camping. The number of sites would remain the same, but being located within this single space, it can be improved for the specific purpose of camping, whilst also being separated from other use areas where conflicts have previously occurred.

Improvements that may be made could include a small amenities block and camp kitchen, sullage and electrical powerheads. A small increase in camping fees could then be charged given the additional facilities. The existing parking area could be retained as a largely open space to provide for ongoing use during show time. This could also allow the relocation of the boom gate to this more restricted area, making ranger enforcement of illegal camping easier whilst no restricting general public access to the broader site.

other camping to avoid conflict between camping and horse activities (refer Section 6.4 for more information on this) o

Facilitating more defined spaces of use for paid camping, resulting in a reduced potential for conflicts

o

Improving the provision of camping support facilities (e.g. amenities, sullage and electricity) in a more defined space to reduce the incidence of use conflicts, illegal camping and resulting need for a caretaker.

Master plan options Based on the identified opportunities and directions, the following options have been developed for further consideration within the context of the master plan.

Lake Macquarie City Council Morisset Showground Master Plan and Plan of Management – Issues & Opportunities Paper

Option B: Semi-formalised camping, camp kitchen and power Option C: Retain and expand camping along the western boundary of the site, whilst enabling the use of the upper terraced area for another activity – such as the equestrian use Option C. This could enable the western boundary

PAGE 36

area to be specifically designed for this purpose, providing sullage, powerheads and shared use or camping specific amenities.

This area is a more natural camping location, which may be preferred by campers, but also creates a single space that avoids conflicts with other users (particularly if equestrian camping and associated facilities are provided elsewhere). Improvements to the area could include formalised access, open style camp kitchen and sullage / power head type arrangements.

Option C: Existing western boundary area space, naturalised camping area example, open style camp kitchen Option D: An alternative to all above options is to remove paid camping from the site, allowing only camping associated with events. Whilst this camping may still result in some minor income, the consequence of this would be the loss of a major income stream for the site. As the site become more popular

Figure 9: Camping site options plan Questions to consider

for events or other activities, the loss of camping activities may be necessary

o

Is paid camping at the site appropriate in the future?

in any case, though the current site size and configuration suggests that paid

o

Is a consolidated area for camping a preferable outcome to avoid conflicts with other users / events?

camping and other activities may remain possible for the foreseeable future.

The location of camping areas under Option A, B and C are identified in the

o

If conflicts can be avoided, is there still a need for a caretaker, or would the cost of this position be too high?

adjoining plan. o

What camping facilities are a priority (e.g. camp kitchen, upgrade to amenities, sullage and powerheads)?

Lake Macquarie City Council Morisset Showground Master Plan and Plan of Management – Issues & Opportunities Paper

PAGE 37

6.6

Passive recreation and public use

Morisset Showground comprises a range of spaces and connected areas that

consultation, there was a clear desire from many to encourage public use and to provide facilities and infrastructure to enable this to occur.

are utilised by the public as well as informal and formal groups for passive

This is consistent with the need for ongoing enhancement and provision of

recreation and user group activities and events. The available spaces range

new open space areas given the recent and expected future expansion of

from the Morisset Multi-Purpose Centre in the south of the site, Les Norris

the Morisset urban area. Council has identified a number of such projects

Oval and Morisset Showground itself. Whilst public access is generally

and spaces, including the multi-million dollar upgrade of Bernie Goodwin

available to the site, there is also restrictions on vehicle access (boom gate

Park located within a 1km walk from the Showground.

system) that is aimed at reducing instances of illegal camping (boom gate access information is provided with booking confirmation).

1

2

1 ACCESS ROAD FROM AWABA STREET

2 OURIMBAH STREET ACCESS ROAD

Existing key benefits and constraints The existing situation highlights the need for improvement should the level of public use and access be desired. Key benefits and constraints of the current situation include: o

Substantially sized and strategically well-located site that has high potential for increasing public access and use.

Figure 10: Main access point from Ourimbah Street

o

opportunities, such as pedestrian pathways and clear access arrangements

Once within the Showground area of the site, there are few public facilities, such as picnic or play spaces, and there are no formalised pathways. Some

o

when site activation is low

urban areas to the north and the Morisset town centre, and some used the

Lake Macquarie City Council Morisset Showground Master Plan and Plan of Management – Issues & Opportunities Paper

Perception of risk of enabling or encouraging public access – particularly with respect to anti-social behaviour that can occur

local residents indicated that the Showground was used to walk between space as a dog off leash area, but other use is more limited. During

Lack of existing base infrastructure from which to leverage

o

Perception of risk that public access and movement may impact on other site activities and events

PAGE 38

Future Opportunities and Directions

Master plan options

Enhancing public use of the site for informal or passive recreation is

Based on the identified opportunities and directions, the following options

important to facilitate everyday use, provide open space opportunities for

have been developed for further consideration within the context of the

the local population and to maximise value / use of site infrastructure. As

master plan.

such the identified opportunities and directions relating to the theme of passive recreation and public use include: o

o

Option A: Provide for a base level of facilities, with a basic pathway system through the site, including around the main oval and connecting through the

Providing for site accessibility, including pedestrian connections

site from Awaba Street to Dora Street. This simple system could be

through the site and along Ourimbah Street to Dora Street and the

supported by a small playground near Awaba Street, and basic bushwalk

Morisset town centre

around the area of native vegetation in the southern portion of the site

Providing for informal on-site recreation opportunities, such as

(connecting to the Multi-Purpose Centre).

walking paths, bush walks, play spaces and informal sporting / exercise areas o

Establishing facilities of interest to a range of age groups, encouraging use by younger people of the area

o

Ensuring that the provision of such facilities are both complementary and beneficial for other activities, including show time use and other events

o

New activities provide for greater use and access to the main showground oval as a centre-piece of public open space on the site

Option A: Simple pathway, nature-based playground and bush walking tracks Option B: This option would see an increase in the scale and quality of facilities, including greater levels of inclusive access across the site, more substantial play space, and upgrade of the main oval space to create a loop path around with seating walls and exercise equipment to encourage everyday use. These facilities are envisaged to be in keeping with the natural setting and showground / rural uses, whilst engaging with people and new user groups – such as exercise groups, personal trainers, park run and similar activities.

Lake Macquarie City Council Morisset Showground Master Plan and Plan of Management – Issues & Opportunities Paper

PAGE 39

Option B: Showground path, older children’s activity space, formal walking tracks All options for public recreation and use will need to be compatible with other activities – such as the annual show, other events, equestrian or other sporting activities, as well as camping. This will need to be carefully considered in the next stages and how these would be managed – e.g. public access being restricted during major events.

Questions to consider o

To what extent are new recreation and play facilities needed?

o

Should the site be more accessible to the general public throughout the week?

o

Should the site, or part thereof, be designated as a fenced or unfenced dog off leash area?

o

Is it a priority to formalise pathway through the area for accessibility and equal access, or is a more rustic / agricultural character appropriate?

Lake Macquarie City Council Morisset Showground Master Plan and Plan of Management – Issues & Opportunities Paper

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6.7

Indigenous and European heritage

Morisset Showground has a long history of both Indigenous and European heritage. It is important to recognise that long before the site was

Morisset Showground is also significant from a European heritage perspective and was identified as a potential heritage item (MS-32A in Council’s potential heritage items). The significance statement affirms:

developed, the Awabakal people were present on and around the site and

“Morisset Showground is significant as a multifunctional site that encapsulates the

the wider Lake Macquarie area. The Awabakal people had strong

history of the recreational activities in the area since 1936 and as a focus for the

connections with Clacks Creek adjoining the site and totem animals that live

promotion of equine excellence. Morisset Showground is socially significant both

or have previously lived in the area. Initial engagement with Aboriginal

as a testimony of continuous voluntary service to the community and as a centre

groups has identified the importance of interpretation and education for

of sporting and community gatherings in the region. It is aesthetically significant

relating to this history for both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people.

for splendid siting and mature landscape features. The wooded barrier on three

There is also an undetermined Aboriginal Land Claim (ALC 36347) over Lot 1 DP 755242 (being part of the Showground Reserve 65735) that was registered on 19 April 2013 by Biraban Aboriginal Land Council.

In 1936, the Morisset Showground Trust was established and a group of volunteers undertook most of the work to create the reserve with the first agricultural show taking place in February 1951. In 1954 the Morisset Lake Macquarie District Agricultural Association began and in 1968 the Morisset Speedway opened. It was the home for motor racing in the Lake Macquarie district throughout the 1970’s where top class drivers from the region and throughout Sydney would travel to the showground for the speedway events.

The speedway closed in 1980 as the shift focussed from circuit racing to motocross and other new tracks were established in the area.

1

sides of the site defines the boundary giving a strong and exclusive site identity.

The vernacular buildings make a contribution to the totality and character of the place rather than being important individual elements”.

Impacts on the heritage of the area would need to be considered prior to any major works being undertaken.

Existing key benefits and constraints The existing situation provides for a strong onus to connect future use and activities to the past use of the site from both an Aboriginal and European heritage perspective. Key benefits and constraints of the current situation include: o

The ongoing use of the site as a showground and more generally for public recreation is a foundation of the Crown reserve area. This use connects to the documented European heritage values of the

2

site. o

The Council owned community land comprising the area of the Multi-Purpose Centre and in particular the large area of adjoining native vegetation also provides a connection to the pre-European importance of the site as a natural area and part of the document

1 CAR SPEEDWAY EVENT

2 MOTORBIKE SPEEDWAY EVENT

Lake Macquarie City Council Morisset Showground Master Plan and Plan of Management – Issues & Opportunities Paper

heritage value of the Showground’s setting within the environment.

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Future Opportunities and Directions

Master plan options

The Aboriginal and European history of the site provides significant

Based on the identified opportunities and directions, the following options

opportunities to draw on key heritage themes in future design processes and

have been developed for further consideration within the context of the

subsequent works. Opportunities and directions to engage with the theme

master plan.

of Indigenous and European Heritage include: o

o

o

Option A: Retain and reinforce the current use of the site through

Establishing heritage and cultural information signage / feature

minimal changes that aim to retain the basic / vernacular buildings

points in conjunction with potential for walking trails at the southern

associated with the showground, whilst reinforcing the surrounding

end of the site and more generally within the site

vegetation and increasing heritage information and interpretation.

Identifying more substantive opportunities to celebrate local Aboriginal culture through an interpretive area such as a yarning circle / rest space or integrated art work/s, or having an Aboriginal presence on the site (e.g.: cultural walks / tours)

o

Incorporating heritage information as part of public buildings, including for example the integration of the current art works displayed within the Breezeway

o

o

Enabling greater Indigenous involvement in operational committees, as well as potential for better integration of the Showground and

Option A: Interpretive information, vegetation enclosure to north and retention of existing

Multi-Purpose Centre areas

buildings

Continued support for the Yunung Bush Tucker Community Garden

o

Option B: In conjunction with increased accessibility to the on-site native vegetation and any new buildings / facilities, establish a greater series of spaces and interpretation sources to celebrate both Indigenous and more recent history of the site, recognising the past whilst establishing and moving towards changes that reflect the likely increase in use of the site in coming years.

This option would still seek to retain / reinforce the showground use and natural surrounds, as well as using relatively simple / vernacular design in new facilities, but with a view to enabling the site to change over time within this context.

EXISTING ART WORKS WITHIN BREEZWAY Lake Macquarie City Council Morisset Showground Master Plan and Plan of Management – Issues & Opportunities Paper

PAGE 42

Option B: Aboriginal arts works, interactive play and modern vernacular design / shed o

Option C: Accepting that the site is part of an area identified for substantial change in coming years, and being more progressive about the future use of the site. This may integrate elements of the past in a more subtle way, but move to a position of more substantial use of the site that changes the nature of building design / layout (being more commercial, less vernacular) whilst reducing the more open space approach to more vibrant multi-use spaces that are more built-up.

Questions to consider o

To what extent is the history and nature of the site important to its future?

o

Is it time to move away from simple / vernacular buildings to a more modern and substantial mixed-use approach?

o

What are the best ways to represent the history and heritage of the site in the future?

Lake Macquarie City Council Morisset Showground Master Plan and Plan of Management – Issues & Opportunities Paper

PAGE 43

6.8

Environment and sustainability

A key attraction of the site is its quiet, tranquil setting despite being in an increasingly urban location. The balance between the site activities, surrounding native vegetation and long-distance views, all within close access to major transport connections, makes for a unique offering.

The area of native bushland between the Multi-purpose Centre and Showground contains Coastal Plains Scribbly Gum Woodland and a number of threatened flora and fauna as shown in Figure 11. Large numbers of threatened flora Tetratheca juncea, a low-lying leafless shrub, are located within this area, as well as sightings of Squirrel Gliders, Spotted-tailed Quoll and the Eastern Bentwing-Bat. Other threated flora and fauna are also identified on surrounding sites, including with the native vegetation located to the immediate east (zoned E2 – Environmental Conservation). Medium to large trees also follow much of the western boundary of the site along Freemans Drive.

Together, this vegetation provides for visual relief and enclosure for the site, establishing a strong rural and nature character. This has however been eroded in more recent times, particularly in the north where new urban development is now present.

These current natural assets provide a strong platform from which to further develop new opportunities within the Morisset Showground area to enhance, protect and promote these key attributes. It is important that these species are considered in any potential development of these areas of the site such as for formal walking trails.

Other existing sustainability and environmental themes of note include the existing Yunung Community Garden adjoining the Multi-Purpose Centre and the presence of a large solar array on the existing breezeway that provides a substantial power base for the site.

Figure 11: Site vegetation Lake Macquarie City Council Morisset Showground Master Plan and Plan of Management – Issues & Opportunities Paper

PAGE 44

2

1

o

The change in elevation between the existing on-site vegetation and Les Norris Oval / upper terrace open space area of the Showground presents both an opportunity and a constraint.

Future opportunities and directions Building on the existing environmental assets of the site provides a range of opportunities, from both an ecological as well as a site user perspective. The 4

3

identified opportunities and directions relating to the theme of environment and sustainability include: o

Ensuring that any future facilities have high levels of sustainability built in – including solar passive design, use of solar power, water capture / reuse and sustainable use of materials

o

connecting this through environmental corridors within the site and

1 & 2 YUNUNG COMMUNITY GARDEN AREA 3 & 4 EXISTING VEGETATION (VIEWING FROM NORTH (1) AND SOUTH (2)

Existing key benefits and constraints

to adjoining vegetation o

incorporating these areas for both conservation and education purposes.

Key benefits and constraints of the current situation include: o

o

Encouraging engagement with natural areas as a way to provide connectivity and engagement between activities at the MultiPurpose Centre and Showground areas and to encourage environmentally / culturally orientated community group use /

species, many of which are also particularly important to the

participation (e.g. bush regeneration, cultural walking groups).

offset costs and social impacts.

The ecological importance and connection of Aboriginal people to the existing vegetation provides an opportunity to engage the broader community through education and interpretive information o

areas, including opportunities for interpretive information

Existing native vegetation is shown to have a range of threatened Aboriginal people of the area. Removal will be costly in terms of

o

Enabling a sustainable level of public access, through new pathways or bushwalks that enables controlled engagement with natural

The importance of the existing natural environment and its relationship to the character and heritage of the site provides a platform for better

Providing for the retention of sensitive native vegetation, and

Connectivity of the on-site vegetation with surrounding off-site bushland could be improved to benefit native animal movement

Master plan options Given the onus on retention of the native vegetation between the MultiPurpose Centre and the Showground, all options would assume to include improved ecological connections between this area, and broader areas of native vegetation to the north-east (including suitable fauna friendly fencing).

This would entail some extent of additional planting to the south-east of the

through the site Lake Macquarie City Council Morisset Showground Master Plan and Plan of Management – Issues & Opportunities Paper

PAGE 45

existing telecommunications tower, an area that is generally underutilised

informative experience for users, but also points for other education

under the current configuration.

(e.g. yarning circles) and recreation (e.g. fitness stations).

Otherwise, based on outcomes of the above opportunities and directions, the following options have been developed for further consideration: o

Option A: Retaining the existing areas of native vegetation between the Multi-Purpose Centre and the Showground, without any improved access arrangements (as existing) to ensure that the existing vegetation has the least level of disturbance.

o

Option B: Retaining the existing areas of native vegetation between the Multi-Purpose Centre and the Showground, but with improved

Option C: More formal (concrete) trails with recreation / education spaces

access arrangements in the form of formalised bush trails that may be able to meet some accessibility standards, but would be more akin to national park style walks. This would include interpretive signage and similar infrastructure to create a more informative experience for users.

Other character images: Lookout area with interpretation, community gardens and fauna friendly fencing

Questions to consider Option B: More naturalistic trails, with signage and interpretive information o

Option C: Retaining the existing areas of native vegetation between

o

experiencing natural areas within an urban context?

the Multi-Purpose Centre and the Showground, but with a more permanent natural area experience that has higher levels of

o

accessibility through concrete shared user paths that are designed

o

Lake Macquarie City Council Morisset Showground Master Plan and Plan of Management – Issues & Opportunities Paper

How accessible should these areas be, with greater access meaning more formalised facilities such as concrete pathways?

Are there environmental or cultural community groups that would utilise the natural areas?

to link into a broader movement network. Again, this would include interpretive signage and similar infrastructure to create a more

Should natural areas have restricted access, or is this an opportunity for

o

Should the community garden be expanded / improved as a priority?

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7.

Other Project Considerations

As outlined through Section 6, there are a range of overarching themes and activities that occur in particular locations or throughout the Morisset Showground and Multi-Purpose Centre site. It is reiterated that the

camping facilities. This desire when combined with the broader intention of increasing the use of the site over the long-term, means that the broader context of site management will continue to be monitored to best reflect the needs of the community over time. This will be further considered pending the outcomes of consultation on the options presented herein.

principles and emerging directions identified in Section 5 remain key to whole of site planning.

7.2

The options identified and discussed throughout Section 6 are designed to

There is a range of maintenance needs and responsibilities associated with

provide potential options and context to particular uses and site themes, and

the site. Lease holders (Southlakes Community Services Inc and Southlakes

these will need to be further balanced with each other moving into the full

Men’s Shed Inc) have general maintenance responsibilities associated with

Master Plan and Plan of Management process.

their facilities, whilst Council and Council’s appointed campground manager

7.1

Ongoing management

Maintenance

undertake additional maintenance works. The Morisset Showground Operating Committee have more limited maintenance responsibilities,

The Showground and Multi-Purpose Centre areas are under different forms

though have traditionally (under previous Crown Land’s management

of day-to-day management. The Multi-Purpose Centre is under a long-term

arrangements) undertaken maintenance and improvement works.

lease to Southlakes Community Services Inc, whilst the land and native

This situation creates multiple layers of responsibility, with maintenance

vegetation behind and surrounding the buildings are maintained by Council.

This arrangement is likely to remain in place pending the normal processes for offering long-term management of facilities under lease and/or licence arrangements.

Within the Showground, the facility is currently operated under a s355 committee of Council – the Morisset Showground Operating Committee.

This committee is supported by a “campground manager” that undertakes maintenance and bookings (in addition to the online booking system”.

Council also undertakes regular maintenance and minor improvement projects, whilst the Southlakes Men’s Shed Inc facility is under a separate lease arrangement associated with that area of the site.

equipment being taken on and off the site depending on the location and maintenance work required. Maintenance equipment, including a large tractor, are also located within the site, though not widely used for current maintenance activities.

In the future, there is potential to facilitate maintenance activities through the provision of an on-site maintenance ‘depot’ that would be utilised for maintenance crews associated with the site, as well as external activities. To avoid conflicts between this facility and other site users, any such facility would be located in a discrete and separated area – such as between the Men’s Shed and site entry (including appropriate fencing and landscaping).

Initial consultation identified the desire for a full or part time caretaker to be located on the site, particularly with reference to the management of the Lake Macquarie City Council Morisset Showground Master Plan and Plan of Management – Issues & Opportunities Paper

PAGE 47

7.3

Need for flexibility

The potential for the Morisset area to change rapidly over coming years highlights a need for the site and the proposed plans to be flexible to

Future strategies, generally to be developed by Council, will also dictate priorities both within the site and across the broad local government area.

These strategies include:

necessary changes and broader locality planning. As highlighted in various

o

facilities and needs

sections, there are significant projects and proposals that have the potential to impact on the site, including: o

o

o

Cedar Mill development proposal, and the ultimate form of its progression subject to necessary approvals

of events that are desired, as well as broader planning for the locality

Priority works and staging of project elements will be further explored as part

Morisset Town Hub community precinct – which is likely to include a

of the consultation process associated with this Paper.

range of enhanced community spaces within the Morisset town centre area When combined with the opportunity to continue to use the site for a range events that typically require larger spaces, there is potential to ‘test’ markets and activities before committing to extensive fixed infrastructure.

Related to this is the need for access, parking and circulation arrangements to match the future scale of use of the site. Initial options for various layout options have been identified in the associated plan at Appendix 3. The ultimate layout of circulation and parking will be established in conjunction with the outcomes of options identified throughout this document and the scale of use that is ultimately proposed.

7.4

Morisset Community Hub and other strategic plans for the Morisset area as an economic growth centre

Cedar Mill entertainment precinct development on the former Morisset Country Club site – which may impact on the type and size

o

Sports Strategy or similar that would review organised sporting

Potential priorities

In general terms, improvement priorities will include those elements that are required to facilitate an increase in the effective use of the site, and which are likely to best meet the long-term needs of the space (i.e. those that provide a solid base for increasing future use).

Lake Macquarie City Council Morisset Showground Master Plan and Plan of Management – Issues & Opportunities Paper

7.5

Project costs and funding

Whilst a number of proposed project options and opportunities have been identified in this Issues and Opportunities Paper, Council has many and competing needs for funding allocations. As the site has only recently come under the management of Council, there has not been any major improvements earmarked for funding through Council’s forward planning and contributions schemes. The undertaking of the current process will however enable this to occur in the future.

As such, part of the road-testing process is to seek feedback on priorities for improvements and the extent thereof, so that funding priorities can be identified as part of the Master Plan and Plan of Management to be developed.

In general terms, the options identified under the themes in Section 6 are provided with a view to establishing the scale of change and thereby the associated costs moving forward to the full Master Plan and Plan of Management. Across the life of the Plan and Management (10 years),

PAGE 48

projects will be identified and prioritised, seeking to building up uses in conjunction with the need for flexibility as discussed in Section 7.3.

The provision of a Master Plan and Plan of Management also provides the

Project element

Relative cost

Comments

Equestrian improvements – State or national level

$$$$

Likely to include all new facilities – potentially associated with Option C only

Camping improvement – Basic within existing context

$$

Includes upgrades to existing amenities, basic camp kitchen and some improvements to layout

Camping improvement – Consolidation to dedicated space

$$$

Includes new amenities and camp kitchen style facilities, power heads and access / layout improvements

Access, parking and vehicle circulation - basic

$$

Includes formalising a small area of parking and improving access around main facilities

Access, parking and vehicle circulation - basic

$$$+

Includes formalising multiple areas of parking, new access and formalising all internal roads

background and strategic merit that can be used for accessing grant funding.

With many showgrounds having been central to recent disaster recovery efforts, such grant opportunities are relatively frequent at the current time.

Indicative project costs according to the following to the following broad cost allocations are provided in Table 1. $ - Low cost - Less than $200,000 $$ - Low-medium - $200,000 to $500,000 $$$ - Medium - $500,000 to $1 million $$$$ - Medium-high - $1 million - $2 million $$$$$ - High cost - $2 million + Table 1: Potential indicative project costs Project element

Relative cost

Multi-Purpose Centre / Council owned land Comments

Morisset Showground Reserve area New community facilities

$$$$ - $$$$$

Highest cost item whether in the form of a grandstand style facility or new undercover spaces / buildings

Retained and improved community facilities

$$ - $$$

Improving existing community facilities to be retained for the next 10 years+

Main oval upgrade for access, improved spectator viewing and drainage (northern end)

$$ - $$$

Equestrian improvements – Local or regional level

$$ - $$$

Provides for increased use of existing large scale open space pending future use option (e.g. sporting and/or event use) Assumes new facilities for day use and basic facility improvements (e.g. existing riding area upgrades)

Lake Macquarie City Council Morisset Showground Master Plan and Plan of Management – Issues & Opportunities Paper

Environmental area pathways, viewing and restoration - simple

$ - $$

Assumes bushwalk style upgrades with associated interpretive signage, viewing and access arrangements

Environmental area pathways, viewing and restoration - advanced

$$

Assumes high access, concrete style upgrades with extensive interpretation, public art, viewing and exercise opportunities

Community garden upgrades

$

Community driven improvements to community garden area through renewed push for involvement and associated programs

New community facilities

$$$$$

Expansion or replication of the current community services centre or similar (subject to broader regional needs)

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8.

Where Next?

This Issues and Opportunities Paper is designed to provide an overview of options associated with the key themes that have been identified in associated with the project site. These will be used to establish a full draft Plan of Management and associated Master Plan for Morisset Showground.

An outline of the intended timing of next stages is shown below.

Compete

Complete

NOW

Lake Macquarie City Council Morisset Showground Master Plan and Plan of Management – Issues & Opportunities Paper

March - April

May

June - July

PAGE 50

Appendix 1: SHOW CONFIGURATION LAYOUT PLAN COMPARISON

Lake Macquarie City Council Morisset Showground Master Plan and Plan of Management – Issues & Opportunities Paper

APPENDIX 1

Appendix 2: EVENT CONFIGURATION LAYOUT PLAN COMPARISON

Lake Macquarie City Council Morisset Showground Master Plan and Plan of Management – Issues & Opportunities Paper

APPENDIX 2

Appendix 3: ENTRY, CIRCULATION AND PARKING OPTIONS PLAN

Lake Macquarie City Council Morisset Showground Master Plan and Plan of Management – Issues & Opportunities Paper

APPENDIX 2