Cedar Mill Group scales back plans for Lake Macquarie concert venue

Cedar Mill Group’s plans to develop a 30,000-capacity amphitheatre at Morisset in NSW’s Lake Macquarie region are to be scaled back with the Newcastle-based company now looking to build a 5,000-capacity outdoor amphitheatre along with a 10,000-capacity indoor venue

The ambitious $235 million redevelopment of Morisset Golf Club had included a proposal for a fabric roofed amphitheatre, along with a dining and retail precinct and a large aquatic play park.

Representatives from Winarch Group in charge of the project met with Lake Macquarie Councillors last Monday and expressed their intention to down-size plans.

Commenting on the revised proposal, Lake Macquarie Mayor, Adam Shultz advised “it is very disappointing to hear that the Winarch Group will not be proceeding with their Cedar Mill proposal at Morisset as planned.”

A spokesperson from Winarch Group had earlier denied potential changes after initial questions about the project in 2024, stating the venue was expected to host large international acts as soon as early 2026.

However, a subsequent statement confirmed a significant downsize to the project, noting “Winarch Group is heavily-invested in the Hunter region, and we remain steadfast in our plans to deliver an entertainment precinct for the region.

“Our updated plans include a 5,000-capacity outdoor amphitheatre in addition to a 10,000-capacity indoor venue designed to host family events, car shows, expos, and live music - ensuring a year -round destination for arts, culture, and entertainment in Morisset.

“We are confident that these enhancements will better serve the community, drive economic impact, and create employment pathways.

“We look forward to sharing more details in April.”

Meanwhile, in a post to his Facebook on Friday, Federal Member for Hunter Dan Repacholi stated that revised plans will be submitted to Lake Macquarie Council next month.

Repacholi wrote "I met with the CEO of Winarch today. They are building the Cedar Mill and Morisset Supercentre.

"The community has raised concerns with me after a leaked email about a recent meeting with Lake Macquarie Council.

"Winarch told me that some changes will be made to the Cedar Mill plan, but they’re still focused on creating a great entertainment area for our region.

"They will submit updated plans and a timeline to the Council in April, and the community will be able to give feedback on the new plan.

"Work on the Morisset Supercentre is moving forward, with roadworks and traffic plans now sorted with the Council and Transport for NSW.

"Work at the site is expected to start up again next month."

Image: An earlier concept for Cedar Mill Group’s 30,000-capacity amphitheatre at Morisset, NSW.