Western Australia facilities open, then close

The Shire of Shark Bay's new community, sport recreation centre - officially opened in September - is unlikely to open to the public until next year.

The centre's builder went into voluntary administration four days before being opened by Western Australian Fisheries Minister Norman Moore in advance of the annual Gascoyne Games.

Once the Games were complete, the Centre closed, with the Shire liaising with subcontractors in order to complete and reopen the facility. The Council says the building is practically completed but is not fully equipped to cope in the event of a fire.

Western Australian Minister for Regional Development, Brendon Grylls, says despite the official opening, the building is not yet ready for public use, stating "the opening of this centre occurred prior to practical completion and building handover to the Shire,

"Temporary access was a stipulated condition of the contract to enable the use of that centre during the Gascoyne Games weekend."

The purpose-built $5.2 million facility also doubles as evacuation shelter for 500 people.

The Shark Bay closure is the second time in recent months where a Western Australian facility has closed shortly after its official opening.

In August, just four days after having been opened by Western Australian Premier Colin Barnett, the Town of Port Hedland's Wanangkura Stadium closed while issues surrounding water and fire services were resolved.

The $34.1 million venue remained closed for two months.

10th September 2012 - WANANGKURA STADIUM SET TO REOPEN?