Winarch Group has announced upcoming plans for the Cedar Mill entertainment venue in Lake Macquarie, promising significant community benefits. Director Paul Lambess stated that details regarding the revised proposal will be shared shortly, aiming to dispel ongoing rumors and concerns from local residents. The original plan, which involved a large-scale investment of $235 million into an events hub on the former Morisset Golf Course site, has been adjusted to include a 10,000-capacity indoor venue and a 5,000-capacity outdoor arena.
Concerns about the project’s direction have been prevalent since March when Winarch announced a reduction in its development scope. Recently, a petition initiated by local teacher Dylan Gould garnered over 4,800 signatures, urging Winarch to enter into a Voluntary Planning Agreement with the Lake Macquarie City Council to prevent the conversion of the site into over-55s housing.
In an interview with the Newcastle Herald, Lambess confirmed that the development application for the revised Cedar Mill will soon be submitted. He expressed enthusiasm about the project, stating, “News is coming and exciting news… I can categorically say we’re going to reveal all our plans shortly and it’s going to be a win for the community and a win for everybody.”
Community Impact and Commitment to Music
Lambess also reaffirmed Winarch’s commitment to expanding its Musos Corner music store within the Cedar Mill development. The store recently relocated from Union Street in Newcastle West to a new site on the Pacific Highway at Charlestown. The move has been well received, with Lambess noting that approximately 6.5 million cars pass the new location, offering exceptional exposure.
The new Musos Corner features a dedicated vintage guitar room, designed by resident expert Kenny Jewell, known for his past collaborations with bands such as the Screaming Jets. Lambess highlighted the importance of creating a space that tells a story, saying, “It’s not just about selling stuff; it’s a whole story.” The store aims to foster a sense of community by allowing customers to buy, sell, and trade vintage instruments.
Lambess and Jewell have sourced unique guitars from both the United States and Japan, including a rare 1916 Gibson L-3 and an exclusive 1956-57 Gibson ES-350T, priced at $26,999. Each guitar comes with its own history, enhancing the shopping experience and providing customers with a deeper connection to their purchases.
As Winarch prepares to unveil its revised Cedar Mill plans and further developments in the Morisset area, the community remains eager for news that promises to reshape the local entertainment landscape.
