New security measures in the form of fencing and a hut to shelter staff are being introduced at Tomaree Lodge to keep vulnerable residents safe during the coronavirus pandemic.
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The deadly virus, however, has not put a stop to the ongoing transition of residents from the centre which has for decades been the home for people with a disability into group homes where, to date, almost half the residents have been moved.
A Department of Communities and Justice spokesperson told the Examiner that the security precautions - comprises a safety fence and 24-hour security personnel - were necessary to ensure the safety of the remaining residents at the Shoal Bay facility.
"The measures include closing the walkway through Tomaree Lodge, which previously allowed pedestrians and cyclists access to the Tomaree National Park, and to ensure the footpath can no longer be accessed."
The spokesperson said that the safe and smooth transition of people with disabilities from large residential centres to new, contemporary group homes remained the focus of the NSW government.
"The safety precautions were introduced following discussions with National Parks and Wildlife Service, Port Stephens Council and Port Stephens Police Local Area Command, who supported our actions."
State MP Kate Washington said that Port Stephens residents had contacted her about their concerns after the unannounced installation of security fencing and hut (demountable), preventing the public's previous ability to access the paved waterfront path along the Shoal Bay waterfront.
"Locals consider this area to be part of the Tomaree National Park and is home to significant historic military artifacts which are a common landmark sought out by tourists and locals. The community has had access to this path for many years and to remove it without any explanation or consultation is unacceptable," Ms Washington said.
Ms Washington wrote to the Families, Communities and Disability Services Minister Gareth Ward, whose response acknowledged the fact that COVID-19 had been a consideration for the safety measures.
Mr Ward's spokesperson added that NSW Public Health had advise "COVID-19 should be no barrier to transition [into group homes] where clients and transferring Hunter and NGO staff are well [healthy]".
"The department undertakes extensive planning for every resident before they transfer, including being linked with the appropriate medical care."
