The first phase of a complex remediation process is underway at the former Munmorah Power Station at Colongra near Budgewoi, on the shore of Lake Munmorah.
The power station was decommissioned in 2012 with demolition completed in 2018 and is now the site of the Waratah Super Battery.
NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) has approved a Voluntary Management Proposal (VMP) for the power station, kicking off the first phase of a complex remediation process.
Part of the site was declared significantly contaminated in April 2024 due to PFAS and petroleum hydrocarbon pollution, stemming from the historical operation of the coal-fired power station and past use of firefighting foams containing PFAS at the site.
NSW EPA Executive Director of Operations Jason Gordon said the recently approved VMP was a critical first step in ensuring the former coal-fired power station site was remediated effectively.
“This is a complicated remediation project, and we must allow enough time to get it right,” Gordon said.
“Under the VMP, the site’s current owner will work with environmental consultants to gather detailed information about the contaminants, including how they move through soil and water.
“Taking the time to thoroughly assess the onsite contamination will ensure the remediation approach selected is suitable and fit-for-purpose to achieve the best long-term outcomes for the community and surrounding environment.
“We know the community is invested in the clean-up of this site and we’re working closely with the owner to ensure they proactively engage them about the process, as per the requirements of the VMP.”
Following completion of the first Voluntary Management Proposal, site owner Generator Property Management Pty Ltd (GPM) will submit a second VMP (Phase 2) outlining the implementation of the remediation approach.
The EPA is overseeing the remediation process as part of the site’s regulation under the Contaminated Land Management Act 1997 (CLM Act).
Parts of the site impacted by the contamination have been fenced off for several years and are not considered to pose a risk to the surrounding community.
Testing has also confirmed that seafood in the Tuggerah Lakes System – connected to Lake Munmorah – remains safe to eat as part of a balanced diet.
😂 lol eat the fish 🐠 😆 not funny