Former Bunnings warehouse to be converted into mass vaccination hub in NSW

A former Bunnings site in NSW is undergoing a significant transformation to help in the fight against Covid-19.

An empty Bunnings warehouse in Lake Macquarie will be transformed into the NSW Government’s second mass vaccination centre, set to administer up to 20,000 vaccines per week.

The mass vaccination centre will be located south of Newcastle, with around 150 people to work on converting the site over six weeks.

The Centre will administer both the Pfizer and AstraZeneca vaccines, with bookings required.

Premier Gladys Berejiklian said the centre is expected to open in mid July, replicating the existing mass vaccination hub in Sydney.

“We are planning to replicate that model in the Hunter region, so we can quickly and safely vaccinate as many people as possible across NSW,” Ms Berejiklian said.

It is the second mass vaccination hub to open in the state after Sydney’s Olympic Park, which currently vaccinates around 5,000 people a day.

The former Bunnings warehouse in Lake Macquarie, south of Newcastle. Picture: Supplied

The new centre is expected to employ up to 100 nurses, 25 pharmacists or pharmacy technicians, plus around 200 other support staff.

Michael DiRienzo, Chief Executive, Hunter New England Local Health District, said he was delighted to host the state’s second mass vaccination centre.

“I want to take this opportunity to acknowledge the tremendous efforts of our staff and all the contractors who are helping us to deliver this vaccination centre,” Mr DiRienzo said.

“It is no small task to transform an empty warehouse into a vaccination centre capable of inoculating thousands every day. It’s a great service you’re doing for our community.”

New South Wales Health Minister Brad Hazzard last month said a large space with plenty of parking would be needed for the new site.

NSW Health Minister Brad Hazzard last week said a new vaccination hub needed lots of space. Picture: Supplied

Proposed locations previously included the Hunter Stadium and Newcastle Showground.

“The Newcastle community and indeed everyone across the Hunter/New England local health district has been outstanding in presenting for Covid testing to help keep their loved ones safe,” Mr Hazzard said.

“More than half a million people to date have fronted for testing, so I am confident the community will register online to get vaccinated at this new centre, or with their GP, and encourage others to do the same.”