A nationwide search has begun for an experienced and innovative operator to lease the landmark Awaba House building under reconstruction in Lake Macquarie.
Lake Macquarie City Council is investing more than $6 million to deliver a state-of-the-art function and dining space on the picturesque lake shore at Booragul, with the venue due to open in late 2025.
Expressions of interest are now open for an operator to take up a five-year lease of the site, with a negotiable option for an additional five years.
Lake Macquarie Mayor Kay Fraser said the new Awaba House, built from the ashes of a 2019 fire that gutted the heritage building, would blend historic charm with contemporary flair.
“Awaba House is poised to become a premier hospitality destination,” she said.
“This is a blank-slate opportunity that offers the right operator the chance to shape a new venue into an iconic destination for residents and visitors.”
Council is open to innovative concepts that make best use of the building’s heritage, while providing an exciting, contemporary offering that contributes to the city’s vibrancy.
Cr Fraser said that could include a cafe, restaurant or other dining options.
“Council will consider all proposals that promise to enhance Lake Mac’s hospitality scene, deliver quality food and beverage offerings and provide private function facilities,” she said.
Once complete, the new Awaba House will feature a function space for up to 120 people and separate bar, cafe and outdoor function areas.
A semicircular porch overlooking the lake will provide a perfect platform for wedding ceremonies and other outdoor occasions.
The successful tenant will also have first right of refusal to operate a café and provide catering for events in the Museum of Art and Culture, yapang, which sits adjacent to the Awaba House site.
For more information and to lodge an expression of interest, go to Expressions of Interest | The Revitalised Awaba House – TITANIUM (titaniumproperty.com.au)
