The government had been considering a proposal to privatise particular aspects of all of the state’s Sport and Recreation centres.

Last year, Fairfax Media revealed the state government had held confidential talks with commercial operators and organisations that have Christian mission statements, as part of the controversial outsourcing proposal.

The centres are used for thousands of school camps every year.

Disability groups, and social and service clubs are also regular users of the centres.

There were concerns that any privatisation of the centres would lead to cost increases for users.

The Public Service Association launched a campaign opposing the plan, and Lake Macquarie residents responded in droves.

Hundreds signed a PSA petition at Wangi Hardware.

Lake Macquarie state MP Greg Piper said the community had won an important fight.

“It was a victory for common sense and the thousands who joined the campaign,” Mr Piper said.

“There was a very real fear that a private operator would not retain all the unique programs which have made Myuna Bay and other centres so popular, particularly for many disabled groups and people with special needs.”

Mr Piper congratulated those who backed the PSA campaign.

He said the state government should be commended for reversing its decision.

“I also acknowledge Premier Mike Baird and Sports Minister Stuart Ayres for listening to the community and understanding what the Myuna and Point Wolstoncroft centres mean to our local area,” he said.

PSA general secretary Stewart Little said he hoped the government’s change of heart signaled the “beginning of the end for the massive privatisation agenda” of the Baird government.

“Historically and culturally, the camps have played an important part in education programs for students across the state,” Mr Little said.

“Children across NSW benefit from their programs which assist the development of life-skills and the obtaining of learning experiences that they may not otherwise be able to acquire and access.

“The government had planned to essentially sell the great outdoors.

“I applaud the government’s decision.”