"I can confirm that in January 2014, we signed a lease with Lani's following the council resolution in December to enable Lani's to manage the operations of both Old Bar swimming pool and Rushby Casino," Laura Black, council's executive leader corporate support, said.

"Both facilities have been the subject of ongoing community consultation since January 2013.

"The history behind reviewing operational management dates back a few years and is connected to changed Crown management of commercial operational sites in State Parks and to the Greater Taree City Council review of services that commenced in 2011.

"Within the management licence of Rushbys Casino is a clause that requires Lani's to provide continued access to current user groups in line with the Greater Taree City Council fees and charges 2013/2014," Ms Black said.

"Shortly after taking on Rushby Casino, Lani's did a building audit and found some refurbishment work was required in order to increase use of the facility and this work as indicated to us, includes, electrical rewiring, floor polishing, painting and repair to the roof. Such repairs and maintenance are the responsibility of the current management.

"I am advised that Lani's management are in contact with user groups and that once the hall repairs and maintenance have been completed user groups will be invited back to use the facility again."