Four Hospitalised Following Barbecue Explosion at Lake Conjola Holiday Park
Four individuals have been transported to hospital following a significant explosion in a barbecue area at a holiday park in Lake Conjola. The incident occurred early on Saturday morning, January 31, 2026, prompting a substantial emergency response to the popular coastal destination.
Emergency Services Respond to Early Morning Incident
Paramedics were dispatched to Norman Street in Lake Conjola at approximately 7:30 am after reports of an explosion in an undercover barbecue facility. The area contained three barbecues and was part of the holiday park's amenities. Upon arrival, emergency personnel assessed five people who sustained injuries from the blast, which scattered debris throughout the vicinity.
A man in his 30s suffered facial injuries and required urgent medical attention. He was airlifted via the Toll Ambulance Rescue Helicopter to Wollongong Hospital, where he was reported to be in a stable condition. A woman in her 30s sustained abdominal injuries, while two children under the age of five received minor injuries. These three patients were transported by road ambulance to Shoalhaven Hospital in Nowra, also in stable condition. A fifth individual assessed at the scene did not require hospital transportation.
Investigation Underway into Suspected Gas Leak
Authorities have indicated that a gas leak is being considered as a potential cause for the explosion. SafeWork NSW, the state's workplace health and safety regulator, has launched a formal investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident. This probe will examine the barbecue equipment, gas supply systems, and overall safety protocols at the holiday park to determine the exact cause and prevent future occurrences.
The explosion has raised concerns about safety standards in recreational facilities, particularly during the busy summer holiday period when such amenities see increased usage. Lake Conjola, located on the New South Wales South Coast, is a favoured destination for families and tourists, making this incident particularly alarming for the local community and visitors alike.
As the investigation progresses, holiday park operators and local authorities are likely to review safety measures for barbecue areas and gas installations in similar settings across the region.
