The Illawarra Historical Society is campaigning against the demolition of heritage buildings at the Garrawarra Centre in Waterfall, because it would hide the states dark past.
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A number of buildings constructed in the early 1900's to quarantine people with tuberculosis are set to be bulldozed by the NSW Department of Health due to their "derelict" state.
Illawarra Historical Society spokesman John Schipp told the Mercury they were working with the local arm of the National Trust and have written to Premier Gladys Berejiklian and other state politicians in a bid to save the buildings.
"[These buildings are] are incredibly good examples of early architecture but more than that, they're part of the sort of under history that people didn't want to recognise," Mr Schipp said.
"The fact thousands went through Waterfall and at least 2000 died there and were buried there, we need to continue to recognise that.
"I think it's too easy to have a vanilla view of history."
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Mr Schipp's great uncle was one of many tuberculosis sufferers (also known as consumption) who were sent from around NSW to the Waterfall State Sanatorium - which was in operation from 1909 to 1949.
Before the discovery of penicillin, it was believed the cool mountain air and fresh food from orchards and dairies surrounding the hospital, north-west of Helensburgh, could offer a cure.
Newer sections of the site are currently being used as a residential aged care facility.
Wollongong City Council currently own the adjacent cemetery with a Conservation Management Plan in place. Their intent is to eventually reinstate the bush cemetery with open days so members of the public can visit.
A spokeswoman said council approval was not required for the demolition proposal for buildings at Garrawarra.
"NSW Health Infrastructure has asked Council for comments on the proposal which have initiated further background reports and justification," she said.
"Garrawarra is already listed as a local heritage item and is owned by the State."
A spokeswoman said council approval was not required for the demolition proposal for Garrawarra.
"NSW Health Infrastructure has asked Council for comments on the proposal which have initiated further background reports and justification," she said.
"Garrawarra is already listed as a local heritage item and is owned by the State."
A spokesperson for South Eastern Sydney Local Health District said demolition of a "select number" of buildings were intended for demolition "subject to statutory authority approval".
"These works will address a number of current Work Health and Safety risks relating to the age of the buildings and hazardous materials used in their construction," they said.
"A specialist Heritage Architect will be engaged to ensure the recording and preservation of heritage items as they are identified throughout the project."
A start date for demolition yet to be determined.
