A homemade pipe bomb was found near a classic car museum in Kembla Grange on Tuesday morning.
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A security officer located the improvised explosive device during a routine patrol of Integral Energy Recreation Park on Darkes Road at about 4am.
Police said the device was found on a driveway at the outskirts of the Australian Motorlife Museum, not near the playground.
Officers attached to Lake Illawarra Police District and the bomb squad attended the scene and commenced an investigation.
A police spokeswoman said police would not comment on the possible intent of the device as police inquires were continuing.
The device was scanned and manually moved to a safe location, where it was detonated.
Neil Barnett, who is the president of the Kembla Joggers club which is located in Integral Energy Recreation Park, said he was concerned when he heard a bomb had been left on the driveway.
"I was told the pipe bomb was attached to the lock mechanism of the bifold gate that gives access to the park," Mr Barnett said.
"The club, museum and a playground are located inside the recreation park.
"The park is popular with the public because many like to go to the playground or sit under the shelter, especially with the warmer weather.
"It is concerning a bomb was left on the gate.
"Especially as there are often early morning walkers with dogs who use the park."
Mr Barnett said he was had no explanation as to why the bomb was left at the gate.
"I don't think it was targeted but I'm not sure because the device could have been there to break the lock for some sinister motive or it could be random," he said.
"It is concerning someone would leave the device in a public park for a security official to open."
Mr Barnett said the club had installed an extensive CCTV system so he hoped the cameras captured someone putting the bomb at the gate. The footage has been given to police.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Lake Illawarra Police District on 4232 5312 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.