AGY-534 | Katingal Special Security Unit

Full description

Katingal was a maximum security prison which housed high risk prisoners who were considered dangerous to the public and difficult to supervise in other high security gaols. It also received prisoners who required protection from other prisoners. 'Katingal' is an Aboriginal word meaning separation from social control (1). The original concept of the gaol was developed by Comptroller General W. R. McGeechan in 1968. Planning was undertaken by the Department of Public Works to the specifications of the Department of Corrective Services. The gaol contained 40 single cells, with two exercise yards open to the sky, automatic doors and advanced security systems. Contact between the staff and inmates was minimal. (2). Katingal opened in October 1975 and was part of the Long Bay Prison Complex at Malabar (4). The Unit closed in July 1978 following public discussion over the existence of this type of prison (5). Katingal's maximum security prisoners were transferred to Maitland and Parramatta Gaols. FOOTNOTES : (1) Department of Corrective Services, Long Bay Correctional Complex Conservation Plan, Heritage Group, Department of Public Works and Services, Sydney, 1997, p. 112. (2) Ibid. p. 112. (3) Ibid. p. 112. (4) Official Yearbook of New South Wales, 1977, p. (5) Archives Authority of NSW, "The Concise Guide" , Corrective Services, p.61. REFERENCES : (1) Official Yearbook of New South Wales, 1904/5 - 1988. Sydney, Government Printer, 1906 - 1988 (2) Archives Authority of NSW, "The Concise Guide" 2nd Edition, Sydney, The Authority, 1992