Council received a $200,000 grant for the project earlier this year from the Australian Government Regional and Local Community Infrastructure Program, but when tenders were called it became obvious much more money was needed to complete the work.

During last week’s meeting council allocated an additional $137,000 needed to carry out all the work replacing the dilapidated RVCP building with a new and functional centre, completed and fully fitted out.

“Because council is committed to ensuring the best possible facility for the costal patrol, council allocated an additional $137,000 from the strategic projects reserve to do the job once and do it right,” said deputy mayor Gareth Ward.

However, council is continuing to seek grant funding to cover the financial shortfall.

Nowra construction company Ablock Builders has been awarded the contract to build and fit out the new RVCP headquarters, although the group’s volunteers will complete some of the work to help minimise costs.

Cr Ward said he was “delighted” the work was being carried out by a local company “which will mean that this council investment will also support local business and jobs in the Shoalhaven region”.

“Shoalhaven City Council is committed to doing our best to support dedicated volunteer organisations such as the Royal Volunteer Costal Patrol and I have no doubt that this investment will go a long way to sustaining this outstanding service for our community,” Cr Ward said.