The Shack, is a joint initiative with Southern Cross Community Housing and Essential Employment and Training.

The project, launched on Thursday at Terara, is similar to a men’s shed project, instead for disadvantaged youth.

The brainchild of Brett Steele and Garry Field, the project came to fruition as a result of the Shark Tank earlier this year, which linked businesses with charities.

Three local businesses, Strongbuild, Shoalhaven Garage Doors and Real Aussie Sheds, backed the concept, paying the rent for premises for a year.

Located at 31 Millbank Road, The Shack will allow youth to get involved in a  range of activities, develop their skills and encourage teamwork and collaboration.

“It’s all about providing youth with skills to enrich their lives,” said Gary, who is the regional manager for Essential Employment and Training.

“They can be involved in a range of activities that develop skills and prepare for life’s challenges and possibly even direction for future careers.”

Brett, who is a tenant advisor with Southern Cross Community Housing, said the project will cater for youth be aged between 15-years and 24 years of age.

“The project also aims at providing a safe and secure place where the youth, referred by community agencies, can learn a range of skills,” he said.

“They can learn creative skills like how to perform minor furniture repairs, how to fix a pushbike and learn ways to upcycle items that would otherwise be thrown away.”

“These skills will not only empower them to take positive control of their life’s direction, but also assist them in their quest to become valued and contributing members of our community,” Garry said

They said the support from from the local community had been fantastic.

“Not only do we have David Bennett from Shoalhaven Garage Doors, Jamie Strong from Strongbuild and John Saunig from Real Aussie Sheds as our main backers, but we have approached a number of local businesses for support with tools and equipment,” Brett said.

“Seventy-five 75 per cent of businesses we have approached have given us items.

“There are not too many communities that could boast that kind of support. It’s something the Shoalhaven should be very proud of.”

John Saunig said the decision to support the project was simple.

“The Shark Tank was such a great event with a wonderful atmosphere,” he said.

“When Gary gave his presentation and said he needed a shed everyone, naturally, looked at me.

“I was stilling next to Jamie and we decided we could build them one. But time was going to be a factor.

“David Bennett then got on board and suggested we pool our resources and pay the rent on a shed for them for a year.

“And here we are.”

The next problem was to find a shed. Enter Angus and Lisa Fisher, who provided one on their Terara property.

It is hoped to have The Shack operational early in the new year.

You can still support The Shack project, they are looking for people to act as mentors and volunteers or even offer financial support. Just contact Garry Field on 0439 410 166 or Brett Steele on 0408 860 992.