The Shack at Terara marked the occasion by presenting a number of its valued volunteers with a special certificate of appreciation.

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

Launched in 2015, the project 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, with local businesses, Strongbuild, Shoalhaven Garage Doors and Real Aussie Sheds, backing the concept, paying the rent for premises for a year.

“There is no way we could do what we do in helping youth without our volunteers,” Mr Field said.

“We can’t thank them enough.”

For one volunteer Neil Keating, The Shack has been a godsend.

“I lost my wife earlier in the year and was looking for something to do,” he said.

“I went to Community Housing and asked if there was anything I could do to help and they told me about The Shack at Terara.

“I know spend one day a week out there.

“It’s been fantastic. I think I get as much out of it as the young people do.

“I’ve made some great friends, in fact good mates.”

At 83, the former RAN gunner who served in Japan and Korea and warehouse supervisor with James Hardie,  said it is nice to impart some of his knowledge.

“We just get in and give the kids a hand with whatever they are doing,” he said.

“We try and pass on some of the things we have learnt during our lives.

“This experience has been fantastic.”

Participant  Aiden James said he has learnt a lot of new skills and enjoys his time at The Shack.

“I’ve learnt all types of things,” he said “it is great to be able to make or repair things.”