It wasn't always easy - early on Michael had to travel to Sydney for work as a taxi driver on weekends to make ends meet.

Now their children have grown up, things are a little easier, and they have big plans for the plot of land they live and work on.

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The Mascaros have submitted a development application to turn the site of the general store, and their home, into two commercial premises with shop-top housing made up of 17 two-bedroom units.

They envision a premises that can provide more employment for the local community, during construction and afterwards, a space for locals to gather for a cup of coffee or a glass of wine and catch up.

They also hope the development will be an opportunity for their extended family to live close together.

"I'm a wog, and we like to keep our family together," Mr Mascaro said.

"We're gregarious people. There's a beautiful open green space in the middle for people to come together and enjoy it."

More than 100 people oppose the development, and have submitted their objections to Shoalhaven City Council.

The most common issues with the development are that it is "not in keeping with the nature of the village" and that local infrastructure would be unable to support the additional residents and visitors.

In his submission to council an A Holmes called the proposal "an appalling display of overdevelopment".

"If we wanted to live in Sydney we would have bought in Sydney," he wrote.

Anne Fry said she supported "limited development of the shops and a few apartments," but was concerned the 40 parking spaces that would be provided could create traffic problems.

Mr Mascaro believes those fears are unfounded.

While he acknowledges the road needs to be improved, he hopes additional residents - and the extra rates that come in them - will motivate the council to act.

He believes the village cannot be overdeveloped, as it is bordered by national parks and water frontage.

"We can improve it, we can add to the place, but we can never expand beyond what we are," he said.

"This is a beautiful place, and we want to share it."

The application complies with the zoning requirements on the land.