The much-loved and well-known gnome has been a feature at Shoalhaven Women's Health Centre for many years and was taken over the Christmas period.

The thieves also helped themselves to more than 30 newly planted succulents from the centre's recently revamped garden. Other plants were stomped on and destroyed.

To add insult to injury, they loaded their haul in the centre's red bin and stole it too.

With minimal funding available, the centre was thrilled last year when it was the recipient of $1000 from Shoalhaven Council's regular Friday mufti fundraising day for a local charity. Money donated comes from staff members themselves.

The garden is used by groups, to host workshops and for a quiet place for clients to sit. The organisation was looking forward to being able to show off the recent makeover to their clients.

"Having been gifted money to revamp our garden was a dream for our staff and service," manager Tracy Lumb said.

"This has been a really sad and hurtful experience for us. One of those 'straw that broke the camel's back' moments."

While the centre is saddened at the loss of its plants, they're particularly devastated over the theft of their gnome. She's been there for years and is part of the team.

"She has been like a mascot to us, stood in our yard for years and years, being an image of body confidence, attitude and humour. he was always noticed. A good talking point and 'a smile' whenever you looked in her direction," Tracy said.

"We want her back. Our gnome is described as a little aged, 30-40 centimetres tall, long fair hair, chubby little legs and a beautiful curved belly, red gnome hat and a blue/green g-string bikini. I would be confident in saying there is no other like her in the Shoalhaven.

"Someone is looking at her now and knowing she is not theirs."

Shoalhaven Women's Health Centre is located at 5 McGrath Avenue, Nowra. The gnome can be returned there. Contact Tracy Lumb at swhc@swhc.org.au