A Shoalhaven Marine rescue vessel patrols the river. Photo: MRNSW.
A $2 million boost will provide Shoalhaven volunteers with a much-needed new home.
The funds will support Marine Rescue NSW to build a new base at Culburra Beach.
The project will include a purpose-designed, state-of-the art emergency services base and training facility with extra room for wider community use including hosting meetings, workshops and functions.
Acting Commissioner for Marine Rescue NSW Todd Andrews said the facility would be a game-changer for volunteers who kept the community safe across the region’s rivers and beaches.
“This will make a magnificent difference to our Shoalhaven volunteers,” he said.
“Currently they’re working out of a very small radio room; they almost have to climb over each other to get out of the room.
“The new building will provide ample space for them, it will have a state-of-the-art technology and radio room, ample storage space, a good-sized training room, parking for our vessels and our vehicles as well.”
It’s already been a busy year in the region, with 87 rescues undertaken and more than 200 people returned safely to shore.
Construction on the new building is anticipated to start in late 2026 after some sewage issues have been resolved and the project has gone to tender.
Acting Commissioner Andrews said he anticipated a busy summer, but volunteers would have a spring in their step after hearing the good news.
“We’ve worked out of the same building for many decades now,” he said.
“This summer volunteers will be buoyed by this funding announcement, and look forward to the next summer in their new facility.”
South Coast MP Liza Butler said she had advocated for the upgrade for many years, and was delighted it would finally become a reality.
She said the infrastructure would help support locals and visitors alike.
“Many people live in and visit the Shoalhaven to play on and visit the water,” she said.
“Marine Rescue do an amazing job of keeping people safe and the new building will be modern, fit for purpose and suitable for volunteers and the wider community.”
The money has come from the Regional Development Trust, a NSW Government fund for investment in shovel-ready regional projects to create jobs and attract investment.
Minister for Regional NSW Tara Moriarty said Marine Rescue was an important group and the government was pleased to provide the additional support.
“This funding backs projects that improve services and is delivering on the NSW Government’s plan to invest in projects that deliver long-term benefits for regional communities,” she said.
“We are proud to support groups like the Volunteer Marine Rescue in their important work keeping our communities safe, and it’s pleasing to see that the new facility will be one for whole of community use.”
