Regional PCYC inches nearer

17 March, 2015Posted in: Community, Development
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A dedicated Police Citizens Youth Club (PCYC) for the Wingecarribee and Wollondilly Shires has moved a step closer with the PCYC NSW allocating an additional $150,000 towards the establishment of the Mittagong-based facility.

Chair of the combined Wingecarribee and Wollondilly PCYC Working Group, Councillor Larry Whipper congratulated the PCYC on the announcement.

“This additional funding is evidence that this joint regional PCYC has unilateral support,” he said.

The funding follows the original commitment of $250,000 by PCYC NSW and $150,000 from developer contributions paid by Urban Growth NSW through the Renwick development.

“This joint-regional project requires significant community investment and this funding will go a long way towards providing a permanent recreational and support facility for the youth of both the Wollondilly and Wingecarribee Shires,” Councillor Whipper said.

“But whilst the facility is progressing, further funds would obviously help fast-track its delivery,” Councillor Whipper added.  “Should any benefactor wish to assist the youth of the region, we’d be only too happy to hear from them.”

Further funding has also been sought from the Federal Government’s National Stronger Regions Funds with successful applicants expected to be notified in May 2015.

Member for Wollondilly, Jai Rowell MP strongly supports the establishment of the PCYC facility in Mittagong.

“It is a much needed asset undoubtedly benefitting the greater community and giving our youth a place to meet and train under the guidance of passionate role models”, Mr Rowell said.

The combined Wingecarribee and Wollondilly PCYC Working Group is made up of community members, Bowral Police representatives, councillors and staff from both Councils.

The joint PCYC will be located adjacent to the Mittagong Swimming Pool within the Mittagong Recreation Centre and will serve the youth of both the Wingecarribee and southern villages of the Wollondilly Local Government Areas.

“After almost 20 years, we’re nearing the light at the end of the tunnel,” Councillor Whipper added.

Wingecarribee Shire Mayor, Councillor Duncan Gair commended the Working Group on their achievements thus far.

“The PCYC Working Group, including local stakeholders from the NSW Police and PCYC NSW, local youth workers and staff of both councils should all be justifiably proud of their achievements to date in turning this facility into reality,” he said.

“It is because of their persistence and efforts that the day is nearing when our youth will be able to meet and train under the guidance of enthusiastic mentors.”

For more information on PCYC NSW, contact the PCYC State Office on phone (02) 9625 9111.