By the community, for the community- the Nambucca’s remarkable Illawong Village

FOR more than six decades, a remarkable community initiative in Nambucca Heads has quietly provided affordable housing for retired people. Yet many residents remain unaware of its existence.

Overlooking the Nambucca River estuary, Illawong Community Village is home to 52 units and is one of only two retirement facilities in NSW operated by a voluntary community organisation.

Its origins date back to 1962, when a group of concerned Nambucca Valley residents recognised the need for specialised low-cost accommodation for older and invalid pensioners.

Through community fundraising, donated materials, volunteer labour and the generosity of local organisations, their vision became a reality in 1967.

Today, Illawong Village Ltd continues that original mission, providing affordable accommodation in a safe and welcoming environment, supported by a dedicated volunteer board.

Volunteer director Eric Pitman said the village continues to fulfil an important community need.

“Being one of the volunteers on the Illawong Community Village team is rewarding as the village services a great need in the community, especially in the current economic climate,” Mr Pitman told News Of The Area.

“We are always on the lookout for other community-minded people who might like to consider being a volunteer director on our board.”

Mr Pitman also acknowledged the valuable advice and support received from Nambucca Valley Council, including a recent visit by Mayor Gary Lee.

Despite operating largely outside the public spotlight, Illawong has invested almost $1.1 million of its own funds into improvements over the past 15 years, including unit renovations and road upgrades.

The Illawong Community Village Board recently looked to secure State Government grants to fund improvements and has been buoyed by comments from Member for Oxley, Michael Kemp.

During a visit to the village, he was impressed by the dedication of those involved and has begun advocating for government assistance to support future expansion.

“Illawong Village is a fantastic example of grassroots community effort,” he told NOTA

“It was built by people who saw a gap in housing for older pensioners and genuinely wanted to make a difference. “You can see the sincerity behind what they do and the difference they’re making.”

“I’ve written to the Minister on Illawong Village’s proposed new structures and funding request. This is a real opportunity for the government to support a proven community-led initiative and assist more older pensioners find secure housing.”

The organisation has also undertaken significant constitutional changes to strengthen its not-for-profit charitable status and support its future operations.

With affordable housing increasingly difficult to secure, the village’s community-driven model remains as relevant today as it was when first established.

As Illawong approaches 60 years since its first residents moved in, its story stands as an example to what community determination, generosity and volunteer commitment can achieve.

For many residents, Illawong is more than affordable accommodation.

It’s a place of security, friendship and belonging, created by the community, for the community.

By Mick BIRTLES