Our History

The Sugarvalley Neighbourhood Advancement Group Inc. Was initially set up in June 1982 as a voluntary information service for the demographic areas of West Wallsend, Holmesville, Barnsley, Killingworth, Wakefield and Seahampton.  The Salvation Army donated a phone and desk. A space in a corner of their front window in their second-hand shop in Withers Street West Wallsend was for our use. 

In 1983, and with the help of other groups in the area, a study was conducted for the Lake Macquarie City Council by university students. It was determined that a service was needed in the area as the youth were facing problems of isolation due to inadequate transport to entertainment venues. This contributed to drug and alcohol abuse as well as unemployment.  The Drop in Centre was run four nights and three days per week with one worker from the Activity Association. With the establishment of the Information Service it was realised that a community-based neighbourhood centre could be of benefit to the area to gauge the needs of the community and develop services to meet those needs.  

In mid-1984 the Premier of NSW Mr Neville Wran visited the West Wallsend area.  The Committee of the Centre made representation to the Premier for financial assistance to develop the Neighbourhood Centre. The Premier made available $1500 for running costs for the Centre. From this time the service became the Sugarvalley Neighbourhood Information Centre. 

Today the Centre thrives and provides a safe, supportive environment where we offer services, opportunities and resources to give a sense of belonging and empowerment by improving the lives of our community members.