Progress man turns 70

More than 100 family and friends gathered to celebrate the 70th birthday of Pearl Beach Progress Association past president Mr Rod Craig recently.

Association member Ms Lynne Lillico said Mr Craig successfully guided the association through a number of new initiatives and building programs during his tenure as president.

"Following an aggressive fundraising campaign and a grant from the Federal Government, sufficient funds were raised to rebuild and upgrade the heritage Pearl Beach Memorial Hall with new toilet facilities, a commercial standard kitchen and a wheelchair access ramp.

"Following the re-opening of the hall and with Rod's support, the Progress Association approached council with a proposal to rebuild an aging and outdated children's playground. "The new playground has proved to be an amazing success with many more families enjoying the innovative and exciting facilities.

"A new challenge presented itself, and Rod with his indomitable drive and enthusiasm once again took up the challenge.

"The Pearl Beach Rock Pool was crumbling with concrete cancer and at the risk of being closed indefinitely an estimated repair cost would be approximately $200,000.

"Rod approached Gosford mayor Chris Holstein and they came to an agreement that if the community were committed enough to raise in the vicinity of $80,000 then council would help out.

"Once again the community met the challenge and held a number of fundraising events and in less than 12 months the goal has been reached."

Press release, 13 Apr 2010 Lynne Lillico, Pearl Beach Progress Association