Mr West was supported by his colleagues, Duty MLC Penny Sharp and State Member for Monaro Steve Whan when he made a presentation to Daryl Dobson and the members of the Rotary Club of Pambula of a cheque for $150,000 for the Pambula Aquatic Centre project.

In presenting the cheque, Mr West said, "There has been strong community support for the redevelopment of the Pambula pool over many years from numerous local sporting bodies and community groups.

"They have backed up these pledges with extraordinary fundraising efforts.

"The driving force behind these has been the Rotary Club of Pambula, which has raised more than $350,000 towards the project.

"Bega Valley Shire has agreed to waive all fees and committed $30,000 towards the project," said Mr West.

Duty MLC for Bega, Penny Sharpe said, "The heated pool would be a major asset for the region, as it would extend access throughout the year.

"It will a great venue for learn-to-swim and water confidence lessons in particular for children and swimming clubs who currently have to suspend activities at Easter.

"Local medical organisations will be able to refer people to the pool for water-based rehabilitation programs," said Ms Sharpe.

Rotary pool fundraising co-ordinator, Daryl Dobson said, "I was nearly in tears when I was first told of this magnificent contribution towards our project. It is a real shot in the arm for the whole community who have been so generous with their response to our fundraising endeavours.

"I would like to thank the Minister for his support, it is a real boost to our target.

"Let's hope your federal counterparts can now see the sense in also committing to this important Bega Valley Shire project," said Mr Dobson.

"I would like to thank all my fellow Rotarians for giving me so much support with this project and a very special thanks to my wife, Angie, who has had to put up with me and all of my frustrations in keeping this project alive.

"Minister, to give you an example or the community support we have received, the students at the Pambula Public School presented us with a cheque of over $8000 recently, a fantastic effort by the kids," Mr Dobson said.

The State Member for Bega, Andrew Constance, thanked Mr West and Ms Sharpe for their support to help build a 12-month heated indoor swimming facility at the Pambula pool site.

Councillors Fraser Buchanan and Joyce McGill also thanked the Minister on behalf of the shire for supporting this important shire project.

The newly appointed chairman of the Pambula Aquatic Centre Inc, Garry Hetherington said, "We thank the State Government for this generous support.

"It is recognition by the State Government of the merits of this project.

"It shows the legitimacy and power this project has in the community.

"We would now expect a sign of further support from other levels of government," said Mr Hetherington.

The work continues to bring this project to the community and a large publicity drive is being planned by the new management committee to take place over the coming months.