The South Coast Portuguese Association was formed on a dream. A dream that arose from the hearts and minds of our immigrants at the end of 1973.

Some of our newly arrived Portuguese immigrants came to be reunited with their families who had already settled within the Illawarra. As our Portuguese community grew so did the need for a Centre or a base where our people could join together to unburden, socialise or entertain.

Our culture was the key ingredient in the formation and the binding which brought our people together. In order to preserve our heritage and pass it on to our children a Portuguese school and folk dancing group begun (and continues today). A Provisional Board of Directors was formed, and an ideal place was found: an ex-chapel which its small hall would suffice to hold functions for the Portuguese community.

After the legal process was finalised the preparations were underway for the inauguration. To gain some financial backing many traditional festivals were held. Many community members also made substantial donations. On the 12th July 1975 the official inauguration took place being the biggest party ever held by the Portuguese with the presence of Authorities. Years on the dreams were... still high and the neighbouring house / block was purchased ...

To this day we continue on hoping to finalise our dreams: in the mean time, we keep living our traditions and passing our culture onto our children, OUR FUTURE.