ANYONE who wants to donate to a great new community building is welcome, says Fingal Rovers Surf Life Saving Club president Robyn Wonson.

The Rovers' club house begins stage one of a $1.6 million renovation on January 30, three decades after its last face-lift.

Ms Wonson said about $650,000 was provided for stage one by Tweed Shire Council and the State Government.

"Anything to complete the project and make it a good place would be great."

She said local and state funds may be available for stage two, but applications are required and private or commercial contributions would be useful.

Ms Wonson said the building, which sits on public land, no longer measured up to public building standards - such as disabled access - and was "past its use-by-date".

"This has been on the cards since 2008, and any delay has been all to do with funding.

"That's what we're after next - public money."

Builders will be "getting right into it" from February 1 after erecting a safety fence on January 30.

Much of the building's interior that includes rescue equipment will be stored in two shipping containers to the club's south during construction.

But Ms Wonson said patrolling would be conducted largely "as usual".

"This had to eat into either this season or the next," she said.

"We've only got 27 days left on patrol, which doesn't sound like much but that's mostly weekends and public holidays.

"It won't be busy, but this is a black spot beach where a lot of incidents can occur."

Changes to the building will include: the kiosk being moved to the south of the building; a new "earthy, modern" colour scheme; a balcony all along the beach side of the top floor; and a bar with a full licence for functions.

Most importantly the club's ability to host community meetings, training and a "family atmosphere" will be improved, Ms Wonson said.

"There's been some excitement, and the workload's going to be massive.

"Making sure we keep our members in the meantime is my concern," she said.

"In turn, when it's done toward the end of 2012, we hope it attracts new members. Having a place to come to is important."

Call Ms Wonson on 0419 268 930 to offer assistance.