Since its inception in 1948, Allen Price & Associates has been a trusted name in surveying and engineering, serving the Nowra, Kiama, and broader Shoalhaven regions. Our journey is not just a story of business growth; it’s a testament to enduring partnerships, community-focused service, and a commitment to industry excellence that spans generations.
1948–1955: Foundations in Surveying
The journey began in 1948 when Thomas Andrew Dalton, a skilled surveyor, established “TA Dalton” in Nowra. His early work laid the foundation for a practice known for precision and local knowledge. In 1955, Frederick Stapleton Mance joined Dalton, and the practice became “Dalton and Mance.” Dalton later left to work as a development manager, and Fred, with the addition of Donald Newby Allen from Sydney, renamed the practice “Mance and Allen” in 1959.
1959–1968: Evolution Through Partnership
The early 1960s saw “Mance and Allen” operating from their first office on Junction Street, where they shared space with reputable local firms Morton & Harris (Solicitors) and TG Tait (Accountant). In 1968, both Mance & Allen and Morton & Harris moved to a new office at 143 Junction Street, a space that served the growing practice well as it strengthened its presence in the community.
1960–1973: Growing Expertise
Peter McArthur Price joined the practice as an articled surveyor in 1960, later returning as a Director in 1970 after gaining diverse experience with firms in Sydney, Brisbane, and even Hawaii. Following Fred’s retirement in 1972, the firm became “Allen & Price” and continued operating from 143 Junction Street, a building that was originally a boarding house owned by Peter’s great-grandfather.
In 1973, Allen & Price acquired a new office at 164 Junction Street, moving the practice into a stand-alone facility that supported their growth. Morton & Harris, their former office partners, moved to Kinghorne Street after Allen & Price’s relocation. This acquisition marked a turning point as Allen & Price established its first exclusive office space, fostering a stronger presence in the Nowra community.
1970s–1980s: Allen, Price and Associates
In the mid-1970s, the firm welcomed Norman Percival Tucker, an engineer, and rebranded as “Allen, Price & Tucker.” During this time, James Robert Roberts, a surveyor with experience in New Guinea, also served as a Director. When Tucker returned to Shoalhaven Shire Council and Roberts retired to Queensland, the practice became “Allen, Price and Associates” (APA). By 1978, Don Allen had left the practice, and Fred Mance returned to lend his expertise.
In a significant expansion, Peter and Don purchased 75 Plunkett Street in 1973, which later became the main office in 1985 following a complete conversion by Fred and Peter.
1982–1992: New Directors and New Directions
The 1980s brought fresh leadership with the addition of Ernie Panucci, a graduate surveyor from the University of NSW who joined in 1982 and became a Director by 1986. His contributions helped solidify APA’s regional reputation. By 1992, Fred Mance retired to pursue farming, leaving a lasting legacy on the practice.
1993–1999: Merging Practices and Building Expertise
In 1993, APA further expanded by merging with Ross Douglas & Associates, bringing in Ross Douglas as a Director. Ross, a surveyor registered with experience in Caringbah and Kiama, established his practice in Nowra in 1990. His expertise was instrumental in furthering APA’s reach and capabilities. Also joining during this time was Anthony (Tony) Aulsebrook, a graduate from the University of NSW, who became a Director in 1999. Tony’s dedication to the practice was remembered after his passing in 2016.
2001–2010: Expanding Services and Leadership
The early 2000s marked an era of growth and technical enhancement for APA. Andrew Isaac, who joined in 2001, became a Director in 2007 before relocating to Brisbane in 2011. Matthew Philpott, a certified civil engineer, joined as a Director in 2004, adding engineering expertise that expanded the firm’s range of services. Matt retired in 2022, leaving behind a legacy of innovation and technical advancement.
2010–2015: Expanding into Kiama
In 2010, APA welcomed Thanh Le, a Registered Surveyor, who became a Director in 2015 alongside Rebecca Smith, who joined in 2008 and took on the role of Business Manager. In a strategic move to broaden services, APA purchased Scarratt & Associates, a respected Kiama firm led by Stephen Thomas for over 36 years. This acquisition in 2015 marked a new chapter as Allen Price & Associates became Allen Price & Scarratts (APS), reflecting both its legacy and expanded reach.
2015–2024: A Commitment to Community and Excellence
With the acquisition of Scarratt & Associates, APS strengthened its roots in Kiama and Nowra, expanding its community impact across Shoalhaven and the Illawarra region. Brendan Dallas, a Registered Surveyor with Scarratt & Associates, became a Director in 2017 and now leads the Kiama office.
2024: Allen Price
Today, Allen Price employs a skilled team of 17–23 professionals, including surveyors, civil engineers, and business managers, all dedicated to providing reliable, high-quality service. With a history spanning over 75 years, Allen Price is proud of its role as a community-focused practice. We continue to grow and adapt, ensuring that our expertise meets the evolving needs of the regions we serve.
We remain rooted in the values established by our founders: precision, integrity, and a steadfast commitment to serving our community. Our team is proud to carry on this legacy, delivering trusted solutions in surveying and engineering for the benefit of future generations.
