Plans For New Affordable Homes Underway In Proserpine

A group of dedicated and proactive individuals have banded together to create a tangible and practical solution for affordable housing in our region and it is hoped that this project will act as an example for others to follow.

Whitsunday Housing Company, who currently manage 130 social houses in the region, are working alongside their Chair and local Councillor Jan Clifford, as well as local philanthropist Sandy Clark to create four affordable houses in Proserpine.

The land, which is adjacent to the community centre, has been donated by the Whitsunday Regional Council and funding to complete the construction of the homes is being partly paid for with funds from Whitsunday Housing Company.

A host of charity events, sponsorship opportunities and fundraising projects coordinated by Ms Clark will contribute the remaining.

“Everything is against us, but we will win!” said Ms Clark.

Women over 55 are at the highest risk of becoming homeless and the four houses in Proserpine will be allocated specifically to assist this demographic.

“Homeless women aren’t as out there as others, they tend to hide in their cars or use family and friends, hop from one couch to the other,” said Cr Clifford.

“It’s almost hidden but it’s a huge problem and it is the fastest growing demographic of homelessness in the nation - it’s an embarrassment, we are not a third world country!”

After some research Whitsunday Housing Company have narrowed the housing options down to two of the most affordable – either a one-roof row of four houses or four prefabricated one-day granny flats.

It is estimated the entire project will cost $500,000 including a shared driveway and the team aim to complete the build by mid-2023.

There are currently 55 individuals waiting for single-person social housing in the Whitsundays and these four homes will be given to those who are most in need.

The group are now calling for anyone able to donate time or goods to the project, as every little saving will help.

“We’ve got to unite people in the community so we have a sense of urgency and a sense of responsibility,” said Ms Clarke.

“Because this could be your mother, aunt or sister.”

How can you help? You could donate the following:

• Air conditioning units and installation

• A workforce to paint the walls

• Supply white goods such as washing machine or fridge

• Blinds and curtains

• Pavers and earthworks

• Lighting and electrical fit-out

• Plumbing - install bathrooms and water

• Furnishings such as lounge suite, kitchen table

Any contribution would be more than appreciated, even if you are offering something as simple as your time. Reach out to Whitsunday Housing Company on 4946 7194 to register your interest.

Sandy Clarke is also taking corporate sponsorships – for $20,000 a business can have their name on a plaque to sponsor one of the homes. There are also a variety of sponsorship packages available for her upcoming Charity Cocktail Party Fundraiser and she is happy to discuss fundraising avenues if any local business would like to get involved. Simply phone Sandy on 0416 181 348.

Kim Porter from Whitsunday Uniting Church, Jill Morris from Whitsunday Housing Company, Stephanie Cora from Bowen Neighbourhood Centre, Tim Oberg, Tim Mander MP, Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm MP and Rebecca Woods from Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre

‍