The Property Industry Foundation has welcomed eight new residents to Haven House Sylvania, thanks to the hard work and generosity of the property and construction industry.
A flurry of industry-led working bees late in 2024 saw a group of vulnerable young people move into their updated home before Christmas. The project created an extra two bedrooms and an additional full bathroom in what was an outdated and cramped property. Caretaker’s Cottage operates this medium-term residence, providing specialised support and independent living skills for young adults ageing out of the Out of Home Care Sector.
“This project was more than a renovation, it was an opportunity to enhance the quality of life for those who depend on the space, creating a safe and welcoming environment.”
Ben Lloyd, Managing Director, Trinity Fitout & Construction
Building Partner Trinity Fitout & Construction spearheaded the project, with Cameron Gardiner, Shane Strong and Ian Hoare offering pro bono project management and a large contingent of industry supporters lending a hand.
Ben Lloyd – Managing Director at Trinity Fitout and Construction says the project was a chance to change lives. “This project was more than a renovation, it was an opportunity to enhance the quality of life for those who depend on the space, creating a safe and welcoming environment that provides vulnerable teens with the stability they need to begin rebuilding their lives … instilling hope and helping them focus on their personal growth, education and future goals, empowering them to plan for a brighter future.”
Cameron Gardiner, National Real Estate Strategy Manager at McDonald’s and Member of the Foundation’s Beneficiary Review Committee was also delighted to be involved in the build. “I’m proud to have been involved from the beginning in the refurbishment of Haven House Sylvania. This incredible collaboration ensured young people facing homelessness had a safe and welcoming living space—just in time for Christmas.
A huge thank you to Trinity Fitout & Construction for leading the charge and to all the partners, suppliers, and subcontractors who contributed their time, skills, and resources to bring this vision to life. Together, we’ve expanded the space to eight bedrooms, making a lasting impact on the lives of those in need. This project is a testament to what we can achieve when we come together for a greater purpose.”
Laurie Matthews, CEO Caretakers Cottage says the renovation has made a tangible difference in the daily lives of their residents, who are enjoying the bright, modernised spaces, including the brand-new bathroom and additional bedrooms.
“I have been aware of the great work carried out by the Foundation for many years, including the work at the Come In Centre Paddington, Stepping Stone House, Oasis and St Laurence House, so when the need arose to work on our property in Sylvania, the Property Industry Foundation was a logical group to approach,” says Laurie. “Without the capacity of the Foundation to bring the property and construction industry together with community organisations like Caretakers, we would not be able to progress with such a project.”
“We often hear that it would take years for our charity partners to raise finds and deliver a project the way we do,” echoes Property Industry Foundation NSW State Manager Penny Kaleta. “By taking away this pressure, the Property Industry Foundation gives our partners, like Caretaker’s Cottage, the space to do what they are good at: supporting young people doing it tough.”
With thanks:
Building Partner: Trinity Fitout & Construction
In kind and pro bono: Charter Hall, Plenary Group, Partier, Reece Group, Network Architectural, Dulux, Precinct Plumbing, Powascope Group, Benco Projects, 1610 Interiors, A Team Flooring, ALD Expert Demo, Algarve Constructions, Blackrock Electrical Contractors, Donny Painting & Tiling, Murray Harris Photography, Network Building Supplies.
Key Funder: NSW Ports
