BeyondHousing marked a significant milestone today as it proudly celebrated the official opening of its newest 13-unit social housing development in Wangaratta.

Committed to its purpose of ending homelessness, BeyondHousing has transformed the former aged care facility site of Max Parkinson Lodge into a thriving community that embodies compassion and hope.

In tribute to the late Mr Parkinson and his decades of community service, the new development has been named Max Parkinson Place.

The $4.9 million social housing project, featuring nine 2-bedroom and four 1-bedroom units, will stand as a testament to BeyondHousing’s dedication to providing safe, secure, and affordable housing for those in need in Wangaratta.

The realisation of this innovative project was made possible through a significant philanthropic contribution of $4.25 million from the Peter & Lyndy White Foundation in collaboration with BeyondHousing and the Rural City of Wangaratta.

These new homes are the latest in a long-standing partnership between the Peter & Lyndy White Foundation and BeyondHousing.

The Peter & Lyndy White Foundation first began discussions with Beyond Housing, formally known as Rural Housing Network, in June 2015.

Peter White said the Foundation’s first commitment to building houses with BeyondHousing was in 2018, comprising 11 houses.

“We were impressed with their professionalism and their willingness and capacity to fund 10% of the cost of future projects,” he said.

“(Then) in 2022-23, we jointly committed to build 60 houses accommodating 113 of their clients.

“Our partnership has become closer and stronger, transforming the lives, when all committed projects are completed, for 413 people, giving them stable, affordable housing,” Peter said.

Designed by BY Projects Architecture and built by Joss Construction, this new development will provide residents with a place to call home in a beautiful setting on the banks of One Mile Creek.

BeyondHousing Deputy Board Chair Skye Roberts said the Peter & Lyndy White Foundation’s support had been instrumental in bringing this project to life.

“Their remarkable generosity has not only impacted numerous lives but has also been absolutely pivotal in supporting our efforts to build more quality, safe, secure, affordable housing,” she said.

BeyondHousing CEO Celia Adams said each brick laid and door opened in the development underscored the organisation’s resolute purpose to end homelessness.

“This project also highlights the power of collaboration. Together, we are not only building houses but also hope and opportunities for those in need,” she said.

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Sue Masters
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