Auction gives boost to Samaritan House Geelong

GEELONG charity Samaritan House has been the beneficiary of a house sale in Lara.

Bisinella Developments donated Lot 337 at Lara Lakes Estate to Samaritan House Geelong in June 2024, with proceeds from the sale set to fund the charity’s operations over the next four years.

The funds will support the organisation’s work providing crisis accommodation and essential services to men experiencing homelessness in the Geelong region.

Construction of the home was completed in April this year and following strong interest and three open home inspections, a sale was secured within 30 days on May 5.

The property was purchased the following month by first-home buyers from Altona Meadows for $675,000.

Samaritan House Geelong director Wally Pelaccia said Bisinella’s contribution had a huge impact.

“The success of this project is a reflection of the power of community partnerships.

“Bisinella’s donation will underpin our operations for the next four years, giving us stability and allowing us to plan ahead.”

The home was built by Hamlan Homes, with styling by Moda Interior Styling.

Landscaping was arranged and funded by Bisinella as a further donation to the project.

Coulter Legal, a long-standing supporter of Samaritan House Geelong, provided the conveyancing for both the land donation and the property sale.

“Coulter Legal has been a dedicated supporter of Samaritan House Geelong since its inception and is proudly acting as the vendor’s pro bono partner to facilitate the sale,” Mr Pelaccia said.

Bisinella developments director Richard Bisinella said the company was proud to support such an important cause.

“Homelessness is a critical issue across Australia that Bisinella Developments and our partners are committed to solving at a local level.

“Supporting organisations like Samaritan House is one way we can help make a real difference to people’s lives.

“We are grateful to have been a part of this fantastic initiative and look forward to welcoming the new homeowners into our Lara Lakes Estate.”

Samaritan House Geelong was established in 2012, and Mr Pelaccia said it offered much more than shelter.

“It’s a space to reconnect, to build friendships and to believe in a better tomorrow.

“Guests often form bonds that lead to shared work opportunities and long-term housing, helping to break the cycle of homelessness.

“Support of Samaritan House Geelong enables those men who have fallen on hard times a chance to breathe and reevaluate their lives.”

Inspired by the success of the sale, Samaritan House Geelong has placed the idea of a second home build on its agenda, although no immediate plans are in place.

For more information or to donate to Samaritan House Geelong, head to samaritanhouse.org.au