A novel social enterprise that assists struggling farmers and introduces city dwellers to country living is under development. \u201cShacky\u201d is part of the worldwide Tiny House movement and makes small, moveable houses available on farms for short breaks via an online booking platform.
\nTom Dennis, a sixth generation Birregurra sheep farmer, will be one of the first to trial the new holiday booking site.
\nHe said he believes this is a viable and sustainable way for farmers to supplement their income.
\n\u201cMany farmers in Australia are having a hard time. Long periods of drought, financial stress and social isolation are common.
\n\u201cI started looking for alternative ways to supplement the farm income and found Shacky.\u201d
\nShacky founder Joep Pennartz said renting out Tiny Houses on farms is a way forward for farmers who are looking to diversify their farm income.
\n\u201cThe impact of Shacky goes beyond the financial as the enterprise aims to connect cities with regional areas.
\n\u201cIt bridges these often separated worlds together in a unique way, by offering guests a genuine farm experience. Farmers are resilient \u2013 even if they\u2019re in a difficult spot, they are happy to talk about their world.
\n\u201cShacky is a concept that has the potential to create positive change for farmers and people looking for an authentic and sustainable holiday experience.\u201d
\nThe Tiny House on Tom\u2019s farm is in the planning stages.
\nShacky is running a crowdfunding campaign through Pozible.
\nWith the anticipated success of the campaign, Tom\u2019s Tiny House will be available through shacky.org from April.
\nTo find out more or make a pledge, head to pozible.com\/project\/202893.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
A novel social enterprise that assists struggling farmers and introduces city dwellers to country living is under development. \u201cShacky\u201d is part of the worldwide Tiny House movement and makes small, moveable houses available on farms for short breaks via an online booking platform. Tom Dennis, a sixth generation Birregurra sheep farmer, will be one of […]<\/p>\n