A home built entirely from donated materials and labour has sold at auction for $770,000, with all proceeds to be shared between three children’s charities.
The property at 59 Spoonbill Loop in Sorell was completed over nine months as part of a project led by SJM Property Developments, which brought together local trades, suppliers and partners.
Funds raised will be split between Variety Tasmania, the Starlight Children’s Foundation and The Smith Family.
South Property managing director Nick Cowley oversaw the sales campaign and said the result exceeded expectations.
“We got a bit nervous there trying to crack the seven hundred mark,” he said.
“We certainly exceeded expectations and just all that extra money going to these charities, that’s the buzz I’ve got at the moment.”
SJM director Sam Morse said the idea was driven by a desire to give back in a way that aligned with the company’s work.
“We thought what a great way of using our skills and talent and the help of all our contractors and greater, broader support to bring this together,” he said.
Asked whether he would do it again, Cowley didn’t hesitate. “Tomorrow,” he said.
Variety Tasmania board chair Steve Flynn said the funds would make a significant difference across the state.
“This money will go such a long way and impact so many Tasmanian kids who are doing it tough, in a lot of positive ways,” he said.
“It’s going to let us expand the programs that we run, expand the reach into all regions of Tasmania.”
Bidding opened at $675,000, with the property eventually selling for $770,000 after a competitive exchange.
“It’s not about money for us today,” Cowley said.
“It’s about supporting these charities and for us to be able to just donate our time and give back in just the tiniest little way to help families and these kids.”
