News

February 21, 2020 | IN Media Release and News | BY Holly Brennan | 4 min read

NATIONAL developer Villa World has again thrown its support behind Mates in Construction (MATES) and Act for Kids, raising $80,000 through its annual Christmas Classic golf day.

Villa World hosted 180 guests at a charity golf day at Links Hope Island raising money to support construction workers at risk of suicide and children at risk of abuse and neglect.

Support from suppliers and contractors saw $80,000 raised through donations and raffles which was handed over in a $40,000 cheque to each charity on Friday (7th February).

Villa World general manager for housing Peter Wood who organises the event said he was proud to see so many people show their support for two truly worthwhile causes.

“The golf day wouldn’t be possible without the suppliers and contractors who sponsor the event and raise funds, so we are very appreciative of their support,” said Mr Wood.

“To raise $80,000 on the day is a significant achievement and something that will go a long way in really helping those in need,” he said.

Mates in Construction CEO Jorgen Gullestrup said industry support is vital in helping MATES to deliver on its promise to raise awareness, build capacity and provide help and research in the industry.

“70 per cent of the funding we receive is from the generosity of the industry through grants and donations like the one Villa World has made,” said Mr Gullestrup.

“With around 190 Australians working in the construction industry taking their own lives every year, these donations really are vital because it allows us to continue connecting with the workers, extending our reach and saving more lives.

“While this money will be used to help a range of different programs we are particularly excited about a new program for smaller businesses in the industry which we will be able to conduct over the bonnet of a ute and really turn it into a conversation.

“For us that’s what this is all about, reaching out and really opening the lines of communication,” he said.

The donation will also help Act for Kids which has been operating for more than 30 years, providing free therapy and support services to children and families who have experienced or are at risk of child abuse and neglect.

Act for Kids executive director Stephen Beckett said over the last year the organistion has been able to help more than 41,000 individuals.

“Over the past six years the number of people we’ve been able to help has increased by 360 per cent which wouldn’t be possible without the generosity of companies like Villa World,” said Mr Beckett.

“This money will allow us to provide life changing therapy for kids who have been impacted by sexual abuse, domestic violence and other forms of neglect.

“Without the support of our partners we wouldn’t be able to have the national reach that we do and help so many children and families and in this sense Villa World have been tremendous,” he said.

Act for Kids operates over 26 centres across Australia with services including integrated therapy, support for vulnerable families, workshops dedicated to empowering kids and safe houses in remote Aboriginal communities.

Cameron Holt CEO from Villa World, a division of AVID Property Group, said supporting charities and giving back to the community is a high priority for the company.

“It’s amazing to see the great work that both of these charities are doing and the positive impact they’re making on people’s lives,” Mr Holt said.

“Working in the construction industry we all know first-hand how important it is to have a charity like Mates in Construction which is dedicated to reducing the number of deaths amongst our workers.

“We also know the importance of family, so we are only too happy to be providing support for Act for Kids as they continue their fantatstic work with those who are really struggling in the community.

“These are two incredibly worthwile causes which we look forward to continuing to partner with,” he said.

If you need help or need to talk to someone, contact:

Mates in Construction 1300 642 111

Life Line 13 11 14

Mensline 1300 789 978

About Villa World

Established in 1986, Villa World is a residential property developer and one of Australia’s most substantial housing providers.

Specialising in contemporary completed homes in masterplanned communities across the east coast of Australia, Villa World is proud that more than 45,000 Australians call a Villa World address home.

Villa World is owned and operated by AVID Property Group Holdings (AVID). The combined business portfolio includes 37 projects, more than 12,000 residential lots and a gross revenue pipeline of $4.7 billion.