Mackay has taken a significant step forward in addressing homelessness with the arrival of its first-ever sleepbus. This highly anticipated addition will provide vital support to the region’s most vulnerable community members.
Despite the national Sleepbus organisation ceasing operations due to financial difficulties, Safe Sleep Mackay (SSM) successfully secured the delivery of the sleepbus, marking a milestone for the region.
Lisa Jamieson from Safe Sleep Mackay expressed her excitement, stating, “We’ve been eagerly anticipating the arrival of our first sleepbus for the region, and it is fantastic that it has now rolled into town.
“It’s hard to put into words how exciting it is to have it here… it’s something we've always wanted to bring to the community, so to see it here now is beyond belief.”
The bus will be owned by Australian Street Aid Project Limited, allowing for local management and the flexibility to tailor its operation to best serve the community’s needs.
“With local ownership, it gives us the flexibility to determine how the service is operated and ensure that it will meet the needs of our community,” Ms Jamieson explained.
Ms Jamieson also expressed deep gratitude to the donors who made the project possible.
“They have been supporting us and using their networks to help us bring this bus to Mackay,” she said.
“Along with Mackay Regional Council, Mackay Community Foundation, Run for My Life, Macrossan and Amiet, BMA, the local Freemason Lodges, and Rotary clubs, we’d also like to thank local bus company Kinetic.
“They have made space available in their Paget yard to park the bus, and Centurion also offered to transport it to Mackay.”
Additionally, Ms Jamieson thanked those who have expressed interest in volunteering with sleepbus.
“We are still working through the operational model but will be in contact to let you know in due course.”
Drawing from her experience as a volunteer with Orange Sky, Ms Jamieson emphasised the importance of reliability and collective community support.
“Reliability is crucial when serving vulnerable individuals. It takes a village to raise a child.”
She likened the bus to a child in need of care and attention, stressing that the success of this initiative relies on the entire community coming together.
Looking ahead, Ms Jamieson confirmed that efforts are already underway to secure a second bus for the region, and the continued involvement of the community will be essential for ensuring the service’s long-term success and growth.
Mackay has taken a major step in addressing homelessness with the arrival of its first sleepbus, thanks to Safe Sleep Mackay's efforts, local partnerships, and community support, providing vital assistance to vulnerable residents. Photos supplied
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