Eumundi Voice - Issue 106, 14 November 2024

Rapid response housing solution

Floods, bushfires, droughts, house fires, financial crises, eviction, family breakdown, domestic violence, community conflicts, homelessness – thousands of Australians face one or more of these each year requiring rapid response accommodation until they can return home or start anew.

The answer could be an Expanda Box, a collapsable unit which converts in minutes into a fully functional, water resistant, strong, fireproof, pre-wired, versatile and affordable pod designed and manufactured by Maroochydore’s Wayne Loane. There is no trade experience needed for assembly.

At a recent presentation to members of the Rotary Club of Eumundi, Wayne explained how Expanda Boxes have already been purchased by several emergency response organisations working in the Northern Rivers region of NSW to provide immediate shelter for flood victims. Backed by many Rotary districts, the Expanda Boxes can accommodate individuals in need for up to 2 years rent free. This allows peace of mind so mental and financial recovery can take place, while insurance claims are settled, and rebuilding or relocating begins.

The pods flatten down to 0.5m in height. Twelve can be transported on one tray truck. This allows for hundreds that could be stored in a warehouse, ready for immediate deployment to designated

parks, sportsgrounds or other suitable sites with access to water, toilets and electricity.

Wayne said, “These are the answer to all rapid response housing needs because of their quick assembly, size and versatility. Each pod costs $15,000 and can be reused wherever the next emergency happens.”

He hopes councils, charities, community groups and other help organisations will consider purchasing them as an emergency accommodation solution for domestic violence victims and people without a home. Eumundi Rotary is investigating this possibility.

Expanda Boxes are also available for individual purchase to use as camp or holiday accommodation, a granny flat, office space or an extra room. They come in various fully insulated designs and sizes to include ensuite, double glazed doors, even awnings.

For more information contact Wayne or Karen 0417 840 061 or email wayne@expandabox. com.au. Visit: expandabox.com.au. Eileen Walder