Celebrating the launch of a visionary housing initiative that offers young mothers and their children safety, stability, and support.
Building a LEGACY:
How one conversation sparked a lifeline for young mothers
Sometimes, the most powerful changes start with a simple conversation.
For The Bridge Youth Service (TBYS), a pivotal discussion between CEO Melinda Lawley and Jeanette Large from Women’s Property Initiatives (WPI) sparked a transformative project: The Nest: Solid Foundations.
The Bridge Youth Service has long been dedicated to supporting young people aged 12 to 25, with a particular focus on youth homelessness, pregnancy and parenting programs.
However, the critical lack of housing options for young mothers in Shepparton posed a significant barrier to stability and opportunity.
The Nest: Solid Foundations was born from a commitment to change this reality — an initiative driven by collaboration, innovation, and a vision for a future where young families have a safe and secure place to call home.
Community at heart of vision
The Nest concept emerged when TBYS CEO Melinda Lawley was entrusted with utilising funds from the nowclosed REVAMP Op Shop — funds that had been raised with the purpose of making a lasting impact in the community.
RIGHT: TBYS CEO Melinda Lawley on site when the modules arrived last year.
Early proposals, such as job training programs, did not align with the vision of creating something truly enduring.
Enter then WPI CEO Jeanette Large.
At a Melbourne networking event, the two women found themselves discussing solutions to housing challenges.
When Jeanette explained how WPI builds homes for women, Melinda asked, “If I give you land, would you build houses for us in Shepparton?”
Jeanette’s enthusiastic “yes” set the wheels in motion.
Turning vision into reality
With the board’s support, The Bridge Youth Service purchased land on Toolamba Rd, next to the Mooroopna Police Station.
The location was ideal — central, connected, and accessible for young mothers and their children.
From there, WPI took the lead in project development, securing grants and forging partnerships that would see the project through to completion.
One of the most pivotal connections was with the Property Industry
Foundation (The Foundation), whose focus on ending youth homelessness, fundraising expertise and industry ties brought the project to life.
What emerged was a collaboration not only between organisations but also between inspiring women.
From architects and project managers to planners and volunteers, women led the charge.
“It wasn’t intentional, but it was powerful,” Melinda said.
“It felt like a celebration of women empowering women.”
ABOVE: Former WPI CEO Jeanette Large with Melinda Lawley and Built’s Monica Fontaine at a Property Industry Foundation “Friends of the Foundation” event in 2023.
Transforming a dream
From the outset, the project’s goals were ambitious but clear: to provide safe, affordable housing alongside comprehensive support services for young, single, pregnant, or parenting mothers engaged with TBYS.
“The Nest is not just a housing solution,” Melinda said.
“It’s about breaking cycles of disadvantage, offering stability, and fostering growth for young families.”
The result is three two-bedroom modular homes, designed with security and family needs in mind.
These thoughtful design elements reflect the project’s holistic approach to meeting the needs of young mothers and their children.
The units all have access to a shared recreational area with play equipment and shared garden areas.
Collaboration across sectors
The success of The Nest is a testament to collaboration.
WPI brought expertise in community housing development, overseeing the property leasing and delivery and will eventually oversee the property and tenancy management once completed.
“This is an example of effective collaboration that will change the future for these young women and their children,” WPI CEO Roberta Buchanan said. “We thank our partners and generous supporters who brought this project to life.”
The Property Industry Foundation (The Foundation) played a critical role, leveraging its network to secure
funding and in-kind support.
Modular Spaces, the building partner, and Schored Projects, the architects, worked closely to design and construct the homes.
Gallagher Jeffs provided pro bono project management, ensuring the initiative stayed on track.
“Projects like The Nest rely heavily on partnerships and pro bono contributions,” said Tim d’Antoine, Director at Gallagher Jeffs.
“It’s rewarding to see how our skills can make a tangible difference in the lives of vulnerable families.“
“(The Nest) is an outstanding example of sector collaboration,” PIF VIC State Manager Priscilla Heathwood said.
“Together, we’ve made a huge impact on the lives of young families who will feel safe in these new homes.”
Milestones and progress
October 2024 marked a significant milestone with the arrival of the modular homes on-site. The moment was celebrated by partners and supporters alike.
“The arrival of the modular homes brings us one step closer to providing a nurturing environment for vulnerable young mothers,” Melinda said.
The homes, designed to accommodate the unique needs of young families, feature child-friendly interiors and a central soft play area.
Landscaping, playground installation, and furnishing are the final touches to transform the site into a welcoming haven.
Holistic approach to support
The Nest offers a wraparound support model tailored to young mothers. Services include:
• Housing support: Helping tenants establish rental histories and transition to long-term housing.
• Parenting and antenatal care: Promoting maternal and infant health through prenatal education, postnatal care, and access to essential health services.
• Skills development: Building healthy routines, managing family finances, meal planning and nutrition, parenting strategies, and independent living skills.
• Emotional literacy and therapeutic interventions: Addressing mental health and building resilience.
• Advocacy and system navigation: Assisting mothers in accessing vital resources, such as education, and legal support.
“This program isn’t just about providing a roof over someone’s head,” Melinda said.
“It’s about empowering young women to build better futures for themselves and their children.”
The impact of a legacy
The Nest represents more than just a housing initiative — it’s a fulfillment of the community’s promise.
Funds raised by the Revamp Op Shop have been transformed into a tangible, lasting impact.
Each home will house a young mother and her child for up to three years, providing stability and the foundation to thrive.
With a three-year lease managed by WPI, the program ensures that families can focus on growth without the fear of housing insecurity.
“We’re proving that with the right support, young people are capable of maintaining tenancies and building better futures,” Melinda said.
Looking ahead
As The Nest prepares to welcome its first residents in early 2025, the vision doesn’t stop here.
TBYS aims to use this initiative as a model for future projects, attracting philanthropic investment to expand housing solutions for young people.
“The Nest is a starting point,” Melinda said.
“It’s a foundation for brighter futures, a testament to what’s possible when communities come together to create change.”
ABOVE: The bathroom inside one of the units.
LEFT: Each unit has its own small deck area.
BELOW: The exterior of one of the units.
Creating new BEGINNINGS
Women’s Property Initiatives
The Nest marks Women’s Property Initiatives’ (WPI) first project delivered in regional Victoria.
WPI is a not-for-profit, community housing organisation that creates new beginnings for women and children at risk of homelessness.
When the opportunity presented itself for WPI to work with The Bridge Youth Services (TBYS) and the Property Industry Foundation (The Foundation) to change the future for young mothers in the region, WPI was thrilled to be part of it.
Taking on the role as property developer for this project, one of WPI’s main priorities was to ensure that the three units that form The Nest, were welcoming, bright, affordable and appropriate for young women who are adjusting to the challenges of parenthood.
The Nest has come to life using land owned by The Bridge and leased to WPI, and with generous funding from the Property Industry Foundation.
“The project is a true example of collaboration between philanthropy, the community sector and businesses, who want to see young women access the opportunities that are made possible by the foundation of a safe and secure home,” WPI CEO Roberta Buchanan said.
These modular homes were designed by long-time WPI collaborator,
Schored Projects, and mark another first for WPI – our first foray into prefabricated modular construction.
Our builder partner, Modular Spaces, working closely with the project team comprising representatives from WPI and The Foundation, and ably project managed by the amazing Gallagher Jeffs, have delivered outstanding results with three two-bedroom units that are lovely spaces to live in with engaging shared spaces and great access to services.
These young women will have ongoing support from TBYS to ease the transition in this phase of their lives.
Women’s Property Initiatives is thrilled to add these properties to the portfolio, which now stands at 125 homes owned with an additional 168 properties managed on behalf of other not-for-profits and affordable rental providers.
We are committed to providing more secure and affordable homes for women because we believe they are least likely to have access to them.
Women experience financial disadvantage due to factors stemming from gender inequality including lower incomes, greater responsibilities as carers and overrepresentation in low paying and insecure occupations.
They are also far more likely to
experience domestic violence.
The lack of secure and affordable housing for women is a problem that continues to grow, including within our regional centres.
Increasingly we need to find innovative solutions and ways to partner to improve access to affordable housing for Australians, and The Nest is an example of groups coming together with a common goal.
There have been many contributors to the project, including WPI’s generous supporters at The Felton Bequest and the Jack and Ethel Goldin Foundation.
We are incredibly grateful to the volunteers who have generously donated time and materials to create beautiful landscaping and shared spaces including ISPT, Homes for Homes, Gallagher Jeffs, Planned Construction Group, Riddells Creek Nursery and Plantmark.
TBYS CEO Melinda Lawley with WPI Project Assistant Lucy Lyon.
Aiming to end youth homelessness TANGIBLE IMPACT
Property Industry Foundation
Haven House Shepparton (The Nest) is a prime example of how the Property Industry Foundation partners with the property and construction industry to support homeless and marginalised young people.
Pictured on a Melton site visit last year to see the units taking shape were members of the Property Industry Foundation board, Built’s Monica Fontaine; Women’s Property Initiatives’ Sally Martin and Lucy Simms; Gallagher Jeffs’ Tim d’Antoine, Gallagher Jeffs; Property Industry Foundation’s Priscilla Heathwood; and The Bridge Youth Service’s Natasha Liddel.
The Nest was built through The Foundation’s flagship home building program – the Haven Project.
With 252 bedrooms built to date, The Foundation fundraises and provides project management support for every home built in the Haven Project.
In addition to providing financial and project management support, the Foundation also sources in-kind donations from the industry.
The Nest has been made possible through a collaboration between building partner Modular Spaces, community housing provider the Women’s Property Initiatives (WPI) and charity partner The Bridge Youth Service.
This unique partnership enables WPI to provide and maintain homes for young women and their children that are secure, affordable and appropriate and for The Bridge Youth Service to provide stability through wraparound support as they adjust to parenthood.
The Nest’s three, two-bedroom homes also allow vulnerable young mums to establish a secure future for themselves and their children. As well as providing stability, support and safety, a key element of the program is to provide tenants with a rental history that provides crucial access to the private rental market.
“We recognise that projects like The Nest are often underfunded and rely
heavily on pro bono contributions,” says Tim d’Antoine, Director, Gallagher Jeffs, pro bono project managers on the project.
“By offering our management skills, we help bridge the gap between limited resources and the need for high-quality project execution.
We hope our commitment to The Nest inspires other businesses to also contribute their resources to similar causes, encouraging more widespread support for vulnerable populations.”
Using their building and construction expertise to offer support to vulnerable young mums means the world to the entire team.
“On a personal and professional level, offering pro bono services to such a meaningful cause is
immensely rewarding,” says Tim.
“It provides a sense of purpose and fulfillment, knowing that our skills are making a tangible difference in the lives of those who need it most.”
Building partner Modular Spaces has spearheaded the project through each stage of development and construction, alongside designers Schored Projects.
“Modular Spaces has proven to be an exceptional partner, demonstrating a strong commitment to the project’s success and the future wellbeing of its tenants,” says Tim.
“Their team’s dedication is evident in their meticulous attention to detail and their ability to foster strong relationships with trades and subcontractors.
“This collaborative approach has been instrumental in maintaining momentum and overcoming obstacles throughout the project.”
This industry collaboration and contribution has made it possible for The Bridge Youth Service to provide greater regional services for young mums in need.
“The partnership with the Property Industry Foundation has been crucial for our Young Mums housing initiative The Nest: Solid Foundations,” says Melinda Lawley, CEO, The Bridge Youth Service.
“The Foundation enabled the idea, hatched between the Bridge Youth Service and the Women’s Property Initiatives to come to life.
“Without the team at the Foundation and their generous supporters we would not have generated enough funds to build the units.”
“The Nest is an outstanding example of cross sector collaboration and the important role the property and construction industry can play in making a tangible impact on youth homelessness,” says Kate Mills, Property Industry Foundation CEO.
“These three brand-new twobedroom apartments provide safe, stable housing for vulnerable young mothers in regional Shepparton, helping them to rebuild their lives and break the cycle of homelessness.”
Property Industry Foundation VIC State Manager Priscilla Heathwood joined forces with representatives of CBRE and ISPT, Nicole, Ali and Belinda, on site at The Nest last month to help with landscaping works.
President’s REFLECTION Georgia Linton
For Georgia Linton, The Nest: Solid Foundations represents more than just a project — it’s a testament to the power of vision, collaboration, and determination.
As the outgoing president of The Bridge Youth Service Board, Georgia played a key role in bringing this transformative initiative to life.
Now, as she steps away from the board, she leaves behind a legacy that will impact young mothers and their children for generations to come.
The inspiration
Georgia first joined the Board of The Bridge Youth Service in 2017 and became president at the AGM in 2019.
When the Board made the decision to close REVAMP, the service’s op shop, they were left with funds from the initiative — what became known as
The Future Development Fund.
With a strong desire to create something that would give back to the community, drive meaningful change, and provide support to young people outside of government-funded programs, The Nest was born.
“We explored many possibilities, including a social-enterprise model,” Georgia said.
“But the idea that persisted was purchasing land and creating housing to support vulnerable young mothers.
Melinda (Lawley) took that broad concept and turned it into something tangible — something the board was thrilled to endorse.”
Overcoming challenges
Bringing The Nest to life was not without its hurdles.
Congratulations to The Nest providing safe, stable housing for those in need in our community.
One of the biggest challenges was the COVID-19 pandemic, which caused delays in building supply availability and significantly slowed progress.
Additionally, securing the right property was no easy task.
“The land needed to be close to amenities, public transport, and schools,” Georgia said.
“We had a short list of options, but with the guidance of Jim Andreadis and the perseverance of Melinda, we made it happen.”
The Nest becomes reality
After four years of hard work, The Nest is finally taking shape, with the arrival of modular homes marking a significant milestone.
For Georgia, seeing this long-held vision come to life was an emotional moment.
“It brought me to tears,” she says. “We have dreamed about this for so long, and now it’s real. I hope The Nest has a lasting, positive impact on young families in need — it’s what the Board has always wanted.”
Reflecting on the journey, Georgia believes the core vision of The Nest has remained intact: to provide safe, stable housing alongside holistic, wraparound support for young mums.
While the modular housing concept was an adaptation made along the way, the primary goal has always been to help young mums build a future for themselves and their children.
Looking ahead
As Georgia transitions from her role as president, she is deeply proud to have been part of a project that will leave a lasting imprint on the community.
“To know that I played a small part in something that will benefit young families for years to come — that’s incredibly rewarding,” she said “If there’s one thing I’m remembered for in this community, I hope it’s my
ABOVE: The Bridge Youth Service CEO Melinda Lawley and board president Georgia Linton on site at The Nest recently. INSET: The pair on site in 2021 when the land was purchased.
role in The Nest. It’s a legacy I’m so grateful to have contributed to.”
Georgia hopes The Nest will serve as a blueprint for future initiatives, not just in Shepparton but in communities beyond.
“My hope is that this project’s success will inspire similar programs. The need is there, and The Nest has shown what’s possible when people come together with a shared vision.”
Gratitude
and encouragement
Before stepping away from her role, Georgia extends her heartfelt gratitude to the many supporters, partners, and volunteers who made The Nest possible.
“Thank you for embracing this vision and contributing to its reality. Together, we’ve created something truly special — not just for young mothers today, but for generations to come. We should all be incredibly proud.”
As a final word of advice to other communities looking to take on similar initiatives, Georgia offers this encouragement:
“Be brave and have the conversation. That’s how this all started — with one conversation that led to real change.
“The Bridge Youth Service has always been uniquely positioned to respond to local needs, and The Nest is proof of what can be achieved when we take action.”
Nurturing SOLID FOUNDATIONS
Supporting young parents through The Nest and beyond
At The Bridge Youth Service (TBYS), the vision of The Nest: Solid Foundations goes hand-in-hand with the organisation’s long-standing commitment to empowering young parents.
While The Nest provides a physical foundation — a safe and secure place for young mothers and their children — TBYS’s pregnancy and parenting programs serve as the emotional and educational scaffolding that helps families thrive.
Lifeline for young families
Every year, TBYS supports young people aged 12 to 25 through a suite of programs designed to address the unique challenges faced by young parents.
From pregnancy decisions and antenatal care to parenting education and family support, these initiatives aim to foster resilience, build confidence, and create brighter futures for young families.
One cornerstone of this work is the Young Parents Group, which provides a safe and supportive space for young mothers and fathers to connect, share experiences, and access vital resources. Weekly sessions focus on practical parenting skills, emotional well-being, and the health and development of their children.
“Our goal is to empower young parents to navigate the complexities of raising children while building strong, stable families,” TBYS Pregnancy and Parenting Program Manager Linda King said. Network of care
TBYS takes a holistic approach, recognising that young parents need more than just advice — they need a network of care. Key programs include:
• Antenatal care and education: Delivered in partnership with GV Health, this program offers young
women access to weekly clinical care and group sessions focused on pregnancy, birth, and parenting.
• Family Services: We Develop key parenting and nurturing skills for children’s safety, growth and wellbeing.
• Family Foundations: A 10-session program where co-parents work with experienced coaches to strengthen relationships, improve communication, and manage stress.
These services are complemented by partnerships with organisations such as The Orange Door, GV Health, and the Child Family Alliance, ensuring a continuum of care for families in need.
Bridging gaps
The launch of The Nest: Solid Foundations amplifies TBYS’s ability to address critical gaps in the region. By providing safe, affordable housing alongside wraparound services, The Nest is not just a place to live — it’s a launching pad for young mothers and their children to rebuild their lives.
“The Nest reflects our philosophy of meeting young people where they are and giving them the tools to move forward,” CEO Melinda Lawley said. “It’s about combining safe housing with the programs and supports that make long-term change possible.”
Transforming lives
The impact of these efforts is evident in the lives of the families TBYS serves.
In the 2023-24 financial year, the organisation’s pregnancy and parenting programs assisted 151 families, offering early intervention, placement prevention, and reunification services.
Through initiatives like The Nest and ongoing programs, TBYS ensures young parents not only survive but thrive.
I applaud The Bridge Youth Service for being the driving force behind the creation of The Nest: Solid Foundations, which will assist young mothers in the Goulburn Valley who are at risk of homelessness.
The Bridge has a long history for providing vital support to vulnerable families and The Nest project is another example of its tireless work to improve people's lives and make a difference in our community.
PROJECT TIMELINE
LAND PURCHASED
The Bridge Youth Service purchases land in Mooroopna on Toolamba Rd, next to the Police Station and close to all amenities.
PROJECT LAUNCHED
FUNDING FROM THE FOUNDATION
Property Industry Foundation showcases The Nest: Solid Foundations at its fundraiser Tour de PIF.
PLANTING ON SITE
FUNDING FROM THE FOUNDATION
Property Industry Foundation secures $100.000 grant from Homes for Homes for The Nest: Solid Foundations.
Contracts signed with appointed building partner, Modular Spaces, and building permit about to be issued.
The Nest: Solid Foundations is launched at TBYS Board meeting.
TBYS staff reflect on THE JOURNEY
Working bee held on site. Representatives from TBYS, WPI, The Foundation and ISPT in attendance.
Renae Ford
Program Manager - Youth and Family Support
Jenny Cook Executive Manager of Youth and Family Services
“The upcoming completion of The Nest is the final piece of a long-held dream for myself and many staff at TBYS.
“It marks a significant step for TBYS in providing crucial support to one of the most vulnerable groups in society, young mothers and their children.
“The team at TBYS have worked incredibly hard to develop this program, we are all so excited to be welcoming the families into their homes.
“The Nest will bring the families a true sense of community within a community that is a vital element when raising children.”
“The Nest: Solid Foundations Program will offer a sense of belonging, allowing these young mothers to feel empowered, be connected to a community and build a secure foundation for themselves and their children.
“We are proud of the project and hope we have future opportunities to implement throughout the Goulburn region.”
Linda King
Program Manager -Young Pregnant and Parenting team
“The Nest program goes beyond providing stable housing — it fosters a sense of belonging, community, and support for mothers and their children to thrive.
“I am excited and proud to be part of an organisation that has dedicated so much effort to creating a project with the power to make a lasting impact on the lives of young mothers and their children.”
MODULES TAKING SHAPE
Production of frames and subfloors. Frames take shape. Windows go in and cladding going on. Modules coming together.
MODULES ARRIVE
WORKING BEES ON SITE
Teams from CBRE, ISPT and Homes for Homes arrive on site to complete landscaping works.
CERTIFICATE OF OCCUPANCY
UNITS ARE FURNISHED
Regenerate provide the furnishings, electrical and home goods in the units.
YOUNG MUMS MOVE IN
TBYS CEO Melinda Lawley and WPI’s Lucy Lyon were on hand to witness the crane in action as the units arrived from Modular Spaces in Melton.
Leigh Nash Corporate Services Manager
“The opening of The Nest is a wonderful occasion, and a testament to the efforts and dedication of our team and partners.
“We must thank our Revamp volunteers who worked tirelessly over the years to raise the funds needed to purchase the land required for The Nest.
“We are excited to see what other opportunities are out there to partner and deliver housing choices for young people in our community.”
Rebecca Slade Executive and Quality Coordinator
“It was an enriching and rewarding process to be a part of the program development for The Nest: Solid Foundations Program.
“The Nest gives young mothers an opportunity they otherwise wouldn’t have to set themselves and up with a foundation of supports in place. I am excited to see the improved life outcomes for these amazing young women and their children, having had access to secure, safe, and affordable housing.”
Builders sign off on all work on site.
TBYS have selected young mums in need for tenancy. Mothers and children move in.
Making a DIFFERENCE Regenerate
For young mothers impacted by family violence, a safe home is more than just shelter — it’s the foundation for rebuilding their lives.
Recognising this, Regenerate has stepped in to support The Nest: Solid Foundations, ensuring that young families have access to essential furnishings and household goods as they transition into their new homes.
Founded on the belief that no family should have to start over with nothing, Regenerate provides quality furnishings and household essentials to those impacted by family violence.
Their support for The Nest aligns with their mission of helping families re-establish their lives in safe, stable environments.
Shared vision for safe and stable homes
Regenerate’s General Manager Claire Bauska explained why supporting The Nest was a natural fit.
“We were inspired to support The Nest because it aligns with our mission to help families experiencing homelessness as a result of family violence,” Ms Bauska said.
“Family violence takes many forms and can have devastating impacts on children and young people. Sadly, many young people become homeless due to family violence in their homes.
“The Nest’s dedication to providing safe and stable housing for young mothers and children resonates deeply with our values.”
With a long-standing partnership with
Women’s Property Initiatives (WPI), Regenerate ensures vulnerable families have a secure place to call home.
Their involvement extends beyond furnishing homes — it contributes to breaking cycles of disadvantage.
Opportunities for growth
Ms Bauska highlighted The Nest’s holistic approach to support, noting its impact on young mothers.
“The Nest’s vision of providing a nurturing, supportive, and empowering environment for young mothers and their children deeply resonated with us,” she said. “We were particularly drawn to their focus on breaking the cycle of disadvantage and providing opportunities for personal growth and development.”
By providing fully furnished homes, Regenerate ensures that young mothers can focus on healing, education, and personal development.
Impact through collaboration
While Regenerate does not track individual client outcomes directly, they collaborate with The Bridge Youth Service and WPI to ensure their contributions make a lasting difference.
“We believe that providing a safe and comfortable home is a crucial first step in helping young people affected by family violence rebuild their lives,” Ms Bauska said.
“Our partnership with organisations like The Bridge and WPI allows us to contribute to a larger ecosystem of support.”
By working with partners who focus on long-term interventions, Regenerate plays a vital role in shaping brighter futures for young families.
Partnership grounded in family values
Regenerate began as a family conversation about supporting others, and that ethos continues to shape their approach to partnerships.
“Regenerate’s roots in a family discussion about supporting others have profoundly shaped our approach,” Ms Bauska said.
“While our initial inspiration stemmed from a desire to provide practical support, our vision has expanded thanks to the guidance of our principal philanthropic founders.”
This commitment to innovation is at the heart of Regenerate’s work.
By partnering with The Nest, Regenerate is helping create homes where young mothers can heal, grow, and build a future for their children.
Lasting impact
With The Nest set to welcome its first residents early this year, Regenerate’s contributions ensure that each family moving in will step into a fully equipped, comfortable home.
“The Nest’s commitment to empowering young mothers through holistic support exemplifies the kind of change we want to be a part of,” Ms Bauska said.
“We are proud to partner with them in this important work.”
ABOVE: Members of the Regenerate team. BELOW: Example’s of Regenerate’s work.
Generous GIFT OF HOPE
Soroptimist International of Shepparton
The generosity and commitment of the Shepparton branch of Soroptimist International has helped strengthen the foundation of The Nest: Solid Foundations.
The Soroptimists have donated $3000 towards the project, contributing to the installation of softfall around the play equipment and other landscaping efforts as the site prepares to welcome its first residents.
Last month, eight members of the Shepparton Soroptimists visited The Nest for a site tour, gaining firsthand insight into the transformative impact of the project.
Their visit reaffirmed the group’s
dedication to empowering women and girls in the Greater Shepparton community.
Soroptimist International of Shepparton president Katrina Mooney shared the group’s motivation behind their decision to support The Nest.
A personal and collective commitment
“I’ve been in this situation — I had to leave a domestic violence situation, and there was nothing around in those days for me when I was a single mum,” Ms Mooney said. “So something like The Nest is something we’re proud to contribute to.”
Ms Mooney highlighted the alignment of The Nest with Soroptimist International’s mission to Empower, Educate, Enable, and Advocate.
“We’re all about women and girls, so to be able to support an organisation that’s supporting women and girls is what we’re all about,” she said.
“Generally, everything we do is for the community, for Greater Shepparton. While we do a lot of fundraising, we are also about advocating, educating, and empowering.
“And The Nest could empower one young woman to make something of herself if she’s given the opportunity and someone to believe in her. You know, that’s huge.”
Congratulations
Earl
McPherson Media Group would like to congratulate The Nest and The Bridge Youth Service on the launch of their housing initiative, and thank them for the opportunity to produce this publication.
If the McPherson Media Group can help you celebrate your business or event, please call us on 5820 3157.
TBYS CEO Melinda Lawley was a guest speaker at the Soroptimists International of Shepparton July Meeting last year where she shared the story of The Nest. She is pictured with president Katrina Mooney.
The team at Lighthouse congratulates The Bridge Youth Service and its partners on the launch of The Nest.
We thank all involved for working to deliver stable housing that empowers young families to thrive.
ABOVE and RIGHT: Members of Soroptimist International of Shepparton visited units at The Nest: Solid Foundations last month. Pictured are Dorothy Jaap, Katrina Mooney, Helen Jennings, Liz Butler, Julie Ellis, Margaret Webster, Jill Pinner and Bernadette Bell.
Need housing support?
Aged 15+ and homeless or at risk? Struggling to keep your tenancy? We can help.
Housing Assistance – Advocacy with landlords and real estate agents.
Transitional Youth Support – Safe, stable housing for youth, young parents and pregnant young people.
STAR Program – Helping you stay housed and overcome challenges.
A stable home = a better future. Call us today!
School stress? We’ve got you
Aged 12-17 and struggling with school attendance? We offer:
One-on-one support to re-engage with education.
Navigator Program – Helping young people get back on track.
Links to community support and training.
Let’s find the best path for you. Get in touch!
Pregnant or parenting under 25?
We’re here to support you with:
Free pregnancy testing and options counselling.
Antenatal classes in partnership with GV Health.
Young Parents Program – Build skills, connect and focus on well-being.
Family Services – Individual support for you and your child.
You’re not alone — reach out today!
Struggling at home?
Need help improving family relationships? We offer:
Family Reconciliation – Mediation to strengthen connections and reduce homelessness risks.
Adolescent Support – Tailored help for young people with complex needs.
Let’s work together — contact us!
Mental health or substance struggles?
Aged 12-25 and feeling overwhelmed? Our Early Intervention Program provides:
One-on-one support with a psychologist.
Help managing emotions and accessing treatment.
If you’re not getting support elsewhere, we’re here for you.
