IN THE MEDIA: Building hope for sick children

The following story about our ongoing Building Dreams Project was published on February 11th in the CoastCity Weekly Messenger.

Glenelg builder Matt Beckwith reckons he has a “social and community responsibility” to make a difference.

And — with the “amazing support” of a cast of generous suppliers and contractors — that’s precisely what the Finesse Built director has done with his latest project.

Mr Beckwith, of Brighton, has co-ordinated the construction of a new home in Somerton Park, with the sale proceeds going directly to the Little Heroes Foundation.

“Having been in business for seven years, I was constantly getting calls from charities to help out with donations,” the father of three said. “So I was doing lots of bits and pieces — and thought I should settle on one and make a big effort with that.”

He got in touch with Little Heroes director Chris McDermott about two years ago, moved by the work the organisation did with ill children and their families.

“It was as though the stars had aligned,” he said. “Chris and his board had just discussed the idea of doing a house — and then I called to see if I could do anything to help them.” Dubbed the “Building Dreams” project, the Finesse two-storey luxury home is the result of dozens of tradies and suppliers donating their time and expertise since work started on the site seven months ago.

“I touched base with all our regular suppliers and contractors and I don’t think we received a no from anyone,” Mr Beckwith said. “There are a lot of generous people out there.”

Little Heroes director Chris McDermott with Finesse Built’s Matt Beckwith at the new home in Somerton Park. Picture: AAP/Morgan Sette

With an interior designed by Alisa and Lysandra, of TV’s The Block fame, the property also boasts a pool, donated by Daydream Pools, valued at $20,000.

Mr McDermott was thrilled with how well the project — the third charity home auction Little Heroes had been involved with — had come together.

“It’s a really nice product that people are going to love, and in a great location,” he said. “And selfishly, for us as an organisation, it’s been fantastic for us to align ourself with such a great business and great people.”

And Mr Beckwith said his first charity house project may not be his last.

“I’m very pleased with how this has come together … and really looking forward to the auction now,” he said.

“I’d like to do something like this every year or so — the hard work’s been done now and I know what to expect.”

The Building Dreams property at 19 Harrow Rd, Somerton Park, will be auctioned at noon on Sunday, April 7. An open day will be held at the home on Saturday, March 16 from noon to 2pm, featuring appearances from a number of local sporting identities, and giveaways for children. For details log on to finessebuilt.com.au or littleheroesfoundation.com.au