Byron and Mullum students build homes in Cambodia

Earlier this year Byron Bay High School student members of Volunteer Building Cambodia (VBC) handed over the keys to two new homes they helped to build in a rural village there.

Byron Bay High School relieving principal Mark Smith* says the activity ‘obviously made a huge difference to the lives of two families in Cambodia.’

‘At the same time VBC has provided the youth in in the Byron community a very special opportunity to see a very different way of life to ours. The experience is life changing for the givers of the gift, as well as the receivers,’ Mark says.

So not to be outdone, Mullumbimby High students are now raising money for what they hope will be two more homes. And they’re kicking it off with a fundraiser at the school on May 5.

Titled Songs for Cambodia, the evening will feature some very talented Byron and Mullumbimby students, including Indigo Gebbett who won a young songwriter award in 2015.

Also singing for your joy and entertainment will be the Mullumbimby Biggest Little Town Choir. They have been singing up a storm in Mullumbimby for more than five years, and this show will come straight from their hearts as a gift to VBC and the Byron Community.

The aim is to raise $4,100, which is enough to buy a house in Cambodia, and every cent raised will go towards the cause.

‘I think it’s an achievable goal for a privileged community like ours – please come along and enjoy a great night out and support this great organisation!’ Mark says.

VBC members will be attending the event and will make a brief presentation with a Q&A about their amazing work.

Check out the event’s Facebook page or, if you can’t attend, consider making a donation to such a good cause.

*This article originally stated, incorrectly, that Mark Smith was relieving principal at Mullumbimby High.