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Byron Shire
April 25, 2024

Sleepbus service opens in Ballina

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Simon Rowe is hoping that there are people in the Ballina area who would like to volunteer with Sleepbus. Photo Tree Faerie.

Sleepbus, the innovative solution for rough sleepers, has opened in Ballina after relocating from Byron Bay.

Following a successful open day last weekend at St Mary’s Anglican Church in Ballina, Sleepbus founder Simon Rowe was excited to announce there have been seven new volunteer signups, but says more helpers are needed in a variety of roles, including housekeepers, caretakers and drivers.

There are also sponsorship opportunities for local business and organisations.

Beginning as a GoFundMe campaign in Melbourne, Sleepbus has since spread around Australia, The idea is to provide an emergency solution for people who have nowhere safe to sleep, with guests having their own individual spaces to sleep, USB charging, ducted heating and air conditioning, and a toilet.

Melbourne entrepreneur Simon Rowe has established Sleepbus, which provides homeless people a space to get a good night’s sleep. Photo Tree Faerie.

Sleep changes everything

The Sleepbus mantra is ‘sleep changes everything’.

While not a permanent solution to the local housing crisis, it provides a life changing service to those in need, and depends entirely on the support of those who want to do something practical about the issue, instead of sitting on the sidelines.

You can find out more about how to volunteer with Sleepbus here. Mr Rowe describes it as ‘a rewarding volunteer opportunity with a flexibility and a great family vibe!’

Learn more about Sleepbus at their website.


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2 COMMENTS

    • Awesome Initiative. I’m couch surfing, so like it. Desperately needed (& almost everywhere) on Gold Coast as too many Rich, Greedy people & ‘blow ins’. The poor/ middle class Don’t have a chance of stable affordable housing. Good stuff Simon

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