A service that provides a safe place to sleep for those experiencing homelessness is set to return to the Sunshine Coast.
In January it was revealed that Sleepbus, which offered people a private, comfortable pod within a reconfigured bus, had been forced to wind up.
Then in March the Maroochy Neighbourhood Centre said it was working with Sleepbus and its founder Simon Rowe on resuming the service.
The centre on Tuesday posted to social media to confirm the return of the service, renamed as the Sunny Coast Sleeper.
“The Maroochy Neighbourhood Centre is bringing this vital service back to the Sunshine Coast community with the support of an anonymous Queensland family foundation,” it said.
“This mobile accommodation solution has been a lifeline for many over the past three years, offering dignity, security and warmth throughout the night.
“The Sunny Coast Sleeper provides a safe, comfortable place to rest for those experiencing homelessness.”
The post said the bus was undergoing repairs to restore it to full roadworthiness.
“Once completed, the vehicle’s registration will be transferred to MNC, marking a new chapter in our commitment to addressing homelessness on the Coast,” it posted.
“The bus will operate under the One Roof Project banner, an unfunded initiative run by MNC dedicated to supporting those experiencing homelessness in our community.
“We are incredibly grateful to the donors for their belief in our vision and their support in making this possible.”
The centre said it was aiming to have the Sunny Coast Sleeper back on the road and providing safe sleeps by July.
“Over the next six weeks, MNC will be coordinating with local partners, the council and community volunteers to ensure the bus is ready for action,” it posted.
“This initiative is part of our strategy to provide relief for those experiencing homelessness.
“We look forward to keeping you updated on our progress. Stay tuned for more information about volunteer opportunities and how you can get involved in financially supporting this impactful service.
“Together, let’s make a difference – eliminating sleep deprivation, one sleep at a time.”
Sleepbus arrived on the Sunshine Coast in January 2022 after a community campaign led by the Maroochydore Neighbourhood Centre in 2020.
But the organisation – which helps people in four locations across Queensland, NSW and Victoria – ceased operations on the Coast in January, and is due to wind up by the end of June due to insufficient funds to maintain the buses and sustain the service.
A second Sleepbus was rolled out on the Sunshine Coast in November 2023. The distinctive pink vehicle, exclusively for women and children, has reportedly been unused for the past year.
To find out how you can help phone the Maroochy Neighbourhood Centre on 5443 6696.
