The Victorian State Government funded project will house 84 families displaced by the 2004 tsunami in duplex town house style buildings complete with bathrooms, kitchens, electricity and running water. The complex will also have its own sewerage treatment plant, underground drainage, paved roads, a community centre and a children’s playground.

While rain has caused lengthy delays, the completed complex will meet Australian standards in design and construction, providing sturdy and stylish homes for people who lost nearly everything to the tsunami.

Mr Van Der Toorren commented that the open house was a major step for the project, and testimony to the co-operation of those involved.

‘The Victorian State Government is proud to have been able to do this in partnership with the Foundation of Goodness and Victorian company Global Modular’, he said.

The visitors also distributed shopping vouchers for the families and presents for the children to thank them for their patience

Ms Williams, who is described as the ‘driving force’ behind the project, said that meeting the beneficiary families was a thrill and that ‘the patience of the people will pay off.’

With the first home on display, residents-to-be of Victoria Gardens have now seen for themselves that their houses will be well worth the wait.