In a remarkable fusion of education, community engagement, and practical skill-building, Year 9 and 10 students at The Rivers Secondary College – Lismore High Campus have successfully constructed and auctioned a tiny home, marking a significant achievement in both their academic journey and the broader community’s efforts to address housing challenges.
Building Futures: The Tiny Home Project
Initiated in response to the devastating 2022 floods that exacerbated housing shortages in Northern Rivers, the Tiny Homes at Lismore High Project aimed to equip students with hands-on construction experience while contributing to local housing solutions. Over nine months, students dedicated one day each week to the project, collaborating with local tradespeople—including builders, electricians, and plumbers—to design and build a fully functional tiny home.
A Home with Heart
The completed tiny home, measuring six meters in length and 2.5 meters in width, features a bedroom, a fully equipped kitchen, and a bathroom, all constructed with attention to detail and quality craftsmanship. Notably, the students incorporated reclaimed timber from the HMAS Hawk for parquetry floor tiles, showcasing their commitment to sustainability and resourcefulness.
On April 3, 2025, the home was auctioned for $65,000, with proceeds earmarked to fund future iterations of the project. The winning bidders, Lauren Flint and her husband Khan Quinlan, residents living near the school with their six children, expressed their excitement and gratitude. “This is an instant convenience for us,” Ms. Flint remarked, highlighting the home’s immediate impact on their family’s living situation.
Educational Impact and Community Engagement
Beyond the tangible outcome of the tiny home, the project has had profound educational benefits. Students gained valuable skills in communication, organisation, and planning, with some securing apprenticeships in construction and cabinetmaking as a direct result of their participation. Principal Chris Williams emphasised the project’s success in providing real-world connections and career pathways for students.
The initiative also fostered strong community ties, with local tradespeople volunteering their time and expertise, and organisations like the Regional Industry Education Partnerships (RIEP) providing crucial funding and support.
Looking Ahead
With the success of this pilot project, Lismore High Campus plans to continue the Tiny Homes initiative, offering more students the opportunity to engage in meaningful, hands-on learning while contributing to solutions for local housing needs. The project’s ongoing nature ensures that it will remain a cornerstone of the school’s commitment to innovative education and com
