Youth charity receives $80K* revamp by Plumbers and Electricians from Australia and New Zealand
Laser Group, Australasia’s leading network of plumbing and electrical contractors, has been working closely with Gold
Coast Youth Service on a project that comes to fruition on the 20th August 2014. Laser Plumbing and Electrical Members
from around Australia and New Zealand join forces to revamp the premises of Gold Coast Youth Service in Miami,
Queensland.
Annually, Laser Group hosts a Charity Taskforce project as part of their International Conference, where their
electricians and plumbers from Australia and New Zealand come together and utilise their skills to give back to the
communities they work within.
This year’s chosen charity, Gold Coast Youth Service, provides young people aged 12 to 25 with a home and supporting
environment when they would otherwise be displaced or at risk of homelessness, which in turn leads to a variety of other
issues that impact their lives.
Lesley Healy, Manager from Gold Coast Youth Service, said that they often have youths turn up at the premises that
cannot afford housing and are in need of the basic necessities of life; food, clothing, shelter and emotional support.
“We take them in, provide a home and assist with any issues they may be experiencing, which can be anything from drug
and alcohol issues, domestic violence, family conflict even health services. We focus on making long lasting and
positive changes,” she said.
“We want all young people to have a ‘fair go’ at the opportunities in life, and with Laser’s support and generosity we
can continue to provide these services. I would also like to thank Laser’s suppliers for their generosity, as our
premises are well in need of a revamp. Being a not-for-profit charity, we do not have the spare funds for this type of
work. For example, things like LED lights from Philips will add additional energy savings to our organisation. Thank you
to all involved in this project.”
Gary Larkin, State Director of Laser Group Queensland, has been busy liasing with Laser’s key supplier network to
organise in excess of $60,000 worth of product donations that will be used onsite. In addition to the product donations,
Laser Group are donating the labour of roughly 60 plumbers and electricians for the day to carry out the works.
“Our Members really enjoy these days. They get a real buzz out of giving back to the community and working alongside
their mates who they may only see once a year,” said Gary.
“It’s an opportunity not only to catch up and talk to suppliers, but also to utilise their expertise and be involved in
a project that makes a real difference in the community. Some Members see this as the highlight of their year!”
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