5. Community

NZ: Three years at 711 – First National Waitakere's historic home

👓 1 minute read

FN Waitakere has marked three years in one of Swanson's most treasured buildings – the former Congregational Church at 711 Swanson Road, built in 1901 and now a protected Category 2 Historic Place.

The church's story is a remarkable one. James Wilkinson donated the land in 1901 to give the growing settlement a place of worship, and the building served Swanson's congregations for decades. 

During renovations in 1956, its original bell tower was removed and sent to the Solomon Islands, where a local missionary, Sister Joy, was serving. The building passed into private ownership in 1976 and turns 125 this November.

After a six-month restoration, Gary and Yolanda's team made it their home in 2023 – a fitting move for the longest-standing real estate business in Swanson. The three years since have brought plenty to celebrate: a growing team, the arrival of Olivia's daughter Céline, and recognition as Waitakere's leading agency.

The building has become a community space as much as an office, hosting auctions, colouring competitions and a much-loved annual Christmas display - now in its fourth year of planning. As the team puts it, they're not just writing the next chapter, they're custodians of a story that began well over a century ago.

AU: Ways to Walk Beside RizeUp

👓 2 minute read

RizeUp supports individuals and families rebuilding their lives after domestic and family violence. It takes a village, and there are several practical ways for organisations to be part of the work – from formal partnership to hands-on help.

Partnership

For organisations seeking sustained impact, RizeUp offers tailored partnerships shaped around your priorities. These can include alignment with RizeUp's national programmes, team volunteering and giving, involvement in key annual moments such as the Gala Ball and Christmas Gift Appeal, and workplace initiatives like Safe Spaces Training. Each partnership is built together to be practical and deliver real outcomes.

Ways to support

Safe Spaces Training – Workplaces are often a safe space away from a person using violence. This training gives teams the confidence to respond safely and appropriately when it matters most, and every completed session contributes directly to homes furnished and families supported.

Safe housing – Securing a home is one of the biggest hurdles for women rebuilding after violence, many as single-income households. Real estate professionals can help by understanding these challenges, leading with compassion and giving people a fair chance to start again.

RizeUp Gala Ball – Held on Saturday 5 September at The Star Gold Coast, the Gala brings together corporate partners, community leaders and supporters to raise vital funds and awareness. Amcal, Kmart, Bunnings and First National Real Estate are already on board. Organisations can sponsor, become an official supporter or simply book a table.

Hands-on volunteering

Homes Programme – Available in South East Queensland, Melbourne, Sydney and Perth, this is the heartbeat of RizeUp. Volunteers help transform empty houses into safe, welcoming homes for those starting again.

Event volunteering – From set-up to guest experience, every role at RizeUp events helps raise awareness and funds.

Donation drives – Teams can collect essential items such as bathroom and laundry packs, bringing comfort and normality when it is needed most.

Flat pack builds – Furniture can be assembled in your office or at a RizeUp warehouse, helping deliver homes more efficiently.

Christmas Gift Appeal

Christmas is especially hard for families who have fled violence. Last year more than 44,000 gifts reached children and families in refuges and crisis services, and demand is expected to rise again. Collecting new, unwrapped gifts in your office brings joy – and a powerful reminder that the community walks beside them.

Advocacy

Sharing RizeUp's work across your networks helps reduce stigma and extend the reach of support.

Whether through partnership or hands-on involvement, your support sends a clear message to families: you are seen, supported and never alone.