Home Sweet Home: New Specialist Disability Accommodation in Cairns Now Open
Residents at our brand-new Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) home in Cairns are buzzing with excitement. And there is room for another housemate…
Welcome to our new Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) home in the serene suburb of White Rock in Cairns.
This modern, accessible property has become a loving home for best friends Carmelo, Peter and Haylea.
The trio have lived together for more than 15 years and were thrilled to move into their new residence.
This custom-built property is more than just a house – it is a home filled with love, laughter and lifelong friendships.
“Previously, there was another residence on this lot, and that is where the trio lived,” Endeavour Foundation Operations Manager, Andrea Dobson, said.
“However, it was time for an upgrade.”
That upgrade has brought immense joy and excitement to its residents.
“I am going to put on rock ‘n’ roll music and do a dance. I like living with Haylea and Peter. We love Elvis!” Carmelo said.
A Peek into Their Routine
We checked in with Carmelo and Peter to see how they are settling into their new home and embracing their independence.
Carmelo enjoys making his lunch for the next day, carefully choosing what to pack, depending on the delicious meals prepared at the local Learning and Lifestyle hub.
Known as a foodie, Carmelo delights in exploring new flavours and creations.
Carmelo attends our Cairns hub most days and loves it. Peter, though, balances regular exercise and other activities throughout the week.
Both housemates contribute to household chores. Peter takes pride in vacuuming and is proactive in helping to keep the house clean, while Carmelo assists with tasks like taking out the rubbish.
Shared Hobbies and Passions
The housemates share a love for cooking, often making pizza and pasta together. While they enjoy a variety of foods, spicy dishes are off the menu.
Carmelo, a coffee enthusiast, prepares his own coffee daily, while Peter explores his artistic side with puzzles, colouring and drawing.
Music and dance are central to their lives. The friends love anything with a beat, particularly Elvis and rock ‘n’ roll classics.
Caring and dedicated support workers create personalised playlists with the residents, fuelling impromptu dance sessions in the living room.
Engaging with the Community
The housemates also enjoy going out into the community and attending events together, making memories that deepen their bond and connection with others.
The opportunity for Carmelo, Peter and Haylea to thrive in their living environment underlines the importance of creating and maintaining quality SDA homes.
It is a point that we know all too well.
“Over 1400 Queenslanders have SDA funding approved but are not using it, and a further 370 people are eligible for SDA but do not yet have funding,” Endeavour Foundation Executive General Manager of Home and Community, Leanne Rutherford, said.
“That is why we are continuing to lead the charge by creating modern, beautiful and fully accessible homes for people with disability to enjoy, and to call home.”
Looking for a Fourth Housemate
With their larger, upgraded home, Carmelo, Peter and Haylea are loving life and are excited about the future.
And you could join them…
The trio are looking for a fourth roommate to join their vibrant household.
Are you interested? Discover more about this stylish White Rock SDA home.
Not in Cairns? Explore all our SDA vacancies and other disability accommodation below.