Milestone Achieved: Topping Out Ceremony for Life-Changing Building

Under a dark grey sky in the western suburb of Footscray, a milestone ceremony on the 18th floor of a new housing project shone brightly – heralding new beginnings and hope for 100+ Victorians in desperate need of safe, stable shelter.

Known as a ‘topping out’ ceremony (literally signifying reaching the top of a building project), this significant event marked another commitment milestone of a partnership between St Vincent de Paul Society Victoria (SVDPV), our subsidiary, VincentCare Community Housing (VCCH), and Homes Victoria as part of the $5.3 billion Big Housing Build.

SVDPV Group CEO Dr Jennifer Fitzgerald AM joined St Vincent de Paul Society Victoria State President Michael Quinn, the Minister for Housing, Harriet Shing and approximately 35 guests.

They included Deputy Secretary of Housing Implementation from the Department of Premier and Cabinet Jeroen Weimar, representatives of our SVDPV, VCCH and VCV boards, State Council, as well as representatives of Homes Victoria, builder LU Simons and Affordable Housing Solutions.

The event commenced with a smoking ceremony led by Boon Wurrung Elder Willie Pepper. His heartfelt address emphasised the deep connection between the land and its people. Uncle Willie highlighted the importance of preserving customs and traditions and explained the significance of the smoking ceremony in cleansing and bringing positive energy.

“This ceremony is essential. This may be where you live, work or frequently attend and acknowledging and paying respect to Country is crucial. The smoking ceremony is about getting rid of the negative vibe and replacing it with positive energy,” he explained.

“We do it for new beginnings, such as this wonderful place that will be a new start for so many wonderful people who struggle. It is going to be a champion, saying: It’s okay, off you go, you're on your way now.”

Minister Shing spoke enthusiastically about the transformative impact of the new building project on the community. She praised the collective efforts of everyone involved and underscored the broader significance of the development.

“Homes like this are about aspiration and opportunity. Long after we’ve departed from this site, the people who call this place home will have better lives because of all your hard work. This is what we are doing to change the landscapes of our state for the better, and this is what we will continue to do,” the Minister remarked.

“This development in the heart of Footscray is more than just a building. It represents a safe and secure future for many individuals and families who have long lived with uncertainty and the ongoing stress of housing insecurity,” said Dr Fitzgerald.

Our Group CEO also acknowledged and thanked everyone involved in the project for their work and dedication before reassuring: “We remain committed to working closely with our partners to deliver homes that will make a real difference in the lives of Victorians.

“The mantra of our Vinnies CEO Sleepout – our annual flagship fundraiser for homelessness, which last month raised more than $1.4m in Victoria – has always been that no one sector can “solve” homelessness, but if the community sector can work with government and the corporate sector, real change can be made.”

Upon completion, the new building will provide 92 units, including 28 one-bedroom apartments, 58 two-bedroom apartments, and six three-bedroom apartments. The efforts of all involved, from the architects and builders to the volunteers and donors, reflect a shared mission to create opportunities and improve lives.