IT has been a big job one that has again proven the generosity of the Cairns community but the Kim Jenkins Renovation Rescue project is now in its final stages.
The project committee made up of project manager Kath Kinneally, architect Rob Arthur, builder Ron Easterbrook and Kim’s long-time supporter, Leichhardt MP Warren Entsch met yesterday (WED) at Kim’s home for an update and tour of the renovation.
The new wing at the back of the house.
“It’s taken a little bit of time but it’s looking sensational,” said Mr Entsch. “When you look at the quality of the work and recognise that everything has stemmed from the generosity of this city – from the earthworks and tree-lopping through to the council approvals, block work, gyp rocking, tiling, air conditioners…. It’s incredible.”
The home has received a new roof and solar panels, and the construction of an extension with three bedrooms and a bathroom for Kim and her husband George’s three young daughters, Matilda, Molly-Jo, and Claudia.
There are a number of smaller jobs to be completed over coming weeks, including the fitting of bathroom furniture and accessories, architraves, skirting boards and doorframes, wardrobes, painting and the installation of lighting, fans, air cons and bedroom furniture.
Ms Kinneally said most of the final trades and donations have been ticked off but there are still a few items which would help progress the project in its final stages.
“We need a concreter to create a parking area adjacent to the driveway which is roughly 32 square metres, along with 30m of timber paling fencing, a garden shed and 25m of glass pool fencing, including a gate. If anyone is able to help with these, it would be fantastic and very much appreciated,” said Ms Kinneally.
“The final job will be a ‘working bee’ to tidy up a few things and landscape the outdoor areas, and then we’ll be finished.”
Work is nearing completion on the new bedrooms and bathroom.
Kim’s mum Maree said her daughter was currently in hospital, undergoing some new treatments and determined to keep fighting the inoperable brain tumour.
“I can’t thank the project team and the community enough for everything they’ve done,” she said. “It’s fabulous how they’ve been giving up their time; we’ve had the tradespeople here at 6am, at 7pm, working away, they’ve been just wonderful.”
Mr Entsch also paid tribute to media partners Sea FM, WIN News and the Cairns Post for their ongoing coverage and assistance with the Renovation Rescue.
“I really thank the Cairns community for being as generous as they always are, they’ve got no idea of the difference it’s making to this young mum’s life,” he said. “Kim’s back in hospital, battling this disease, but her little girls are her main focus and this is an opportunity to give her peace of mind that it will be finished and the girls will have their space.”
A community BBQ will be held when the project is finished, giving the project team and Kim’s family a chance to say thank you to all those who have contributed to this project in some way.
Anyone who can assist with concreting, timber fencing, a garden shed or glass pool fencing should contact Kath Kinneally on 0417632982 or email info@babyequipmenthire.com.au
L-R the Project Team: Warren, Ron Easterbrook, Rob Arthur and Kath Kinneally.