A moving and thought-provoking art exhibition exploring the stories of people experiencing homelessness is now open at the Hervey Bay Regional Gallery.

HBNC is proud to partner with Fraser Coast Regional Council to bring the School of Displacement to Hervey Bay.

Internationally renowned Sydney-based artist Keg de Souza developed the site-specific project for the Fraser Coast, in partnership with HBNC.

HBNC Community Navigators played a key role in bringing the exhibition to life, interviewing people experiencing homelessness, housing insecurity and displacement locally.

Their stories can be heard as visitors enter the immersive exhibit, which takes the form of a giant tent, with space and seats to sit, listen and talk.

HBNC CEO, Tanya Stevenson, said the School of Displacement had the potential to spark important conversation about the reality of our region’s housing issues.

“Reading news stories, statistics and reports only gives part of the story. Having the opportunity to hear people’s stories provides a better picture of what people in our community are truly facing,” Tanya said.

“I encourage all community members and visitors to step into the immersive world of this exhibit, and maybe start a conversation about how they can help make a difference.”

Tanya said there were practical ways community members could help, as well as valuable resources available.

“A simple, everyday action Hervey Bay community members can take is to donate non-perishable food and toiletries to the Bless Box at the Hervey Bay Community Centre,” Tanya said.

“You can also help provide free, hot meals every week by donating to Comfort Kitchen.”

Donate to Comfort Kitchen

HBNC has recently launched an updated version of the HELP & HOST booklet, which provides easy-to-follow advice for people whose child has run away from home, as well as those who are currently caring for a child who has run away or been kicked out of home.

Mission Australia also has an excellent resource available, aimed at guiding conversations about homelessness with children.

Find them on Facebook to request the resource.

“Homelessness and housing are complex issues and there is no easy fix, but there are simple steps all community members can take to collectively make a difference,” Tanya said.

“Visiting the School of Displacement is sure to be eye-opening and thought-provoking for many in our community.”

The School of Displacement is open now at Hervey Bay Regional Gallery.