LOST dogs around the Limestone Coast might be lucky enough to find a new home thanks to the hard work of 24 Grant High School students.
The Before Doorways Construction class has spent around five months building six strong and well-presented dog kennels, which will be donated to the South East Animal Welfare League and used as “forever homes” for homeless dogs.
The six kennels will form part of the dogs’ adoption package and will be relocated with the animals when they leave the shelter.
The idea was sparked by Grant High School technology coordinator Matt Kurzman who said he wanted to display the talent of the students by supporting the region.
“We originally approached the South East Animal Welfare League to donate kennels for them so the kids can showcase their skills and give something back to the community,” Mr Kurzman said.
“The students were put into groups of four and have worked on this for the entire semester.
“They drew them up on a CAD program, researched different sizes of dogs to cater for all, manufactured the weather boards and screwed it all together.”
But not everything went to plan.
Due to COVID-19 the project is six weeks behind schedule and may not have been possible without help from Steeline and One Forty One.
The two companies supplied important materials such as timber and steel to ensure the dogs remain in tact when faced with all types of conditions.
Mr Kurzman said the project gave his Year 11 and 12 students a boost towards their VET course.
“It gives them a bit of a kick start to build their skills up before they get into the VET course,” he said.
“Most of the time they are building transportable houses, so a smaller-scale dog kennel is a good stepping stone to become a trades-person.”
One Forty One general manager Paul Hartung said his company was pleased to provide a helping hand and continue a pair of strong partnerships.
“We have worked with the Grant High School for around five years supplying timber for the kids to work with because we want to get more of the youth engaged in trade subjects,” he said.
“For it to be used for the Animal Welfare League is a bonus because we have also been aligned with them over the last few years supplying equipment.
“It is a great benefit for us.”
The kennels will be received by the SEAWL with open arms after the organisation has been closed to the public since the outbreak of coronavirus.
SEAWL president Trevor Twilley said there was light at the end of the tunnel and the kennels would shelter six homeless dogs from the cold depths of winter.
“Over the last six months we have had some really big dogs coming into our care,” he said.
“But what is pleasing is the majority will now be very comfortable in their new forever homes.
“We are reliant on support from the community to remain viable and the work from the students who have built them is very much appreciated.”
In more good news for the SEAWL, the organisation will re-open its doors today and Grant High School hopes to continue its partnership in the future.
