Building Engineering team steps up to support the Rotary Inner Melbourne Emergency Relief Network

Yesterday, a passionate crew from Building Engineering rolled up their sleeves and got stuck into some hands-on volunteering at RIMERN – Rotary Inner Melbourne Emergency Relief Network, an organisation doing remarkable work to support Melburnians facing tough times.

RIMERN collects pre-loved furniture, appliances, and household essentials, ensuring they’re clean, safe, and in good working condition before rehoming them to people in crisis. From those who have suffered domestic violence to those emerging from homelessness or hardship, clients are referred through a network of over 60 accredited welfare agencies – including six Aboriginal support organisations – to ensure the help reaches those who truly need it.

Through our partnership with DV Collective, we were granted the opportunity to take part in this meaningful day of volunteering and lend a hand where it’s needed most.

Our team spent the day at RIMERN’s warehouse, sorting, cleaning, and packing donated goods ready for delivery. RIMERN’s mission is to provide people with everything they need to set up a secure, comfortable home – with dignity and choice at the heart of the process. Clients come in by appointment, choosing the items they need most – from crockery sets and cookware packs to small appliances – all in a clean and welcoming space.

Our team members shared their experiences:

“Volunteering at RIMERN was an incredibly impactful experience. It was eye-opening to see how everyday household items (things we often take for granted) can truly transform someone’s life. We witnessed end clients choosing their home essentials, which made the impact of our volunteering feel even more real and meaningful.” Amy Govic, Bid Manager

“It was a fantastic day supporting such a meaningful initiative. The hands-on work, the purpose behind it, and the gratitude shared by the team made it an experience I won’t forget. We’re proud to be part of something that makes a real difference.” Rachel Richter, Head of Marketing

“It was humbling and rewarding to see the direct impact of our efforts as clients selected the essentials they needed. It was a great experience.” Sarah Luong, Bid Coordinator

RIMERN currently delivers between 8 and 10 full-house packs per week and supported over 700 individuals across more than 300 orders last year alone. They also seek grant funding to purchase essential items like microwaves, filling in the gaps where donated stock doesn’t cover specific needs.

The Building Engineering team was proud to contribute time and energy to this impactful initiative, which helped give people the essentials for daily life and a fresh start, comfort, and a sense of home.