In 2012, UniSA’s Design Construct program was invited by the Chiefs of Tanna Island, Vanuatu, to assist the community at Port Resolution in developing a sustainable, locally built and managed accommodation business model that could be replicated by other communities, while also providing valuable experience for UniSA students through working with remote Indigenous communities. The Chiefs proposed a high quality, locally-owned accommodation concept that would offer an alternative option to foreign-owned luxury accommodation on the island and to showcase the cultural and natural heritage of remote Vanuatu communities.

The site chosen for the project at Port Resolution is a remote and idyllic location surrounded by coral reefs and the crystal waters of the South Pacific. It is typical of outlying island villages, having no reticulated power or water, where food is cooked on open fires and only the most rudimentary flushing toilets and cold showers are provided for tourists.

Since 2012, UniSA has led 15 study tours to Port Resolution, giving students the opportunity to work with the community to design and build the Sea Breeze Bungalows. The Port Resolution community has provided materials, skills and labour and UniSA has provided tools, technical expertise, plumbing and electrical hardware, and financial support. Two bungalows, a beach bar, a wastewater treatment system and solar power system have been built to date, with project funding raised through student initiatives such as bake sales, barbeques, raffles, film nights, and exhibitions, as well as donations from generous supporters.

The project aims to build a total of six bungalows and supporting facilities such as a restaurant, laundry and maintenance workshop. Students studying tourism, management, accounting and health will further assist the community in the day-to-day running of the project. Donations will significantly help realise the community-owned and operated eco-tourism enterprise model.