With regards to this "Theoretical" project z becoming "reality"
It is common now in communities to have "mens sheds", a council owned building that provides a central location for members of a community to get together and carry out activities such as carpentry and metal working in a social environment. I am not aware of any such places in or around Melbourne, but if a project like this is to happen, might be an idea to apply for one of these "sheds". Not sure how one would go about doing this. Just an idea, either that or someone offer their shed. An auction of the project car, and money can go towards tools, communities, charities etc etc...
Sounds like it would be alot of fun