CAMP Breakaway, at San Remo, has celebrated the 35th anniversary of its first respite camp for people with disabilities.
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The camp paid tribute to the visionary Wyong Rotarians who hatched the idea for the first camp in 1982.
Also celebrated were the many volunteers, sponsors and donors who had helped the organisation to grow into one of the most successful and enduring small charities in Australia.
General manager Terry Hayes said the facility had grown in size and scope since the first camp.
“Camp Breakaway provides respite services for children and adults with disabilities, as well as for families who have a child with high medical needs, for young carers and siblings, and for people who are frail aged, have dementia, or are lonely and isolated,” Mr Hayes said.
The camp receives no government funding.
Instead, it relies on generous community support, as well as the proceeds earned from hiring the 11.5-hectare site to the general community for events such as weddings, parties and conferences.
“Thanks to Delta Electricity, we have a lease that goes for another 35 years at the very generous rent of $1 per month,” Mr Hayes said.
“It was a wonderful act of generosity by Delta Electricity.”
Among the guest speakers at the function was local teenager Emily Sawer who gave guests an insight into how Camp Breakaway changed lives.
Emily introduced her eldest brother, Brayden, 14, and their youngest sibling, Blair, 8, who has cerebral palsy.
She said her family would never forget the first high-needs camp they attended.
“My family were astounded,” she said.
“We had our own carers, and Blair had his own carer. Mum was whisked away to the hairdressers and to have a massage, Dad went ten-pin bowling and to laser tag, and Brayden and I went to the Australian Reptile Park.”
She said she met other teenagers at the camp who were in the same situation as her, being a supportive sibling to a brother or sister with high needs.
Mr Hayes said Elderslee Foundation Australia (a Central Coast charity) had committed to donate almost $1 million to fund infrastructure improvements at the camp.
To make a donation to Camp Breakaway, phone 4390 7624, or visit breakaway.org.au All donations of more than $2 are tax deductible. Volunteers are also sought to help in the office, kitchen or in the grounds.