Love Local Live Local: Breakaway

Mum of two Sara Evans is doing what she can to raise the profile of Breakaway, a San Remo organisation that specialises in providing respite care for people with disabilities and their carers.

Sara was employed by the non-profit charitable organisation this year to raise their profile and organise some fundraisers – a talent she has quite a knack for.

“Breakaway approached me to work for them because I’ve been organising successful fundraisers for many years,” the passionate Community Engagement Officer said.

“I did a 12-hour lap swim at Mingara One Aquatics for the Save Sight Institute back in 2015. At the moment I am running a personal fundraiser on my Facebook for Breakaway and it has already raised over $4,500.”

Last year Breakaway held 56 camps, including emergency respite for all types of kids and adults with disabilities such as high needs and autism. They also do carers camps to pamper parents who are unable to holiday like normal families.

It has been a tough time for the organisation thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic, with most camps placed on hold due to social distancing. But Sara isn’t using that excuse to take her foot off the pedal.

“I’ve been contacting local businesses to see if they can help with a re-fresh for the site. Bristol Charmhaven just donated nine buckets of paint to give our cabins a fresh new look,” she said.

“I also want to use this quiet time to make people aware of the venue. People think we’re just here for disability camps, but we can also hire out our site and facilities to the general public for all types of indoor and outdoor events - weddings, parties, conferences, meetings and more.”

Set on 28 acres with a backdrop of natural bushland, the site is fenced and gated and includes a large carpark with secure on-site parking. 

There are three function rooms to choose from, each with their own kitchen and the choice of in-house catering or self-catering and respective table seating for up to 50, 90, 200 guests.

The site also includes 16 comfy cabin style motel rooms and total overnight accommodation for up to 96 guests. The rooms are also available to book just like a regular motel.

Sara describes the location as a ‘hidden gem’.

“When I was a kid, my best friends mum had MS and came to the camp and raved about it, so I always had a soft spot for Breakaway,” Sara said.

“I absolutely love my job – I don’t feel like its work for me.”

Visit here to make a donation. Follow Breakaway on Facebook here.