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Cottage by the Sea is the only holiday some children ever have. We provide short-term
relief care for children in need in an enjoyable beach side setting. This allows their
families the chance to cope with their difficulties secure in the knowledge that their
children are being well cared for and having fun.
Cottage by the Sea was established in 1890 to provide care and accommodation for
children recovering from illness. Over the 117 years we have provided relief care
and support to tens of thousands of children from all over Victoria.
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The Cottage has helped tens of thousands of children over its long history and
as a unique Victorian children's charity, Cottage by the Sea relies on the
generosity of donors, branches, volunteers, business and community groups,
trusts and foundations to continue this VITAL work for families in need.
If you would like to donate money or goods to help us continue our work, follow the links on the left.
Read for yourself the benefits of a Cottage camp.
From People Who Know
COMMENT FROM A REFERRER - 'Two of our children enjoyed the camp of a lifetime …the boost to
their self esteem and peer social interaction is obvious and is a highly significant factor
in the improved behaviour patterns in class and the outside playground'.
Principal - Primary School
COMMENT FROM A SOLE PARENT GRANDMOTHER - 'Being the sole parent grandmother of two children
I greatly appreciated the opportunity of the children attending Cottage by the Sea.
It provided me with the physical and mental space to get a small collection of my artwork
together and exhibit - a hobby put on the backburner since gaining custody of my
grandchildren some years ago. As you can see Cottage by the Sea has been so much more
than a week's break for the children and for me. It has given me a new lease on life
and thus enabled me to thoroughly enjoy my grandchildren with renewed energy and confidence.
They are great kids and deserve this. My thanks to you and all the wonderful staff and volunteers.'
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| Our Purpose |
We are committed to providing short-term
relief care in a holiday environment for children in need, aged
five to twelve years old. Cottage by the Sea aims to support
and help children whose families are in need. This allows a
family the chance to cope with their difficulties secure in
the knowledge that their children are being well cared for and
enjoying themselves. Care is provided in a relaxed holiday environment
and opportunities are given for children to develop self-esteem,
and enjoy life’s simple pleasures.
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| Children's Programs |
Our children's program offers a wide
range of activities provided in a safe and happy environment.
The children are accepted as individuals with different
needs, expectations and responses and are given the opportunity
to enjoy themselves, learn new skills and make new friends.
Over 800 children a year from all over Victoria are provided
with relief care in a holiday environment at the Cottage.
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Camps for Children |
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| The Cottage offers short term care (camps)
for primary school aged children. We see them as a haven for
children in need. Children can be referred
to The Cottage by schools, social workers, community welfare
groups, doctors, refuges etc.
The camps vary from a four to seven day stay and are held
throughout the year, not just in the school holidays. |
| During their stay the
Children... |
...are kept active and occupied during the
day and, depending on the season, visit many local tourist
attractions. Importantly they experience numerous outdoor
activities, fishing, barbecues, beach games as well as indoor
activities, art, craft, cooking. Educational and recreational
activities, along with rest and plentiful food, is the order
of the day. |
| Supervision of the children |
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| The children are supervised twenty
four hours a day. All staff are qualified and/or in-training
teachers or child care workers. At night two staff are rostered
on duty to take care of the children. |
Location
| Staff | Children
| Board
of Management | General Manager
