Camps and Conferences

Camp Breakaway SMS Camps

Camp Breakaway is a registered non-profit charitable organisation, a registered service provider for the NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme) and a member of NDS (National Disability Services) that specialises in providing respite care for people with disabilities and their carers. Breakaway’s Smith-Magenis Syndrome (SMS) Camps enhance the lives of children with SMS and their families by holding a four-day respite camp every two years. At the last camp in 2018, we welcomed over 30 families, with children diagnosed with SMS and their siblings, from all over Australia and Professor Ann Smith from the USA. Professor Smith conducted a research clinic and provided the families with valuable information and recent research updates. The next camp will be held 13th - 16th November 2020.

THE KEY OBJECTIVES OF SMITH-MAGENIS SYNDROME CAMPS:

  • To celebrate the achievements of all SMS children
  • To give children and the siblings of children with SMS the opportunity to meet
  • To create an atmosphere where parents feel comfortable to discuss their situation with other parents… This often leads to the establishment of a support network that continues long after camps end
  • To create a nurturing environment where the families of children with SMS can enjoy a respite break together
  • To pamper the parents and allow ‘parents only’ time, whilst providing entertainment and activities for all children… Caring for a child with SMS can be very demanding and parents are often burnt-out. The aim of parents only time is to allow them to recharge their batteries (so-to-speak) and give them much need time to themselves
  • To provide a research opportunity for the world-leader in SMS research, Professor Ann Smith, to run a research clinic at the camp
  • To provide volunteer opportunities to people who want to make a meaningful contribution to the community in which they live.

Please contact Camp Breakaway if you are interested in participating in the next SMS Camp.

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