Breakaway Inc. had been a beacon of hope and support for individuals with disabilities in the Moreton Bay area for over three decades. Established in 1989 by a dedicated group of women – many of whom were parents seeking quality respite care for their own children – Breakaway has made an indelible impact on the community.
The story of Breakaway began with a vision driven by the needs of families struggling to find suitable respite care. In 1993, the organisation opened its doors in Margate, offering short-term respite accommodation to families in need.
This vision was brought to life under the leadership of Janet Holmes, the inaugural President, and Rosemary Atfield, the Service Coordinator. Together with a founding committee, they built an organisation rooted in respect and care, focusing on the needs of customers rather than the organisation itself.
Janet Holmes reflects on the mission: “We wanted to create something that was holistically respectful and centred around the needs of the clients, not the organisation.”
Over the next 30 years, Breakaway evolved into a leading disability support provider in the Moreton Bay region. Its services expanded to include:
Lifelong and Permanent Housing Opportunities: Offering stability and security for individuals with disabilities.
Supported Independent Living: Helping people live independently with the support they need.
In-Home Support: Providing assistance in the comfort of clients’ own homes.
Short-Term and Emergency Accommodation: Offering immediate support when families need it most.
Respite Services: Giving families much-needed breaks while ensuring high-quality care.
Community Access: Facilitating participation in community life and development of daily living skills.
Breakaway’s commitment to these services demonstrated its unwavering dedication to improving the lives of individuals with disabilities and their families.
In January 2021, Breakaway joined forces with Multicap, creating a powerful partnership designed to enhance support and offer even greater choices for people with disabilities in Moreton Bay. Both organisations share similar origins and values, having been founded by families seeking meaningful support for their loved ones with disabilities.
This merger was not just a joining of resources but a fusion of shared missions and values. Both Multicap and Breakaway were born from the desire to provide exceptional care and opportunities for individuals with high needs disabilities.
This article serves to honour the remarkable legacy of Breakaway and acknowledge the significant impact it has had on countless lives since its inception in 1989. The combined efforts of dedicated staff, visionary leaders, and supportive families have created a foundation of care that continues to thrive under Multicap’s stewardship.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the clients, staff, and community members who have supported Breakaway throughout its journey. Your dedication and commitment have been instrumental in shaping the organisation into what it is today.
For more information about Breakaway, read the Breakaway Legacy booklet, created to capture the lasting impact they had on people with disabilities and families in need of support.