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You'll find information and registration forms for all our camps and programs on this page. You can click on these links to jump to the section you're interested in:
- Numurkah Secondary College program
- School Trippin' (Greater Shepparton Secondary College)
- Project Plain Talk (reserved for young people from Hay and Hillston)
- Multi-Day Social Activities open for individuals (NDIS, Carer Gateway, Child Protection Services, Justice, self-funded)
- Hay 2711 Initiative (reserved for residents of Hay Shire, NSW)
- 1:1 Mentoring Series (NDIS, Carer Gateway, Child Protection, Justice, self-funded)
- Justice Diversion (Bounce Back - Greater Shepparton)
Numurkah Secondary College Program (2026)
Beginning Term 1 2026, a group of students will get the opportunity to participate in an intensive, 10-months program that aims to increase their sense of belonging and self-confidence. Referrals can be made only by Numurkah Secondary College staff, and only 14-17 year old students enrolled at the school can participate. The program begins with a 4-day camp in the Otway National Park followed by three further 4-day camps scheduled in April, August, and November, and fortnightly full-day adventures to national and state parks around the region. The group size is limited to six participants at a time.
Otways (17-20 Feb)
We kick off with this off-road journey through the Otway National Park and along the Great Ocean Road. There will be koalas at camp, swims in the ocean, an awesome 4x4 track leading us to a beach with relics from ships that sank more than 150s ago, and more 4x4 tracks in the rainforest behind the coast.
Grampians (28 Apr - 1 May)
Gariwerd (Grampians) has some of the best short and fun hikes on offer anywhere in Australia. There are some intense 4x4 tracks, too. About 80% of Victoria's Aboriginal rock art is found here. This place is just breathtaking!
Woods Point 4x4 (4-7 Aug)
This itinerary is one for those who love steep tracks and lots of river crossings. We will also be having plenty of big camp fires. There’s a very good chance that we’ll find some snow on the mountain tops, too - and that’s a special experience.
Wonnangatta (10-13 Nov)
Mountain peaks with magical views and swims in crystal clear creeks are in store. The 4x4 tracks are heaps of fun - steep mountains, secluded gullies, and river crossings. You’ll be doing a couple of the iconic 4x4 tracks, including Blue Rag, Butcher Country and Dingo Hill.
School Trippin' (GSSC)
If you're a girl enrolled in year 9 or 10 at Greater Shepparton Secondary College and struggle with mental health and getting to school, this one might be for you - there are only six spots, so read on and register! So, what's in store? A four-day, fully catered 4x4 adventure camp in the Victorian high country, as well as four separate 4x4 adventure days out to national and state parks around Shepparton. The team will include our female social worker Dallas and Giz A Break founder Zonk, and you'll be travelling in our painted and tricked up 4x4s. Please note that we need to have received a referral from one of your teachers or wellbeing workers at GSSC, from a Headspace Shepparton, or from a GV Health Child & Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS) practitioner before you can register to participate - so, please chat with them first and ask them to make a referral.
Referrals can only be made by Greater Shepparton Secondary College teachers and wellbeing staff, Headspace Shepparton social workers and therapists, and GV Health CAHMS practitioners.
About the camp (13-16 October)
The idea is to go adventuring together in a small group. There will be a maximum of six participants supported by two of our social and youth workers, who'll also be the drivers of the 4x4s. We'll all be sleeping in swags, cook on a camp kitchen, and - if it's warm enough - have a swim in crystal clear water from one of the high country stream. We'll bring fishing rods along, too so you can try landing a trout for dinner. Our destination are the mountains of the Alpine National Park around the Jamieson area.
About the individual days out
The group of six participants will go out for a whole day with Dallas and Zonk. We'll explore waterfalls, hike up a mountain (if you're keen - the views are unbelievable), visit iconic high country huts like Craig's Hut and Bluff Hut, walk the Howqua river to bring trout home for dinner, or find the gnarliest tracks around. We'll make a decision together, depending on the weather and how you're feeling on the day. Or maybe you'd like to spend one of the days painting one of our cars...? Well, you can do that, too. The first day out is on 7 October, followed by the camp, and the additional three days out are scheduled during November and early December.
Meet Dallas
Now in her early 30s, Dallas is rock-solid, What you need to know about us at Giz A Break is that we have had our own experiences of mental health challenges, and Dallas is no different. Actually, Dallas dropped out of school for a while because of her struggles - but she got through it, and emerged stronger. She finished school, did a diploma in youth work, and once she'd started working with us, enrolled in a Bachelor of Social Work here in Shepparton at Latrobe Uni. She's smashed the degree and is now an accredited social worker who specialises in youth mental health. Dallas is also a solid (and certified!) advanced four-wheel driver. And while she doesn't necessarily love hiking, she does love a challenge and will go the distance to get to the views at the top of the mountain or that swimming hole in a remote valley.
For Individuals (including TCP and NDIS participants)
Group Activities
The social activities listed below are designed to support young people with complex needs, including complex trauma and neuro-developmental conditions such as autism, ADHD, and FASD. Please note that these camps are not supported by grants or donations, which means that a fee applies as indicated on each camp's tile below. If you (or your child, or your client) are supported by the NDIS, Carer Gateway, Targeted Care Packages, or another government program, please talk to your plan manager, support coordinator, or case manager (as applicable) before you register. All programs are fully catered, equipped, and supported by a group of experienced and qualified staff with a high staff-to-participant ratio (at least 1:3, often 1:2). The locations, itineraries, and activities are spectacular! Our staff are trained and we use youth and social work approaches to deliver our programs. So, you will have a magic and exciting adventure while you come along, but you get a whole lot more than that - the primary goal of the program is to enhance social and cognitive skills, and support your personal growth.
Pick your age range and discover activities designed for you
Our age ranges have a degree of flexibility built in to ensure we can respond to maturity ("developmental age") and not just biological age. In some cases we're happy for an older 13 year old to participate in our activities for 14-16 year olds, and a 16 year old in our 17-25 year old activities. This is decided on a case-by-case basis and our consideration also includes the maturity and age of those already registered for the activity you're interested in - so please contact us to discuss if you / your child would like to participate in the next age bracket up.
Overnight adventures
We are happy to arrange customised, overnight programs for 10-13 year olds in small groups with a minimum of 3 participants. Ratios will be 1:1 - 1:2, depending on needs. Duration can be between 2 days (1 night) and 5 days (4 nights). These can be run over weekends with prior agreement. Activities can include four-wheel driving, canoeing, fishing, and hiking - all tailored to participants' capabilities and capacity. The plan is to make these camps fun while also promoting growth in both, of course. Please let us know what configuration you are interested in by completing the Expression of Interest form.
Otway Magic (13-16 January 2026 )
4-day social activity in the Otway National Park, where the rainforest meats the beaches along the Great Ocean Road - you get to four-wheel drive among towering gum trees on slippery clay tracks in the steep hills close to Cape Otway, travel a rugged and boggy track along the cliffs overlooking the ocean, and get close and personal with koalas. Did we mention fishing and a night-walk in the rain forest? Yes, you'll get to do that, too. Most importantly, you'll be supported by our youth and social workers along the way to develop social skills, planning & prioritising skills, and your self-confidence. As with all our activities, the group size is limited to eight, and we'll have one staff for every two participants. Departure is from Shepparton and we can pick you up along the way in Seymour, Wallan, Waurn Ponds, and Colac. The cost of this fully catered, equipped, and well supported adventure is $3,000 per person (+ GST if applicable).
Grampians (7-10 April 2026 )
This fully catered and supported 4-day social activity brings together a mix of thrilling climbs to the tops of the Grampian's jagged mountains, fun four-wheel drive tracks, and experiencing stunning rock art. We'll be travelling through the Grampians and show you some of the hard-to-reach spots and challenging 4x4 tracks we've discovered in years of travelling through these remarkable mountain ranges. Most importantly, you'll be supported by our youth and social workers along the way to develop social skills, planning & prioritising skills, and your self-confidence. As with all our activities, the group size is limited to eight, and we'll have one staff for every two participants. Departure is from Shepparton, and we can pick you up along the way in Bendigo and Echuca. The cost of this fully catered, equipped, and well supported adventure is $3,000 per person (+ GST if applicable).
Wonnangatta 4x4 (2-5 June 2026 )
This 4-day 4x4 social adventure goes right into the remote and wild heart of the Victorian high country. Rugged 4x4 tracks, river crossings, and relics of mining towns and cattle stations long gone. We'll also explore some of the mysteries and high profile murders that have happened in this region. And when you hear a pack of dingoes howl at night, you'll definitely appreciate the warmth of your campfire and cosy swag! There's a good chance that we'll get the season's first snow in early June (fingers crossed!), too. Most importantly, you'll be supported by our youth and social workers along the way to develop social skills, planning & prioritising skills, and your self-confidence. As with all our activities, the group size is limited to eight, and we'll have one staff for every two participants. Departure is from Shepparton, and we can arrange for pick-ups along the way in Benalla, Wangaratta, Myrtleford, and Bright. The cost of this fully catered, equipped, and well supported adventure is $3,000 per person (+ GST if applicable).
NSW Outback Journey (27 June - 3 July 2026 )
Ever dreamt of exploring the Outback? This 7-day all inclusive tour will take you to breathtaking sites along remote outback tracks. Explore the Darling River, hike through the red mountains of Mutawintji National Park, stay on a remote station and fossick for opals - this is a breathtaking journey. All food and equipment are included and you'll be travelling in one of our awesome 4x4s with enough space to be comfy. While we have fun outdoors, we'll support you to make connections with each other and find new ways to talk about things that matter to you, how to ask for and accept support, and how to support someone else. Departure is from Shepparton (VIC), and we can pick up along the way in Barmah, Mathoura, Deniliquin, and Hay. The cost of this fully catered, equipped, and well supported adventure is $5,000 per person (+ GST if applicable).
VIC Deserts 4x4 (22-25 September 2026)
A 4-day social activity in Big Desert, Wyperfeld and Murray-Sunset National Parks. Travel on remote sandy 4x4 tracks, send the four-wheel drives up the biggest sand dunes you've ever seen (and probably didn't even know we had in Victoria!), and camp on red sand in mallee bushland. If you'd like to know what it looks and feels like, have a look at this short video. We'll also be checking out the salt lakes and some of the salt mining equipment used. Most importantly, you'll be supported by our youth and social workers along the way to develop social skills, planning & prioritising skills, and your self-confidence. As with all our activities, the group size is limited to eight, and we'll have one staff for every two participants. Departure is from Shepparton (VIC) and we can pick up along the way in Echuca and Swan Hill. The cost of this fully catered, equipped, and well supported adventure per person is $3,000 (+ GST if applicable).
High Country 4x4 (8-11 December 2026)
4-day social activity in the Alpine National Park - catch trout and learn how to cook them on the campfire. Travel along on challenging four-wheel drive tracks, explore famous high country log huts, stand under waterfalls and hike up to the top of a mountain. We'll show you some of the best swimming holes in the high country as we tour though the mountains. You'll sleep in high quality swags and sleeping bags we provide you with - and of course we'll have a great selection of food and snacks on board, too. Here's what it looks and feels like - check out the video. Most importantly, you'll be supported by our youth and social workers along the way to develop social skills, planning & prioritising skills, and your self-confidence. As with all our activities, the group size is limited to eight, and we'll have one staff for every two participants. Departure is from Shepparton and we can pick up along the way in Benalla. The cost of this fully catered, equipped, and well supported adventure is $3,000 per person (+ GST if applicable).
Otway Magic (6-9 January 2026 )
4-day social activity in the Otway National Park, where the rainforest meats the beaches along the Great Ocean Road - you get to four-wheel drive among towering gum trees on slippery clay tracks in the steep hills close to Cape Otway, travel a rugged and boggy track along the cliffs overlooking the ocean, and get close and personal with koalas - oh, and we'll throw in some sightseeing and swims along the great ocean road, too. Did we mention fishing and a night-walk in the rain forest? Yes, you'll get to do that, too. Departure is from Shepparton and we can pick you up along the way in Nagambie, Seymour, Wallan, Waurn Ponds, and Colac. The cost of this fully catered, equipped, and well supported adventure is $3,000 per person (+ GST if applicable).
NSW Outback Journey (15-21 Aug 2026 )
Ever dreamt of exploring the Outback? This 7-day all inclusive tour will take you to breathtaking sites along remote outback tracks. Explore the Darling River, hike through the red mountains of Mutawintji National Park, stay on a remote station and fossick for opals - this is a breathtaking journey. All food and equipment are included and you'll be travelling in one of our awesome 4x4s with enough space to be comfy. While we have fun outdoors, we'll support you to make connections with each other and find new ways to talk about things that matter to you, how to ask for and accept support, and how to support someone else. Departure is from Shepparton (VIC), and we can pick up along the way in Barmah, Mathoura, Deniliquin, and Hay. The cost of this fully catered, equipped, and well supported adventure is $5,000 per person (+ GST if applicable).
High Country Hike (24-27 Nov 2026)
Another new 4-day itinerary! We'll be heading to the upper reaches of the Howqua River in the Victorian High Country, where we leave the 4x4 behind and slip that backpack over our shoulders. We'll each be carrying our own tent, cooker, and all the other gear we need (all provided by us). We'll also bring along fishing rods because the waters of the Howqua on the first stretch are brimming with trout. Apart from these amazing experiences, you'll also feel what its like to leave behind internet connections and instead connect with each other and form a team. There's no doubt that it will be a challenging hike for all of us - but that's good, because without positive challenge, how can we grow? Departure is from Shepparton, and we can pick you up along the way in Benalla and Mansfield. The cost of this fully catered, equipped, and well supported adventure is $3,000 per person (+ GST if applicable).
1:1 Mentoring Program
Like all of our activities, the 1:1 Mentoring Program aims to build participants' capacity to become more engaged within their communities - whether this means learning how to navigate social situations at school or with family & friends, or how to overcome social anxiety.
We started developing our 1:1 adventures upon the request of a participant who had come along on one of our group adventures and wanted to continue working with us to build on the positive impact he felt his participation had had. While we can offer stand-alone 1:1 adventures for respite purposes or as a circuit breaker or just a "taster", we think that connecting a series of at least six 1:1 one-day adventures with a goal setting and attainment tracking approach is more impactful. We invite you to seek a discussion with us before you decide what you'd like to do, but read on first.
We also run fortnightly small group adventures for 10-13 year olds, leaving from our warehouse in Shepparton at 9am on Wednesdays and returning at 5pm. Activities will vary throughout the season and depend on weather conditions - but would usually include four-wheel driving, fishing, hiking, canoeing, or swimming in the rivers and lakes - and sometimes all of the above :)
Destinations include the Victorian High Country, Strathbogie Ranges, The Rivers (Broken, Goulburn, Murray), and the Eldorado / Beechworth region.
Referrals can be made by NDIS participants or their primary carer, Carer Gateway staff, Child Protection Services, Justice Services, and individuals who are able to self-fund their participation.
Justice Prevention
Bounce Back Project (closed)
THIS PROJECT IS NOW COMPLETE and has been evaluated (hit the button below to read the evaluation). In summary, the project showed that our work with young people at risk of justice system engagement made a positive impact: It lowered their risk of getting in trouble with police, increased school attendance, made participants feel happier, and it improved communication at home. Participants and their carers valued the program and wanted it to continue.
Goal: Reduce young men's risk of justice engagement. We're connecting 4-day off-road adventure camps with monthly small group full-day adventures. These camps are delivered by experience youth and justice workers. The project takes a youth and social work approach, embedded in our unique adventure therapeutic framework. Eligibility criteria: 14-17 year old boys who live in Greater Shepparton and are at high risk of justice engagement, or already engaged. Requirements: Willing to commit to monthly full-day adventures and a 4-day camp; legal guardian's consent; referral by schools, Rumbalara Co-op, courts, youth justice, or police.
This project is made possible through a grant from Greater Shepparton City Council under the Victorian Department of Justice and Community Safety's Empowering Communities Program.
Hay 2711
NEW PROGRAM ALERT!
Check out Project Plain Talk - a 10-month, intensive program for 16-25 year olds from Hay and Hillston (and surrounds) who experience mental health challenges. It's a ripper, it's free, and registrations are now open.
Camps now open for 14-16 year olds from Hay!
We've partnered with Someva Renewables and AGL Energy to deliver the next lot of adventures for 14-16 year olds from Hay. Two have already been completed in October and November last year, and the final one is now open for registrations:
- High Country (14-16 year old girls), 3-6 March 2026
Six years of Hay... What we've learnt:
We've worked with the Hay Community since October 2019 and are keen to develop a sustainable, long-term delivery of the Giz A Break program for young people from Hay and surrounding communities. Between 2019 and December 2025, we have delivered well over a dozen camps and many individual and small group follow-ups.
There are a few things we've learned over the years:
- Hay, you are a wonderful community. It can be tough to live in a fairly isolated and smallish place, but the fact that everyone knows each other also means that you take care of each other better than most. We've seen amazing inclusiveness and care for each other - more so than in larger communities we work with. On that note, thank you for taking us in and trusting us.
- Young people who aren't keen on sports, fishing, or hunting might find it tough to find regular, structured activities that float their boat and where they can meet likeminded others. We've seen Hay Shire respond with the Youth Taskforce. What a fantastic effort. (looking at you, Kylie Brettschneider!)
- There are still some pretty conservative stereotypes of what a man is or isn't, but increasingly, the conversation about this is changing. We loved the conversations we had about this topic on our camps (comes up a lot, actually).
- Access to mental health services is a real problem, particularly for young people with significant mental health issues (eg complex trauma, substance use, personality disorders). Sure, there are some services in town, but they have tight eligibility criteria or limited availability (fortnightly visits) and changing faces (frequent shifts on who comes from Griffith or elsewhere to provide the service).
- Access to capacity-building supports for young people with a disability is very limited, too. In fact, it was a family from Hay that had seen the impact their son's participation in one of our first camps had on his self-confidence and community participation and asked us if we could start running camps for young people with autism and ADHD. That's how our NDIS activities were born.
- The town's mood and wellbeing correlates with climate patterns: When harvests are good or the outlook for the season is good, the town grows, the pubs are full, and people are smiling. When drought hits, farming families are stressed, people loose work and leave town, then the school's enrolments drop, the footy club is loosing players, and family-run small businesses see their revenue decline. You can feel and see the stress, and it impacts mental health across all generations. We've seen this cycle over the last 6 years, and we believe that the health system can and must prepare for it - particularly in light of climate change.
- Public institutions have a central role to play, maybe beyond their stated purpose. The resources (and secure employment) offered by public institutions such as local government and schools means that they can be the steady presence that stabilises the community and ensures skills and resources are secured to meet the communities' needs. This includes investment, advocacy and innovative thinking - but also empathy and care. This is particularly true for youth and more vulnerable members of the community. It also means that staff working in community organisations and public institutions who recognise that this is what it takes often work well beyond their ordinary hours. They need support, too.
We're currently looking for grants that will help us continue offering this program to Hay's youth beyond 2026, and we'll let you know as soon as we secure this.