Meet Our Team
Ocean & Trail Escapes is led by Kim and Valerie, two support professionals with a shared love of nature, community and helping people pursue the experiences that matter to them.
Together, they have created a smaller, more personal model of support where participants are known, included and encouraged to take an active role in their choices.
Kim
Co-Founder
For as long as I can remember, I’ve felt most at home outdoors. I grew up on small farms surrounded by animals, open paddocks and fresh country air, with many of my favourite childhood memories made exploring nature and camping with my family.
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That love of the outdoors continued as I raised my own family and later travelled further afield. Those experiences strengthened my appreciation for the confidence, connection and joy that exploring new places can bring.
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I wanted Ocean & Trail Escapes to be more than a disability support service. I wanted to create opportunities for people to get outdoors, build confidence, make genuine connections and experience adventures they may never have thought possible.
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What I enjoy most is seeing participants grow in confidence, discover something new or simply finish the day with a smile.
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When I’m not working, you’ll usually find me spending time with my family and grandchildren, hiking, camping, at the beach, horse riding when I can or taking part in long-distance charity walks.
Valerie
Co-Founder
I was born in England and grew up in Sydney, with much of my childhood spent outdoors exploring, using our imaginations and developing an appreciation for nature.
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Travel has always been an important part of my life. From an early age I was exposed to different countries, cultures and ways of life, and as an adult I continued travelling independently. These experiences taught me to approach people from all backgrounds with curiosity, respect and acceptance.
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Disability was also a natural part of my life growing up. My father was an amputee and my parents had close friends whose son had an intellectual disability. I never saw either of them through the lens of disability. To me, they were simply people living their lives.
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Looking back, these experiences helped shape my belief in inclusion, respect and equality, and in seeing the person before their circumstances. Together with my love of nature, travel and connecting with people, these values have become an important part of the philosophy behind Ocean & Trail Escapes.
Our Support Team
Our qualified support workers assist with group outings, community participation and personalised support, helping participants work towards their individual goals.
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Team members are chosen for their experience, reliability and person-centred approach. As casual team members may change, we don’t list each person individually, but everyone involved in providing support holds the qualifications, checks and training required for their role.
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Across our team, these include:
Certificate III in Individual Support
First Aid certification
National Police Checks
Working With Children Checks
NDIS Worker Orientation Module
Public and products liability insurance
Comprehensive vehicle insurance
Our Approach to Support
Kim, Valerie and the Ocean & Trail Escapes team bring kindness, patience and genuine connection to each support. They understand that good support is not about taking over. It is about listening, creating opportunities and helping each participant make informed choices at their own pace.
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Let’s talk about the support you’re looking for
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Finding the right support starts with finding people you feel comfortable with. Get in touch for a friendly conversation about your interests, goals and the type of support that might work for you.