Council Sponsorship to Deliver 'Take a Break' Program to Every Year 5 Student in Ararat Rural City

Ararat Rural City Council is pleased to announce that it will provide annual sponsorship towards the Cottage by The Sea ‘Take a Break’ Program, an initiative aimed at improving the lives of children.

Cottage by the Sea is a not-for-profit Australian children’s charity, helping children lead happy, healthy lives. Their mission is to enhance the lives of more children by providing inspiration, fun and opportunity within a holiday environment.

Their 'Take a Break Program' provides children with a variety of fun and inspiring activities that challenge them, build teamwork, encourage hands-on learning, and promote active, healthy, confident, and respectful behaviour.

The program invites Year 5 students from specific local schools to attend the Cottage by the Sea camp in Queenscliff, Victoria.

Following the successful participation of Ararat North, Pomonal, Maroona, and Buangor Primary Schools, the Program will now be offered to every Year 5 student in Ararat Rural City starting from 2026.

Ararat Rural City Council will support this initiative through an annual investment of $10,000.

More information about the Cottage by The Sea ‘Take a Break’ Program can be found at: cottagebythesea.com.au/take-a-break

"We're really excited to announce that the fantastic 'Take a Break' Program will now be available to every Year 5 student across Ararat Rural City starting from 2026,” said Ararat Rural City Council Mayor, Cr Jo Armstrong.

“This program is all about giving our young people fun, challenging experiences that build confidence, teamwork, and a love for active, healthy living. We're proud to support an initiative that invests so directly in the wellbeing and future of our community's young people."