Saltbush Balnarring Beach

Justice Lived Through Rest, Dignity and Hope

At Saltbush Balnarring Beach, living the value of justice means ensuring our doors stay open to those who need us most. Continuing on from the foundations laid by the Presentation Sisters, Saltbush continues to act for justice and to respond with compassion in our world, and welcome all who need some time to rest, recover, enjoy time in nature, connect with family, and for children to simply play. 

Many of the people who come to stay at the houses of Saltbush are very vulnerable, and would not be able to take a break anywhere else. Some are recovering from trauma, grief, or family violence. Some are carers who have been holding everything together for years. Others may be refugees or asylum seekers living with extreme stress and instability. Many are living with financial hardship, isolation, mental health challenges and utter exhaustion. 

Justice, in the context of Saltbush, begins with the basic recognition that people who are dealing with challenging life circumstances deserve better than emergency or crisis support. Everyone deserves the chance to put down what they are carrying for a moment and catch their breath, before it all becomes too much. And after a traumatic experience occurs, people need the time to recover, and build their strength back up again. Everyone deserves to feel safe, and to feel welcome. Every child deserves a place where they can play and run freely, and where tired parents can relax and enjoy their children’s happiness. Saltbush is this safe place where the bushland, the beautiful native gardens, and the fresh sea air provide restoration and a sense of peace for those who need it most.

This year our Night of Hope fundraising dinner, held at Merricks General Store, helped us keep the doors open and the lights on for more families in need. More than 100 people gathered in support of Saltbush and the guests we serve. Dr Dietmar Tourbier, a Saltbush Board Member and Director of Energy at CSIRO, spoke about Australia’s energy future, and the courage and care needed as we face the challenges ahead.

But the heart of the evening came from the lived experience of “Tessa” (whose name has been changed to protect her privacy). Tessa, one of Saltbush’s guests, spoke with courageous honesty about the first time she came to Saltbush with her young children. Overwhelmed with frightening and exhausting circumstances, Tessa explained how the first time she woke up at Saltbush was like a beautiful revelation to her. For the first time in a long time, she was able to feel that life could actually be different. Being at Saltbush helped her see beyond what she and her children had been living through and imagine a brighter future. This is the kind of justice we are trying to create in the world. One where trauma does not trap you, nor hard times define you. Where access to hope and rest is recognised as fundamental, and the futures of children as wide open and full of potential as their beautiful hearts and imaginations are. 

Thanks to our wonderful circle of supporters, we continue to improve our houses and grounds to provide the best possible experience we can for the guests who stay with us. Over the last year we have been able to upgrade the kitchens in our six houses, to plant beautiful, restorative native gardens and simply keep the lights turned on and the doors open, which takes a lot of work and the help of many generous supporters and volunteers. 

In 2026, as we reflect on Justice, Saltbush gives thanks for all those who help make restorative breaks possible for people who need them most. Together, we are helping create a place where hope is cultivated, and where the dignity of every person is the foundation we build upon.

 Amy Campion

Saltbush Balnarring Beach