Claudia brings both lived experience as a carer and a professional background in education, and community development. Her own carer journey has shaped her commitment to creating inclusive, supportive spaces where carers feel seen, heard and valued.
For several years, Claudia ran Carer Escapes informally and unpaid, motivated by her own journey and the desire to support others facing similar challenges. A traditional job, such as her former teaching career, wasn’t possible at the time; her caring role required her to be present at home and flexible every day.
With her children now growing in independence, Claudia is excited to lead Carer Escapes into a new chapter as a registered not-for-profit. She holds a degree in Technology and Diploma in Teaching and has always been committed to personal development and growth.
Claudia brings a hands-on, creative approach to Carer Escapes retreats, offering carers the chance to experience practical wellbeing, emotional regulation, and the power of community through art, movement, music, and nature.
Claudia’s leadership is grounded in empathy, collaboration, and a vision for a more connected, compassionate society where every carer knows their worth and contribution truly matter.
Tracey has been a cornerstone of Carer Escapes since the beginning, working alongside Claudia to bring the organisation’s mission to life. With many years of experience as a massage therapist and a background in wellbeing retreats, Tracey is the heart and soul of every Carer Escapes retreat.
She is responsible for planning and co-designing workshops, creating engaging programs, and building genuine connections with carers, both during and after each retreat. Tracey’s lived experience and passion for self-care shine through in everything she does. Her qualifications in massage, emotional regulation, and professional photography enrich the retreat experience and empower carers to feel seen, valued, and confident.
Tracey’s warmth, creativity, and unwavering support make every retreat a safe and uplifting space. Through her lens, she helps carers rediscover their confidence and celebrate their unique journeys.
Sarah is a highly experienced massage therapist, yoga practitioner and mindfulness facilitator, bringing over 25 years of teaching expertise to Carer Escapes. She truly understands the unique challenges faced by carers, drawing on her own lived experience to create compassionate, supportive spaces for carers to pause.
Sarah’s approach blends deep professional knowledge with simple practical tools for carer wellbeing. Her sessions are designed to help carers reconnect with themselves, find moments of peace, and build resilience, both during retreats and beyond.
Sarah’s calm presence and gentle guidance empower carers to prioritise their own health, discover new strengths and confidence, and she is proud to be part of a team that champions connection, self-care, and community.
Emily is the founder of Hands Heart & Feet, where she builds community through inclusive, creative arts programs that are great for mental health and open to all.
Drawing on a vibrant fusion of contemporary, West African, Bollywood, and Tribal Belly Dance styles, as well as accessible, funky drumming rhythms, Emily creates unique emotional regulation workshops designed especially for carers who are often burnt out and exhausted. Her sessions invite carers to reconnect with joy, movement, and self-expression, offering a safe space to laugh, play, and recharge.
A highlight of our Blue Mountains Retreat is Emily’s “Storytime,” where her warmth, kindness, and playful spirit is inspiring and uplifting. Passionate about supporting vulnerable communities, Emily uses the arts to foster resilience, connection, and genuine wellbeing for all who join her workshops.
Role Overview:
Carer Ambassadors are experienced carers who have attended at least one Carer Escapes retreat as a participant. They have proven themselves to be committed to personal growth, peer support, and community building. As trusted members of the Carer Escapes community, Ambassadors play a vital role in welcoming new carers, supporting retreat activities, and fostering a positive, inclusive environment both in-person and online.
Roslyn is a dedicated mum and carer to two neurodivergent children. After facing a particularly challenging year in 2022, she knows how isolating and overwhelming the caring journey can be. Feeling burnt out and longing for connection, Roslyn set out to find understanding, guidance, and people who truly “get it.”
In 2023, Roslyn found the support and confidence she needed, along with a renewed sense of compassion for herself and others, through Carer Escapes. Now, she is passionate about giving back as a Carer Ambassador, using her lived experience to provide valuable support across all carer wellbeing events.
With a background in aged care and a special interest in supporting people living with dementia, she brings warmth, empathy, and a genuine desire to help every carer feel seen, valued, and supported.
Melissa is a proud mum of four boys, two of whom have additional needs. As a bubbly, kind, and neurodiverse carer, she brings genuine warmth and understanding to the Carer Escapes community. Melissa’s passion for helping others led her to a career in community services, where she works part-time as a support worker and is currently studying for her Certificate IV in Individual Support (Disability), with plans to further her education at university.
Melissa finds deep joy in volunteering as a Carer Ambassador, creating safe spaces for carers to connect, share, and breathe. She believes in the power of support, understanding, and compassion-whether it’s during a retreat or in the online community. Melissa is committed to helping carers prioritise their own wellbeing, prevent burnout, and discover the tools they need to rest and recharge.
Her lived experience and positive outlook inspire others to put themselves first and embrace the importance of self-care.
Courtney-Alana is a devoted wife, mum of three, and carer for her husband and two of their children. She understands firsthand how exhausting and overwhelming caring can be and knows how easy it is for carers to lose sight of their own needs. Through her own journey, Courtney-Alana discovered a deep passion for supporting other carers, determined to help them find balance and connection before reaching burnout.
As a Carer Ambassador, Courtney-Alana brings genuine compassion and understanding to the Carer Escapes community. She loves connecting with fellow carers, sharing wisdom and practical tips learned through lived experience, often over a cuppa and a friendly chat. Her warmth and empathy help create a safe space where carers feel heard and valued.
Carer Escapes is the trading name of Carers Connections and Retreats Pty Ltd
Service Regions: Sydney, Central Coast, Blue Mountains, Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Hunter Valley, Taree
ABN: 88 659 780 024
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