REDI researchers explore the impact of Cottage by the Sea

Cottage by the Sea recently shared its second report – The Impact of Cottage by the Sea: From Ripples to Waves – as part of its research partnership with REDI.

Established in Queenscliff Victoria in 1890 the Cottage is a children’s charity that aims to enhance the lives of young people in need by providing inspiration, fun and opportunity within a holiday environment. The Cottage’s programs include: Take a Break (young people aged 8-12 years); REEF (young people transitioning from Year 6 to Year 7); and Mentor (young people 13 to 18 years).

The research, led by Professor Louise Paatsch with colleagues Deakin Distinguished Professor Julianne Moss, Professor Amanda Mooney, Dr Tebeje Molla, Professor Andrea Nolan, Dr Trevor Mccandless and Cathy Phillips, explored the medium- to long-term impacts of Cottage by the Sea through interviews with current and former program participants, going back as early as 1939.

‘It was the most humbling and rewarding piece of research work I have been involved with,’ said Professor Louise Paatsch.

The findings of the study validate the transformative impact of Cottage’s programs and the opportunities they create:

• Fostering fun and enjoyment
• Building relationships
• Providing a safe haven
• (Re)Creating happy memories

The four recommendations stemming from the research findings will allow Cottage by the Sea to develop and enhance its programs further so that it can continue to achieve its mission of offering inspiration, fun and opportunity to more children.

‘The research brings to life the enduring impact of Cottage by the Sea – insights that we have known anecdotally for some time but can be so difficult to quantify and articulate. The report shows how even the smallest of ripples can empower these children and young people to ride life’s larger, more challenging, waves,’ said Adam Wake, CEO Cottage by the Sea.

‘A former Cottage participant who was interviewed in this research has gone on to participate in the Olympics and the Commonwealth Games. She said that her experiences at Cottage have helped shape her life in a more positive way. This is just one example of how an experience at Cottage by the Sea is literally life-changing.’

The Research Snapshot summarises the report’s findings and recommendations: