Nature-Based Respite & Short-Term Accommodation (STA)
At Brumby Equine Assisted Therapy, we believe true rest is more than just a break — it’s a return to calm. Launching in 2026, our Nature-Based Respite and Short-Term Accommodation (STA) experiences offer NDIS participants and their families a rare chance to rest, recharge and reconnect in nature.
Set on tranquil acreage in the Blue Mountains, these stays blend horse-led time, open skies and caring facilitators in a trauma-aware, person-centred environment designed to support the nervous system, nurture emotional regulation and build confidence. In collaboration with expert NDIS specialist Shane Wyatt, we’ve designed every element — from canvas tents to horse paddocks — with dignity, safety and inclusion in mind.
What We Offer
We provide 1:1 or small-ratio (1:2 or 1:3) day and overnight stays designed for NDIS participants seeking supported respite.
Each stay is tailored to the individual’s needs and goals, with optional equine-assisted and nature-based activities that foster emotional regulation, confidence, and wellbeing.
Available options:
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Day Respite — one-day nature-based experiences combining rest, connection, and gentle engagement with horses.
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Short-Term Stays (1–3 nights) — camping in quality canvas tents under the stars, with supported daily routines, nutritious meals, and optional guided activities.
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Weekend Retreats & Mini Camps — small-group experiences that integrate elements from our seasonal workshops, encouraging social connection and self-development.
Therapeutic Approach
All respite experiences are grounded in the same principles that guide our counselling and equine-assisted therapy work.
Our team draws from trauma-informed, person-centred, and experiential learning models, including:
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Gestalt Therapy
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Person-Centred Therapy
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Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
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Somatic awareness and mindfulness practices
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Ecotherapy and animal-assisted principles
Each experience is guided by qualified counsellors and trained facilitators, ensuring emotional safety and ethical practice at every stage.
A Typical Stay May Include
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Gentle horse care and observation for grounding and connection
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Mindfulness walks and breathing activities in nature
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Creative and reflective time (journaling, art, or campfire discussions)
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Shared outdoor meals and quiet time under the stars
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Opportunities for independence, confidence, and skill-building
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Optional one-on-one counselling or reflective sessions with a qualified therapist
Every participant is supported to move at their own pace — with flexibility, care, and attention to sensory and emotional needs.
Who It’s For
Our Nature-Based Respite and STA experiences are available to:
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NDIS participants (self-managed or plan-managed)
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Individuals seeking short breaks with therapeutic purpose
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Carers looking for supported respite options
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Support coordinators and plan managers seeking trusted, trauma-informed providers
Whether your goal is to rest and recharge, build emotional regulation skills, or develop independence in a supportive environment — these experiences are designed to meet you where you are.
NDIS Alignment
Our services are aligned with NDIS guidelines for Short-Term Respite (formerly STA) under the category:
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Core Supports – Assistance with Daily Life (Support Item 01_058_0115_1_1).
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Each stay includes:
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Accommodation and support services
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Personal care and daily living assistance (as needed)
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All meals and on-site activities
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Documentation for plan managers or coordinators to ensure transparency and goal alignment
We work collaboratively with participants, carers, and support coordinators to design each stay around individual needs, ensuring it meets “reasonable and necessary” funding requirements.
Location & Facilities
Set on tranquil acreage in the Blue Mountains, our property offers:
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Spacious outdoor areas and horse paddocks
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Private camping spaces with comfortable canvas tents
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Access to bathroom and kitchen facilities
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Secure, enclosed environment with 24-hour support presence
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Opportunities to explore local bush trails, sunsets, and mountain air
Booking & Availability
Nature-Based Respite and STA experiences are available weekdays and weekends throughout the year.
To discuss availability, goals, and NDIS funding options, please contact us directly or ask your support coordinator to reach out.
