Business Leaders. Neighbours. Lifelong Friends of The Portsea Camp.
In the close-knit communities of Portsea and Sorrento, the names Jane Hansen and Paul Little resonate deeply, not only as successful business leaders, respected philanthropists and cherished neighbours but also as steadfast champions of The Portsea Camp.
At The Portsea Camp, we are lucky to call Jane and Paul not just supporters, but part of our extended Camp family. Their connection to The Portsea Camp runs deep—through more than two decades of hands-on philanthropy, strategic guidance, and community leadership, they’ve helped thousands of children experience the joy, connection, and freedom that only a holiday by the sea can offer.
A Vision Beyond the Fence Line
Jane and Paul first became involved when The Portsea Camp began exploring a large-scale relocation from our heritage-listed site in Portsea to a new, purpose-built facility at Point Nepean. That bold vision aimed to expand access to over 10,000 children a year—offering unforgettable seaside holidays to those who need it most and reducing the sometimes-insurmountable expense associated with maintaining, modernising and upgrading a 200-year-old heritage listed site – albeit beautiful and steeped in history.
Their support during that period was not just financial—it was foundational. With deep experience in business and governance, they offered invaluable advice to help ensure The Portsea Camp’s long-term sustainability and positive impact. Whilst this project was ultimately unable to proceed, the legacy of support and advice for the Camp and its connection to the local community through Jane, Paul and a small band of neighbours endures.
Real Support. Real Impact.
Over the years, Jane and Paul have contributed in countless ways:
· Ongoing Direct Donations to our core programs supporting vulnerable and disadvantaged children from across Victoria.
· Maintenance and Upgrades to Camp facilities to ensure every child has a safe, welcoming environment.
· The Annual Charity Golf Day, now in its fourth year, raising over $80,000 annually and helping to significantly grow awareness of our work.
· Mentorship and Strategic Advice that has helped shape our approach to philanthropy and good governance models for future growth.
This kind of support goes far beyond a simple donation—it removes real obstacles that disadvantaged children face every day. Post-pandemic, these challenges have only deepened. Children today are facing increasing levels of vulnerability—higher rates of anxiety and depression, social isolation, family stress, and developmental disruption. Many are struggling to form stable connections or feel a sense of belonging. Our Camp offers a powerful antidote: a safe, joyful, inclusive space where they can rebuild trust, make friends, and discover their strengths.
The Hansen Little Foundation: A Legacy of Community Impact
In 2024, support from the Hansen Little Foundation further increased. One of its first major involvements was a critical refit of our bathroom facilities—some of which had not been upgraded in decades.
· One grant funded the installation of modern shower cubicles and doors across the Parade Ground and Western Wing dormitories—creating clean, private, and safe spaces for all campers.
· A further grant provided vital transport funding, ensuring that children from even the most remote or disadvantaged parts of Victoria are now able to get to the Camp.
These projects do more than improve facilities—they remove real barriers faced by children living with poverty, isolation, illness, disability, family disruption, and the long-lasting mental health impacts of the pandemic.
“It’s About the Simple Joys”
For Jane and Paul , the magic of Camp is found in the small, beautiful moments:
“Watching the children walk past our house en route to the beach and then hearing their joy at being near the water, kayaking, snorkeling, watching the sunset, hearing the squeals of delight as they experience the giant swing for the first time—these are moments that matter and why it is important to share our precious coast with these young people.”
They understand that for many children, this is more than a holiday—it is a rare chance to feel free, safe, and joyful.
Thank You, Jane And Paul
Your belief in The Portsea Camp and the children we serve has changed lives.
You have shown us what true community leadership looks like—not just through your generosity, but through your time, your care, your championing of childhood, and your belief in us to adapt, grow and provide for each generation that comes through our gates.
Not just neighbours, but champions of The Portsea Camp who enabled thousands of children to feel the warmth, fun, and freedom of the Camp with their support.
