Mr Gray knows first-hand the benefit of a fresh perspective when life gets tough.

He and his late wife Kerri took regular trips as she battled breast cancer, and now he is donating his time and expertise to help others in the same situation.

But Mr Gray and the Otis Foundation are calling on the help of the Bendigo community to turn their dream into reality.

They need a generous landowner to donate space for the new retreat which will be named in memory of Kerri.

The ideal parcel of land would be in a rural setting with a “picturesque outlook” within 45 minutes drive of Bendigo.

The land must contain a relatively flat building envelope and ease of access for construction and service installation.

Mr Gray said Kerri had lost her four-year battle with breast cancer last year.

“To have lived and fought this disease with Kerri, our family knows how much a small getaway can help to forget the day-to-day stresses of this terrible disease,” Mr Gray said.

“So for us to be in a situation to be able to give that feeling to other families and friends with breast cancer is a small thing, after such a big loss.”

Otis chairman and founder Andrew Barling said the foundation had “thrived” on community generosity since it began.

Otis was the brainchild of Mr Barling’s wife Judy Burley who died of breast cancer in 2000.

Ms Burley had a vision to deliver the peace, nurturing and comfort she found in nature, to others faced with a similar challenge.

More than a decade on the foundation has 14 retreats across Victoria, South Australia and New South Wales.

“I understand the significance of the gift that Paul and Kerri have offered to Otis and the ongoing contribution it will make to the lives of those living with breast cancer,” Mr Barling said.

“Now we’re calling for another generous individual to contribute the land, to help Paul and I see this exciting project to fruition.” 

 Those interested in donating land to the project can visit www.otisfoundation.org.au or www.paulgraybuilders.com.au or phone The Otis Foundation on 03 5444 1185 for further information. 

Expressions of interest are being considered until December 14.