A Bendigo builder has thanked all those who helped realise his dream to create a retreat for people living with the challenges of breast cancer. 

Paul Gray, of Paul Gray Builders, spent a few minutes earlier this week chatting to some of the first guests at Kez’s Hideaway.

The breast cancer was built in memory of his late wife Kerri, who died of breast cancer on March 10, 2011.

“It hasn't been just Kez’s vision, it’s been a whole team effort to give back to a lot of families to get away, so thank you to everyone,” Mr Gray said. 

“It’s been great, with the support from the community.”

He thanked the trades and suppliers involved for their support, and all those who donated to the project. 

Mr Gray said he was “very relieved” the Redesdale hideaway was being enjoyed by those in need of a break.

Melbourne couple Anne and Dennis ‘Wally’ Porter were among the first people to stay at the property, which almost 30 families are booked to stay at by early 2017.

“I feel very humbled to be able to use something so beautiful,” Mrs Porter said. 

The 43-year-old mother of four was diagnosed with breast cancer in May.

A double mastectomy and chemotherapy soon followed. 

Her retreat coincided with a break in treatment, which was to resume shortly after the couple returned to Melbourne.

Mrs Porter said the three-night retreat had been peaceful. 

“You can come here and no-one knows you and you’re away from it all,” she said. 

“It’s good to have a different focus because it tends to take over.”

Kez’s Hideaway is one of The OTIS Foundation’s 37 breast cancer retreats, which are provided at no charge breast cancer patients and their families for a short break. 

“We can now make more than 100 stays available each year to women living with breast cancer, and just as importantly, their families, to take a break,” OTIS Foundation spokeswoman Carlie Ryan said. 

An open day is being arranged for November 26, to mark the community support provided to the construction of Kez’s Hideaway.

Ms Ryan said details would be released closer to the date, but people could register their interest by emailing info@otisfoundation.org.au.

Also upcoming is an AFL-themed fundraising event featuring AFL coach Terry Wallace.

OTIS Blokes Before the Bounce starts at 5pm on September 29 at #Hashtag Public Bar (Upstairs) Kennington Village, Condon Street, Bendigo.

Tickets are $25 and are sold at the foundation’s new Fountain Court offices.

Each $50 donation covers the cost of providing one night at an OTIS Foundation retreat, general manager Rachel Mason said. 

At the start of the week, Myer Bendigo presented the charity with a $7288.28 cheque through its Myer Community Fund.