Epilepsy South Africa Mpumalanga Branch was established on 07 January 1979, then while the national office was still called SANEL (South African National Epilepsy League) situated in Dullstroom The name was changed to Epilepsy South Africa Nationally in 2000 and subsequently, the Mpumalanga branch changed their name in 2001. The branch started with the Dullstroom Residential Centre accommodating 85 residents with epilepsy and other neurological disorders. The main objective of the Residential Centre is to provide 24-hour primary health care to the residents by 24 personnel. In 1996 the branch extended its service to include Community Intervention program with 4 satellite offices run by 3 Social Auxiliary Workers The programs have grown since then to have 10 personnel ranging from Social Workers, Social Auxiliary Workers and Social work Supervisor within the three districts of Mpumalanga focusing on social development services, advocacy & human rights and community development to persons living with epilepsy.

The Blue Gum Barn is part of the building that was donated to the branch by the Department of Education to be used for welfare purposes as per the vision and mission of the organization. This facility was previously used as a recreational hall for the Centre and for fundraising purposes as a venue for meetings, workshops, weddings and social events etc.

TRAC has revamped the facility by adding a new bathroom, and kitchen, erected Clearview fencing, and renovated the old hall that gave birth to the new name - BLUE GUM BARN.