Learning and Development Retreat – 29 to 30 March 2025, Creswick

Learning and Development Retreat – 29 to 30 March 2025, Creswick

On the lands of the Dja Dja Wurrung People, 50 dedicated Kinship, Foster, and Permanent Carers gathered for an enriching Learning and Development Retreat at RACV Goldfields, Creswick. Over two days, carers participated in a range of activities designed to promote connection and learning.

The retreat began with a Welcome to Country by Jason Kerr, a Djaara Traditional Owner, followed by a Carers’ Wellbeing session facilitated by Megan Corcoran from the Wagtail Institute. Participants explored strategies to enhance their emotional resilience, manage stress, and cultivate positive wellbeing. Megan created a space where both the joys and challenges of being a carer could be shared, fostering a deep sense of connection and understanding among participants. The energy in the room was palpable, with conversations flowing so freely that, on occasion, a glass had to be dinged to bring everyone back together!

After an evening of networking, the second day commenced with a calming yoga and mindfulness session led by Laura Grace of Awesome Beings. This session provided carers with gentle movement and breathing exercises designed to promote inner peace and relaxation.

The Services Australia Grandparent, Foster, and Kinship Carer Advisors (GFKCA) program representative delivered an informative session on navigating Services Australia’s services, payments, and available community resources.

The retreat concluded with a creative and reflective Creative Arts Therapy session led by Fiona McGrath (Water Ribbons Art Therapy) and Sara Grace (Arts Therapy Studio). Carers designed Wellbeing Collage Cards, using artistic exploration to express their experiences and take away a tangible reminder of their journey.

Carer Kafe acknowledges the Dja Dja Wurrung People, whose traditional lands hosted this retreat, and we pay our respects to Elders past, present, and emerging. We extend our gratitude to all who participated and supported this meaningful event.

Feedback from carers was that they enjoyed the education and wellbeing sessions and found the experience of connecting with other carers invaluable:

“It was a safe, understanding, well suited, funny, amazing experience. Both serious and light moments. Loved it. I wasn’t sure what to expect but it far exceeded what I could imagine.”

“What was offered was wonderful. Both the informative sessions as well as the wellbeing sessions and opportunities to connect with others who understand.”

“Fantastic time just for carers, really appreciate these retreats as a carer. You all do an amazing job allowing us to have a fantastic time. THANK YOU”

“I got a chance to meet new carers that I shared a laugh with, were empathetic, and felt a sense of belonging and kinship with.”

“Able to discuss issues without being ignored or dismissed as happens with family and friends.”

“Thank you for creating a space for us to pause, reflect, be equipped, and get some refreshment.”

“The retreat has taught me that we are all special and not to be feeling so alone. Relaxing and best experience!”