Learning and Development Retreat – 3 to 4 May 2025, Fingal

Learning and Development Retreat – 3 to 4 May 2025, Fingal

On the lands of the Bunurong People, 40 dedicated Kinship Carers came together for a Learning and Development Retreat at Peppers Moonah Links Resort, Fingal. Over two days, carers immersed themselves in a series of enriching sessions designed to foster connection and learning.

The retreat commenced with a heartfelt Welcome to Country delivered by Josh West, a Bunurong Traditional Owner. This powerful opening set the tone for a weekend of shared experiences and meaningful reflection.

Carers participated in ‘Caring for kids, utilising wellbeing science and trauma-informed practice​’ led by Megan Corcoran of the Wagtail Institute, equipping them with more strategies to create secure, supportive environments for children in their care. Carers gained practical tools to further support them in fostering a sense of safety, autonomy, and mental resilience, enhancing their capacity to nurture positive mental health outcomes in the children they care for.

Saturday evening was an opportunity for connection and fun with a trivia night! Carers tested their knowledge in a spirited competition. Laughter and friendly rivalry filled the room, strengthening bonds between participants.

The second day began with a rejuvenating Yoga and Mindfulness session, guided by Laura Grace of Awesome Beings. Carers explored gentle movements and breathing techniques, finding a moment of calm in their often-demanding roles.

Creative exploration was the focus of the Creative Arts Therapy workshop, led by Fiona McGrath (Water Ribbons Art Therapy) and Sara Grace (Arts Therapy Studio). Carers reflected on their experiences through artistic expression, creating their own ‘Inner Landscape’ as a means of self-care and personal growth.

The retreat also featured an informative session with the Grandparent, Foster, and Kinship Carer Adviser (GFKCA), providing carers with crucial insights into navigating Services Australia’s offerings and community support.

Carer Kafe acknowledges the Bunurong People, on whose traditional lands this retreat took place. We pay our respects to Elders past, present, and emerging, recognising their ongoing connection to the land, water, and community.

Feedback from carers was overwhelmingly positive, with many highlighting the education, wellbeing sessions, and connections formed:

“I feel good to know there are others in similar situation to me. To be able to start conversations without a big back story as we are all similar.”

“I feel stronger more liberated and so much support information was gained. I feel empowered to get onboard for more support.”

“I got so much more than I expected. I feel 10 years younger, a spring in my step and can now see why it’s important to take time for me to make me a better carer.”

“You have no idea how changed I am from every single thing over the weekend. I feel very valued and I’m leaving alive, fresh, and feeling bloody amazing.”

“That I am valued and supported, trauma informed, emotion regulated information has been my takeaway.”

“Retreat has been well above my expectations, speakers are amazing, organisers were fantastic.”

“It exceeded my expectations. So grateful and feeling amazing after this weekend.”

“Being able to talk to other carers was good. Don’t be on your own there are a lot of people who have been where you are.”

“We feel like it gave us both confidence that we are doing a lot right.”

“Very informative and gave us more avenues for help.”