Learning and Development Retreat for Carers of First Nations Children – 28 and 29 June 2025, Lancefield

Learning and Development Retreat for Carers of First Nations Children – 28 and 29 June 2025, Lancefield

On the lands of the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung People, 40 kinship, foster and permanent carers of First Nations children came together for a Learning and Development Retreat at Cleveland Estate, Lancefield. Over two days, carers immersed themselves in a series of enriching sessions designed to foster connection and learning.

The retreat commenced with a powerful Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony led by Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung Elder and Traditional Owner Uncle John Terrick and Elder Uncle John Xiberras. This culturally significant opening set the tone for a weekend of learning, reflection, and shared stories.

After a fun carer introduction session, carers engaged in an excellent session on Keeping Kids Connected to Culture, facilitated by Clarisse Slater, Aboriginal Therapeutic Specialist, Facilitator and Consultant and Senior Manager of VACCA’s External Training and Relationships Team. The session equipped carers of First Nations children with resources and knowledge strengthening their role in championing culture for the children and young people they support.

Later that afternoon, carers joined Uncle Lionel Lauch of Living Culture in an inspiring session on connection to culture. This session blended discussion and deep listening, concluding with a meditative Yidaki (Didgeridoo) experience.

Saturday evening allowed carers to unwind over a shared dinner and entertaining trivia competition.

The second day began with Wayapa Wuurrk®, led by Justine Cooper of The Barefoot Spirit. This uplifting session incorporated gentle movement and Indigenous earth connection practices and supported carers to explore wellbeing through a lens of environmental and cultural mindfulness.

This was followed by a lovely hands-on Traditional Weaving Workshop with Cassie Leatham of Wild Blak Arts. Carers crafted woven armbands from native grasses, learning about the stories and traditions embedded in the practice of weaving.

The retreat concluded with an informative session led by the Grandparent, Foster, and Kinship Carer Adviser from Services Australia, providing carers with valuable insights into navigating support services.

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

Feedback from carers highlighted the impactful cultural focus, wellbeing activities and sense of community built throughout the weekend.

“I gained some excellent information and supportive statements with regards to indigenous children connecting to culture.”

“Excellent venue and brilliant presenters, staff and all people who put this together were wonderful.”

“Great weekend away meeting other carers and being able to yarn and share stories of struggles and successes.”

“I wanted tools and companionship and this conference delivered both beyond my expectations.”

“I’ve met some beautiful people and learnt some new skills. Thank you for a fantastic retreat.”

“More informed about First Nations Social and Emotional wellbeing. Connected with wellbeing practitioners.”

“Workshops were culturally sensitive, informative and interesting. I learned new things I previously didn’t know.”

“Excellent speakers – the cultural side was amazing. I felt validated with my culture practices.”

“I got to talk to really honest and understanding people in the same boat as me.”

“Listening to Lionel and how passionate he is to help his people stay connected has ignited a fire within me to help within my community.”