Learning and Development Retreat for All Carers – 21 and 22 March 2026, Torquay

Learning and Development Retreat for All Carers – 21 and 22 March 2026, Torquay

On the 21st and 22nd of March, 44 Kinship, Foster and Permanent carers gathered on the lands of the Eastern Maar and Wadawurrung Peoples for Carer Kafe’s second Learning and Development retreat of the year.   

Held at the RAVC Torquay resort, the two-day retreat provided a unique and dedicated space for carers to connect and learn alongside one another.   

The retreat began with a smoking ceremony, led by Melinda Kennedy honouring the Eastern Maar and Wadawurrung Peoples the traditional custodians of the land and welcoming all carers to the beautiful lands and waters encompassed by the Great Ocean Road region.

Megan Corcoran, Director of the Wagtail Institute, then facilitated the Saturday learning and development sessions which were centred on supporting wellbeing through trauma-informed practice.  

The day concluded with lots of chats and laughs during dinner and trivia.  

Sunday began with a gentle and powerful Yoga and Mindfulness session led by Laura Grace from Calming Foundations. 

Next, the Creative Arts Therapy workshop facilitated by Fiona McGrath AThR (Water Ribbons Art Therapy) and Sara Grace AThR (Arts Therapy Studio) invited carers to create something meaningful with a variety of materials and to weave a personal message into their piece. 

To conclude the learning and development retreat, Sandra from Services Australia Grandparent, Foster and Kinship Carer Advisers presented an informative session on navigating service systems and resources.    

Feedback from carers was very positive, with many highlighting the connections formed and learning opportunities:  

“Amazing program, fun, entertaining & filled with kindness.” 

“I feel like I have been heard and supported – I feel nurtured.” 

“I truly appreciate the great effort in supporting us, the material/sessions were very informative. Great dedication from the team.” 

“I have made a lot of friends that are in the same boat as I and the group work has been amazing.” 

“I learned so much, loved meeting new carers and getting to know them, presentations were great, speakers were so good and friendly great experience.” 

“Great information and activities, feeling welcomed among friends.” 

”This has been a beneficial reset – every aspect special .” 

“Meeting different carers who are going through different and similar situations to myself made me feel less alone.” 

“I was not sure what to expect but I feel so much more confident going home now.”