Learning and Development Retreat for All Carers – 22 and 23 August 2026 – Creswick

Learning and Development Retreat for All Carers – 22 and 23 August 2026 – Creswick

Over the weekend Carer Kafe welcomed 57 kinship, foster and permanent carers from across Victoria to our Learning and Development Retreat at RACV Goldfields Resort in Creswick. 

We started our morning with Aunty Sandra Barber for a Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony and acknowledge the Dja Dja Wurrung People as Traditional Custodians of the land on which the retreat was held. 

Carers then explored a day of learning with Marina Dickson - Connecting to Care and Carers Wellbeing focused on strengthening care connections, exploring key trauma-informed concepts such as neurobiology and the impacts of trauma and how understanding and connection can support wellbeing. The day concluded with connection opportunities over dinner.  

Sunday began with glorious sun and a mindfulness session with Laura Grace from Calm Foundations, followed by a Creative Arts Therapy workshop facilitated by Fiona McGrath AThR (Water Ribbons Art Therapy) and Sara Grace AThR (Arts Therapy Studio). 

We are so pleased to see the positive responses to our Creswick retreat from carers reflecting that it provided an important opportunity to connect, share and learn: 

• “I thoroughly enjoyed the time connecting, learning and time alone. Perfect mix.”  
• “This was such an amazing weekend and I feel so much appreciated for what I do by caring for my disabled grandchild. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.” 
• “That we are not alone, and that self-care and awareness of our own emotions is not selfish.” 
• “Learning about myself, learning about stress and how to take care of myself.”
• “Learning how the brain works, which is really helpful for me to understand my child.” 
• “I was able to connect with other carers going through the same experiences as me, I was able to have time to reflect on how I can better take care of myself and show up for my teen better.” 
• “Sharing experiences, meeting others. I loved hearing other people’s incredible stories.” 
• “I really appreciate the people, strangers, feedback and love, making me feel welcomed. Thank you so much for including me in this retreat.” 
• “So grateful for this opportunity and the information I gained over the weekend. Thank you.”