Retreats - Carer Kafe

Over the weekend, we held the Learning and Development Retreat for Carers of First Nations Children on the lands of the Wurundjeri People of the Kulin Nation, with 47 kinship carers, foster carers, and permanent carers.

The retreat opened with a Smoking Ceremony and Welcome with Traditional Owner Wurundjeri Man Willy Xiberras offering guests a culturally rich introduction. We were all grateful that the rain held off and we could get outside on Country.

The first session of the day got the group mingling through Yarning Bingo. This was followed by the Supporting Aboriginal Children to Connect to Culture presentation. The session was led by Uncle Donald Callope and Stacey Thrum from VACCA.

After lunch Uncle Mark Brown, a Bunurong and Gunditjmara Elder presented a cultural session and played the Yidaki.

The sessions were engaging and included time to yarn about cultural knowledge with the focus on storytelling, discussion, and open dialogue, creating a safe space where carers felt comfortable asking questions and exploring their understanding.

The final session of the day, led by Sandra from Services Australia Grandparent, Foster and Kinship Carer Advisers, built carers understanding on how they can access and navigate Services Australia’s initiatives.

We rounded out the day with a group dinner, with plenty of conversation and connection across all the tables.

Sunday morning began with Wayapa Wuurrk an Earth connection practice that is based on ancient Indigenous wisdom with Justine Cooper.

Then, Cassie Fisher Patterson, founder of Wild Blak Arts / Yanggurdi finished the day with a traditional weaving workshop. Carers yarned and connected while learning how to make a bracelet.

Carer Kafe acknowledges the Wurundjeri People of the Kulin Nation, 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 indicated that the sessions were very impactful:

“I have completed cultural awareness training courses, but this experience was far more valuable than anything I have learned from a textbook. Hearing directly from Elders, listening to their stories, and having opportunities for genuine conversation provided a level of understanding that simply cannot be replicated in a classroom setting.”

“Hearing from those with knowledge and wisdom of culture was so beautiful and supportive.”

“Just knowing that so many others are in identical situations on this journey made me feel like the hill wasn’t as steep as it feels. I felt heard. I felt stronger hearing similar stories from others.”

“The knowledge sharing and the feeling that there is support and the community.”

“Everything was covered, easy to talk to and understand, best experience. Thank you so much.”

“Keep researching, learning, and asking questions. Keep my little people connected to country and culture.”

“Valuable insights into the importance of culture, identity and belonging for children in my care. Culture connects and supports a child’s well-being, self-esteem and sense of self.”

“Fantastic presenters, friendly warm atmosphere.”

“I felt comfortable in a friendly atmosphere, listening to the elders and feeling accepted.”

“Great event. I felt safe and supported and valued. It is nice to hear how other carers manage.”

“This was fantastic, very informative, relaxed and accepting.”

On the 16th and 17th of May, 60 kinship, foster and permanent carers gathered on the lands of the Bunurong people for Carer Kafe’s Fingal Learning and Development retreat.

Held at Peppers Moonah Links Resort, the two-day retreat provided an enriching space for carers to make peer connections and strengthen skills to support their carer journey.

“The sessions were very informative and engaging. The focus was completely on our needs,” reflected one carer.

Attendees shared that they felt “better equipped mentally”, and that being able to “connect with others going through similar situations was both comforting and informative.”

The retreat began with a smoking ceremony, led by Uncle Mark Brown and James Brown of the Bunurong people of the South-Eastern Kulin Nation. The ceremony honoured the traditional custodians of the land, and invited everyone gathered to enter the space with open hearts and soft feet.

Marina Dickson facilitated a two-part workshop, Trauma Informed Practice and Carers Wellbeing: Caring Sustainably, taking a relational and practical approach and covering achievable strategies that can be applied in everyday situations.

The day concluded with laughs and connection over dinner and trivia.

Sunday opened with a calming Mindfulness session led by Laura Grace from Calm Foundations covering nervous system regulation and wellbeing strategies.

The day concluded with a Creative Arts Therapy workshop facilitated by Fiona McGrath AThR (Water Ribbons Art Therapy) and Sara Grace AThR (Arts Therapy Studio). Through creativity and craft, carers embraced expression and mindfulness in a collaborative and supportive space.

We are so pleased to see the positive responses to our Fingal retreat from carers:

“The speakers were honest and provided helpful and engaging content. Loved how open and vulnerable carers were with each other.”
“That you’re not alone sharing with like-minded people who get it. Meeting very strong, wonderful people.”
“The sessions were very informative and engaging. The focus was completely on our needs.”
“I felt so relaxed. The guest speakers were very informative. A lot was taken in.”
“Beautiful setting, like-minded people, time to focus on my own needs, relaxing and safe environment to learn new skills.”
“Well suited environment with excellent information. Enjoyable time chatting and sharing with other carers.”
“Absolutely love the whole experience, would love a week of it lol.”
“My favourite part of the retreat was being able to connect with other carers hear their stories and feel a whole lot less alone.”
“Thank you for inviting me to this amazing weekend. I’m so grateful to have taken part. Met beautiful people who I will hold close to my heart.”
“I feel better equipped mentally to continue this journey. Connecting with others going through similar situations was both comforting and informative. “
“Provided tools. Met other people going through similar journey. Understanding I matter.”

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.

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.”

On the 21st and 22nd of February, 59 kinship carers gathered on the lands of the Bunurong people for Carer Kafe’s first Learning and Development retreat of the year.

Held at the Werribee Park Mansion, the two-day retreat provided an enriching and restorative space for carers to connect and learn alongside one another.

“My key takeaway is that I am not alone,” reflected one carer.

Attendees shared that there was a “massive feeling of community”, and that the retreat was “friendly and helpful, entertaining and informative.”

The retreat began with a smoking ceremony, led by Lakeisha Clayton and James Brown of the Bunurong people of the South-Eastern Kulin Nation, honouring the traditional custodians of the land and setting an intention of respect and reflection for the coming days.

Megan Corcoran, Director of the Wagtail Institute, then facilitated two workshops centred on supporting wellbeing through trauma-informed practice.

The first session invited carers to explore and implement practical, evidence-based strategies to support stress management and sustain wellbeing in everyday life.

Following this, Megan’s next workshop empowered carers in their ability to support the children in their life with strategies and trauma informed approaches.

The day concluded with lots of laughs and chatter over dinner and trivia.

Sunday began with a gentle Yoga and Mindfulness session led by Laura Grace from Awesome Beings where carers explored mindfulness through gentle movement and breathing techniques.

Next was a Creative Arts Therapy workshop facilitated by Fiona McGrath AThR (Water Ribbons Art Therapy) and Sara Grace AThR (Arts Therapy Studio) supporting expression through pattern making and drawing.

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

We were delighted to see the positive feedback from carers:

Exceeded expectations, location, content, facilitators, fantastic!
So happy to know these things exist. Blown away by the entire experience. Thank you!
Listening to other carer’s stories, making new connections so kids can have new connections.
First time, massive feeling of community. Lovely people.
Thank you! We’re not included in much so very grateful for this opportunity.
My key takeaway is that I’m not alone.
Being able to share the trauma info with a partner, strength in unity, we feel less isolated.
What you guys provide is excellent and appreciated.
Friendly and helpful, entertaining and informative.

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 Uncle John Terrick and Wurundjeri man 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.”

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.

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.”

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!”

45 carers experienced the Retreat for All Home-Based Carers held on the traditional lands of the Wurundjeri People at the Yarra Valley Lodge from Saturday 22 June – Sunday 23 June 2024. A combination of kinship, permanent and foster carers gathered beginning with Uncle Ringo Terrick’s warm Welcome to Country followed by Joanie Bartolo’s valuable keynote session on emotion coaching children and young people. Carers spent time building peer connections and the first day ended with a grounding yoga and mindfulness workshop by Laura Grace.

The second day kicked off with informative sessions led by Kinship Carers Victoria, PCA Families and Foster Care Association of Victoria providing carers with guidance regarding navigating support systems and caring for children and young people. Finally, artist, educator and former paramedic Cassie Leatham from Wild Blak Arts presented an incredible afternoon with cultural activities including a bushwalk and weaving bracelets.

Feedback from carers indicated the retreat was educational as well as being a wonderful opportunity to engage and learn from other carers and to feel supported.

“The retreat exceeded my expectations. I had no idea on how informative it would be, I thought it was just an opportunity to relax and take a break, yet instead it was really informative, especially the tuning into kids sessions and the welcome to country and Cassie were just so moving. My bucket is soooooo full. I was on the verge of tears most of the weekend about how grateful and lucky I felt to be a part of a such a warm and caring community of other carers. Thank you so much to all of you who went above and beyond to make the weekend so special and rewarding, I feel so relaxed and feel like I taken some self-care to be the best mum I can be to my boys xxx”

“While the sessions were informative and I gained much knowledge from them, my key takeaway was chatting with other carers and sharing our experiences. I felt heard and understood by others in a similar situation.”

“It was well organised, very relaxing and inspiring.”

“The first time ever that I found out I am not alone. For the past eight years I have been through so much and I was so overwhelmed. Tuning in to kids/teens gives me so much hope. Being able to connect with them emotionally is key to keeping the relationship going through tough times. “

“I would like to say a massive thank to everyone involved it truly was the best weekend all round.”

“Meeting with and connecting with like-minded people to help me to better understand trauma in children to aid me in taking care of those in my care and others who I come in contact with.”

“I have arrived home feeling so relaxed and part of a community who is going through the same experiences of kinship care.”

It was a beautiful weekend to finally meet at the Mercure Ballarat Hotel & Convention Centre for the Kinship Carers Retreat held from 4 – 5 May on the traditional lands of the Wadawurrung people. After the event was postponed due to the bushfires in February, it was wonderful to invite more carers to attend and engage with each other opening with a Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony from Traditional Custodian Shannen Mennen. Laura Grace from Awesome Beings led a beautiful session on yoga and mindfulness offering simple techniques to take home and Chrissie Davies from Chaos to Calm Consultancy presented expert advice on therapeutic parenting with radical acceptance: a motto for life, work and play.

The next day a few carers braved the elements for a crisp morning walk around Lake Esmond which was relaxing and Dr Linda Wells from CFECFW held a valuable writing workshop focussed on self-expression and wellbeing. Naomi Whyley from Kinship Carers Victoria led an informative Carer Tips session covering expectations and challenges for carers and frequently asked questions. Finally, the afternoon was bursting with creativity as carers engaged in art and music wellbeing activities facilitated by Ballarat Art Therapies.

Feedback from Kinship Carers indicated that they deeply valued the experience:

“It is the first time that I have connected with other carers and I learnt so much about the system that can help me advocate for my child. Thank you for an amazing experience. It far exceeded my expectations and I know now that I am not alone and much of what I experience as a carer is ‘normal’. Everything was so well organised. Sessions were brilliant and everyone created a safe supportive space.”

“Not only was I cared for extremely well it has uplifted me to continue to explore all avenues of support for each child.”

“It was informative as well as relaxing.”

“I wanted to recharge my batteries and that I did and came home very refreshed and wealth of knowledge.”

“I really enjoyed the chaos to calm with Chrissie that resonated a lot with me and a lot of that I’ll be implementing in our home.”

“Was great to get away and just relax and talk to other people in similar situations.”

“I came away feeling I had learned some things valuable to me and had shared my experience to help others move forward.”

“The areas that were touched on were relevant to me and my family. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I felt my worth, appreciated and celebrated thank you ❤️.”

It was so wonderful to see 36 carers of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children attend our first retreat of the year at Hotel Bellinzona at Hepburn Springs from Saturday 20 April – Sunday 21 April held on the traditional lands of the Dja Dja Wurrung people. Starting with a Smoking Ceremony from Elder Jason Kerr, our first day was filled with connections, shared knowledge and a powerful keynote from AJ Williams-Tchen, a proud Wiradjuri Social Worker, Nurse and Youth Worker discussing the responsibilities and possibilities of caring for First Nations kids and young people.

The second day exploded with energy including a morning of weaving bracelets with artist and former paramedic Cassie Leatham from Wild Blak Arts. She then led carers on an incredible bush walk informing them on bushtukka. In the afternoon, we learnt about dadirri, an ancient mindfulness tradition led by We Al-li facilitator Lee Couch and ended with Wayapa, a relaxing practice combining narrative meditation and physical movement.

Feedback from kinship, permanent and accredited foster carers attending indicated the retreat was a unique and important opportunity to connect with other carers and Aboriginal culture.

”It was a wonderfully put together retreat with amazing people and it was obvious they genuinely cared about us carers and the challenges of our life being carers.

“So much more than I expected! Such a beautiful backdrop, great presenters, an amazing group of carers, great organisation”.

“Thank you so much for organising this event you guys were all so helpful, amazing, friendly, hospitable and accepting. I really appreciate being able to attend, I was inspired to learn more about culture and to hear so many people with the same struggles.”

”So nice to get away and spend time reflecting and connecting with other like-minded people and experiences.”

“Very relaxed and came away with a lot of new and inspiring information.”

”I feel so honoured to be caring for Aboriginal children and being able to walk this walk, and learn, and grow together with them. That the way forward is together. ”

”Culture is more than just family – it is environment – community – activities and an inner sense of belonging and being part a great extended family community.”

“I feel valued as a foster carer because of this weekend.”

“It was great to be amongst people who actually understand what life as a carer is like.”