Learning and Development Retreat for Carers of First Nations Children – Yarra Valley 2026

Learning and Development Retreat for Carers of First Nations Children – Yarra Valley 2026

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. 

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.”