Connections forged on family camp

A GROUP military families headed to Ballarat last week for a four-day camp as part of Legacy’s young families program.

The camp provided an opportunity for participants to make connections and give a break to parents, with activities including visits to the Ballarat Wildlife Park, Sovereign Hill, and Lake Wendouree.

Francine Dudfield attended the camp with her twin sons Kyson and Jaxon for the third year.

Ms Dudfield was in the army for nine years and following injuries received while serving, she was forced to find a new career.

“That all happened and I realised I needed a bit of help in terms of financial assistance and some psycho-social help,” she said.

“Legacy helped me settle into my new house and get the boys sorted so I could get back to study and work.”

When Ms Dudfield heard about the camp, she thought it would be a great way for her and her children to connect with people in similar situations.

“It’s been lovely, the people here are genuine, warm, compassionate people so it’s a really safe environment to be yourself,” she said.

“It’s so much fun and everyone has a good laugh.”

Also at the camp was Adam Kent along with his wife and 10-year-old son.

Mr Kent said it was great to see Legacy expanding its reach to other people affected by their experience being in the armed forces.

“Legacy is evolving and it’s not just about widows, it’s people who have been injured mentally and physically,” he said.

“It’s also about being proactive and prevention rather than waiting for something to happen.”

Despite the array of fun activities on offer, Mr Kent said the most important aspect of the camp was forming connections.

“The activities are great for the kids to have fun, but it’s all about the connection,” he said.

“Sitting back and seeing my boy have a blast with kids his own age who all get along so well is great.”

This year’s camp also included the addition of an onsite peer support counsellor from Open Arms.

Community and peer advisor Belinda Matanis spent the four days with the group having informal conversations and being an open ear if any participants wanted to chat.