Outdoor mental respite for Moorabool carers

NATURE-based mental health programs provider Out Doors Inc is planning to offer activities in the Moorabool Shire.

The Melbourne organisation has secured State funding to expand its programs for informal carers into the Moorabool region.

Funds have been allocated to help provide additional respite support for carers.

“This vital funding allows us to offer a variety of free, nature-based programs specifically designed to provide support, community engagement and a much-needed break for informal carers in the Moorabool and Macedon areas,” said an Out Doors Inc spokesperson.

Out Doors Inc has been organising its programs for more than 30 years, with a focus on outdoor group experiences that foster social connections, nurture skill development and promote mental wellbeing.

According to Out Doors Inc, more than 2.65 million Australians are informal carers.

“Many do not even identify with the term, seeing themselves simply as children, parents, partners or friends providing support to someone they love,” the spokesperson said.

“You may be an informal carer if you support someone with a disability, medical condition, mental illness or age-related frailty.

“Recognising this role is crucial as it opens doors to support and resources available from the government and organisations like Out Doors.”

Out Doors Inc’s recreation activities include bushwalking, canoeing and campfire lunches offering social connections and exercise.

Its creative programs include bush art and music, which are designed to foster creativity and build community connections.

“These activities provide a unique outlet for expression and stress relief,” the spokesperson said.

Details of the programs are at outdoorsinc.org.au. To participate in a program, people must be informal carers aged 16 or older and live in the Moorabool or Macedon Ranges shires.

Register by emailing [email protected]. For more information about events visit outdoorsinc.org.au/carers.

“We encourage local carers to take advantage of these free programs to relax, rejuvenate and connect with other carers in their community,” the spokesperson said.