Empowering Informal Carers in Moorabool and Macedon
Out Doors has been empowering Victorians through our nature-based mental health programs since 1987. We guide participants toward wellness through outdoor group experiences that foster social connection, nurture skill development, and promote mental wellbeing. With the generous support of the Additional Carer Respite Funding from the Victorian Government, we are excited to offer a variety of Carers Programs tailored specifically for informal carers in the Moorabool and Macedon Local Government Areas.
Understanding the Role of Informal Carers
In Australia, over 2.65 million people, or about 1 in 9 individuals, are informal carers. Many of these carers do not even identify with the term; they are simply children, parents, partners, or friends providing support to someone they love. 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 essential as it opens doors to support and resources available from the government and organisations like Out Doors.
Our Mission
In partnership with local organisations, Out Doors Inc. aims to deliver specialised recreation, mental health, and wellbeing programs that provide a much-needed break for carers of all ages and cultures. Our programs encourage social interaction and skill development through nature-based activities.
Key Objectives and Targets
- Objective: Through outdoor engagement, carers will improve their mental health, physical health, and social connections.
- Targets: Reach 60 carers and deliver 1,200 hours of respite in 2023/24 and 2024/25.
Out Doors Inc. is supported by the Victorian Government.
Our programs are designed to provide a rejuvenating experience through a variety of engaging activities.
- Nature-Based Recreation: Engage in activities such as bushwalking, rock climbing, and canoeing.
- Creative Programs: Participate in bush art and music, fostering creativity and community connections.
- Holistic Wellbeing: Improve your mental and physical health through outdoor engagement.
We can also work with organisations to tailor a program that meets the specific needs and interests of their participants.
A growing body of evidence supports the association between nature experiences and a reduction in the risk factors and burden of mental illness. Our programs are designed to offer:
- A Much-Needed Break for Carers: Enjoy a peaceful getaway to recharge, enhancing your physical health through active participation.
- Connection: Build bonds with fellow carers in a supportive environment that fosters social connections and community integration.
- Personal Growth: Engage in experiences that improve your mental health, wellbeing, and social skills.
Learn more about the benefits of nature-based activities here.
Our programs are fully funded and open to informal carers in the Moorabool and Macedon LGAs. To be eligible, you must:
- Identify as an informal carer*
- Reside in Moorabool or Macedon Shire
- Be able to walk unassisted for at least 20 minutes
*Informal carers are individuals who provide care within the context of an existing relationship, such as a family member, friend, or neighbour.
For Local Organisations: Are you a local organisation in the Moorabool or Macedon area interested in partnering with us to deliver these impactful programs? We are looking to collaborate with organisations that share our vision of supporting carers through nature-based activities. Together, we can make a significant difference in the lives of informal carers in our community.
For Individual Carers: If you are an informal carer in the Moorabool or Macedon areas, there are two ways for you to get involved with our Group Respite Carers Programs:
- Submit an Expression of Interest: Fill out our Expression of Interest Form to provide us with some information about yourself. This will help us set you up in a program that best meets your needs.
- Register for Specific Events: Browse the events listed further down this page. Click on any event that interests you and fill out the registration form to express your interest in that particular program.
We look forward to welcoming you to our programs and supporting you on your journey to better mental and physical wellbeing through nature-based activities.
