October Family Camps bring joy and connection!

Families all around Australia had a break from cancer last month

A cancer diagnosis can be isolating for the whole family, especially those who live in regional and remote areas. Families travel long distances for treatment, and when they return home the isolation often continues. That’s why Camp Quality’s Family Camps are held around the country to foster connection with others who have faced similar challenges and make happy new memories to make up for those families have missed. Last month, Camp Quality held seven Family Camps, changing the cancer story for families all around Australia.

Eight families from around NSW and ACT gathered in Dubbo for a Family Camp packed full of activities. Some highlights were feeding the giraffes at Dubbo Zoo, seeing planes at the Royal Flying Doctor Visitor Experience and bowling strikes at Ten Pin Bowling. Most of all, families appreciated the chance to connect with others going through the same challenges of cancer treatment.

Nine families attended our Family Camp in WA at the beautiful Evedon Lakeside Retreat where they spent time relaxing in nature. Then the activities started! Families could choose to take part in archery, kayaking, woodwork, gnome painting, fishing and more. There was an outdoor cinema and a campfire in the evenings. One dad shared the most special part of the weekend was watching his son have fun with other kids his age after an isolating 18 months spent mostly in hospital.

Five KICC (Kids Impacted by a Carer’s Cancer) families from Tasmania braved some wet weather for a holiday in Port Arthur. After tour of the Port Arthur Historic Site including a ghost tour, kids warmed up next to a fire where they could make own delicious pizza creations. The parents enjoyed an adult only meal to connect with new friends.