Sudanese Dads and Kids Program
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Overview
A successful three day camp was held over the Australia Day weekend in January 2009 to help build relationships between African men and their children. Camp Kangaroobie was developed and facilitated by Kate McKernin from Centacare Catholic Family Services in partnership with Multicultural Liaison Officer Leading Senior Constable Richard Dove from Victoria Police.
What are the aims of the project?
The aim of the camp was to strengthen the relationship between Sudanese fathers and their children through a series of developmental workshops and positive interactions over a three day period. The camp also provided an excellent opportunity to explore the differences and similarities between being a parent in Australia and being a parent in Sudan.
What was involved?
The camp provided the opportunity for a good fun bonding and developmental experience between fathers and their children. Participants explored concepts such as respecting traditional culture and a new way of life, discovering personal relationships with their children and understanding each others strengths and weaknesses. It was also an opportunity to understand discipline and the law in Australia.
Goals were achieved by taking part in activities such as canoeing, bush walks, workshops, ice-breakers, going to the beach and other games and learning activities.
The project was funded through a grant from the Department of Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs received by Centacare Catholic Family Services. Victoria Police Transport Branch supplied a bus to transport the participants to and from the camp.
Who participated?
The program involved ten Sudanese men and their 11 children between the ages of 5 and 12 years.
What were the outcomes?
The program was a true adventure for most of these former African refugees. Centacare staff said the camp exceeded all expectations and another camp is planned in November 2009.
Where can I get more information?
Further information on this project is available.
Kate McKernin
Family Project Officer
Centacare Catholic Family Service
Email: kate.mckernin@centacaremelbourne.org.au
Telephone: 0418 446 692
Leading Senior Constable Richard Dove
Multicultural Liaison Officer
Email: richard.dove@police.vic.gov.au
Telephone:
0438 374 071
0396 894 630
Website: Centacare Catholic Family Services > Centacare Camping with Dad
Quotes
"The role a father plays in bringing up his children in Sudan is very different to the traditional father/child relationships in Australia and indeed in western culture."
Senior Constable Richard Dove,Region 2 (West) Multicultural Liaison Unit
"Creating stronger bonds in the family unit is imperative to the successful future of refugee families settling here."
Senior Constable Richard Dove
"Keeping the family together… is the foundation stone in the prevention of crime, depression, violence, disconnectedness, alcoholism and social decay."
Senior Constable Richard Dove