“CAMP COURAGE RETREAT”
A rural retreat specialising in live-in rehabilitation programs for military and first responder personnel, past and present, who are suffering and struggling as a result of their service to our Nation and our Communities.
IRREFUTABLE BENEFITS OF A RURAL SETTING
It is a well known fact that the rural environment and its related activities are substantial contributors to the rehabilitation of persons suffering from mental health issues, pa icularly PTSD, anxiety and depression.
- The following is the position of the incredibly successful and renowned Boulder Crest Retreat in Virginia USA, the shining light in combat-related stress recovery programs and facilities in the USA.
“We believe that a rural setting is a critical component of the healing process for our veterans.” - Dr Jane Shakespeare-Finch, Associate Professor, School of Psychology and Counselling, Queensland University of Technology, says:
“I believe the natural environment is underestimated in its capacity to promote mental health. There is a growing body of research that supports the proposal that spending time in the natural environment is related to improvements in mental health and reductions in mental ill-health.” - As an accredited EAGALA Ce ified Professional, and Equine Connection EAL Ce ified Facilitator, Tracey Hopkin states that:
“Equine Assisted therapy is a powerful and effective therapeutic approach that has an incredible impact on individuals, youth, families, and groups. Equine Assisted Therapy addresses a variety of mental health and human development needs including behavioural issues, attention deficit disorder, PTSD, substance abuse, eating disorders, depression, anxiety, relationship problems and communication needs.”
SITE
The drawing below depicts the likely facilities and an indicative layout, to comprise each “Camp Courage”. Each location’s topography will determine the final layout.
CAMP GUESTS
If you are an Australian war veteran or first responder, past or present, who is doing it tough in any way, you will be welcome in our Camps.
There will be some criteria to meet, and the Camps are not a permanent housing solution. They are predominantly short to medium term accommodation coupled with a comprehensive programme to help you get “back on track”.
Your substantially improved health, wellbeing and quality of life will be our primary goal.
Gerry Garard a National Service 2nd Lieutenant, Vietnam Veteran, who spent most of his working life in corporate management, and his dual Olympic Gold Medallist and Taxation Consultant wife Renita, decided that they wished to do voluntary work in the demographic of mental health sufferers (pa icularly PTSD) who were suffering and struggling as a result of their service to our great Nation.
- Rehabilitation related to mental health issues including PTSD, depression and anxiety, and physical injuries
- Rtransition from a Services career to civilian life, including comprehensive assistance with employment
- Homelessness, to having a home
- Family and relationship difficulties
- Money management shortcomings
- Assistance with navigating government support systems
Our Camps will also provide a fun, enjoyable, safe and learning experience in a relaxed and calming environment.
