NEWLY arrived asylum seekers got into the spirit of an Australian beach holiday at Camp Manyung, Mt Eliza, last week. They took to the camp’s adventure-based activities, including the flying fox, giant swing and high ropes course.
The refugee families were also taught water safety so they would feel safer and more confident at the beach.
YMCA Victoria and the Department of Health and Human Services partnered with community group Life Without Barriers to host the asylum seekers in a fun, safe and engaging program, 15-17 January.
About 100 campers stayed for the three-day program, with family members ranging in age from five months to 80 years being encouraged to connect with one another and build confidence.
The camp also aimed to enhance the refugees’ transition to their new lives by connecting with community groups, including Life Saving Victoria, Anglicare and Mission Australia, in a non- threatening and safe setting.
“We were proud to offer a program that supports and builds confidence in asylum seekers who need it the most,” YMCA Camp Manyung manager Jim Boyle said.
First published in the Mornington News – 23 January 2018
