During the October school holidays, four young carers joined us for a special day out at Mogo Wildlife Park as part of Lillie-Rose’s Youth Voice Project called Beyond the Spectrum. This activity aimed to provide local young carers with siblings on the Autism Spectrum an opportunity to connect, relax, and share their experiences in a supportive environment.

The day began at 9:00 a.m., with the young carers and two Firefly staff members heading to Mogo. Along the way, we took a well-deserved morning tea break in Batemans Bay, setting the tone for a much-needed respite from their daily responsibilities. The excitement and anticipation were palpable as everyone chatted and bonded.

The Meerkat Encounter was one of the key highlights of the trip. The young carers had the chance to cuddle these curious little creatures, and their smiles said it all! Seeing them fully immersed in the moment was heartwarming, experiencing pure joy. In addition, feeding the camels and deer was another unforgettable experience, allowing the group to interact with the animals in a personal and engaging way.

We explored the park throughout the day and discovered all its fantastic animals. From playful gibbons to its zebras to majestic lions, the young carers could explore at their own pace, discovering new species and learning about animal care. The park’s serene environment provided the perfect backdrop for meaningful conversations about being a young carer and its impact on their lives. These moments of connection and understanding were just as valuable as the day’s fun and adventure.

Supporting young carers is incredibly important because of their significant role in their families. Many young carers are responsible for tasks well beyond their years, which can impact their education, social lives, and emotional well-being. By offering opportunities like this, we can give them time to unwind, form friendships with others who understand their experience and have fun. These moments of respite help reduce stress, build confidence, and foster a sense of belonging and support.

Seeing the young carers smiling, laughing, and enjoying themselves was a great reminder of how essential it is to create spaces where they can relax and feel valued. The trip was a truly memorable experience for all involved.

Thank you to the young carers who made the day so special and to Mogo Wildlife Park for hosting such a fantastic experience.