Celebrating Our Carers: South Burnett Acknowledges Foster and Kinship Carer Week

South Burnett’s dedicated foster and kinship carers will be recognised this week as part of Foster and Kinship Carer Week 3-10 May, with events planned both locally and on the Sunshine Coast.

Several carers from the region will travel to the Sunshine Coast to attend a state-wide conference, accompanied by South Burnett CTC staff. The event offers an opportunity for carers to build connections, strengthen their knowledge, and take time to reflect on the important role they play in the lives of children and young people.

Locally, a special Carers lunch will be held in Wondai on Thursday, 8th April, to honour and thank the South Burnett’s foster and kinship carers for their incredible commitment.

“Our carers hold space for children to feel safe, to heal, and to grow. It’s not always easy – but it is always powerful,” said Brenda Brown, Service Manager of Partners in Foster Care.
“This week, we celebrate their quiet strength, their compassion, and their unwavering belief in young people.”

There are currently over 86 registered carers across the South Burnett supporting 175 children who are unable to live at home. Carers open their hearts and homes – often with little notice – to provide safety, stability, and support.

One local carer shared,

“It’s the small moments that stay with you… when they finally laugh out loud, when they smile and want to play with you or read books with you or ride their bicycle with you. That’s when you know you’re making a difference.

Staff supporting carers say the conference experience is just as meaningful for them.

“Being here with our carers reminds us that support is a team effort. We’re here to walk alongside them – not in front, not behind, but together,” said Melita, a Foster and Kinship Practitioner from CTC’s Partners in Foster care.

The Wondai lunch will bring together carers, CTC and Child Safety staff, to reflect on their shared purpose and celebrate the wonderful people they are – ensuring every child has the chance to grow up safe, connected, and supported.

“This lunch is our small way of offering our Gratitude to those Foster and Kinship Carers who altruistically give their time, care and energy to help raise our next generation and for this we are extremely proud to have them in our South Burnett community,” Brenda PIFC Service Manager added.

South Burnett CTC encourages anyone interested in becoming a foster or kinship carer to learn more by visiting:
👉 www.sbctc.com.au