CARE & WELLBEING

OUR Mission

At The Long Paddock at Okeview, we guide young people on their journey of growth, offering support and space to take their own steps, inspired by the resilience and community of Australia’s historic stock routes.

Through our PATH framework, we create opportunities to:

  • Find belonging in a safe and supportive community,

  • Build independence and confidence through choice and responsibility,

  • Develop practical skills and resilience by working with animals and the land, and

  • Learn the strength of generosity through caring for others.

Because like the long paddocks of old, our mission is not only about reaching the destination — it’s about the journey, and the strength found along the way.

Core Values- PATH

At The Long Paddock at Okeview, our PATH model is our adaptation of the internationally recognised Circle of Courage framework, which identifies four universal growth needs of young people: belonging, mastery, independence, and generosity. PATH gives us a practical way to live these principles on the farm

P- Place to Belong

We welcome every young person into a safe, supportive community where they feel included, respected, and connected.

A- Autonomy

We encourage independence, decision-making, and confidence, helping kids take ownership of their own learning and growth.

T- Training and Skills

Through hands-on farm experiences, we build practical abilities, problem-solving, and resilience that last a lifetime.

H- Helping Others

We value kindness, teamwork, and service to others.

Vision for the Program

Our program envisions a community where all young people, particularly those at risk of disengagement, can thrive through meaningful connection with animals, nature, and each other. By providing hands-on, farm-based experiences, we create safe, inclusive, and therapeutic learning environments that:

  • Promote mental health and wellbeing by fostering resilience, emotional regulation, and self- efficacy.

  • Strengthen social connections by reducing isolation and building empathy, teamwork, and belonging.

  • Encourage physical activity and healthy lifestyles through active engagement in farming, animal care, and outdoor experiences.

  • Develop a sense of purpose and contribution by empowering young people to nurture living things, care for the environment, and share their skills with the community.

Through these experiences, our program contributes to the prevention of mental health challenges, builds protective factors for lifelong wellbeing, and supports young people to flourish as confident, connected, and resilient members of society.