Father & Sons Event – Bushcraft & Survival Skills – “Unplugged & Reconnected”

WHEN: 10th -13th April 2025 

WHERE: IVO Sunshine Coast

DURATION: 3.5 Days CHILD AGE: 12 – 16 years

THE INSPIRATION BEHIND THIS EVENT

You may have heard the phrase, “It takes a village to raise a child” As a father of two, now grown men, I find myself in constant reflection and inner dialogue about my role as a father, and who I would trust to be mentors to my sons. I also understand many may not fit a ‘typical’ father role, but rather fill the role of foster father, stepdad, uncle, grandparent or trusted friend, however these are irreplaceable roles in a young man’s life and I thank you for stepping up and being there! Additionally, as the world becomes more fast-paced and technology comes to the forefront of our everyday lives it feels impossible at times to slow our minds down, to find the time to truly connect with our young men, sharing thoughts, feelings, hopes and aspirations and be a guiding light in their lives. And so, I feel, our role as fathers, our “Call to Duty”, if you like, is more important now than it ever has been before.

THE EVENT

This is more than a few days out bush or camping. This is a connected learning experience, aimed at teaching the key principals of bush craft and survival in a hands on, interactive way.

WHO IS IT FOR?

This for fathers who want to commit to and build connection with their sons while immersed in nature and learning new skills. The event is designed and curated for any skill level, from complete beginners to seasoned campers. I will follow the lead of the group and tailor the experience to suit the skills and experience for each group.

WHAT TO EXPECT?

We will take the time to get to know each other, whilst I share some of the Bushcraft and Survival Skills I learnt during my time with the Military, as a Special Forces Soldier and as survival instructor with Norforce. These skills include: • Acquiring drinkable water, filtration, sterilisation collection and carriage • Constructing an emergency shelter • Methods of fire starting, from primitive to non-conventional modern techniques • Understanding where food sits as a priority, along with how and where to forage for it • Functional traps and snaring techniques for an emergency situation or off grid living campfire cooking • How to use a variety of cutting-edge tools, knife selection and sharpening techniques in the bush • Traditional knowledge, passed on to me through indigenous culture • Working with nature to assist with prioritising immediate survival needs • Rescue Signals and initiating a rescue plan from the ground • Essential functional knots, lashings and frapping • Navigation by day and night utilising nature as a guide • Exploring the psychology of fear, phobias and how we may overcome them *Disclaimer: No wildlife or native animals will be trapped or harmed during this event. All snare/trap skills will be practiced for educational emergency scenarios only. “I look forward to you joining me at my campfire! “ Rick J Petersen.

THE INVESTMENT

$985 Per Adult (includes 1 Child)

$170 per additional child

Main meals are included.

*This event has a 10-person limit, with priority given in order of expressed interest. Please take the time to read our FAQs section section before applying and registering your interest.