LAURA WEST
I am your fun, playful therapist. The one who is always up for a silly game and I love to be around people who make me smile and laugh!
I have worked with children of all ages, experiences and abilities over the past few years and I am an APPTA Registered Play Therapist.
Having completed a Bachelor of Psychology, Bachelor of Biomedical Science and Post Graduate Certificate in Play Therapy Skills, I am currently completing my Masters in Health and Social Development (Applied Sciences) at Deakin University, studying the effects of Play Therapy on children, who have a sibling with an Autism Spectrum Disorder.
I also run my own private Play Therapy practice through Camp Kiah which is located in Shepparton, VIC
ASHLEIGH WICKS
I am the General Manager, but I am generally up for a sing, a play and a dance any time!
I started working with children, young people and families in the world of disability about 10 years ago and diversified to Camp Kiah so that I could focus on playful ways of interacting with young people who need a space to exist that’s a little different to the rest of the world.
If you happen to know every word to Wicked the musical, please make sure you come on camp when I am on camp… we need to hang out!
OLLY GOODWIN
I feel like I am actually just one of the kids on camp, but turns out I actually work here!
Seriously though, I have spent a couple of years working as an Education Support and Camp Leader before spending a year chasing snow in Canada. On my return to Australia, I became the coordinator of the groups programs - School Holiday Program and Group Weekend Program.
I connect well with young people by being relatable and willing to give things a go. I particularly enjoy working with young people who have difficulty regulating their anger and supporting them with more effective ways of releasing emotions. This year I am studying Bachelor of Arts (Psychology) so that I can increase my technical knowledge and put theory in place to support what I already know works with the campers so far.
FERGUS RUSSELL
They say I am adventurous, fun and silly. I think that I am energetic and funny! I love to run, jump, climb and hit trees with sticks if I need to shift a feeling.
After studying Outdoor Education, I realised that the classroom was never going to be big enough for me to explore and interact with young people in. I needed to be outside, integrating adventure with growth and knowledge makes sense to me and through Camp Kiah I have been able to take on Challenge Accepted and bring the things I love the best together.
My role at CK it to coordinate the Challenge Accepted program. Using both my qualifications and passions to allow young people to experience new challenges and work towards common goals for all involved in their care teams.
JAMES ACRET
Also known as Skittles, a nickname I just can’t seem to shake! I got my start as a placement student with Camp Kiah, where I learnt a lot very quickly! I moved to Victoria during COVID to be with CK full time.
I grew up as a country boy, who loves a chat. It seemed only natural to use this skill to work with youth who need someone to see them, hear them and care. Give me the chance and I will impress you with the best quality dad joke material you’ve heard.
I have recently graduated from my Bachelor of Social Work and am enjoying my role at camp as a therapist and camp leader. This course helped me to quantify and articulate the skills and knowledge that I had from working with young people in a variety of settings.
Just before I go though… What do you call someone with no body and no nose? Nobody knows.
LOTTIE DEXTER OSCAR