Dads in the bush, 4wds lined up, swags all about and snags on the barbie – credit where credit is due to the many Dads (and a few Mums!) who showed up to their child’s Bush Kinder Annual Sleepover in Tolmie last weekend!

In an era dominated by technology and less human interaction than ever, these parents showed where their values lie and spent quality one-on-one time with their Bush Kinder child. After setting up their swags and tents, it was game on!

Sure the egg and spoon race was fun, but when you lay down a battle rope for the grand event—the Tug ‘o War—the muscles start popping and pride comes to the fore.

This is the moment when your hero-status is on the line in the eyes of your four year old child.

Children cheered as parental laughter quickly turned to a show of strength, but unity soon returned over a snag from the barbie as the sun dipped below the tree line.

The campfire was warm under the starry, clear sky, and after a cosy story of Wombat Stew, everyone enjoyed a hot chocolate and biscuits made during the week by the kinder children.

Little eyes rested soundly and parents made new connections before heading to their swags too.

“This tradition continues to be a highlight after 15 years—for both children and parents,” explained Kim Stoney, Founder and Director of The Farmhouse, “and we applaud every one of them for valuing the importance of social connection and this Rite of Passage they’ve given their child”.