What's the weekend about?
Separation
The process of the weekend requires that we separate ourselves from our everyday lives. So, twice a year in autumn and spring we head off to a secluded, privately owned property on Kangaroo Island (KI), and stay at a bush camp where the facilities are basic but the natural environment vital.
Participation
The core of the weekend is based on two things. Firstly, on the understanding that young fellas who are transitioning into adulthood, benefit from the active participation of older men. And secondly, an understanding that adult men benefit from the acceptance of other men who validate their experience with respect and without judgement.
Co-operation
The opportunity to achieve this comes about through the weekends unique and supportive environment which facilitates open expression and reflection. Personal experiences are shared and met with acceptance thus validating the worth of each person's story.
Challenge
The weekend is full and challenging, though rest assured there is no animal sacrifice, no drawing of blood, no competitiveness or rampant machismo and no vows of allegiance. In a safe and supportive environment you share and listen and contribute as much as you are willing to.
Celebration
The ceremony is a significant part of the weekend's experience as it offers a unique way to mark the important transition into manhood as well as raising the question of who are you as a man. For the young fellas this occurs around the time of their actual transition from boyhood to adulthood. For the men it is a way to acknowledge or claim back their own transition which may have occurred many years ago with or without ceremony.
As a whole, the weekend can generate profound personal insight enabling the individual to know more about who they are and the type of man they want to be. It can also inspire courage to act more consciously in areas of life such as relationships, family, work and spirituality.