Adam Hooper

🌟 EDGE Year-End Reflection: Empowering Spaces, Transformative Programs, and a Historic Milestone in 2025 🌟

As we bring 2024 to a close, we celebrate a year filled with empowerment, connection, and growth. Through the dedicated work of Toc H SA Inc, this year has seen remarkable achievements at Cooinda Retreats, including the transformative success of the My Turf@work and My Turf Autism programs. In addition to these accomplishments, we’re thrilled to announce the upcoming Centenary of Toc H SA Inc in 2025 — a year that promises to honour our legacy and inspire the future.

🏕️ Cooinda Retreats: A Hub of Wellbeing and Sustainability

At the heart of our mission is Cooinda Retreats, a true Wellbeing Hub located in the tranquil setting of Victor Harbor, South Australia. Cooinda is more than just a retreat — it’s a space where people come to:

Connect with Nature: Offering bunkhouse stays, tent sites, and RV park facilities, Cooinda provides the perfect environment for reflection and rejuvenation.

• Empower Themselves: Through programs like My Turf@work and My Turf Autism, participants gain skills, confidence, and lifelong memories.
• Experience Sustainable Living: Cooinda champions eco-friendly practices, ensuring that every visitor learns the importance of caring for our environment.

In 2024, thousands of people — from school groups to community organisations and travellers — experienced the magic of Cooinda Retreats. Each visit not only supports the work of Toc H SA Inc but also spreads awareness of our mission to empower and uplift communities.

🏆 My Turf@work: Empowering Pathways to Employment

The My Turf@work program has had an incredible year of success, providing participants with practical skills, mentorship, and pathways to employment. The highlight of 2024 was the graduation of our pilot group in November, an event that saw immense community support and celebrated the determination of our participants.

Adding to this success, the upcoming launch of the Open Eats Social Enterprise in 2025 will provide employment opportunities for My Turf@work graduates. Open Eats will be more than just a business — it will be a platform for continued growth, skill development, and community connection.

🧩 My Turf Autism: Expanding Support for Families

The My Turf Autism Program has continued to create safe and supportive spaces for neurodiverse individuals and their families. Through tailored activities and family engagement, participants have built confidence, skills, and community connections.

In 2025, we’re excited to expand My Turf Autism into weekend retreats at Cooinda Retreats. This evolution will allow more families to benefit from the program’s inclusive experiences, strengthening family bonds and fostering a deeper sense of belonging.

🌱 Sustainable Practices and Community Wellbeing

Cooinda Retreats is committed to sustainability and promoting wellbeing. In 2024, we continued our efforts to:

• Minimise Environmental Impact: Through eco-friendly facilities, waste reduction, and nature conservation.
• Educate Visitors: About the importance of sustainable living and environmental stewardship.
• Maintain a Nurturing Environment: Ensuring that every visitor leaves feeling empowered and connected.

These practices are not just part of our mission — they are essential to ensuring that Cooinda Retreats remains a thriving hub for generations to come.

🏛️ Looking Ahead to 2025: Toc H SA’s Centenary

As we celebrate the achievements of 2024, we look forward to a historic milestone: the Centenary of Toc H SA Inc in 2025. For 100 years, Toc H has been dedicated to fostering resilience, inclusion, and empowerment. To mark this incredible achievement, we are excited to announce a series of events in South Australia, including:

• Centennial Gala Lunch – August 2025: A celebration of 100 years of community service.
• Historical Exhibition – Railway Station Heritage Room: A look back at Toc H’s rich legacy.
• Centennial Music Festival – Cooinda Retreats, November 2025: A vibrant celebration of community and joy.

In addition to these events, we will strengthen our community engagement with consistent messaging through our website, blogs, Facebook page, and program delivery. Our goal is to revitalise the Toc H SA brand and logo, ensuring they reflect our enduring values and inspire future generations.

🎉 A Year to Celebrate and a Future to Build

As we close 2024, we honour the transformative work of Cooinda Retreats and the success of programs like My Turf@work and My Turf Autism. The upcoming Toc H SA Centenary is a celebration of the dedication, resilience, and community spirit that have defined our mission for the past 100 years.

Thank you for being part of this incredible journey. Together, let’s continue to empower, connect, and inspire as we step into a new year and a new century of service.

✨ Wishing you a joyful holiday season and an inspiring New Year! 🎆

Stay connected by visiting Cooinda Retreats’ website and following us on Facebook.

#EDGE #TocHSAInc #CooindaRetreats #MyTurfAtWork #MyTurfAutism #Empowerment #WellbeingHub #Sustainability #CommunityStrength #Inclusion #Resilience #CentenaryCelebrations #HappyHolidays

by Adam Hooper

Building Resilience in a Changing World

In today’s world of constant change and challenge, resilience can often seem to be in short supply. Generations before us endured world wars, economic depressions, and social upheavals, developing a toughness that got them through difficult times. Despite advances in technology and widespread support for mental health, resilience today often feels like a fading skill.

This isn’t to dismiss the challenges we face now. Mental health is a serious and important issue, deserving of empathy and understanding. But when we start labelling any discomfort as unmanageable, we risk losing something vital: our ability to adapt, persevere, and grow stronger through adversity.

So, how do we reclaim resilience in a way that respects mental health without compromising on growth? In this article, you’ll learn about the evolution of resilience across generations, why it matters more than ever, and how we can cultivate it individually and as a society. We’ll also explore how Cooinda Retreats and My Turf Services provide environments that nurture resilience in a supportive, balanced way.

Let’s dive into why resilience is essential—and how we can bring it back.

A Look Back: What Resilience Meant for Previous Generations

In the not-so-distant past, resilience was almost a given. People faced monumental challenges—two world wars, the Great Depression, and countless economic downturns—and came through with a strong sense of endurance. There was an unspoken expectation of perseverance, shaped by the need to rebuild, provide for families, and adapt to rapidly changing circumstances.

A powerful example of this resilience can be seen in the work of Toc H, an organisation founded by Chaplain Philip “Tubby” Clayton during World War I. Tubby, known for his compassion and commitment to community service, created a safe haven for soldiers in Belgium, providing support, connection, and relief amid the war’s turmoil. Despite his own challenges, he embodied resilience by prioritising the needs of his community, creating a space where soldiers could find a brief respite from the horrors of war. Toc H continued his legacy, showing that resilience isn’t just about individual toughness but about sustaining others in difficult times.

For past generations, resilience wasn’t seen as a special quality; it was a way of life. This didn’t mean hardships were easy or that mental health struggles didn’t exist, but the social support systems, family structures, and cultural values of the time often reinforced the importance of pushing forward. “Bouncing back” wasn’t merely about individual grit; it was a shared mindset.

Today, much of what used to build resilience has shifted. Challenges are different, and our approach to them often places comfort and well-being above all else. While this shift is beneficial for mental health awareness, it has also meant that resilience—once a core part of getting through life’s tougher moments—can feel secondary.

So, what can we learn from previous generations? Their experiences remind us that resilience is not just a personal trait but a shared strength, built within communities, families, and workplaces. Leaders like Tubby Clayton and the Toc H movement exemplify that resilience is a choice to serve, connect, and uplift others, even in times of hardship.

Modern Society and Resilience: What’s Changed?

Today’s society looks very different from the world that shaped the resilience of past generations. Many factors have shifted—some improving our lives, others introducing new complexities that can weaken resilience. The rise of digital technology, shifts in cultural values, and increased awareness around mental health have all changed the way we respond to challenges.

One significant change is the convenience and immediacy that technology brings. With information, entertainment, and solutions available at the tap of a screen, it’s easy to avoid discomfort rather than face it. While these conveniences improve many aspects of our lives, they can reduce our ability to tolerate frustration and build resilience through small, everyday challenges.

Additionally, the cultural focus has shifted towards prioritising comfort, emotional well-being, and personal fulfilment. These are undoubtedly positive shifts that support mental health, yet they can sometimes lead to viewing resilience-building experiences—those that require patience, struggle, or sacrifice—as avoidable burdens rather than growth opportunities. This contrasts with previous generations, who often had fewer choices and learned resilience through necessity.

Mental health awareness has also grown, which is essential and invaluable. However, as the language around mental health becomes more common, it’s possible for terms like “stress” and “anxiety” to be applied to everyday discomforts. This can sometimes blur the line between genuine mental health needs and situations where resilience could help people cope and grow.

Understanding these shifts can help us rebuild resilience by reintroducing elements of patience, perseverance, and adaptability into our daily lives. Just as Toc H and leaders like Tubby Clayton created environments that nurtured resilience through community support and service, we can foster resilience by finding ways to face discomfort constructively, leaning on support systems, and remembering that struggle can build strength.

Mental Health vs. Resilience: Where to Draw the Line?

In our society today, the conversation around mental health is more open and widely accepted than ever before—and rightly so. Recognising and addressing mental health issues is essential for personal and organisational well-being. However, there’s a balance to be struck: we need to support mental health while also encouraging resilience.

The difference between genuine mental health struggles and the discomforts that build resilience can sometimes be subtle. Challenges like managing stress, facing difficult feedback, or adapting to change are not always signs of mental health issues; in many cases, they are opportunities for resilience. While it’s critical to respect genuine mental health needs, it’s equally important to encourage the development of coping skills that allow individuals to adapt and grow stronger.

This is where organisations like Cooinda Retreats come into play. Cooinda Retreats offer a safe, supportive environment that respects mental health while fostering resilience. By providing spaces where individuals can step back, reflect, and reconnect with themselves and others, these retreats help people process challenges constructively. Here, resilience is nurtured without undermining mental health—instead, it’s seen as a path to enhance it.

Similarly, My Turf Services provides a community-focused approach to resilience, combining support with activities that promote a sense of purpose and connection. Through initiatives that engage individuals in meaningful tasks and community service, My Turf helps people build resilience in real-world settings, cultivating the skills to face life’s ups and downs with confidence.

Ultimately, resilience and mental health are not opposites; they can and should complement each other. By supporting mental health in a way that encourages resilience, we build a foundation for growth, adaptability, and well-being. It’s a shift that’s both compassionate and empowering—one that enables individuals and communities to thrive even in the face of difficulty.

Why Resilience Matters for Individuals and Society

Resilience isn’t just a personal asset; it’s a crucial quality that strengthens entire communities, organisations, and societies. For individuals, resilience equips us to adapt to unexpected changes, overcome setbacks, and pursue our goals even in challenging times. It’s the difference between being overwhelmed by adversity and using it as a stepping stone for growth.

At a societal level, resilience creates a collective strength that fosters progress and stability. Communities that encourage resilience are better equipped to support each other through difficult times, whether it’s economic hardship, natural disasters, or social upheaval. Resilient societies build trust, encourage collaboration, and promote a sense of shared responsibility that helps everyone move forward.

For organisations, resilience is especially valuable. Employees who are equipped to handle challenges and adapt to change are better prepared to take on new responsibilities, innovate, and stay motivated. Resilience in the workplace fosters a culture of growth, where individuals feel empowered to tackle problems head-on and learn from them. Companies that invest in resilience training and support see increased productivity, stronger teams, and higher engagement.

Cooinda Retreats and My Turf Services play a key role in nurturing resilience at both the individual and community levels. Through Cooinda Retreats, individuals have a chance to step away from daily pressures, reflect, and gain perspective. These retreats help people connect with their inner strength and return to their lives better equipped to face challenges. My Turf Services, on the other hand, uses purposeful activities and community engagement to build resilience through connection and shared effort, reinforcing that resilience grows in a supportive, grounded environment.

By prioritising resilience alongside mental health, we create a foundation that allows individuals and communities to weather life’s storms and come out stronger. Resilience, in many ways, is a societal investment—it empowers people to handle change, support one another, and continually move towards growth.

Building Resilience: Practical Strategies for Individuals and Organisations

Resilience can be strengthened, and like any skill, it benefits from intentional practice and supportive environments. Here are practical steps that both individuals and organisations can take to build resilience while respecting mental health and well-being.

1. Embrace a Growth Mindset
   Adopting a growth mindset—the belief that abilities and intelligence can be developed through effort—lays the foundation for resilience. When individuals view challenges as opportunities to learn, they’re more likely to persist through adversity. Organisations can foster this mindset by recognising effort, providing constructive feedback, and framing setbacks as learning moments rather than failures.
2. Cultivate Purpose and Connection
   Meaning and social support are central to resilience. Organisations like My Turf Services leverage this by encouraging purposeful community activities and connections, which provide people with a sense of belonging and purpose. On an individual level, cultivating connections—whether through professional networks, family, or friends—creates a support system that strengthens resilience during tough times.
3. Balance Challenge and Recovery
   True resilience involves both facing challenges and allowing time for recovery. Cooinda Retreats exemplify this balance by offering environments where individuals can step back, recharge, and gain perspective. Organisations can integrate this concept by promoting mental health days, encouraging regular breaks, and fostering a work culture that values rest as part of productivity.
4. Build Emotional Regulation Skills
   Resilience often comes down to managing emotions in difficult situations. Practising techniques such as mindfulness, deep breathing, or journaling can help individuals process their emotions constructively rather than react impulsively. Organisations can offer training or resources in these areas to support employees’ emotional resilience.
5. Encourage Problem-Solving and Adaptability
   Resilience is about being adaptable in the face of change. Individuals can build adaptability by regularly pushing themselves out of their comfort zones and learning new skills. Organisations can nurture adaptability by promoting cross-functional projects, encouraging employees to try new roles or tasks, and celebrating innovative thinking.
6. Model Resilience at the Leadership Level
   Leaders set the tone for resilience within an organisation. When leaders demonstrate resilience—by staying calm under pressure, openly discussing challenges, and showing a commitment to learning and growth—they inspire others to do the same. This culture of resilience becomes contagious, gradually strengthening the entire team or organisation.

By incorporating these practices, both individuals and organisations can foster resilience as a tangible, accessible skill. Cooinda Retreats and My Turf Services serve as powerful examples of environments that respect mental health while actively nurturing resilience, proving that growth and support can go hand in hand.

Conclusion: Resilience as a Catalyst for Growth

In a world that’s constantly evolving, resilience is more essential than ever. It empowers us to face challenges head-on, adapt to change, and keep moving forward. While previous generations built resilience through necessity, today we have the unique opportunity to cultivate it intentionally—balancing mental health with a mindset that embraces growth and endurance.

Resilience isn’t just about pushing through difficulties; it’s about learning, adapting, and building strength in ways that support our well-being. Through initiatives like Cooinda Retreats and My Turf Services, we see resilience in action. These services provide safe, supportive spaces where individuals can reflect, recharge, and reconnect with their inner strength, showing that resilience can flourish in environments that prioritise both support and challenge.

By choosing to strengthen resilience, we’re making a powerful investment—in ourselves, our communities, and our future. Resilience allows us to turn adversity into growth, forge stronger connections, and create a culture of empowerment. When we nurture resilience thoughtfully, we’re not only improving our ability to face life’s challenges but also building a foundation for lasting success and well-being.

by Adam Hooper

Reimagining Connection: How Can Communities Combat Modern Isolation?

Ever feel like something’s missing? You spend hours online, stay connected with friends and family through social media, and yet—loneliness creeps in. In a world more digitally connected than ever, many people still feel isolated, craving genuine connection.

Despite all the virtual interactions, real-world relationships have taken a back seat. But here’s the truth: no amount of online messaging can replace face-to-face connection. Community spaces like Cooinda Retreats and MyTurf are redefining what it means to connect by fostering genuine, in-person interactions that combat the growing trend of isolation.

In this blog, you'll explore how organisations like these can help bridge the gap between online interaction and real-world connection—and how you can be a part of it.

Understanding Modern Isolation

In today's world, we’re more connected than ever before—at least, digitally. From social media platforms to instant messaging apps, staying in touch with others is easier than it’s ever been. However, studies are showing an unsettling trend: people are feeling more isolated and lonelier despite this constant stream of communication.

The paradox of digital connectivity is that while it keeps us linked to more people, it often lacks the depth needed for meaningful relationships. According to recent research, around 1 in 4 adults feel lonely, a statistic that’s only been exacerbated by the increase in online interactions during the pandemic. Instead of creating stronger bonds, many find that digital communication leaves them yearning for face-to-face interactions.

This sense of isolation can be even more profound for certain groups. The elderly, for example, often face additional barriers such as reduced mobility or access to technology, making it harder for them to maintain connections online or in-person. Similarly, individuals with neurodiversity may struggle with social communication, feeling overwhelmed by digital platforms or unsure how to foster relationships in the way others do. For these groups, the absence of physical community spaces can lead to a heightened sense of isolation and exclusion.

As loneliness emerges as a significant health concern, it’s clear that what’s really missing from our digitally-driven lives is genuine human connection—especially for those who need it most.

The Role of Community Spaces

While technology connects us on a surface level, it’s physical community spaces that provide the foundation for meaningful relationships. Community service organisations like Cooinda Retreats and MyTurf play a vital role in creating environments where people can reconnect face-to-face, offering more than just a place to meet—they offer opportunities for real-world interactions that foster trust, understanding, and belonging.

One of our favourite things to observe at Cooinda Retreats is the formation of social circles. Nearly every camp or retreat, we see groups naturally gathering—whether it’s sitting on the lawn in the afternoon chatting, enjoying evening conversations by the fireplace, or transforming the volleyball court into a big sandpit, a great sensory activity. Sports activities like basketball or pickleball also bring people together, showing that social connection can grow from both quiet moments of reflection and active participation.

Another authentic way of connecting at Cooinda is through the Growing Together Community Garden. This space offers participants the opportunity to work side-by-side, cultivating not just plants but also deeper relationships. Gardening is a shared, hands-on experience that encourages collaboration and conversation, fostering a sense of purpose and togetherness that goes beyond casual interaction. The act of growing something tangible mirrors the organic way connections are built, rooted in shared goals and mutual support.

Similarly, MyTurf’s programs are designed to bring people together by creating inclusive spaces for everyone, especially those with neurodivergent conditions who may find digital communication overwhelming or challenging. These programs highlight how face-to-face interaction can transform the experience of community for individuals who often struggle with the abstract nature of online platforms. Whether through workshops, local events, or volunteer opportunities, these spaces provide vital opportunities for connection, showing that physical presence can be the key to building lasting relationships.

By creating spaces where people can interact in person, community service organisations help bridge the gap between digital isolation and the human need for connection. They provide an antidote to the isolation many experience today, proving that real-world interactions can still thrive in a hyper-connected world.

Bridging the Gap Between Digital and Physical Communities

In a world where digital communication dominates, it’s essential to find ways to bridge the gap between online interactions and physical, face-to-face connections. While technology offers convenience and accessibility, real-world interactions create the depth and meaning that many people are missing. Community service organisations are in a unique position to blend both, using digital tools to facilitate in-person experiences.

Take Cooinda Retreats, for example. While it uses digital platforms to organise retreats, promote events, and maintain engagement with its community, the real magic happens when people gather in person. The Growing Together Community Garden, social circles on the lawn, and collaborative sports activities all provide experiences that technology alone can’t replicate. These face-to-face moments foster a sense of belonging and emotional connection that online interactions rarely achieve.

For organisations like MyTurf, it’s about creating programs that respect the need for digital engagement while prioritising personal connections. Using online tools to reach people and raise awareness is critical, but the goal is always to encourage individuals to participate in community-building activities offline. Whether it's through local workshops, volunteer opportunities, or events that focus on inclusivity and connection, the emphasis remains on fostering genuine relationships in the real world.

Combining digital tools with real-world engagement is key to overcoming modern isolation. Digital platforms can serve as a bridge, helping to organise, inform, and motivate, but the depth of human connection comes from face-to-face interactions, where people truly see and understand one another.

Steps to Reintroduce Genuine Connection

Feeling connected in today’s digital world doesn’t have to be a distant hope—it’s possible with a few intentional steps. Here are some practical ways you can take action and reintroduce real-world connections into your life, especially through community service and local engagement.

1. Get Involved in Local Community Service
   One of the most effective ways to foster meaningful relationships is by participating in local community service. Whether it’s through organisations like Cooinda Retreats or MyTurf, volunteering gives you a chance to interact with people who share similar values. In helping others, you’ll also find yourself part of a network of individuals looking to make a difference.
2. Join or Create Social Circles
   Look for local groups or activities that focus on face-to-face interaction. Cooinda Retreats, for example, organically encourages the formation of social circles, whether it’s sitting down for a chat by the fireplace or engaging in sports like basketball or pickleball. You can create these opportunities in your own life by organising gatherings or attending community events where in-person interaction is at the forefront.
3. Engage in Hands-On Group Activities
   Activities that require cooperation and collaboration, like the Growing Together Community Garden at Cooinda Retreats, can be a great way to build relationships. Gardening, sports, or group workshops not only give you something tangible to work on together but also open the door for conversations and shared experiences.
4. Limit Digital Communication When Possible
   While digital communication is convenient, limiting your reliance on it for social interaction can open up opportunities for in-person connection. Try substituting some of your online time with real-world activities, like meeting friends in a local café, attending a community class, or volunteering.
5. Attend Local Events or Workshops
   Many community service organisations offer events, retreats, and workshops aimed at bringing people together. Cooinda Retreats, for example, offers programs that encourage face-to-face interaction and shared experiences. Look out for similar opportunities in your area, where you can meet people and form connections in a more natural, personal setting.

Conclusion

In a world where digital interactions are the norm, many people are left feeling isolated and disconnected. The constant stream of online communication often lacks the depth needed for real, meaningful relationships. But there is hope. Community service organisations like Cooinda Retreats and MyTurf offer spaces where genuine human connection can thrive, bringing people together through shared experiences, collaboration, and face-to-face interaction.

By creating opportunities for social circles to form, providing hands-on group activities like the Growing Together Community Garden, and offering inclusive programs for individuals who find digital platforms overwhelming, these organisations are helping to rebuild the essence of community. Whether through sports, gardening, or simply sitting down for a chat, these physical spaces prove that it’s still possible to cultivate meaningful relationships—even in an increasingly digital world.

The path to authentic connection starts with stepping into your local community. By getting involved in service and seeking out in-person interactions, you’ll rediscover the richness of real-world relationships. Through these connections, you’re not only improving your own sense of belonging but also contributing to a stronger, more connected community.

by Adam Hooper