“When dads engage in one-on-one time with their kids, it’s incredible to see the transformation in both the dad and the child. Children light up when they have their dad’s full attention, and this dedicated time deepens their bond and trust. I see relationships grow through these shared experiences—whether it’s during play, at bedtime, or on a bush walk—and it creates a strong foundation for emotional security and attachment.”
There is a deep reservoir of meaning, and purpose, of living and life, present in that of the relationship between father and child.
Garbriel Carazo wanted to access the reservoir of meaning and be open to making sense of it, to contribute to it, to create worth and value in what he could add.
The son of newly arrived immigrants from Uruguay and Costa Rica, Gabriel said that his parents were often in a ‘state of survival’, working when he was young.
“Given this I was given a lot of freedom from a very young age, so my fondest memories as a child is being with other young children in the neighbourhood whose parents were in a similar position. As we didn’t have much money or means, we as kids, were forced into creating our own fun and own playgrounds. We were scaling the neighbourhoods coming up with our own games and fantasy worlds.”
When he was older, Gabriel still reached for that sense of community. When he became a parent, he wanted to be present with his children, he wanted to create a strong bond.
In 2023, Gabriel was recognised for his contributions in his local community, supporting fathers. Gabriel found ways to nurture those in early fatherhood, in unobtrusive ways through low-pressure activities that had a focus on nature and fun.
“My early experiences with outdoor play and the connections I had within my community (that wasn’t necessarily my family) significantly influenced my life’s trajectory. They instilled in me the importance of community, adventure, creativity and play, which are cornerstones of RAD Dads.”
RAD Dads- Responsive, Active and Dynamic Dads- are a country playgroup community that Gabriel began after moving to the Kyneton area from Melbourne with his partner. Together they were seeking a ‘village’ to connect with. Over time, the group has grown.
“Authenticity is key—I never pretend to have all the answers, and I think that helps create a welcoming space where other dads feel comfortable opening up. It’s about being vulnerable, relatable, and creating a non-judgmental environment where we can all learn from each other.”
We spoke with Gabriel about his lived experience as a father and what he has learned from other fathers as we explore why local community connections remain central, contributing to a steady and enriching existence.
How much did your life and priorities change once welcoming your two children into the world?
My life and priorities shifted dramatically once I became a father. Everything I do now revolves around creating the best possible environment for my boys to thrive. Professionally, I found myself steering toward work that could help other dads connect with their children because I saw firsthand how important that connection is.
What five words would you use to describe the emotions you feel, being a father to two young boys?
Grateful, adventurous, connected, joyful and curious.
In what ways do you connect with other Dads? In what ways do you keep the connections real and authentic? How do you create a welcoming space without it being too formal or feel like an obligation? How do you create an atmosphere in which fathers find a fun opportunity to connect with others and their child?
First and foremost, it’s a strength-based approach. We like to draw on the strengths of dads. Our ‘Mud Club’ or ‘Mo Bros’ is based upon dads working towards a common goal like building mud kitchens for a fundraiser or mowing lawns or taking part in working bees for vulnerable people in the community. Drawing on an individual’s strengths and working towards a common goal really does draw dads closer together where they then feel safe to open up authentically.
Over time, I have seen how the group has organically evolved. Dads definitely don’t feel comfortable in the traditional ‘playgroup’ space, because they are quite often predominantly mum spaces. Over the last 12 months we started running a lot of bush playgroups, and these always have huge turn outs. This seems to be a safe and fun place for dads.
I connect with other dads primarily through the groups and programs I run, like RAD Dads. I focus on keeping it real by sharing my own experiences and challenges as a dad.
In what ways has your experience and study helped you with RAD Dads? In what ways has it informed your practice and philosophy?
My background in counselling, family therapy, and community services has deeply shaped the philosophy and approach behind RAD Dads by focusing on emotional awareness, attachment, and community building. It has given me a UNIQUE understanding on what both partners are experiencing when becoming parents. I guess I get unique insight into the challenges people face, especially issues like mental load that mothers usually carry. It also emphasised how isolated parents and dads are, so creating this space was very important.
This experience has helped me create a space where dads feel supported not only in parenting but in navigating the emotional challenges of fatherhood. The tools and techniques from therapy, such as positive behaviour support and play therapy, guide our activities to promote bonding and development, while the emphasis on community helps reduce isolation and strengthens peer support networks. This blend of emotional support, practical strategies, and connection is at the heart of RAD Dads.
How and why did you come to create this community initiative?
After COVID I moved from the inner city to the Macedon Ranges because I wanted to feel that ‘village’ feel, as both my partner’s family and my family lived interstate. My partner immediately thrived and was in a mothers group, and met a lot of people at playgroup. I felt a different response to me at playgroup, because I was quite often the only dad there.
I created RAD Dads because I saw a gap in the support services available for fathers, particularly in regional areas. As a father myself, I realised that many dads struggle with isolation, lack of confidence, and emotional challenges during the transition to parenthood. I wanted to build a community that helps fathers feel connected, supported, and confident in their roles. RAD Dads is about providing a safe space where dads can engage with their children, connect with other dads, and learn about parenting in a way that feels empowering and fun.
As the group progressed, I came across a piece of research from our Local Government Area, called the Human Code, which looked into the significantly higher suicide rate in the Macedon ranges, especially men. Our suicide rate is a phenomenon, so I was spurred on and saw the absolute NEED for a program like this.
What makes Responsive and Active Dads (RAD Dads) unique?
“RAD Dads focuses on the first 1000 days of fatherhood, which is a critical time for both child development and the father's own personal growth. We blend evidence-based practices, play theory, and neuroscience into our activities, helping dads understand how important their role is in building healthy brains, bodies, and bonds.
What sets us apart is our dad-centric approach—everything we do is designed with dads in mind, helping them engage in ways that feel natural, playful and meaningful. We are not just about play, we are about active, engaged fatherhood that promotes the wellbeing of both child and father.”
Active, action- this can take away some rumination or uncertainty or isolation, fear or other strong emotions- in what ways does RAD Dads actively move and create a sense of freedom and fun?
At RAD Dads, we focus on action and movement, which helps alleviate some of the stress and isolation that new dads often feel.
“Physical activities like bush play, adventure play, and sensory experiences get dads out of their heads and into the moment. This active engagement fosters a sense of freedom—both emotionally and physically—allowing dads to bond with their children without overthinking. Fun is a key component; through playful interaction, we create an environment where dads can let go of fear and uncertainty and embrace the joy of fatherhood.”
“Encouraging fathers to participate from the beginning is crucial in breaking down traditional gender stereotypes and promoting active and engaged fatherhood.” In your experience, in what ways is society working to remodel ideas around masculinity and male identity?”
We are seeing a slow but important shift in how masculinity is being redefined. There is more emphasis on emotional intelligence, vulnerability and involvement in caregiving roles, which is breaking down traditional stereotypes of what it means to be a dad. More men are becoming aware of the importance of being present and emotionally available for their children. However, there is still work to be done, particularly in creating spaces that support these changing roles. Through RAD Dads, we are working to promote a healthier, more engaged version of masculinity—one that’s active, emotionally connected, and centered on building strong relationships with children.
What is it like living in the Kyneton/Macedon Rages area?
It’s an incredibly beautiful place to live. Being so close to the bush is important for myself and my family.
It’s interesting… there is a bit of a culture of spending time in your backyard. There doesn’t seem to be this cohesive community spirit, like neighbouring Local Government Areas like Mount Alexander or Hepburn Shire. I guess this does make it harder to navigate it bureaucratically, however it does encourage me more to put on MORE family events and engage the entire community in our activities. We do a lot of whole family events, because this is something that is lacking in our community.
While the natural surroundings offer great opportunities for bush play and adventure, there’s a need for more support services that cater specifically to fathers.
“I love the balance of peace and community here, but I also see the challenges that come with regional living, especially when it comes to men’s mental health and parenting support.”
What are the statistics in your area surrounding mental health? How is the wellbeing of your community?
The suicide rate in the Macedon Ranges is notably higher than both the national and state averages in Australia. As of the most recent data from 2018, the suicide rate in the Macedon Ranges was 17 per 100,000 people, compared to the national average of 11 and the state average of 10 per 100,000. This alarming statistic makes the Macedon Ranges the only municipality in Victoria with a statistically significantly higher rate than the national average.
Do men feel isolated in your regional area? What is your perception and feeling on the ground?
Yes, there is definitely a sense of isolation among many dads in the region. I have spoken with countless fathers who feel disconnected, not just from their communities but also from their families during those early stages of parenthood. There is often a reluctance to reach out for help, which is why creating informal, welcoming spaces for dads to gather is so important. We have found that once dads start connecting through RAD Dads, they realise they’re not alone, and that shared experience makes all the difference.
In what ways can dads find support, without feeling exposed, especially in a regional or remote setting? How can dads feel comfortable and motivated to get involved?
For many dads, it is about creating an environment where they feel safe to express themselves without judgment. At RAD Dads, we focus on low-pressure, informal activities—whether it’s a bush walk, a playgroup, or a casual chat over coffee. Dads often feel more comfortable when there’s something to “do” while they talk, which is why we emphasise active engagement. We also make sure that our language is welcoming and inclusive, so dads know they don’t have to have it all figured out before they join. It’s about showing them that getting involved is the first step toward feeling more connected and supported.
We have been speaking to a philanthropic individual, about possibly funding a free regional dad phone line. Eliminating the long process of getting a Maternal Child Health Person and finding a therapist and attending a therapist often inhibits men and dads seeking help, so our idea of a free phone line for regional dads would eliminate these barriers.
What role do you believe community has in establishing a connected and well-balanced life? In what ways is community an important scaffolding, particularly when raising children?
Community is essential to living a connected and balanced life, particularly for dads who may feel isolated or unsure of their role. A supportive community offers both practical help and emotional encouragement, serving as a safety net during challenging times. When raising children, having a community that shares your values and supports your journey makes a significant difference in how you parent and how confident you feel in your role. Through RAD Dads, we aim to build that scaffolding, helping dads lean on each other, learn together, and grow as parents.
As a father, and as an individual, what role does play have in your life? What does play mean to you?
“Play is central to how I connect with my children and how I make sense of the world as a dad. For me, play is more than just fun; it’s about building relationships, fostering creativity and supporting emotional regulation. It is also a way for me to unwind and be fully present with my kids. Play has the power to strengthen bonds and create lasting memories and I see it as a crucial part of my role as a father.”
You run bush playgroups in the Macedon Ranges. What are these experiences like? What are the benefits of bringing families out in nature? What are the benefits of learning in natural environments and spaces?
The bush playgroups are magical. Being out in nature creates a different dynamic than being indoors. The open space allows for free exploration and the natural environment sparks creativity and curiosity in children. For families, it is a chance to disconnect from everyday stressors and reconnect with each other. Nature-based learning promotes problem-solving, resilience, and a sense of wonder, which benefits both children and parents. It is also incredibly grounding, helping everyone slow down and appreciate the beauty around them.
Adventure play. What do you love about this and in what ways does it appeal to dads?
Adventure play taps into that primal need for exploration and challenge, which appeals to many dads. It’s about taking risks in a safe way, building confidence, and fostering independence in children. Dads love adventure play because it gives them a chance to be active and involved with their kids, while also teaching valuable life lessons about perseverance, problem-solving, and resilience. There is something incredibly rewarding about seeing your child overcome a challenge or discover something new during an adventure.
You run a RAD FAMS Saturday group. What is this like? Who is involved?
RAD FAMS is all about bringing families together in a relaxed, playful environment. It is a Saturday morning group where both dads and their children can participate in sensory play and connect with other families. We focus on early childhood development while fostering social connections for both the kids and the parents. It is a welcoming, informal setting that allows dads to share their experiences, gain insights and learn from one another.
At RAD Dads you write that you like to offer a dad-centric focus that actively includes and supports fathers. In what ways is this different than other parental groups and organisations? What makes playgroup unique for RAD Dads?
At RAD Dads, our approach is distinctly dad-centric. While many parental groups are focused on either neutral parenting or are traditionally more geared toward mothers, we aim to create an environment where fathers are front and centre. We design our programs specifically to address the needs and challenges of dads, offering a space where they can bond with their children, build their parenting confidence, and engage with other dads who are going through similar experiences.
We have WhatsApp groups so dads can engage in between sessions, but most importantly we have a diverse range of in-person playgroups. Our playgroups, for example, are tailored to foster both play-based learning and the development of strong father-child relationships. The sessions also incorporate activities that appeal to dads, such as outdoor adventure play or problem-solving challenges, which makes them unique and appealing to men who may not otherwise attend traditional parenting groups.
While things are continuing to change, it is often women in the majority attending playgroups. How are you seeing this change, or how are you leading the change? What is the importance of a dads focused group? Or indeed a group that caters to all families, regardless of gender, age, culture, background and belief?
We are definitely seeing a positive shift toward more dads attending playgroups, but there is still work to be done. Through RAD Dads, we are leading that change by creating spaces that are specifically welcoming to fathers and that recognise their unique needs and contributions. The importance of a dads-focused group is that it gives fathers a sense of belonging and validation, where they feel empowered to be hands-on and emotionally present in their children’s lives. At the same time, we ensure our groups are inclusive and cater to all families. By breaking down traditional gender stereotypes and emphasising shared parenting responsibilities, we are fostering environments where everyone feels welcome—regardless of gender, culture, or background.
In what encouraging ways have you seen dads support dads as part of your RAD Dad activities and sessions?
“One of the most powerful aspects of RAD Dads is the peer support that naturally develops among the fathers. It is incredibly encouraging to see dads sharing advice, offering emotional support, and even organising playdates outside of our regular sessions. Whether it is discussing the challenges of balancing work and family life, or simply sharing a laugh about parenting mishaps, these dads are creating a community where they lift each other up. This mutual support fosters a sense of camaraderie and reduces the isolation that many new fathers experience.”
In what ways have you seen the emotional and mental load of fathers during the early stages of parenthood?
I want to firstly acknowledge, that a lot of the mental load does lie on mothers, but it presents very differently for dads. The emotional and mental load on fathers in the early stages of parenthood is significant but often goes unnoticed.
“Many dads face stress around providing for their families while trying to be present, engaged, and emotionally available for their children and partners. What we have seen through RAD Dads is that many fathers struggle with the pressure to fulfil traditional masculine roles while also adapting to the demands of modern parenting. Our groups provide a space for dads to acknowledge and address this mental load, share their experiences and learn strategies for managing stress and prioritizing their mental health."
How do the children respond to the one-on-one time with their dad? In what ways do you see their relationships develop and grow?
When dads engage in one-on-one time with their kids, it is incredible to see the transformation in both the dad and the child. Children light up when they have their dad’s full attention, and this dedicated time deepens their bond and trust. I see relationships grow through these shared experiences—whether it is during play, at bedtime or on a bush walk—and it creates a strong foundation for emotional security and attachment.
Bedtime routines and stories- what opportunities do moments like this create between children and their parents?
Bedtime routines and stories are such special times for connection. They offer a calm, intimate space for children to feel safe and secure, while also providing an opportunity for dads to be fully present and engaged. Reading stories, in particular, helps build emotional bonds, expands a child’s imagination, and supports language development. It is also a time for dads to reinforce their role as a comforting, consistent presence in their child’s life.
What do you treasure most about spending time with your children?
What I treasure most about spending time with my children is the opportunity to be present with them and experience the world through their eyes. There is something incredibly special about those everyday moments—whether it’s a shared story at bedtime, playing a board game, bike riding, or exploring the outdoors together. It’s in these moments that I feel the deepest connection with my kids, and I’m constantly amazed by their curiosity, creativity and resilience. These experiences remind me of the importance of being present, not just as a father, but as an engaged, loving parent who can nurture their growth and development.
You were awarded YMCA Victoria Father of the year in 2023, connecting regional parents. What did this recognition mean to you? What did it mean for fathers in your region and beyond?
Receiving the YMCA Victoria Father of the Year award in 2023 was an incredible honour, not just for me personally but for the RAD Dads community as a whole. It highlighted the importance of creating spaces where dads feel seen, supported, and empowered to be active participants in their children’s lives. For fathers in regional areas, where access to support services can be limited, this recognition brought attention to the challenges they face and underscored the need for more dad-focused initiatives. It has been inspiring to see how this recognition has motivated other dads to get involved and be proud of their role as fathers.
You are taking part in the upcoming playgroup conference, speaking on the panel which is exploring the evolution of community. What do you hope to bring to the conversation?
I hope to bring the perspective of regional and rural fathers and share insights into how we can evolve community support to be more inclusive of dads. I want to highlight the importance of designing programs that actively involve fathers and cater to their specific needs, as well as the value of outdoor, nature-based play in fostering both child development and father-child bonds. I hope to contribute to the conversation about the changing dynamics of modern parenting and how we can continue to break down barriers for dads to become more engaged in their children’s early years.
What insights do you hope to glean at the conference? What do you hope to learn or benefit from taking part in this early years event?
I am eager to learn more about how other communities are successfully engaging fathers in early childhood development and to explore new strategies for making playgroups more accessible to diverse groups of parents. I also hope to gain insights into the latest research on child development and play, particularly how these findings can be applied in a dad-focused context. Additionally, I am interested in connecting with other professionals to collaborate and share ideas on creating more inclusive, supportive communities for all families.
Learn more and connect with RAD Dads here.
Gabriel will take part in Playgroup Victoria’s conference panel on November 20. Learn more here.
Article by Sinead Halliday