On Wednesday 18th February 2026 the Rotary Club of Burnside were invited to visit Tumbelin Farm. About 9 of us were able to travel there to see the facilities and hear more about the work they do for young people.
‘Tumbelin Farm is a residential adventure therapy program for young people aged 16-24 with alcohol and drug related problems.
Located in the Adelaide Hills, Tumbelin Farm provides treatment for substance addictions.
They offer effective and holistic treatment to help young people overcome alcohol and drug issues in a therapeutic, community setting’.
The farm has been purchased by Baptist Care and staffed by volunteers, councilors, and a psychotherapist.
Each week there is a structured schedule the residents follow. This involves work on the farm looking after the 25 cattle, turkeys, ducks, and chickens. There is time for one-on-one counselling and groups sessions.
Once a week the residents have an adventure day with Abseiling and various other activities. This encourages the residents to be active and out in nature. The residents all have their own room and participant in home duties. At this stage there is only enough rooms for 4 residents.
We were all impressed how the Farm works for the residents and the time and patience all individuals are given. The aim is to restore their sense of self-worth and build their confidence to enable them to return to society.
They are given advice on how to apply for a job and prepare their resume.
The dedication of the staff was very impressive and the do all the can to help the young people find their way again with confidence and enthusiasm.
The farm itself needs work and there are many projects. The Rotary Club of Burnside wants to be able to obtain funding to help in areas such expanding the vegetable garden and building a glass house.
We look forward to a long and beneficial collaboration with Tumbelin Farm and wish to support their aim to help young people in need.
