Detour: Taking a new direction

Detour is a new initiative of SMG. The aim of the program is to assist the development of young people who are at risk in South Australian schools by providing outdoor adventure camps in regional settings, which are run in conjunction with school CPS Workers. Detour helps young people to take a new direction in life that is positive and beneficial to both them and the community they live in.

Research has shown that camping intervention and prevention programs help to produce positive outcomes such as improved physical health, improved social skills and decreased antisocial behaviour, and increased interpersonal adjustment (e.g. social skills, self-control, self-esteem, and school adjustments) (Russell, 1999; Wilson & Lipsey, 2000).

Detour extends beyond just the camps. The program works with young people throughout the term by providing both one on one and group mentoring, which assists in helping young people develop positive attitudes and values, problem solving skills, communication and social skills, improved self-esteem, and essential life skills. Detour provides an excellent basis for fostering a mentoring relationship with students, as it is an intensified shared experience.

For more information about the program, please contact the SMG office or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it