This news originally appeared on The Cairns Post on 5 Feb 2026.
Please note: This article is behind a paywall. A link is provided for readers who wish to access the full report.
Excerpt:
Safeguarding Services was referenced in a recent Herald Sun investigation examining serious safeguarding concerns raised about historic practices at the Lord and Lady Somers Big Camps in Victoria. The article reports on allegations made by whistleblowers and findings from multiple investigations into activities described as psychologically distressing and inappropriate for young people.
As part of a Commission for Children and Young People–mandated response in 2023, Safeguarding Services conducted an independent safeguarding review of the camps. The review identified a number of activities led by senior youth leaders that posed potential risks to participants’ emotional and psychological wellbeing. Safeguarding Services made clear, evidence-based recommendations aimed at reducing harm, strengthening consent, and discontinuing practices that were humiliating, intimidating or psychologically unsafe.
The article notes that Safeguarding Services’ findings formed a key part of the regulatory response and highlighted the importance of independent, specialist safeguarding oversight in youth programs. The full article is published by the Herald Sun and is available via subscription only.
