Frequently Asked Questions
What age is WildDad suitable for?
Every Outpost is different, but at our Outpost we currently have children ranging from 1 to 16 years old.
You are welcome to bring older teenagers as well.
It really comes down to your own child's ability. Some four-year-olds can happily hike for a couple of hours, while others would struggle.
Most Outposts are mixed ages, so occasionally an activity may not suit younger children, such as archery or a high ropes course. However, things like bush walks, river adventures, rock pools, beach adventures, camping and exploring are suitable for almost everyone.
Are mums allowed to come?
No.
WildDad is intentionally a space for dads and their children.
We know there are many incredible mums doing an amazing job, often on their own. But WildDad exists to create opportunities for dads to spend meaningful time with their kids and to build stronger relationships with them.
Stepdads, granddads, uncles and other positive male role models are all welcome. But mums and partners do not attend WildDad adventures.
I have shared care and only have my children every second week. Can I still join?
Absolutely.
Many dads in WildDad only have their children every second week.
If you have your children full-time, we encourage you to show up every week. If you have shared care, show up on the weeks you have your children. If you work shifts, show up when you're not working.
Does WildDad cost money?
Yes.
WildDad is not a charity. It is a membership-based organisation, and membership fees help cover the costs of running and growing WildDad around the country.
Click here to learn more about membership options.
Can I cancel at any time?
Yes.
Monthly memberships can be cancelled at any time.
There are no lock-in contracts.
When is WildDad on?
Outposts meet every week during school term.
The majority of Outposts currently run on Sundays from 2pm–5pm, while some run on Saturdays from 2pm–5pm.
Your local Outpost page will show the exact day and time.
Why does WildDad meet every week?
Because relationships are built through consistency.
The goal of WildDad isn't to create one or two big adventures each year. It's to create regular, predictable time where dads and kids can connect.
We've found that when dads commit to showing up every week, friendships form faster, children build stronger connections, and Outposts thrive.
2 - 3 hours a week can change everything.
Is WildDad a support network for dads?
What started as a way for dads to get out and connect with their kids has, for many dads, also become a support network by default.
We're all figuring out this fatherhood thing together, and when you spend time with the same group of dads each week, friendships naturally form.
Can stepdads, granddads or uncles join?
Absolutely.
If you are a positive male role model, mentor or father figure in a child's life, you are welcome at WildDad.
My child doesn't have a father. Can I send them along?
WildDad is built around dads and children sharing adventures together.
Because of that, WildDad is not the best fit for a child attending on their own. Organisations such as Scouts may be a better option.
In the future, we would love to create mentoring opportunities for children who don't have a father figure in their lives, but WildDad is still in its early stages and that is likely years away.
Can I bring my daughter, or is WildDad just for sons?
Absolutely.
WildDad is for dads and their children, whether they are boys or girls.
Can I visit WildDad before joining?
If you have a friend who is already part of WildDad, you're welcome to come along as their guest and see what it's all about.
Otherwise, WildDad is very much a jump in and give it a go community.
The best option is to sign up, commit to a few months, get involved, and see whether it's a good fit for you and your kids.
What if I miss a week?
Life happens.
Family commitments, sickness, holidays and work will occasionally get in the way.
What sort of adventures do you do?
Every Outpost plans its own adventures.
Some examples include beach adventures, bush walks, river exploration, fishing, kayaking, disc golf, rock pools, bonfires, hut trips, target practice, building stuff, cooking on open fires, service projects and overnight camps.
Most adventures are deliberately simple, low-cost and focused on creating memories rather than spending money.
Do I have to organise adventures?
No.
Each Outpost shares the organising between dads.
Some dads organise regularly, while others help out occasionally.
The goal is for everyone to contribute where they can.
What if my child isn't sporty or outdoorsy?
That's perfectly fine.
WildDad isn't about sport or athletic ability.
It's about spending time together, trying new things, building confidence and creating memories.
Many children who don't initially see themselves as "outdoors kids" quickly discover they enjoy the adventures.
What happens if it rains?
We go anyway.
Some of the best WildDad adventures happen in the rain.
Kids generally don't care about getting muddy, wet or dirty nearly as much as adults do.
Is WildDad faith-based?
No.
WildDad welcomes dads from all backgrounds, beliefs and cultures.
Is there alcohol at WildDad events?
No.
WildDad adventures are alcohol-free whenever children are present.
The focus is on creating a safe environment and being positive role models for all children involved.
Do I need camping gear or expensive equipment?
No.
Most WildDad adventures require little or no specialist gear.
Occasionally there may be an adventure that requires extra equipment, but the majority of activities are simple, accessible and low-cost.
How many dads are usually at an adventure?
It depends on the Outpost.
Some adventures may have only a handful of dads, while others can have much larger numbers.
Most Outposts start small and grow over time as more dads join.
What if there isn't an Outpost in my town?
If there isn't an Outpost in your town yet, get in touch.
If you can find two or three other dads who are keen to make WildDad happen locally, we can help you get an Outpost up and running.
Most Outposts start with just a handful of dads who believe their town needs something like this.
How else can I support WildDad?
Tell your friends about it.
The best way to help WildDad grow is to encourage other dads to join and get involved.