DMFS Programs – Absence from Home Support

Absences from home due to deployments, training, or work travel can be challenging. Here are some helpful tips to support your family and stay connected:

Call into our office at 340 Nathan Business centre, CNR Ross River Rd and Nathan Street, Cranbrook to collect a copy of Absence from Home Support booklet or download a copy of the Member and Family Care Plan from the website.

• Stay Connected by writing letters or keep a journal to share once you're back together.
• Create Routines by maintaining regular schedules.
• Talk openly, be honest with children in age-appropriate ways about the absence, and reassure them that it's normal to miss loved ones and talk about their feelings.
• Build a support network by reaching out to services like DMFS and stay connected to friends, neighbours, and support contacts.
• Celebrate milestones by taking video, photos or letters to share later. Create a countdown calendar or memory jar to track the time apart
• Practice self-care by taking time to rest, enjoying hobbies, and looking after your personal wellbeing. Your resilience supports the whole family.
• Plan for Reconnection after the absence and allow time and space for everyone to readjust at their own pace.

Remember, you are not alone. Support is available, and staying connected can make a big difference.

Keep up to date with our events!

DMFS Townsville has an Eventbrite page. Tickets for all DMFS events are only available through Eventbrite. Events are uploaded at different times throughout the month.

To avoid missing out on tickets, follow the page to receive an instant notification when events are released.

To opt-in to receive notifications directly from our Eventbrite page, all you need to do is:

• Follow the DMFS Townsville Eventbrite page
• Register your details
• Download the Eventbrite app
• Enable push notifications

My Dad and Me - 14 June 2025

ADF Dads, Father figures and kids in Townsville are invited to Grab your helmets, pump up those tyres, and get ready to roll — it's time for some wheely good fun with My Dad & Me! Whether you're cruising on a scooter, tearing it up on a bike, or wobbling along with training wheels, this is your chance to hit the track with Dad (or a favourite grown-up).

We’ll throw in a BBQ to fuel your laps, plus a fun and friendly way to learn some road safety tips along the way. It’s all about making memories, meeting other Defence dads, and proving once and for all who’s faster — you or your old man! It’s going to be a wheelie great day!

Date: Saturday 14 June 2025

Time: 9.30-11.30 am

Venue: Wadda Mooli Park, Elliot Springs

Tickets: via Eventbrite

Coffee Connections – Junction Café, North Shore – 18 June

Take a break and join us for Coffee Connections with DMFS! While the kids burn off some energy on the play equipment, you can enjoy a relaxed cuppa and connect with other partners. It's a great chance to share stories, support one another, and build friendships in your Defence community. We’d love to see you there!

Date: Wednesday 18 June 2025

Time: 9.30-11.30 am

Venue: Junction Café, 5 Rockingham Drive, Burdell

Tickets: via Eventbrite