The Alannah & Madeline Foundation

On 28 April 1996 at the historical Port Arthur site in Tasmania, 35 people were tragically killed. 

Alannah and Madeline Mikac, aged six and three, along with their mother, died that day.

Because of this terrible act of violence, Alannah and Madeline's father, Walter Mikac AM, and a small group of volunteers, worked to set up the Foundation with the belief that all children should have a safe and happy childhood without being subjected to any form of violence.

It was launched on 30 April 1997 by the Prime Minister of Australia, the Hon. John Howard OM AC.

More than 20 years ago, the Alannah & Madeline Foundation first took a stand in the face of unspeakable tragedy and made a promise to do everything within its power to protect children from harm. To ensure children touched by violence can heal from it. To serve as a beacon of hope for a better, safer world.

The Foundation's purpose took hold, and its impact grew. Now, knowing the dangers children face today are increasingly complex, it continues to adapt and evolve. It is building a meaningful alliance around the country to identify, prevent and respond to the modern challenges children and young people face.

The Alannah and Madeline Foundation is recognised for providing best practice prevention and care for children and young people. It is transforming how society thinks about and responds to barriers to every child’s basic right to live free from fear. It will never stop growing our vision. It will never stop shining a light of hope in the dark. It will always work to prevent harm, and where it can’t prevent, to heal. It exists to keep children safe today, and into the future.

This is their promise.

Day 2: Crescent Lodge - Cape Pillar Lodge

Approximately 5 hours walking

Wake to the silence of Crescent Lodge and wander down to the stunning dining room for a hearty breakfast to start the day. From here, head due south with views across Safety Cove and Maingon Bay to Bruny Island. Climbing Arthurs Peak, 300 metres above sea level, is worth the oceanic vista. In these parts, White Bellied Sea Eagles soar in the thermal currents, so be sure to look skyward. Lunch isn’t far away, an easy downhill descent to south-facing cliffs where pelagic seabirds are plenty - albatross, petrels and gannets. Here, there’s nothing between you and Antarctica.

Following lunch, skirt the edge of Tornado Ridge before heading south toward Cape Pillar Lodge, your base for the next two nights. Your pace might quicken in the knowledge there is a massage, facial or relaxation bath on offer at Cape Pillar Lodge.

Day 4: Cape Pillar Lodge - Fortescue Bay

Approximately 6 hours walking (Cape Hauy side trip optional)

Time to farewell Cape Pillar's safe forest haven. From here you’ll cross Retakunna Creek (local indigenous dialect for creaking trees) en route to a patch of rainforest. Breathe it in - lush mosses, ferns and vibrant greens. Next mission is the peninsula’s highest peak, Mount Fortescue, climbing some 490 metres above sea level. Enjoy lunch with leafy-framed ocean views overlooking The Monument.

Take the side trip and enjoy the majesty of Cape Hauy - or simply remain with the group for a final cliff-walk descent onto the cool white sands of Fortescue Bay. This is your chance to drop the pack and sink your toes in pristine sands or perhaps take a celebratory dive into the crystal clear waves. We will then travel back to Hobart via the airport. We will finish in Hobart with a glass of celebratory bubbles.