Support Bicheno Bush Kids – Create and Play

A Nature-Based Art & Play Program for Kids

Introduction

Hi, I’m Jess Florence, an artist and art therapist based in Bicheno, Tasmania. I’m passionate about creating spaces where children can connect with nature, explore their creativity, and build a sense of wonder and confidence through play and artistic expression.

I’m raising funds to help establish Bicheno Bush Kids—a nature-based art and play program designed for children to explore, create, and connect in the wild beauty of our local bushland. This program encourages kids to engage with natural materials, develop self-expression through art, and experience the benefits of unstructured play in nature.

Why This Matters

In today’s fast-paced world, children are spending less time outdoors and more time in structured environments. Bicheno Bush Kids offers a unique opportunity for kids to slow down, immerse themselves in nature, and create freely—without pressure or expectations. By fostering unstructured play and creative expression, the program builds resilience, confidence, and a deeper appreciation for our environment.

How Your Support Will Help

Starting a community program comes with essential costs, and your contribution will directly support:

✅ Council permits & approvals (approx. $200 so far)

✅ First aid training & supplies (EpiPen, asthma kit, first aid certification $374 so far)

✅ Materials & resources (natural art supplies, tools, tables, chairs, rugs, blankets, shade - over $2000 spent so far)

✅ Ongoing Program Costs

(Insurance $600 per annum for the bush school, plus increased home insurance for the property, materials, first aid kit refills, admin and permits)

I’ve already personally invested over $3000 in getting this project off the ground. With community support, Bicheno Bush Kids can not only launch but thrive and be accessible to more families.

Donation Rewards

To express my heartfelt gratitude, I am offering the following rewards for donations. Please note: To claim your reward, please email me at [email redacted]. I can’t see your email info. I will reply to your donation via go fund me but I can’t see any responses 

Donation Amount Reward

$20 2 greeting cards featuring my artwork

$30 3 greeting cards featuring my artwork

$50 5 greeting cards featuring my artwork

$100 1 high-quality art print (of your choice of 5)

$200 2 high-quality art prints (of your choice of 5)

$500+ 1 original mini painting (one-of-a-kind)

️ BONUS: All donations go in the draw to win an original painting! A bottle of local wine! And a fabulous large platter box valued at $120 from @primandplatter!

Please make sure you add your email address when you donate so we can make this happen for you!

Call to Action

Every donation—big or small—helps make this dream a reality. If you’re unable to donate, sharing this campaign and spreading the word means the world.

Thank you for believing in the power of creativity, nature, and community. Let’s make something beautiful together!

Please find more information, updates and images of artwork rewards on instagram pages

Bicheno Bush Kids and Feather dreaming art

I acknowledge that Bush Art and Play takes place on the traditional lands of the Palawa people of the east coast of Tasmania. I honour their deep connection to this land, its waters and its stories and I pay respects to Elders past, present and emerging.

With love and gratitude

Jess Florence