Hundreds of people took a break from their duties at Carers Day Out at Akoonah Park Reserve.

Activities included massages, pedicures and facials, African drumming, art, a men's discussion group, gardening presentations, health checks, facepainting, singing, entertainment and tai chi.

The event was jointly organised by the Casey, Greater Dandenong and Cardinia councils.

Casey councillor Shar Balmes said the day went very well. "It was a glorious day. Everything was spread out. There was nothing that was empty at any stage.

"There was a lot of talk about the massages, but there was something for everyone, really."

She said Carers Day Out was designed to recognise and honour the contribution unpaid carers made to the community.

"The majority of carers are taking care of a child or a parent - it's not something that you volunteer to do as such. It's just part of your life.

"Part of the day was showing them that there are so many people doing the same thing, and that's so emotionally gratifying."

More than 2.6 million Australians provide unpaid care and support to family members and friends who have a disability, mental illness, chronic condition, terminal illness or who are frail aged.

Carers Australia president Tim Moore said carers were a diverse group of people coming from all walks of life. "They are the foundation of our aged, disability, community, mental health and palliative care systems."

For more information about support for carers in Casey, phone the council on 97055200.