An immersive, low-intensity weekend retreat for writers set in native waterway and woodland on Djaara Country in Central Victoria.

Over two half-days, you will have the rare opportunity to deepen your own writing project through experiential methods, intimate draft discussion and refreshing forays into local ecology.

Day 1 will take place at the layered site of Forest Creek, featuring a gentle, guided walk and using grounding methods of close listening and perceptual sharpening to generate writing.

Day 2 centres on working with Bonny on private bushland, to develop drafts in progress through group discussion and individual feedback.

With afternoons free on both days there is time for reflection and solo work, as well as enjoying the beautiful natural, cultural and gastronomic pleasures of Castlemaine and surrounds. On March 21-22, tie in a trip to the Clunes Booktown Festival program.

This retreat is limited to a small group to allow for individual attention and space to observe and work quietly. This is a non-residential retreat. Your own drinks, meals and accommodation can be sought from the array of local produce and hosts.

There are two retreats running in March 2026, please select your preferred weekend when booking.

When:

Saturday 7th March, 2026 9:00am-12:30pm & Sunday 8th March, 9:00am-12:30pm

or

Saturday 21st March, 2026 9:00am-12:30pm & Sunday 22nd March, 9:00am-12:30pm

Where: Nearest village Chewton, Victoria, 90 mins from Naarm/Melbourne by rail or car (location addresses will be shared on booking confirmation)

Cost: $380 concession or financial need or book with a friend / $420 full

Advice: Access to the locations includes unsealed roads. Free parking onsite. Taxis available from Castlemaine, approx. 15 mins drive. As this is a conservation ecology, unfortunately companion animals are not welcome. While some of the retreat will take place indoors on Day 2, this is a bushland experience including walking on uneven ground. Building access includes unpaved paths and doorways which are not wheelchair accessible. Please get in touch about any access needs or queries.