by Barbara Hasslacher
by Barbara Hasslacher
Inner peace is the key to happiness, but this is not easy to achieve in the context of the busy lives more and more people lead today. Stories of the spiritually fulfilled adepts of the past, whatever tradition they belonged to, tell that many of them retreated periodically to peaceful, isolated places. There are not many accounts of people who found inner tranquility while dwelling constantly in the city or town. Therefore, those who seek a degree of inner peace are traditionally advised to cast off attachment to worldly pleasures and comforts, and to retreat to a quiet and isolated place.
The immediate benefits of doing so are that, at least in the short term, you will face no disturbance from either friends or enemies. There will be no one to distract you, either by pleasing you or annoying you. You will undergo little hardship, but will find peace and happiness, free from distraction. In such circumstances you will be able to do positive practises such as calming the mind.
In Asia, where I live, it is still possible in many places to retreat into the forest or mountains to meditate, free from distractions, yet within reach of food and other necessities. But to do so requires time, patience and much preparation. In Tibet, practitioners would often retreat to extremely remote and inaccessible places. What is amazing is the relatively high numbers of meditators who spent many years, if not their entire lives, secluded in such hermitages. The tradition persists even in Dharmsala, my home in exile, where there are now sixty or seventy dedicated practitioners living in the mountains away from the community, meditating intensely.
In the Australasian region, many retreat centres have been founded in suitable locations, which enable people, who lead otherwise busy lives, to rest, relax and, if they wish, to dedicate time to meditation. This book contains a list of the names and addresses and a brief description of such centres. I congratulate all who have contributed to the preparation of this book. Moreover, I pray that everyone desiring to achieve inner peace may find quiet in solitary places and that, having given up all wandering thoughts, they may meditate with flexible minds.
- 14th Dalai Lama
2 December 1999
"There are many benefits to be gained from places of retreat. They restore balance, goodwill, compassion, devotion. Best of all, they teach us that we have an inward place of retreat also, our own hearts and souls, where we can continue to go for refreshment and love. What is without is also within. Congratulations to Barbara for making this more readily available to us all."
- Stephanie Dowrick, writer and psychotherapist
"At a time when more and more history is being made faster and faster, one needs the rich and potent information contained in this important book. Within these pages lies the ways and means to develop a life both deep and wise, and most importantly, the skills to make a better world."
- Jean Houston, PhD, author of A Passion for the Possible
"So many retreat centres - so little time! Stirring the longing to take time out, to nurture oneself, to experience a more tranquil world, this comprehensive listing spoils us for choice. A delightfully vicarious read!"
- Chris Cooper, author of Natural Healing in New Zealand: The Essential Guide organiser of the New Spirit Festivals and television producer
"These centres and sacred places are creating a network of light throughout the South Pacific. We visit them, not only for retreat and sanctuary, but also to germinate the seeds of a coming culture. They are places where the spirit of civilisation builds new temples. This book invites us to enter that future as well as showing us how far we have already come."
- Bruce Lyon, author of Standing for the Sacred
"In these turbulent and uncertain times, we activists need more than timely information and clever strategies. We also need nourishment for body and soul, to renew our courage, our commitment, our joy in service to all beings. May this fine directory be well used!"
- Joanna Macy, author of Coming Back to Life
"The self-renewal and nourishment offered by many of these health and healing retreats is akin to preventative medicine. You certainly don't need to wait until you're on the edge to benefit from them. Or when faced with a life-threatening illness or major life crisis, it is valuable to know there are places you can retreat to offering a truly supportive environment in which you can regain your inner peace to help you on your healing journey."
- Petrea King, author of Sometimes Hearts Have to Break and founder of the Quest For Life Foundation
Introduction
With the dawn of the new millennium, I offer this guidebook to the world community, especially to this region in which I live. The first edition (published in 1995) was well received and though the format has changed somewhat for this second edition, the directory continues to provide information detailing residential centres and retreats in the main. In this edition, New Zealand and neighbouring Pacific Island places have also been included.
I remain essentially committed to the individual adult retreatant, but many places cater for groups and families as well. Since I am also interested in interfaith/path dialogue, I hope that significant networking will come about as a result of this publication.
There are two main groups covered in this book: the spiritual retreats and centres, followed by the health centres. This demarcation was not always easy. Some places could fit into both categories. To avoid duplication, though, I decided only to list each place once, and made my decision as best I could. There are two indexes in the back to assist in orientation.
My aim in compiling this book has been to help people find the appropriate sanctuary to do their deepest work - that of self-exploration and healing.
Camps and convention or up-market conference centres have not been listed, although some have been mentioned in the Reference section or under 'Group only retreat venues'. Though many would serve adequately for workshops or gatherings, that kind of information is not within the scope of this directory. I have, however, listed other useful information and places in the Reference section.
Many centres produce publications that outline their facilities and activities in more detail than I have room to do here. It is a good idea to ask the individual places for more information, such as what to bring. Generally the list should include appropriate clothing, a torch, an umbrella, food if self-catering, and linen (if applicable).
Comfortable and casual dress would be the norm at the majority of centres. To confirm this, it is advisable to ask when initial enquiries are made. Most retreat venues allow for a day visit, but again this needs to be determined beforehand. Also, many places act as a venue for groups to hire.
This directory is certainly not a list of cheap accommodation or guesthouses. The information will only be of value for the person who wishes to take part in an organised retreat or simply have some peaceful time away from the usual hustle and bustle of everyday existence. Bookings are essential. Quite a few places require guests to bring their own linen or bedding and towels, especially the yoga and meditation centres. Often the rate is cheaper for those who bring these items with them.
Visitors are advised to ask the centre managers or directors if there are any special regulations concerning, for example, smoking and consuming alcohol on the premises. Most places will not accept pets. While many centres cater for families, this should not be assumed. It is up to the visitor to ask for clarification at the outset to prevent disappointment and unnecessary problems.
Many monasteries and religious houses exist in an atmosphere of quiet. Retreatants should be conscious of this when visiting these places. Other centres are more informal.
Moreover, many centres are open to all people regardless of faith as long as the religion or spiritual inclination of the centres are respected.
A number of centres operate on a donation basis. This is not to be abused as many run as not-for-profit organisations.
Many centres are happy to arrange a pick-up from a nearby bus or train station, but this needs to be determined in advance. Others are situated in remote locations and visitors may need their own transport.
...
I warmly invite centres not included to contact me for any future editions. There is also a report sheet at the end for people to send comments to me about any place visited, or simply if they want to make contact with me.
First, let me say there are way, way too many for me to list ... :) ... I may record a few that grab my eye ... besides there is such a thing as copyright ... and the book won't cost you an arm and a leg ... moreover, I'm likely to list those closest to me ... which means mainly Melbourne & Victoria ...
83-99 Stotts Lane, Baxter, 3911
www.bkwsuau.com
A Brahma Kumaris centre, set on 9 hectares of natural bushland; 10 min. from Frankston or one hour from Melbourne. Twin-share accommodation for 60 people, with some ensuite rooms. Retreats mostly over weekends on a range of topics dealing with lifestyle choices, Raja Yoga, meditation and stress management. Apply for a full program. Recreational facilities including squash and tennis courts, billiards, walking tracks, and swimming pool. Meals are provided (vegetarian). The charge is by donation. Established in 1996, it is affiliated to a sister centre in NSW (see inner Space Centre). It is a branch of the Brahma Kumaris World Spiritual University, a global organisation committed to supporting world change through personal change.
Sandhurst Town, Myers Flat via Bendigo, 3556
Postal Address: RMB 1530, Eaglehawk, 3556
A Tibetan Buddhist monastery and study centre; open all year, set on 20 hectares 15 mins from Bendigo. Single and share accommodation for 40 adults in converted railway carriages. Meals are self-cater. the charge is $12.50 a night, $65 a week. Atisha centre began in 1981 and is a member of the FPMT organisation, which is a world-wide network of over 100 Buddhist centres. (See also Tara Institute, VIC, and Chenresig Institute, QLD and the FPMT website: www.kadampa-center.org/fpmtlink.htm) Geshe Doga, resident Tibetan teacher at the Tara Institute, visits the centre regularly to give teachings.
{Note: I think there is another website for FPMT - www.fpmt.org which is worth a visit}
411 Sandy Road, Rye ocean Beach, 3941
An interfaith community,; open all year; set on more than one hectare bordering a national park; 90 km from Melbourne. Single and share facilities in bungalow, loft house and caravan dwellings for several visitors, two basic bush hermitages also on site. No smoking or use of perfumes, essential oils, incense or candles allowed on property. Monthly program on earth spirtuality, personal development, craft and education. Charges on application. WWOOF scheme applies (see Reference section). The co-ordinator, Carol McDonough, is available for spiritual companioning and counseling, and she is also a member of the Christian Meditation Community.
For the past two years, Carol has also arranged the annual Mornington Peninsula Spring Pilgrimage, an event held in the second week of the Victorian September school holidays. An opportunity to experience a week-long walking retreat with a diverse group of people from age 11 to their 70's. 'As we beat the bounds of the bay and ocean grandeur to the softness of the farming hinterland we have the opportunity to grow interiorly as we walk, talk and meditate. Walk an hour, a day, a week. You don't carry anything: food and accommodation supplied. In true pilgrimage tradition you do make a donation to each of your hosts.' Auspiced by the Peninsula Spirituality Network. Information is available by newsletter subscription of $10 to:
PSN, PO Box 115, Mornington, 3931
Sinclairs Lane, Maldon, 3463
PO Box 152, Maldon, 3463
A centre for universal spirituality; open most of the year; situated on 40 hectares in central Victoria, 15 min from Maldon and two hours from Melbourne. Single and share accommodation in lodge, bunkhouse and caravans, as well as camping. Various activities at different times of the year including sweat lodges, drum making, meditations, self-sufficiency classes and healings. Meals are mostly self-cater. Charges: lodge $20 a night, caravan $10 a night, camping/teepee $5 a night. Junitta Vallak, who bought the property in 1984, considers herself the custodian of this land which is dedicated to the healing of the earth and all beings. It is the site for regular workshops on a range of interests dealing predominantly with Australian Aboriginal and Native American traditional teachings. Junitta also puts out a bulletin.
528 Myers Creek Road, Healesville, 3777
www.evaminstitute.org.au
A Tibetan Buddhist centre; closed June to August; set on 13 hectares in a quiet rural environment with views; 8 km from Healesville and one hour from Melbourne. Single, double, family and dorm accommodation for 60 people; also 5 meeting rooms and two large conference/meditation rooms. For private and directed retreats, meditation and study practice. Meals are self-cater outside of organised retreats. Charges on application. This facility was established in 1997 and has a regular program of activities. Enquire for a schedule.
109 Old Mornington Road, Mt Eliza, 3930
A Catholic centre run by the Sisters of st Joseph, closed in January and one month in winter; a large property with views over Port Philip Bay; 45 km from Melbourne. accommodation is in 22 single rooms and a two-bedroom self-contained cottage. For private and guided retreats; spiritual direction is also available. Meals are provided mainly (self-cater in the cottage). Charges on application. This centre adjoins a convent and there is a day facility which can hold 70 people.
125 Hawthorn Rd, Forest Hill, 3131
This centre offering personal and spiritual development, hospitality or private retreats; open over weekends mostly; situated in an Eastern suburb in Melbourne. Single and share accommodation for up to ten people. Evening meal provided as well as food for other meals with which visitors self-cater. The charges are: $15 B&B; $30 a night full stay; BYO bedding and towels. Charges for other facilities and services on application. Bernadette Wallis MSS and Corrie van den Bosch MSSo are trained Emotional Release counsellors and spiritual directors with many years' experience. They work with individuals, children and groups, blending a variety of methods including dream work, voice dialogue, journal writing, Holotropic Breathwork, sandplay and Emotional Release counselling. The Meeting Place is a non-profit organisation, and it is also available for hire by groups.
5 Wardrop Grove, Northcote, 3070
Website for Sisters of the Good Samaritan: www.flex.com.au/~goodsams/
A Catholic guesthouse run by the Sisters of the Good Samaritan; closed over December & January; situated in a northern Melbourne suburb. Set on the same grounds as the Santa Maria Centre (see below)
(formerly Karith House of Prayer)
'Karith', Dammans Rd, Warburton, 3799
A Catholic/interfaith centre; open most of the year to adults only; a bushland setting alongside the Yarra River near Mt Donna Buang; 70 km from Melbourne. Daily program of meditation/relaxation, and Lecto Divina (Divine Readings); Reiki and Enneagram workshops. Apply for a workshop and retreat schedule. $40 per night, $50 for directed retreats. the community, though Catholic, seeks to respond to Holy Wisdom in whatever tradition it may be found.
7 Wardrop Grove, Northcote, 3070
Website for Sisters of the Good Samaritan: www.flex.com.au/~goodsams/
Chapel & extensive library. Charge is by arrangement. Meals are mostly self-cater.
3 Mavis Ave, East Brighton, 3187
A Tibetan Buddhist centre; open all year except Christmas, in Melbourne. Limited dorm-style accommodation with partitions for serious students only. Weekly meditation and philosophy classes; weekend courses each month; private retreat time; healing courses for people with life-threatening illnesses. Optional evening meal only is provided (but must be booked) otherwise self-cater. $25 per night, $12 for three-course evening meal, enquire for retreat and course charges.
Lot 2 Caugheys Rd, Hazel Park, Welshpool, 3966
A new centre offering a variety of retreats, open all year, a rural setting on 12 hectares in South Gippsland close to Wilsons Promontory and Agnes Falls, 2 1/2 hours East of Melbourne. Single and share accommodation for 16 to 32 people. Meals are either provided or self-cater. Charges on application. The centre's name means 'Earth sanctuary'. It is owned by Lee Grenfell who, as an artist, works with others to bring out their innate creativity through various modalities. She also teaches meditation and art, and hopes to have retreats for disadvantaged youth in the future. There are permaculture and biodynamic gardens on the premises. WWOOF scheme applies (see Reference section)
PO Box 11, Woori Yallock, 3139
www.dhamma.org/schvic.htm
A meditation centre open to adults (by application) during advertised courses (usually monthly), set on a hill on 7 hectares ; 1 hour east of Melbourne.Accommodation is in dormitories (gender segregation applies; BYO linen & towels) for about 37 people. Strict, silent ten-day retreats consisting of several daily meditation sessions and teached discourses. The charge is by donation for only those who complete the course. Affilliated with other Vipassana meditation centres where longer retreats are possible for the serious practitioner. The process of Vipassana is a process of self-observation and the technique of meditation taught here is in the tradition of Sayagyi U Ba Khin as taught by S.N. Goenka of India. Apply for a schedule of courses.
In time, I may add to the above list ...
... if I don't, you could always email me ...
Last update on 25-11-2000
Brisbane Catholic Education for the Network of Spirituality (July 1999) 'People and Places for Spirituality'. A booklet listing information for Queensland. Though not comprehensive, it does list facilitators and other resources not listed in this directory. The cost is $5 and it can be obtained from Sr P Smoothy RSM, PO Box 32, Sunnybank, Qld, 4109 or call the Office of Spiritual Renewal
Gerard, Geoffrey (1996), Away From It All: A guide to Retreat Homes Lutterworth Press, England. For iformation about centres in Britain.
Kelly, Jack & Marcia, Sanctuaries: The Complete United States: A Guide to lodgings in Monasteries, Abbeys and retreats Bell Tower Publishers, USA,
Maranath Institute, Sanctuary Leaflet. This brochure listing retreats and workshops in WA is produced free of charge annually by the Catholic Education Centre, PO Box 198, Leaderville, WA, 6093
Ward, R. & Humphreys, R. (1995) Religious Bodies in Australia New Melbourne Press, Victoria. This is a comprehensive listing of religious/spiritual groups in Australia.
Whiteaker, Stafford (1998) The Good Retreat Guide, Rider Publishers, England.
WEB SITES
Buddhist Information Network:
Christian Camping International for group venues:
Retreats in the USA:
Spiritual Growth Ministeries Trust NZ:
OTHER INFORMATION
WWOOF (Willing Workers on Organic Farms) is an exchange program: Free board and lodging per night in exchange for four to six hours work per day. The scheme operates internationally and Australia has over 400 farms and large properties to choose from. Some farms are happy to take children. Apply in writing for the Australian or worldwide list. The author of this list traveled in both Australia and New Zealand using this scheme and found it very rewarding. It is a very different way to travel and experience other people's lifestyles.
WWOOF
www.buddhanet.net
www.cciaus.org.au
www.cciaus.org.nz
www.allaboutretreats.com
www.sgm-nz.org
Mt Murindal Co-Operative
Buchan
Victoria
3885
Some Links -
Click here for some wisdom from the 14th Dalai Lama
Bruce Lyon - Standing for the sacred
Willing Workers on Organic Farms
Some of the websites of retreat places mentioned in book -
Brahma Kumaris
Friends of the Western Buddhist Order
Foundation for the preservation of the Mahayana Tradition
Centre for justice & spirituality
A few more places - mainly NZ retreats & health retreats in Oz ...
Broken Links? -
Sisters of the Good Samaritan
Ignatian Centre for Spirituality
Sirius Services in Queensland
Catholic Monastery in Mayfield
St Mary's Towers - broken link?
A story about St Mary's Towers
