28–30 May 2027 Karma Kinglake, Victoria

Come Home to the Woman You've Been Missing

The Wildflower Creative Retreat is 2.5 days at Karma Kinglake for women who've been giving everything to everyone else and have nothing left over for themselves. Guided by qualified Social Workers and Sensorimotor Art Therapists, you'll create, rest, and reconnect. No experience needed, nothing to prove. Here's what 2.5 days away could give you back.

Reserve Your Place

28–30 May 2027 Karma Kinglake, Victoria

The Wildflower Creative Retreat

Somewhere between caring for your family, supporting everyone else, and keeping life moving, it's easy to lose sight of yourself. If you've been waiting for life to slow down before making yourself a priority, this is your invitation to stop waiting.

The Wildflower Creative Retreat 2.5 days to rest, reconnect, create, and remember the woman you've always been.

Facilitated by an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker, this retreat offers space for creativity, stillness, and the quiet company of women who understand.

Return home feeling calmer, lighter, and deeply connected to yourself, because you deserve more than simply getting through each day.

Artwork and Photos from past Creative Retreats

What You Can Expect

Each day unfolds gently, mornings begin slowly, with time for stillness before the day's creative session. Afternoons are unhurried, with space for rest, connection, and shared meals. Evenings wind down softly, leaving room to simply be.

Friday
2: 30PM: Check in and get yourself settled
4: 00PM: Group Welcoming
6: 15PM: Dinner at the local restaurant
Saturday
9.30AM: Creative Workshop
12PM: Lunch (long lunch to explore, rest or visit the local shops)
3: 00PM: Creative Workshop
6.30PM: Dinner
8pm: Free time
Sunday
9.30AM: Creative Workshop
12PM: Lunch (long lunch to explore, rest or visit the local shops)
1PM: Creative Workshop
2.30PM: Gathering closing ceremony
3PM: Finish

These times and workshop are a guide

Karma Kinglake

Tucked into the hills an hour from Melbourne, Karma Kinglake sits surrounded by native bushland — the kind of quiet that starts to soften your shoulders before the retreat has even begun.

Mornings here start slow: mist over the treeline, birdsong instead of alarms, a coffee on the verandah before anyone asks you for anything. By afternoon, the light filters gold through the gums, and the pace of the place makes it easy to just be, whether that's stretched out with a journal, wandering the grounds, or sitting in comfortable silence with a woman you met yesterday.

The rooms are simple and warm rather than showy, designed for rest. Whether you choose a shared cottage or a private room, you'll have everything you need to properly switch off: comfortable beds, quiet corners, and views that pull your attention outward, away from your phone.

It's the kind of place that does half the work for you. You arrive tired. The bush, the stillness, and the space between you and your usual life start working on you before the first workshop even begins.

What You'll Get Out of the Experience

  • Permission — real permission — to stop, for the first time in longer than you can remember
  • A weekend where no one needs anything from you, and nothing is your responsibility to fix
  • Reconnection to the parts of yourself that you have set aside — creativity, playfulness, curiosity
  • The quiet, almost startling relief of being cared for instead of caring for everyone else
  • Conversations that go deeper than small talk, with women who simply get it
  • Moments of stillness in the bush that soften something in you before you even notice it happening
  • Permission to cry if you need to, laugh until it hurts, or say nothing at all
  • Creative Mindfulness — Slow, guided creative practices that quiet a racing mind — where making becomes a form of stillness, not another thing to get right
  • Creative Making — Hands-on time exploring different materials, textures and mediums, with nothing to achieve except the simple pleasure of making
  • Guided Artwork — Step-by-step, therapist-led creative sessions that walk you through making a piece of your own — no experience needed, just a willingness to try

What women leave with

  • A version of yourself you'd almost forgotten — lighter, softer, more you Not a different woman — the one underneath all the roles you carry. The one who laughs easily, feels curious again, and isn't bracing for the next thing.
  • A Mind That's Finally Quiet The constant hum of what needs doing, who needs you, what you forgot — it starts to fade. You'll come home with space in your head you didn't know you were missing.
  • Proof You Can Step Away Everyone survived without you for three days. That knowledge alone loosens something — the belief that it all falls apart if you're not holding it. It doesn't. And neither do you.
  • Friendships Built on Truth, Not Logistics Women who saw you tired, unfiltered, maybe even in tears — and stayed anyway. These aren't the friendships built around school pickups and small talk. They're the ones that hold you up.
  • More Patience for the People You Love When your own cup isn't empty, there's more left over for everyone else. You'll go home able to give — not because you're depleting yourself again, but because you actually have something to give.

YOUR INVITATION

If something inside you has been whispering "I need this" — don't ignore it.

Life will always be busy. There will always be another reason to wait. But there is only one you and three days is all it takes to remember her.

Creative Sessions

Every retreat is different — the materials and mediums change, but the intention stays the same: hands-on, guided, and completely judgment-free. Below are some of the creative experiences you might explore, depending on the retreat.

Mandalas

Mandalas

Slow, repetitive, meditative mark-making. There's no right way to draw a mandala — just circle after circle until your mind starts to settle into the rhythm of it.

Strength Paintings

Strength Paintings

A guided painting practice exploring a word, feeling, or quality you want to carry with you — not about painting "well," but about what comes up while you do it.

Dream Catchers

Dream Catchers

A hands-on weaving craft rooted in intention-setting — a tactile, calming way to work with your hands while reflecting on what you want to hold onto, and what you're ready to let go of.

Weaving

Weaving

Simple loom or frame weaving — a repetitive, grounding practice that's less about the finished piece and more about the quiet focus it takes to make it.

Raffia Weaving

Raffia Weaving

A natural-material weaving session using raffia a slow, repetitive weaving practice. The kind of simple, hands-busy work that settles a racing mind without you even trying. Over-under, over-under, until your thoughts start to quieten and you're just here, in your hands, in the moment.

Collage

Collage

Cutting, tearing, and arranging images and textures into something new — a forgiving, low-pressure medium where nothing can go wrong, because there's no "right" to begin with. Sometimes putting fragments back together on paper is exactly what it feels like to put yourself back together, piece by piece.

Affirmation Cards

Affirmation Cards

A quiet, reflective session creating your own small set of cards — words and imagery that mean something to you, chosen by you, for you. Not generic quotes, but the things you actually need to hear. Something small enough to slip in your bag and pull out on the days you need reminding of who you are.

Felting (Wet & Dry)

Felting (Wet & Dry)

A deeply physical, sensory practice — working wool into shape with water, soap and your own hands, or a barbed needle, again and again. There's something quietly powerful about shaping raw material with repetition alone. It's hard to overthink your way through it, which is exactly the point — your hands do the work while your mind finally gets a break.

video

video

Inclusions

2 nights' accommodation at Karma Kinglake (shared cottage or private room, your choice)
Bedding, linen and towels provided

All meals from Friday dinner through Sunday lunch
Friday night dinner at Local restaurant.
Breakfast in your cottage each morning
Saturday Lunch and dinner at Retreat venue
Sunday Lunch at Retreat venue
Morning and afternoon tea/refreshments throughout
Special dietary requirements catered for
No alcohol supplied however you are welcome to bring your own or order at the venue.
You're welcome to bring your own snacks

Walk through the surrounding bushland
Unstructured time outdoors — quiet mornings, slow afternoons
Access to the grounds at Karma Kinglake at all times

All creative workshops and art therapy sessions
All art materials and supplies — nothing to bring or buy
Guided mindfulness and grounding practices
Facilitation by qualified Social Workers and Art Therapists throughout the weekend

Retreat workbook / reflection journal
Take-home tools and practices for ongoing wellbeing
Any artwork or creative pieces you make during the retreat

Guided nervous-system regulation and breathwork practices
Reflection and journaling time built into the schedule
Practices designed to bring you back into your body, out of your head

Genuine downtime with nothing scheduled — permission to do nothing at all
No early alarms, no agenda you have to keep up with
Quiet spaces set aside to sleep in, switch off, or simply be still

Hey there I’m sally

Meet your facilitator

Hey there I’m sally

When I’m not off painting rainbows with my kids and getting stuck in glitter, paint and clay, I’m an experienced and Accredited Mental Health Social Worker and Sensorimotor Art Therapist who works with children, adolescents, women, and families. I help people who experience difficulties managing the demands of day-to-day life, including the impacts of depression, anxiety, personality disorders, trauma and relationship problems.

On a personal level, being creative has changed my life and opened me up to divine insight about myself. It allows me to express my inner world and helps me to integrate it into my outer world.

Through creative expression I have been able to heal old wounds, free myself from past worries, and open my heart to truly knowing, understanding and loving myself for who I am. This has allowed me to open my heart and invite new things to come my way.

It has been a life long DREAM to host a creative retreat and I’m so pleased I now share this passion with you.

Choose the space that feels right for you.

Payment plans available. Places are intentionally limited to keep this retreat intimate.

Accommodation -Cottage, One Bedroom, all to yourself

Own Cottage – A private cottage all to yourself — no sharing, no compromise. Choose between two options:
The Little Barn — a private cottage space to fully unwind, reflect, and recharge at your own pace, exactly when you need it.
The Studio — a private, self-contained studio space, ideal for anyone who wants full solitude to rest, journal, or switch off completely between sessions.

  •  Spacious lounge room
  • Reverse cycle air-conditioning for cooling and heating
  • Kitchenette with fridge, and lots of bench space where you can prepare and make meals if you wish.
  • Bedroom has a very comfortable queen-sized bed with luxury hotel style sheets and a warm quilt
  • Private bathroom
  • All linen and towels are provided

 

Accommodation -Share cottage with your own room

Shared Cottage
Your own private bedroom within a shared cottage.

A space that’s entirely yours to retreat into, with a Jack-and-Jill style bathroom shared between rooms, plus a shared lounge and kitchenette to relax in with fellow guests. A warm middle ground: privacy when you need it, company when you want it.

  • Spacious lounge room
  • Cozy slow combustion wood heater for those chilly winter nights
  • Reverse cycle air-conditioning for cooling and heating
  • Kitchenette for preparing lite meals and snacks dining table for four
  • Bedrooms with very comfortable queen sized beds with luxury hotel style sheets and warm quilts.
  • Jack and Jill bathroom between both bedrooms featuring a rainfall shower head
  • All linen and towels are provided

Are you ready to join

Book Your Stay

Friday 28-30 May 2027

Book Now

Lorem Ipsum is simply dummy text

When is The Wildflower Retreat?

28–30 May 2027.
The retreat runs for three days and two nights at Karma Kinglake, Victoria.

Where is the retreat held?

The Wildflower Retreat is held at Karma Kinglake, surrounded by beautiful natural bushland in Kinglake, Victoria.
The peaceful setting allows you to step away from the noise of everyday life and immerse yourself in nature.

Who is the retreat for?

The retreat is designed for women who are feeling overwhelmed, emotionally tired, disconnected from themselves, or simply ready for some time and space to focus on their own wellbeing.
You might be a mum, partner, carer, professional, helper, business owner, or simply a woman who has spent a long time putting everyone else first.
You don't need to be experiencing burnout or a particular life challenge to attend. Sometimes you simply know that you need a pause.

Do I need to be going through a difficult time to attend?

Not at all.
You don't need a reason or a crisis to give yourself three days of rest and connection.
You may simply be at a point in your life where you want to slow down, reflect, reconnect with yourself, explore your creativity, or spend meaningful time with other women.

Do I need to be artistic?

Absolutely not.
You do not need any artistic experience or confidence to attend.
Our creative experiences are about exploration, self-expression, curiosity, and wellbeing—not creating a perfect piece of artwork.
There is no right or wrong way to participate.

What type of creative activities will we do?

The retreat includes a range of creative experiences designed to encourage self-expression, reflection, mindfulness, and connection.
These may include art-making, creative exploration, journaling, visual reflection, and other creative wellbeing practices.
All materials are provided.

What if I'm really not creative?

That's okay.
In fact, you may be exactly the person we want to reassure.
You don't have to consider yourself creative before coming to the retreat. Creativity is not about being able to draw or paint. It's about curiosity, exploration, expression, and giving yourself permission to try something different.

Do I have to participate in every activity?

No.
The retreat is designed to give you choice.
You are welcome to participate in the activities that feel right for you and take quiet time when you need it.
We encourage you to listen to your own needs rather than feeling that you have to keep up with a schedule.

Is the retreat therapeutic?

The retreat incorporates therapeutic and wellbeing-informed practices and is facilitated by qualified professionals with experience in mental health, social work, art therapy, and creative approaches to wellbeing.
However, the retreat is not intended to replace individual counselling, psychological treatment, or other ongoing therapeutic support.

Is this group therapy?

No.
Although meaningful conversations and personal reflection may form part of the retreat, this is not a formal group therapy program.
The focus is on wellbeing, creativity, connection, reflection, and personal growth.

Will I be expected to talk about personal things?

No.
You are always in control of what you choose to share.
There may be opportunities for meaningful conversations and reflection, but you never have to disclose anything that you don't feel comfortable sharing.

Can I come by myself?

Yes—and many women do.
You absolutely do not need to know someone else attending the retreat.
We understand that coming alone can feel a little daunting, particularly if you're not used to doing things just for yourself.
We intentionally create a warm and welcoming environment where you can settle in at your own pace.

I'm nervous about coming alone. What if I don't know anyone?

This is one of the most common concerns women have before booking.
You won't be expected to walk into the retreat and immediately feel comfortable with everyone.
There will be opportunities to connect naturally throughout the weekend, and you'll be surrounded by women who have also chosen to step away from everyday life and do something meaningful for themselves.
Many friendships and connections begin simply because women arrived not knowing anyone.

Can I come with a friend?

Absolutely.
You are welcome to book with a friend, sister, daughter, colleague, or someone special to you.
You can choose to share accommodation where appropriate, or select your own accommodation and still enjoy the retreat together.

Will I have time to myself?

Will I have time to myself?
Yes.
This is an important part of the retreat.
While there are planned creative and wellbeing experiences, there is also space throughout the weekend to rest, read, walk, sit quietly, journal, enjoy your accommodation, or simply do nothing.
You don't have to fill every moment.

What accommodation options are available?

There are three accommodation experiences:
Shared Cottage Room
Your own private bedroom within a shared cottage, with a Jack and Jill bathroom shared with one other woman.
The Little Barn
A private cottage-style accommodation option for one person, providing your own private space.
The Studio / Guest Suite
The Studio is fully self-contained and provides your own private space. The Guest Suite offers your own bedroom and bathroom while sharing a lounge and kitchenette with one other woman.
Accommodation options are subject to availability.

Can I have my own room?

Yes.
Private rooms are available, depending on the accommodation option you select.

Do I have to share a bathroom?

Only if you choose the shared cottage accommodation.
The cottage bedrooms have a Jack and Jill bathroom shared between the two rooms.
The Guest Suite provides your own bedroom and bathroom, with only the lounge and kitchenette shared with another woman.
The Studio is completely self-contained.

Are meals included?

Yes.
Your retreat includes meals and refreshments throughout the three days.
The retreat is designed to take care of as much as possible so you can relax and enjoy the experience rather than worrying about where your next meal is coming from.

Can you cater for dietary requirements?

Yes.
Please let us know about any dietary requirements, allergies, or food preferences when you complete your booking form.
Providing this information in advance allows us to plan appropriately with our catering team.

What should I bring?

We recommend bringing comfortable clothing, warm layers, walking shoes, toiletries, any medications you require, a water bottle, and anything that helps you feel comfortable and at home.
You are also welcome to bring a journal or favourite creative materials if you have them.
All retreat creative materials are provided.

How do I book?

Choose your preferred accommodation option and complete the online booking form.
Once your booking has been received, we'll provide you with the information you need to secure your place.

When is the remaining balance due?

The remaining retreat balance is due 30 days before the retreat unless another payment arrangement has been agreed upon.
Can I pay in instalments?
If payment plans are available for this retreat, you can discuss this with us before booking.
We want the booking process to feel manageable and straightforward.

What happens if I need to cancel?

We understand that things can happen.
Our cancellation policy is:
60+ days before the retreat: Payments are refundable, less the $500 non-refundable deposit.
30–60 days before the retreat: 50% of the retreat fee is refundable, less the non-refundable deposit.
Less than 30 days before the retreat: Unfortunately, refunds cannot be provided.
Please see the full Booking Terms & Cancellation Policy before completing your booking.

Should I take out travel insurance?

Yes.
We strongly recommend travel insurance that covers cancellation, illness, unexpected circumstances, and other travel-related costs.

I'm worried I'll feel selfish for spending money on myself. Should I still come?

This is something we hear from women all the time.
You may have spent years putting your family, work, responsibilities, and other people's needs before your own.
Taking time for yourself isn't selfish.
You don't have to wait until you're completely exhausted before you are allowed to rest.
Sometimes giving yourself space to breathe, reconnect, and be cared for is exactly what you need.

What if I don't have children? Is the retreat still for me?

Absolutely.
Although many women attending may be mothers, the retreat is for women—not specifically for mums.
You may be caring for parents, working in a demanding profession, supporting others, navigating a life transition, or simply wanting to reconnect with yourself.

FAQs

28–30 May 2027. The retreat runs for three days and two nights at Karma Kinglake, Victoria.

The Wildflower Retreat is held at Karma Kinglake, surrounded by beautiful natural bushland in Kinglake, Victoria. The peaceful setting allows you to step away from the noise of everyday life and immerse yourself in nature.

Read all the details

A typical day at Retreat

dfadsfasdasdfafasd llllllllll llllll

Friday

dsfafafas

Saturday morning

dfasdfasdfa

Saturday afternoon

dasdfa shades

Sunday morning

sdfasedawsfewsase

A Restorative Retreat for Women Seeking Connection, Creativity and Wellbeing

imagine a weekend with

  • You don't need to justify taking care of yourself. This isn't an indulgence or something you need to earn. It is three days to rest, reconnect and invest in your own wellbeing.
  • The world will keep turning while you're away. Your family can manage—and sometimes giving yourself permission to step away is part of caring for yourself and ultimately being able to continue caring for others.
  • You don't need to know anyone before you arrive. You simply need to arrive.
  • This isn't an art class. Creativity is being used as a way to explore, express and reconnect—not to produce something perfect.
  • You don't have to wait until you're empty to deserve to be filled back up.

Would you like use to give you a call

    Book Your FREE Intro Call


    Curious about counselling or art therapy? Fill in your details below and we’ll be in touch to book your free introductory call.
    Whether you're seeking support for anxiety, trauma, or simply needing a safe space to talk, we’re here to help.


    This is your first step toward creative healing, clarity, and emotional wellbeing.

    We look forward to connecting with you.

    Ready to connect with your creativity?

    Take time for yourself each day and bring back your creative flow. Download my FREE guide for 4 tips to reconnect with your creative side.