Wild Nature 4 Night Retreat
Bluff Knoll Yoga, Meditation & Hiking
immerse yourself in the beautiful wild landscapes of the southwest
23-27 April Join us in the wild and beautiful southwest for an immersive 5 day yoga, meditation, hiking and nature experience over the Anzac Day Long Weekend. The Wild Nature Retreat is a profound opportunity to immerse yourself in beautiful landscapes, while exploring the inner landscapes of the mind and heart.
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Retreat highlights
Hiking highlights
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yoga is where the inner and outer landscapes meet
Wild Nature
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Reconnect with your own true nature
It is easy to lose yourself in the busyness and pressures of everyday life, and to forget the serenity and wellbeing which comes from maintaining a connection with the natural world and the inner self. Over time we quite literally forget who we truly are and what is most important. It's often not what we think! Yoga provides us with a pathway back, particularly on a retreat where we step away from everyday roles and responsibilities, to focus on the inner quest of knowing the self, of healing and reconciling the past, of better managing our stresses, and gaining clarity about the path ahead. The theme of this retreat is Wild Nature. We combine yogic meditation with a nature immersion to deepen our connection with the earth, elements and inner self. The outer landscape and changeable weather of the southwest is a reflection and reminder of the spectrum of our inner state. We quite literally walk through beautiful wild landscapes. Some walks are challenging and will draw on your inner strength and resilience. Others are gentler and done in silence, and a profound opportunity to attune to nature, connecting us with the earth, listening for her wisdom, reminding us of her grace, awakening the wisdom of the buddhi mind, reconnecting with our purpose for being. The retreat program includes daily yoga and meditation, and a day dedicated to meditation masterclasses to learn powerful breathing, meditation and mindfulness techniques and the underlying rationale and philosophy to support you on the challenging walks, and also in everyday life. Early morning yoga, meditation, pranayama and chanting sessions are to build energy, resilience and inner strength. Afternoon/evening yoga and meditation sessions are restorative and healing. There is time for rest and reflection, and to enjoy the beautiful venue. We've included the option for four diverse walks over five days. On the nature walks you'll have the opportunity to integrate yogic breathing and mindfulness. You'll learn methods of managing the breath and thoughts which help you to retain and even gain energy while walking in nature. Some walks are in silence which is a way of connecting with the natural world and also your inner nature. Day 1 we begin with a 2 hour walk to Castle Rock in the Porongorup National Park. This is a 5 minute drive from our venue and is challenging in places, includes a little rock scramble to reach the Granite Skywalk - an engineering marvel wrapped around the summit of Castle Rock. This first walk is a good opportunity for self-assessment for the longer, more challenging walks. Day 2 we drive 40 minutes to the Stirling Ranges for our walk to the summit of Bluff Knoll. We depart at 8.30am to commence the walk to the summit at 9.30am. You can do this walk at your own pace and enjoy a group meditation and your packed lunch at the summit. Day 3 after morning yoga and a more leisurely breakfast, we drive 40 minutes to Albany to enjoy two coastal walks. The first is to Possession Point along a peninsula with spectacular ocean views. The first part of the walk is done in mindful silence. We meditate upon the massive ocean boulders, and then swim if the weather is suitable and have a relaxed lunch at a protected beach. In the afternoon we walk a short way along the Bibbulman Track coastal trail by the Albany windfarm before returning to Karribank for yoga, food and relaxation. If you are an experienced hiker and seeking more adventure, you are welcome to do the challenging trek along the ridge of the Bald Head Peninsula in place of the 2 guided walks on Day 3 in our program. This is a 12.5 km 6 hour hike and is graded difficult. This is completely self-guided, not part of our program, and at your own discretion. Day 4 is our time to rest and delve deeper into our yoga and meditation practices at our stunning venue amongst the tall karri trees. As well as the morning and evening yoga and meditation session, there are two 2 hour masterclasses on yogic meditation, yoga psychology and philosohy - a rare opportunity to explore, understand and experience the deeply transformational practices of yoga which can provide a pathway and support for positive, sustainable changes in your mind, body and life. Day 5 is another meditative walk in silence in the nearby Porongorup National Park. We walk through the tall Karri trees, scramble over granite boulders to reach the summit of Nancy's Peak and enjoy sweeping views over the coastal plains. We meditate here before descending and returning home to Perth. Option for Bluff Knoll Dawn Walk for anyone wanting to walk to Bluff Knoll Summit a second time to see the sunrise from the summit you can join Mandy on the morning following the retreat (28th Feb). You will need to book a night or two (27th / 28th) at the Stirling Range Retreat (camping or cabins) which is near the base of Bluff Knoll. Walking commences at 4am. You'll need to self-cater, and bring your own head torch. |
Koi Kyenunu-ruff
The Stirling Range is renowned for its unusual, and sometimes spectacular cloud formations. The Aboriginal name for the range, Koi Kyenunu-ruff, means ‘mist rolling around the mountains’. This incredible cloud waterfall was seen here during our 2020 Retreats.
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Some of our wonderful participants on a previous retreat
Meditation in wild nature
You'll literally feel on top of the world!
Spectacular skies, sweeping views
Granite Skywalk, Castle Rock
The stairs up to the Granite Skywalk
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Discover ancient, primal landscapes
A beautiful walk in the company of adventurous souls
Unimaginable views
In awe of the tall Karri trees
A rewarding and amazing personal challenge
The wild windswept south coast
The journey home
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program
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Friday
2pm Arrive by 2pm to check in to room. 3pm Opening Circle 4.30pm Walk to Castle Rock (2 hours) 7.00pm Dinner 8.00pm Guided Relaxation Saturday 6.30am Hatha Yoga & Meditation 7.30am Breakfast 8.30am Depart for Stirling Ranges (40 minute drive) 9.30am Stirling Ranges/Bluff Knoll Walk. Bring own packed lunch. (approx 5-6 hours) 2.30pm Depart for Karribank 5.30pm Restorative Yoga & Meditation 7.00pm Dinner 8.00pm Guided Relaxation Sunday 6.30am Meditation 7.30am Hatha Yoga 9.00am Breakfast 10.00am Depart for Albany (40 minutes drive) 11.00am Possession Point Peninsula Walk. Bring own packed lunch. (approx 2.5 hours) 1.30pm Albany Wind Farm - Bibbulman Track Coastal Walk (approx 2 hours) 3.30pm Return to Karribank 5.30pm Restorative Yoga & Meditation 7.00pm Dinner 8.00pm Guided Relaxation |
Monday
6.30am Meditation 7.30am Hatha Yoga 9.00am Breakfast 11.00am Meditation & Pranayama Masterclass (2 hours) 1.00pm Lunch in the Karri-On Bar onsite 3.00pm Meditation Masterclass & Discussion (2 hours) 5.30pm Restorative Yoga & Meditation 7.00pm Dinner 8.00pm Guided Relaxation Tuesday 6.30am Meditation 7.30am Hatha Yoga 9.00am Breakfast 9.45am Closing Circle 10.30am Check out of room 11.00am Walk - Porongorup National Park (2 hours) 1.00pm Retreat ends Note: your accommodation has a small fridge and kitchen where you can store and prepare food to take on the walks. The Karri-On Bar & Restaurant onsite is open over the long weekend. There is a small store and restaurant immediately across the road from our venue which is open everyday. |
venue & program
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MeditationWe take the peaceful Kookaburra meditation and relaxation practices to the southwest. The yoga, meditation and pranayama you'll learn on this retreat prepares and supports you to undertake the challenging hike to Bluff Knoll and to support your mental and emotional wellbeing for life. In the evenings we relax deeply with guided meditations. You'll fall asleep to the sounds of the forest.
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Castle RockThe massive ancient granite domes of Porongurup National Park rise 670 metres, giving sweeping views of the landscape, especially from the Granite Skywalk suspended and wrapped around the majestic Castle Rock which is right by our accommodation. The landscapes and views are majestic and the walk up through the forest is refreshing and nourishing.
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Albany coastal walksOur morning walk to Possession Point takes us out along a windswept peninsula overlooking Albany. We stop for a swim and to enjoy our packed lunches in a protected bay. Following this we stop at the Albany Wind Farm for a spectacular coastal walk along the adjacent Bibbulman Track.
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Powerful, healing placesTaking time in ancient and wild landscapes reminds us of our own true nature. In the busyness and demands of everyday life we often neglect the creative, emotional, spiritual aspects of ourselves leaving us feeling disconnected and without purpose. The outer landscape guides us to explore and reconnect with those inner aspects of ourselves which long for healing, expression and to be free.
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Relax and unwindOn retreat we leave behind concerns and distractions of everyday life to deeply and profoundly realise the spiritual and material benefits of yoga and nature, Stepping away from the everyday and into a retreat process often provides us with profound insight, and the time and space to simply surrender to being in the moment.
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facilitators
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Robert Becker has taught yoga and inspired many students over almost 4 decades here in Australia, and also India, Africa and Europe. Robert is an inspiring teacher, his yoga is deeply spiritual and real and he is committed to sharing and passing forward the insights and knowledge he has acquired. Robert has a Masters in Psychiatric Social Work, having worked in the field for many years, and is a professional, skilful group facilitator and spiritual guide.
Mandy BeckerKnox has decades of experience teaching the subtle, powerful and transformational methods of yoga with a particular focus on meditation. Her knowledge and insights have been inspired through devotion, consistent practice, higher education in yoga, Ayurveda, the arts, and integration of yogic values and concepts into everyday family and professional life. Mandy has organised and led many yoga, meditation retreats here in Australia and internationally. Both Robert and Mandy are experienced hikers. They recently walked to Mt Everest Base Camp, Nepal and Mt Kailash, Tibet, and have led yogic pilgrimages in the Himalayas. |
accommodation
inclusions & cost
twin share room in chalet (per person)$1190
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Facts & Questions
Why choose Kookaburra Yoga for your retreat?
- Established, reputable business. Kookaburra Yoga is directed by experienced teachers Robert Becker and Mandy BeckerKnox in Perth, Australia who teach at their centre Kookaburra Creek Yoga Centre. Kookaburra Yoga is well established having been operating for twenty years.
- Retreat management experience. Kookaburra Yoga have offered professionally organised and facilitated international retreats for over ten years. Each retreat is carefully planned to ensure the safety and comfort of participants.
- Health & Safety. We take every precaution to ensure the hygiene and health of participants.
- Quality food. Food is an integral part of our retreats and menus and ingredients are planned and considered to ensure they are nourishing, health-promoting and conducive to yoga and meditation.
- High quality program. Directors Mandy and Robert facilitate all Kookaburra Yoga Retreats. They are both exceptional yoga and meditation instructors with decades of continuing education, self-enquiry and practical teaching experience. They have literally taught thousands of people yoga and to meditate and how to effectively apply the knowledge gained to enhance and transform their lives.
- Professional leadership. Both Robert and Mandy have worked professionally in high-level leadership positions in government and the not-for-profit sector and are leaders and skilful group facilitators able to guide individuals and groups safely through peak experiences and the transformational change which often occurs on retreat.
- Socially responsible. We care for people and the planet. All our retreats cause as little harm as possible. We are an entirely vegetarian venue with food on most retreats being vegan, gluten-free and organic whenever possible.
- Personal development. Kookaburra Retreats are a wonderful opportunity for personal and professional development. You'll be gently guided to explore limitations and obstacles to achieving your potential and become equipped with the tools, techniques and practical wisdom to evolve and grow. Kookaburra Retreats are transformational and potentially life-changing!
Do I need to be fit or have yoga & hiking Experience
YOGA & MEDITATION The yoga and meditation practices on this retreat are carefully explained and taught in a caring, respectful and safe manner. All of the practices taught can be adapted to suit the needs of the participants.
HIKING The hiking component of this retreat requires a moderate level of fitness. Please do not participate in the Bluff Knoll hike if you are unfit or have injuries which are contraindicated for hiking. The other three hikes are less challenging and may be accessible for you. Seek the advice of your health care provider if you are unsure.
HIKING The hiking component of this retreat requires a moderate level of fitness. Please do not participate in the Bluff Knoll hike if you are unfit or have injuries which are contraindicated for hiking. The other three hikes are less challenging and may be accessible for you. Seek the advice of your health care provider if you are unsure.
WHAT ARE THE VENUE DETAILS?
- Karribank Retreat Centre is an historic complex of cottages set on 30 acres. It is comprised of 10 chalets each sleeping up to 4 people. In addition to this, there are a number of 1 bedroom cottages suitable for couples.Some of these cottages can be converted to two single beds for friends sharing.
- Karribank is 4 hours drive from Perth city (3.5 hours from Kookaburra). The address is 1983 Porongorup Road, Porongorup WA 6324. The most direct route is Albany Highway.
CANCELLAtiON POLICY
Cancellation Policy
- Your booking and full payment confirms your place, meaning other people cannot book it. $400 per person is the non-refundable deposit portion of your payment. If you have booked for 2 people on what booking form, then $800 is the non-refundable portion of your payment.
- If you cancel 0-2 weeks before the retreat the full amount of the retreat is payable.
- If you cancel more than 2 weeks before the retreat your payment will be returned to you, minus the $400 per person non-refundable portion which will be retained.
- If the organisers cancel the retreat the full amount will be refunded to you.
Health & Safety
- This retreat requires a moderate level of fitness for the hiking. Please do not attempt the hiking components of this retreat if you have poor fitness or health issues. Please check with your GP or medical provider to determine your suitability to attend this retreat.
- The hike to Bluff Knoll is relatively straightforward with a clearly marked trail, but is uphill the whole way. Some parts of the walk are graded difficult. Care must be taken on the summit. You must carry at least 2 litres of water and bring your own lunch and snacks. You must wear suitable footwear. We recommend sturdy hiking shoes and if you have weak knees or joints to use walking poles. We also suggest wearing a wind and waterproof jacket.
- Participating in the hike and any of the activities on this retreat is completely optional - all participants are welcome to relax at the venue during the hikes if they wish to. Participation in hikes is at your own discretion, and own risk.
- If you become sick or are injured during the retreat or while hiking, the nearest hospital is Albany, which is 40 minutes drive. There are nearby GPs at Mt Barker. Please ensure you have adequate insurance or means to cover any medical expenses which may be incurred.
RETREAT CAPACITY
- Total retreat capacity staying at Karribank - 40 people
PAYMENT OPTIONS
$400 deposit per person confirms your place.
- online payments only: credit card, paypal or direct deposit
- see cancellation policy above
- If you need a payment plan please be in touch. An additional $100 will be added to the amount for this option.
What should I bring?
- Personal Information Form all participants must complete this prior to attending
- Warm clothes suitable for both yoga and hiking. It can be cold in the mornings and evenings so gloves, woollens and a beanie may be needed.
- Torch
- Personal toiletries
- Yoga Mat
- Shawl/blanket for yoga/meditation
- Cushion for yoga/meditation
- Yoga bolster for Restorative Yoga if you have one
- Sturdy hiking shoes (it isa requirement of attending that you have non-slip, supportive footwear)
- Water and wind proof jacket and clothing Rain & cold weather is possible so be prepared
- Hiking day pack with rainproof cover
- Water bottle 2 litres minimum per person for 3-4 hour hike
- Walking poles are highly recommended
- Sun protection: sunscreen, hat
- Lunch and Snacks Bring additional food for snacks, and to prepare and pack your own lunches to take on the walks. There is a fridge and kitchen in most accommodation options, and a fridge and kitchen in the retreat centre to use.
CONTACT DETAILS
Retreat Organiser - Mandy BeckerKnox. Phone 0422 318 104.
Karribank Retreat Centre - Dan Blythe. Phone 9853 1022.
Address: 1983 Porongorup Road, Porongorup WA 6324
Please note there is NO internet at Karribank and most mobile phones (with the exception of Telstra) won't work there.
Karribank Retreat Centre - Dan Blythe. Phone 9853 1022.
Address: 1983 Porongorup Road, Porongorup WA 6324
Please note there is NO internet at Karribank and most mobile phones (with the exception of Telstra) won't work there.
DISTANCE/DIRECTIONS
Karribank Country Retreat is 4 hours drive from Perth city (3.5 hours from Kookaburra Yoga). The address is 1983 Porongorup Road, Porongorup WA 6324. The most direct route is Albany Highway. See Google map
LINKS & RESOURCES TO PREPARE FOR HIKING
Download Information Brochures about both the Porongorup National Park and Stirling Range National Park: Western Australian Adventure Activity Standard Guidelines for Bushwalking published by the Department of Sport and Recreation Other Resources
Contact details
Retreat Organiser - Mandy BeckerKnox. Phone 0422 318 104. Karribank Retreat Centre - Dan Blythe. Phone 9853 1022. Address: 1983 Porongorup Road, Porongorup WA 6324 |
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