Our happy campers this retreat 🙂

This retreat was something special. As I drove up the winding road deep into the forest on my way to set up, I felt a surge of joy arising. I had some familiar writing friends returning (retreataholics strike again!) but a whole lot of people I’d never even met before. So why this rush of happiness?

The pouring rain stopped as soon as participants started to arrive. Everything was blazing green and pumping with life and as writer after writer arrived, grins stretching from ear to ear, the feeling of joy within me grew. How lucky I am to be bringing such collections of wise folk together. 

We began as usual with our meet and greet, getting to know one another and the projects we’re working on. My darling chief cookie, Gay, had just received the proof copy of her memoir in the final stages before publication. Others had published before or had films successfully produced, but we also had a number of new writers keen to try out their writing legs for the first time. 

With writers from their twenties to their seventies we had a wealth of enthusiasm, energy, imagination and wisdom to draw from. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again – these retreats are only as good as the people who come along, and this bunch was special. From a memoir about traveling to spiritual portals around the world, to sexual healing, to a film treatment about coming out as non-binary, to stories of grandmothers and fathers, and the damage that was done and the victories won and the paths less travelled. We had it all.

But most of all we had a special connection as a group, a warmth and understanding, a willingness to share and to listen. To let go of the world outside and sink deeply into the quiet of Kombumerri Country. 

Everyone was keen to get involved and try everything, with the biggest turn out for yoga ever! Even on Sunday for Monique’s special movement session for writers. We are so lucky to have Moniques vast knowledge of the body with us on retreats, not only for this session but for her expert bodywork treatments that leave people floating around in a happy daze for hours.

Gay created special meals filled with her loving care and nurturing, every special need catered for, every sweet-toothed craving fulfilled. My food highlight was definitely her apple crumble and custard. Or the roasted veggie salad, or the Anzac biscuits. You’re only on retreat once in a while!

Workshops were filled with laughter and questions and writing and sharing and learning and epiphanies, both for our stories and for our own healing. This is the real magic. And the greatest joy for me. When I know someone will return to their lives changed, having decided to get off the rat wheel of the crazy busyness and find time to just be. To create. To rest. To heal and live fully. That my friend is magic.

Writing may not make us rich (or it might do that too) but it sure as hell enriches our lives deeply.

Retreaters took walks down to the spring-water stream and our very own waterfall lookout, sat in the sun and read, or found places to write or stare into space and think, or watch the resident pademelons – now named – Paddy, Melon and Little Toot (that’s the pouch joey) bounce happily around despite us.

The weekend flew by until suddenly it was collage time and dreams took shape in images on the page. Hugs all round and it was time to go. But I hope I’ll see this bunch again. In such a short time we became our own mob of magic makers, writing our stories, rewriting our lives, reaching for our dreams. I miss them already.

Here’s what some retreaters had to say about their weekend.

I received so much more valuable information, inspiration, confirmation and support than I could have ever imagined. So very helpful for me as I start my writing journey. 

Sivani Maclean

Thank you so much Edwina and team for creating this beautiful atmosphere in a beautiful, natural setting. I learned a lot and enjoyed the joyful and heartfelt connection.

Hana Morris

Congratulations on a well-organised and well-run retreat. This was constantly reflected on the faces of participants who clearly enjoyed themselves and were stimulated to write and improve.

Gail Thwaite

Edwina is a great teacher and has a very friendly approachable persona with a great knowledge as a writer. Worth doing!

Marie Hayes

Coming on a Relax and Write Retreat is a true getaway, a retreat from normal life and an opportunity to broaden our perspective in the company of kindred spirits, all with stories to tell. A loving welcoming space to connect, to learn, to create.

Retreat participant

Our next Relax and Write Retreat is the Feedback and Revision Retreat AUGUST 8 – 10 2025. 

This retreat is best for those with a bit of writing under those belts, either approaching a second draft and looking for help self-editing or for those planning a full-length work. At this retreat workshops focus heavily on structure with a special session on pitching to publishers and agents. We also provide optional feedback groups to help people connect and get advice on their work. For more info see HERE. Or drop me a line for the flyer.

With big thanks and lots of love to the wonderful writers who made this retreat so special. It’s true you know, we always do have a wonderful time!

Lots of love

Edwina xx