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Stay with a creative, nature-loving family and share stories with them in Valery, NSW, Australia

Availability

  2025 

 Min stay requested: at least 2 weeks

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Details

  • Description

    Description

    Welcome to our slice of paradise on the Mid-North Coast of New South Wales, Australia!

    We are three siblings — along with our partners and children — who share a stunning 45-acre property surrounded by mountain views, magical forested areas, and peaceful open spaces. Our land has multiple dwellings, a 20-horse stable, serene dams, a thriving food forest, veggie gardens, and a pool. It’s an idyllic setting, full of birdsong, clean air, and natural beauty.

    We each lead independent lives but enjoy coming together for occasional meals, working on projects, catch ups around the communal fire pit or heading to gigs/ the river etc. Work Aways are invited to participate in these to the extent that they wish. Beck (physiotherapist) and Riddy (photographer) have a baby named Mallee and a black Kelpie called Barney. Beck loves making things with her hands, baking and being in nature. Riddy loves surfing, meditation and techno. Jase (environmental investigator) and Tori (environmental officer) have a cat called Astrid and Milo the dog. Jase and Tori are both avid climbers, boulderers, hikers and all round legends.

    We also share the land with some much loved animal companions. There are three friendly dogs who are very much part of the family, one independent but affectionate cat, and three horses, including a sassy little pony.
    Dizzee (blue heeler x cattle dog) lives in the Workaways cottage. She’s a sweetheart, who loves people and is boss of the other two dogs).

    We’re a creative, nature-loving family who enjoys working with the land, building community, and sharing the lifestyle we’ve created. There’s always something happening here, from tending to the gardens, rehabilitating the land, or working on projects around the stables and dwellings.

    Our home is in a great location — just 20 minutes from the vibrant and artistic town of Bellingen, 25 minutes from Coffs Harbour Airport, and only 15 minutes from the nearest beach.

    We’re able to host Workawayers from time to time, and we love the opportunity to meet new people, share stories, and exchange knowledge. Whether you’re keen on gardening, helping with general maintenance, building, creative endeavours or just enjoying time in nature while lending a hand, we’d love to hear from you.

    The accomodation and agreement:
    The cottage is older but has a fully equipped kitchen, bathroom, lounge room (with wood fire) dining room and two bedrooms. It has a large undercover outdoor area, which is where the communal washing machine is located. As the accommodation is in a separate dwelling and there is a kitchen - we do not supply food. Because of this, we only expect Workaways to each contribute 2.5- 3 hours of their time 5 days per week.

    We offer a peaceful, friendly, and welcoming environment — and a chance to be part of a little community in a beautiful corner of the world.

    Please note that we are a private residence and don’t grow food to sell.

  • Types of help and learning opportunities

    Types of help and learning opportunities

    Art Projects
    Help with Eco Projects
    Gardening
    DIY and building projects
    Animal Care
    Farmstay help
    Help around the house
    General Maintenance
  • Interests

    Interests

    Videography
    Sustainability
    Self development
    Politics / Social justice
    Pets
    Farming
    Events & social
    Culture
    Plant care
    Photography
    Music
    Gardening
    DIY & crafts
    Books
    Cooking & food
    Art & design
    Animals
    Water sports
    Yoga / Wellness
    Sailing / Boating
    Outdoor activities
    Nature
    Mountain
    Hiking
    Fitness
    Cycling
    Camping
    Beach
    Adventure sports
  • UN sustainability goals this host is trying to achieve

    UN sustainability goals this host is trying to achieve

    UN goals
    No poverty
    Zero hunger
    Good health and well-being
    Quality education
    Gender equality
    Clean water and sanitation
    Affordable and clean energy
    Decent work and economic growth
    Industries, innovation and infrastructure
    Reduce inequality
    Sustainable cities and communities
    Responsible consumption and production
    Climate action
    Life below water
    Life on land
    Peace, justice and strong institutions
    Partnerships for the goals
  • Cultural exchange and learning opportunities

    Cultural exchange and learning opportunities

    We love spending time in nature and often head out for bushwalks, canyoning /rick climbing adventures, surfing sessions, or chill arvos down by the river. We also enjoy relaxed social time, like catching up with friends at the local brewery or community events. Workawayers are welcome to join us for activities when it fits.
    We’re happy to share our knowledge of gardening, land care, animal handling, and sustainable living, and in return, we’re excited to learn from others, whether it’s new ideas, skills, stories, or perspectives from different cultures.

  • Projects involving children

    Projects involving children

    This project could involve children. For more information see our guidelines and tips here.

  • Help

    Help

    We’re a hands-on family with a wide range of ongoing projects across the property, and we love collaborating with people who are keen to contribute in a way that suits their strengths and passions.

    Some of the regular tasks include working in the veggie gardens, weed management, mowing and slashing with the tractor, and general property maintenance. At times we also have building projects, painting, decorating, and other creative or practical tasks. Depending on what’s happening when you visit, there could be opportunities to help with the horses, tidy up forested areas, assist with household projects, or bring a fresh perspective to something we haven’t even thought of yet. We’re open-minded and flexible — the most important thing is that you’re willing, respectful, and enjoy being part of a shared environment.

  • Languages spoken

    English: Fluent
    Spanish: Intermediate

  • Accommodation

    Accommodation

    Workawayers will stay in a comfortable two-bedroom cottage that offers privacy, peace, and a relaxed atmosphere. The cottage features a wood fire heater for cosy nights, a full kitchen and bathroom, and a large undercover outdoor area with beautiful views across the mountains — the perfect spot to unwind and take in the scenery. There’s also a dining room and lounge room available to use. One of our sweet dogs, Dizzie, also lives in the cottage. The swimming pool is right next door, and you’re very welcome to use it during your stay.

  • What else ...

    What else ...

    There’s plenty to explore in the surrounding area. Our property is bordered by National Park and Koala Habitat, with hikes and nature walks straight from the doorstep. 50 minutes away is Dorrigo, which also has amazing hiking droughts old growth Gondwana rainforest. There are two mountain bike parks just 10 minutes away, and you can cool off at the Never Never Creek, a local favourite about 15 minutes from here. We’re also just 15 minutes from beautiful local beaches, ideal for surfing, swimming, or relaxing, and 20 minutes from Bellingen, known for its cafes, markets, river spots, and boutique shopping. The coastal village of Sawtell is also 15 minutes away, offering an ocean pool, cafes, bars, a movie theatre, and scenic coastal walks. For any essentials, Toormina Shopping Centre is nearby with a large supermarket and a range of shops to cover all your needs.

  • A little more information

    A little more information

    • Internet access

    • Limited internet access

      Limited internet access

    • We have pets

    • We are smokers

    • Can host families

  • Can host digital nomads

    Can host digital nomads

    Starlink Internet available

  • Space for parking camper vans

    Space for parking camper vans

    This host can provide space for campervans.

  • How many Workawayers can stay?

    How many Workawayers can stay?

    More than two

  • My animals / pets

    My animals / pets

    Profile photo of Barney

    Barney

    Black kelpie with a soft heart and an addiction to fetch.

Host ref number: 238893749722

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