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Description
Welcome — a peaceful, off-grid sanctuary nestled beneath the lush slopes of Mt Jukes in tropical North Queensland. We’re a small, heart-led retreat space offering weekend and day retreats, rooted in sustainability, community care, and deep connection with the land.
Our 7-acre property is fully off-grid, powered by solar and sustained by approximately 400,000 litres of fresh rainwater. A crystal-clear spring flows year-round through 32-million-year-old volcanic rock, offering pure, mineral-rich water and a tranquil place to cool off in nature.
We live simply and intentionally, surrounded by more than 350 fruit trees from over 50 different varieties, vibrant organic gardens, a worm farm and bees, and over 350 newly planted bamboo trees. The landscape is alive with birdsong, native wildlife, and natural beauty.
Why You’ll Love It Here
We love living close to the land, and we think you will too. From peaceful mornings filled with birdsong (we have over 40 bird species here) to starlit skies and mountain views at dusk, life here invites you to reconnect with what truly matters. You will have the opportunity to join our retreat programs on your days off.
You’ll enjoy soaking in the spring-fed creek, savouring the fruits of the gardens, and experiencing the wild beauty of our off-grid lifestyle. We're just 30 minutes from the coast and the friendly regional town of Mackay, with waterfalls, national parks, and secluded beaches all within easy reach, as well as viewing the kangaroos on the beach at Cape Hillsborough, only 30 minutes away by car.
We are seeking only international visitors travelling through North Qld, couples or singles, 23 years of age or older, with their own vehicle and some gardening and maintenance experience to live at the spectacular Retreat.
If you're someone who values nature and meaningful contributions and is not afraid of hands-on work, you'll feel right at home here.
Types of help and learning opportunities
Gardening
Interests
Gardening
Vegetarian or vegan
Pets
Sustainability
Charity work
Farming
Music
Cooking & food
Yoga / Wellness
Nature
Mountain
Cycling
Camping
Movies & TV
UN sustainability goals this host is trying to achieve
Cultural exchange and learning opportunities
Staying with us offers more than just a place to help— it's a chance to experience a different rhythm of life.
You'll be immersed in a peaceful, off-grid lifestyle that’s deeply connected to the land, the seasons, and the spirit of giving. We love sharing knowledge about living simply and sustainably. You’ll also get a chance to join one of our day retreats, which includes yoga, sound healing, nourishing food, sauna, a dip in the natural spring and sweets. This is when you have a deeper connection to the land.
There are plenty of opportunities for meaningful conversations and sharing meals made from the garden, and exchanging stories, skills, and perspectives.
You’ll also get to experience the unique beauty and relaxed culture of regional Queensland — from rainforest walks through our creek and secret swimming spots to coastal markets and local wildlife.
If you’re looking for a quiet space to reconnect with yourself and make a meaningful contribution to something that matters, we’d be delighted to welcome you.
Help
The Project
We're currently in need of help with our gardens to grow more food, to donate fresh, homegrown produce to local women’s shelters and homeless services. It’s our way of giving back and using what we have to support those doing it tough in our wider community.
How You’ll Help
Workawayers will be part of our day-to-day rhythm — helping in the garden (planting, harvesting, weeding), assisting with permaculture tasks. No two days are the same, and we value a flexible and mindful approach to work.
Much of your time will focus on helping grow and care for food that’s shared with people in need — meaningful work that’s felt and appreciated far beyond the garden fence.
Languages
Languages spoken
English: Fluent
Estonian: FluentThis host offers a language exchange
Dave speaks English only, and Aune speaks English and Estonian
Accommodation
Stay in a private, comfortable room that is part of our Chai House — a peaceful and serene space surrounded by gardens and the sounds of birdsong. The room is furnished with a king single bed, a fan, lighting, and a bedside lamp for evening reading. Another bed can be added if needed
The shared toilet and hot shower facilities are just 5 metres away, offering everything you need for a refreshing and comfortable stay.
There are also plenty of beautiful spaces around the property to relax and unwind — from shady garden nooks and hammocks, to spots by the spring-fed creek, the fire pit, or the communal Chai House verandah. Whether you feel like quiet time or connection, there’s always a place to just be.
What else ...
We host only one or two volunteers at a time, so your experience will be personal, peaceful, and well-supported. You'll be part of our daily rhythm but also have space for quiet reflection, creativity, and rest. We work 5 hours each day, 5 days per week.
You’ll be provided with three nourishing vegetarian meals a day, with produce often harvested straight from the garden. We typically share one meal together each day, five days a week — a lovely time to connect, chat, and unwind. On weekends, you're free to do as you wish, explore the local area, or rest and enjoy the food supplied.
This setup suits those who enjoy quiet living, meaningful contribution.
During your time off, there’s plenty to explore and enjoy — both on the property and in the surrounding region. You might like to swim in the spring-fed creek, read in a hammock, watch the sunset over Mt Jukes, or simply soak in the peace and quiet of nature.
We’re about 30 minutes from Mackay, a city with shops, cafes, and coastal charm — but you don’t need to go far to experience something special. Right near the retreat, you’ll find:
Cape Hillsborough National Park – just 25 minutes away, with spectacular beach sunrises, wildlife (kangaroos on the sand!), and scenic hikes.
Seaforth Beach – only 9 km from the retreat, a peaceful spot for swimming or wandering.
Mt Blackwood and The Leap – great for walking and views if you enjoy getting up high.
A lovely organic & natural store – around 11 km away, with great coffee and local produce.
Your own transport is preferred.
Our Lifestyle & House Guidelines
We live simply, and with intention — guided by respect for nature, ourselves, and each other. As an off-grid retreat, we kindly request that you be mindful of solar power and water usage, keep noise levels low, and help maintain the cleanliness and peace of our shared spaces. We also appreciate your cooperation in doing a fair day's work.
This is a retreat space, so we do not allow loud music, parties, or recreational drugs. The energy here is calm, caring, and reflective — and we do our best to maintain that for our guests, our volunteers, and the land. We ask that you come with the full intention of being part of what we do and helping out.
We welcome open-hearted, grounded individuals who enjoy meaningful work, value their surroundings, and can share space respectfully.
Dave & Aune
A little more information
Internet access
Limited internet access
We have pets
We are smokers
Can host families
Can host digital nomads
The WIFI in your room has a good connection
Space for parking camper vans
The size of your vehicle will determine if we can house you. Standard campers and motor homes should be fine. We will have power and water available for you to connect to.
How many Workawayers can stay?
Two
My animals / pets
Chicky
Roko (7 years)
Roko is our resident dog. He has been on the property since Dave purchased the land.
Photos
