An Immersion into Creativity, Nature and Play.
Are you ready to Deep Dive into a time and place where you can let yourself play?
All day workshops, having meals prepared for you and beautiful accommodation sorted…
These Creative Retreats allow you the time and space to do just that.
NEW DATES AVAILABLE NOW!
Autumn 2027 - May 9th-13th
Spring 2027 - October 29th - November 2nd
Explore Available Retreats
May 9th - 13th 2027
4 Nights
If you love the idea of diving into a place and time which is reserved for your creativity, developing your skills with clay and enjoying nature, this retreat can offer an opportunity unlike our day to day life.
Perfect for Women who might be;
Wanting to give themselves a jumpstart into ceramics.
Feel that they can resonate with the way I teach.
Would like to experience a deeper learning opportunity.
Would like to step out of busy-ness and into an intentional space
Would like an opportunity to have all the details taken care of.
Would like to connect with others and have some fun!
The intention for this retreat is to offer an experience where participants have a chance to live and breathe creativity for a little while. Free from to-do lists and rich in spaciousness. My hope is that everyone has plenty of opportunity to enjoy beautiful spaces and the natural environment, while developing new skills.
Workshops During The Event
For 3 full days we will have both morning and afternoon workshops to work on guided projects which include, hand building, wild clay, sculpture, design, sgraffito and more. While being careful to allow plenty of time for rest and relaxation, there is also ample opportunity to deep dive into a creative space where skills can build and overlap.
A special guest has also been added as a bonus to help inject an extra little bit of creative play into your retreat experience!
You can download a Concept Itinerary HERE.
The Retreat Format
This Retreat is the longest we have planned as 4 nights and 3 days full of Creative activities and guided workshops. A draft itinerary has been prepared, though a finalised version will be emailed to participants closer to the event.
A maximum of 16 participants will be at the Retreat to ensure that everyone is well looked after.
The Itinerary has been planned to consider ample time for each activity, and space around each session for those who would like time to relax or work on their projects a bit longer.
The Retreat Venue
This Retreat is at the lovely Tanah Marah. Chosen for its spacious layout and access to both beautiful natural surrounds, and a comfortable space for our workshops and meals.
Being a longer stay, we loved that you can stay on site, yet have plenty of beautiful bush walks, animals to meet, swimming and even tennis right at your doorstep.
Another fantastic feature is that each King Size Chalet has 2 huge ensuite bedrooms which are exactly the same, with a shared living area and kitchen in the middle. This means you have plenty of private, quiet space to reflect and relax during your stay if you are quiet like me, though have full use of the shared function space if you prefer to use this experience to connect and socialise while you are here.
Making it Easy for you
We recognise that getting away from commitments at home can be very difficult for many. Our hope is that we have thoroughly prepared an opportunity for you to simply book your flights or arrange to drive to our area, and we can take care of the rest for you.
We offer a fully catered retreat to ensure that everyone feels spoiled and relaxed. Breakfast Provisions will be included in your chalet to make at your own pace.
All workshops will take place on site to offer an opportunity to fully drop into the space and have nothing to think about except the provided classes, and supporting activities of your choice. We can even provide airport transfers from Busselton if required to save you hiring a car if you would like to keep it simple.
Catering
For each event, we secure a fantastic caterer who prepares a delicious vegetarian menu. Plenty of care is taken to have a beautiful variety of plant based meals that are seasonal, healthy and most importantly delicious!
Allergies and tolerances are taken into account, and allowances made wherever possible. If you suffer from a severe dietary restriction or have a strong aversion to this style of food, please get in touch to discuss a refund of the catered portion of your retreat so that you can safely supply your own food.
Breakfast supplies typically include local bread & museli, yogurt, cheese, avocados, jam, milks and tea/coffee.
Some Information on Margaret River
I am very lucky to live in one of the most beautiful places in the world. Tucked away in the South West Corner of Australia, we are in an area which is surrounded by beautiful forests, beaches and rivers. Known for its boutique wineries and world class surfing, there is always something fun to do!
You can learn lots about the region and its attractions by visiting margaretriver.com
Margaret River is a 3hr drive South of Perth, though you can now fly directly from either Melbourne or Sydney to Busselton Margaret River Airport with Jetstar
Feel Free to download my ‘Getting Here’ document if you would like more specific information for your travel planning.
Information on Booking & Inclusions
Twin Share Pricing is available for those who would like to share an ensuite room with twin beds. Please note this must be booked in conjunction with another guest. Email me to make your Twin Booking.
Single Room Pricing is the rate to have your own ensuite room set up as a King Size Bed.
Off-Site Pricing is for those who live here or have alternative accommodation. This rate does not include accommodation, postage, breakfast or dinner. Limited to 3 bookings only at this point, though please get in touch if you require more places and would like to go on the waitlist.
A Meal Plan to include Dinner with the group each night is available upon request.
Nest ~ Margaret River. If you would prefer to stay off-site, Nest ~ Margaret River is our own short stay accommodation located about 25 minutes from the venue. This is a great option if you are bringing family with you, or have missed out on a spot at Tanah Marah. You can see more about this beautiful property HERE. Please get in touch for information on the special rate available for the Retreat, or to prolong your stay in Margaret River.
Paying in Instalments
I am happy to say that payment via instalments is now available through this website if your booking is longer than 3 months away. If you choose this option, your payments will be divided into 2, with a 50% deposit to secure your place, and the remaining payment due 2 months before the event. No extra fees apply.
The Booking Process
At checkout you will be asked to fill in a form so that we have information on your preferences and any dietary issues we need to be aware of.
October 29th - November 2nd 2027
4 Nights
If you love the idea of diving into a place and time which is reserved for your creativity, developing your skills with clay and enjoying nature, this retreat can offer an opportunity unlike our day to day life.
Perfect for Women who might be;
Wanting to give themselves a jumpstart into ceramics.
Feel that they can resonate with the way I teach.
Would like to experience a deeper learning opportunity.
Would like to step out of busy-ness and into an intentional space
Would like an opportunity to have all the details taken care of.
Would like to connect with others and have some fun!
The intention for this retreat is to offer an experience where participants have a chance to live and breathe creativity for a little while. Free from to-do lists and rich in spaciousness. My hope is that everyone has plenty of opportunity to enjoy beautiful spaces and the natural environment, while developing new skills.
Workshops During The Event
For 3 full days we will have both morning and afternoon workshops to work on guided projects which include, hand building, wild clay, sculpture, design, sgraffito and more. While being careful to allow plenty of time for rest and relaxation, there is also ample opportunity to deep dive into a creative space where skills can build and overlap.
A special guest has also been added as a bonus to help inject an extra little bit of creative play into your retreat experience!
You can download a Concept Itinerary HERE.
The Retreat Format
This Retreat is the longest we have planned as 4 nights and 3 days full of Creative activities and guided workshops. A draft itinerary has been prepared, though a finalised version will be emailed to participants closer to the event.
A maximum of 16 participants will be at the Retreat to ensure that everyone is well looked after.
The Itinerary has been planned to consider ample time for each activity, and space around each session for those who would like time to relax or work on their projects a bit longer.
The Retreat Venue
This Retreat is at the lovely Tanah Marah. Chosen for its spacious layout and access to both beautiful natural surrounds, and a comfortable space for our workshops and meals.
Being a longer stay, we loved that you can stay on site, yet have plenty of beautiful bush walks, animals to meet, swimming and even tennis right at your doorstep.
Another fantastic feature is that each King Size Chalet has 2 huge ensuite bedrooms which are exactly the same, with a shared living area and kitchen in the middle. This means you have plenty of private, quiet space to reflect and relax during your stay if you are quiet like me, though have full use of the shared function space if you prefer to use this experience to connect and socialise while you are here.
Making it Easy for you
We recognise that getting away from commitments at home can be very difficult for many. Our hope is that we have thoroughly prepared an opportunity for you to simply book your flights or arrange to drive to our area, and we can take care of the rest for you.
We offer a fully catered retreat to ensure that everyone feels spoiled and relaxed. Breakfast Provisions will be included in your chalet to make at your own pace.
All workshops will take place on site to offer an opportunity to fully drop into the space and have nothing to think about except the provided classes, and supporting activities of your choice. We can even provide airport transfers from Busselton if required to save you hiring a car if you would like to keep it simple.
Catering
For each event, we secure a fantastic caterer who prepares a delicious vegetarian menu. Plenty of care is taken to have a beautiful variety of plant based meals that are seasonal, healthy and most importantly delicious!
Allergies and tolerances are taken into account, and allowances made wherever possible. If you suffer from a severe dietary restriction or have a strong aversion to this style of food, please get in touch to discuss a refund of the catered portion of your retreat so that you can safely supply your own food.
Breakfast supplies typically include local bread & museli, yogurt, cheese, avocados, jam, milks and tea/coffee.
Some Information on Margaret River
I am very lucky to live in one of the most beautiful places in the world. Tucked away in the South West Corner of Australia, we are in an area which is surrounded by beautiful forests, beaches and rivers. Known for its boutique wineries and world class surfing, there is always something fun to do!
You can learn lots about the region and its attractions by visiting margaretriver.com
Margaret River is a 3hr drive South of Perth, though you can now fly directly from either Melbourne or Sydney to Busselton Margaret River Airport with Jetstar
Feel Free to download my ‘Getting Here’ document if you would like more specific information for your travel planning.
Information on Booking & Inclusions
Twin Share Pricing is available for those who would like to share an ensuite room with twin beds. Please note this must be booked in conjunction with another guest. Email me to make your Twin Booking.
Single Room Pricing is the rate to have your own ensuite room set up as a King Size Bed.
Off-Site Pricing is for those who live here or have alternative accommodation. This rate does not include accommodation, postage, breakfast or dinner. Limited to 3 bookings only at this point, though please get in touch if you require more places and would like to go on the waitlist.
A Meal Plan to include Dinner with the group each night is available upon request.
Nest ~ Margaret River. If you would prefer to stay off-site, Nest ~ Margaret River is our own short stay accommodation located about 25 minutes from the venue. This is a great option if you are bringing family with you, or have missed out on a spot at Tanah Marah. You can see more about this beautiful property HERE. Please get in touch for information on the special rate available for the Retreat, or to prolong your stay in Margaret River.
Paying in Instalments
I am happy to say that payment via instalments is now available through this website if your booking is longer than 3 months away. If you choose this option, your payments will be divided into 2, with a 50% deposit to secure your place, and the remaining payment due 2 months before the event. No extra fees apply.
The Booking Process
At checkout you will be asked to fill in a form so that we have information on your preferences and any dietary issues we need to be aware of.
What Retreat Guests are Saying
‘Thank you so much for the beautiful retreat experience!
That's the first time I have participated in anything like that and I really found it to be a wonderful experience 🌸
You made everyone feel so welcome and at ease . I think that really helped the group to feel connected and get the most out of our retreat time. We really had lots of FUN!’
This has been the most wonderful time - I’ve learnt so much from you. I’m genuinely proud of my work and am leaving really inspired - I Am going to set my set up my clay properly at home so I can do this more regularly and keep practicing.
Thank you so much for organising this retreat- it was all so well thought out, it must have been such hard work! I’ve loved meeting you and all these fantastic new people, and am leaving with some lovely new friends.
‘Thank you Jolene for a fabulous pottery retreat! So many connections made, so many amazing creations evolved and memories made forever. ‘
I wanted to share my extreme gratefulness that you included me and my ABSOLUTE beginner status so easily!! I feel extremely excited by what I achieved this retreat and am leaving feeling a sense of possibility and hope across life as well as future ceramics! It has helped me in ways i didn't even know I needed... i hope i can nurture others in same way (to bring out their best)
Thank you for the most wonderful time spent at Tanah Marah. We met so many lovely people and you are such a clever and patient teacher full of so much knowledge of not only clay but “animal features”…. So helpful. 🤣🤣
You made this retreat such a great place to be. Thank you again.
Thanks again Jolene for a fabulous few days of making! I think everything about the retreat was smooth and seamless, and very comfortable! Not to mention the beautiful location.
Thank you so much for putting your time into organising and running such a great experience.
“What a great few days with such lovely women. I really needed the break from work and nudge towards a more creative life.”
The Most Important Inclusions
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The Details Sorted For You
A big part of the River Ceramics Retreat format is to take you to a place where you only have to think about your personal journey, having fun and diving into your creative experience. All Accommodation and Meals are included.
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Guided Projects for Any Level
We have carefully designed each Retreat to have plenty of time immersed in Fun Projects and Creative Play to form an enriching Creative Experience.
Guided Workshops Hosted by Jolene and carefully selected guests where noted.
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Nature, Rest and Reflection
Within Each Retreat there is always ample time for connecting with your new friends, or taking time to enjoy the natural surrounds. We always choose a place where natural beauty is a short walk away.
Immerse into a space where you have freedom to explore and play.
“I went on the 2026 Spring Creative Clay Retreat and it was absolutely amazing. I highly recommend this experience to anyone who has an interest in clay and pottery.
We learnt hand building techniques, sculpture, sgraffito and watercolour. We also harvested wild clay which was fired overnight in the coals below a fire. The Tanah Marah accomodation was incredible, with hikes and kayaks on the very scenic lake.
The catering was also fantastic and it was a great way to recharge. I am so grateful to River Ceramics for hosting such a special retreat. I will definitely attend more in future!”
Jenny Hanna
The Experience
Within our intimate gathering for the ‘Creative Clay Retreats’ you will discover a unique sense of space dedicated to exploring your creativity with clay.
Immerse yourself in process, where the natural beauty of your surroundings supports the joy of of artistic exploration. This retreat offers a chance to connect with other clay lovers of all abilities, while learning new techniques.
Over several inspiring days, you will not only unlock your potential but also create new works to reflect your individuality. With hands-on workshops, guided creative activities, and plenty of encouragement, you'll discover the joy of working with clay in a welcoming and supportive environment.
Embrace this opportunity to step away from the everyday and foster your creativity in a space where nature and artistry collide.
Image by Lee-Anne Mack
The Place
Margaret River is a breathtaking destination that perfectly embodies the ease and beauty of a getaway.
The region is renowned for its stunning landscapes, where forests meet pristine beaches and lush vineyards, creating a serene backdrop for your creative journey. As you settle into the area’s natural wonders, you'll find inspiration at every turn.
With its welcoming community and vibrant atmosphere, Margaret River invites you to slow down and connect with both nature and fellow artisans.
Each Retreat Venue that we choose offers leisurely walks in nature and beautiful surrounds, plus a quiet space to relax and reflect.
Now offering a regional airport with flights from both Melbourne and Sydney, our retreats are even more accessible to everyone. We are happy to arrange free transfers from the Busselton Airport if you would like to have everything taken care of for you.
The Time
Making time for the creative play is vital for your artistic journey and well-being. In our fast-paced lives, prioritising creativity can feel like a luxury.
This retreat offers a chance to immerse yourself in your creative experience, away from daily distractions. Surrounded by natural beauty, you’ll find inspiration and deepen your artistic connection.
Engaging with like-minded individuals fosters community and enriches your practice. Though stepping away from responsibilities may be tough, the rewards are immense. You’ll gain new skills, a refreshed spirit, and a renewed sense of purpose.
We have decided to keep Retreats to Winter, Autumn and Spring, for the nicest conditions to work in, and encourage cosy, quiet moments.
To be notified of dates for upcoming Creative Clay Retreats, click the link below to register.
FAQs
I have specific dietary needs, can these be catered for?
I have chosen a fantastic caterer who offers lovely plant based meals suitable to most. Upon Booking you will have the opportunity to note any specific dietary requirements so that I can run them past our caterer. If she is unable to meet your needs you may choose to have this portion of the fee refunded, and supply your own food in the self catering kitchen
I am a beginner to clay, is this retreat suitable?
Yes absolutely, this retreat is suitable for anyone wishing to extend their skills or experience with clay, or just have an opportunity to focus on the craft for a few blissful days.
Do you provide transport?
As all activities take place on site, you do not need to arrange transport for the duration of the retreat. If you would like to explore beyond the accommodations, or make your own may to the retreat, then you will need your own car. We are happy to arrange transfers to and from Busselton Airport on the first and final day of the retreat for you.
How will we get our work home?
After the retreat I will be firing and glazing all of the work for you. The Retreat includes Postage of these pieces within Australia. A surcharge applies for international postage.
Have an unanswered Question?
Can I bring my Partner with me?
This Retreat will become more than clay techniques for many people, and creating a safe and predictable space is very important for this. Only participants of the event can stay in the chalets, participate in activities and share meals. There are some off site packages available for those who would like to travel with others who are not participating.
Will I have to share a room?
Not at all. Although Twin Share is available by request, most people opt for their own King Size Ensuite Room. This means you have your own private space, and share a kitchen / living area with maximum 2 other women.
I live / have friends in the area, Can I stay off-site?
I have a limited number of places available for ‘Off-Site Participants’. Please select this option when making your booking. This option includes lunch and all activities.
Am I at risk of being left out if I come on my own?
Most women who book are solo travellers looking to enjoy their own creative experience. I have found that the groups are warm and cohesive as everyone enjoys the Retreat in their own way.
Time For a Creative Break
Let yourself explore your most creative side with an intentional time and space dedicated to supporting YOU.
This Retreat might be calling you if…
You enjoy Hands-on Learning: Engage in tailored workshops that cater to all skill levels. Encouraging growth in your ceramic practice through play and exploration.
You would like to Create Unique Work: Experience the joy of crafting one-of-a-kind pieces using exciting techniques and inspiration from the beauty of the surrounding landscape.
You would like to belong to a Supportive Community: Join a warm and welcoming group of fellow creatives, fostering connections, collaboration, and inspiration throughout the retreat.
You are looking for an opportunity for mindfulness and relaxation: Take a break from daily stresses and practice mindfulness through clay, allowing yourself to slow down and enjoy the meditative aspects of the craft.
You would benefit from individualised Guided Instruction: Learn from experienced artists who will guide you through different techniques, helping you to find your unique artistic voice and style.
You Would Benefit from Encouragement to Explore: Be inspired to take risks and experiment with your creativity, leaving the retreat with newfound confidence in your artistic abilities.
You Seek to Enjoy Beautiful Surroundings: Enjoy the stunning natural beauty that surrounds you, providing a perfect backdrop for inspiration and creativity.
You like to work independently, though in the proximity of others. I am not one for forcing group activities on others; this is an experience for each guest to make their own.
Places are Limited, so please book now or get in touch if you have any questions.
Images from the
‘Creative Clay Retreat ~ Spring 2026’
~ Tanah Marah ~
Images from the
‘Creative Clay Retreat ~ Autumn 2026’
~ Brass Moon ~
Images from the
‘Creative Clay Retreat ~ Spring 2025’
~ Tanah Marah ~
