Creative Clay Retreat ~ Winter 2026

from $1,690.00

Creative Clay Retreat ~ Winter 2026

Arrive - Thursday 30th July 2026

Depart - Sunday 2nd August 2026

* Early Bird Pricing Available Until January 30th 2026.

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 beautifully designed spaces, 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 2 1/2 days we will have creative workshops to work on guided projects which include; hand building, 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 standard length of 4 days / 3 nights. There are 2 1/2 days full of Creative activities and guided workshops. A draft itinerary has been prepared, though a finalised version will be emailed to participants after booking.

A maximum of 15 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 located between the lovely ‘Brass Moon’ and neighbours ‘The Row Cottages’ . Chosen for their beautiful designs, chic interiors and ideal layout, these properties have beautiful natural surrounds, and a stunning space for our workshops and meals.

Each guest will have their own room for the retreat (except for those choosing twin share), and share a space / chalet with no more than 2 other people. This means you have plenty of private, peaceful space to reflect and relax during your stay if you are quiet like me, though will also have lots of opportunity to connect and socialise through shared meals and activities while you are here.

There is also the option for a limited number of people to stay in a twin share arrangement if preferred.

Room Information

There are 4 spaces available for your stay during the Creative Clay Retreat, and these will be allocated according to our best judgement. Please email me if you have any mobility or other issue which need to be considered.

  1. The Mezzanine Studio is connected to the Gallery/Workshop Space. It has a built in couch for intimate gatherings or relaxing.

    The Mezzanine has a Queen Bed with a tree top outlook. This studio is close to bathroom’s and toilets which will be shared with 1 other guest.

  2. The Rose Room Located in the stunning gardens on the property. Timber floors, high ceilings and views out to the garden. A large round room with ensuite. Bed is set up as King Size for Single Share, or 2 singles if you have chosen to twin share . Situated adjacent to the workshop space.

  3. The Row Cottages are situated a short bush walk away from the workshop venue. Each of the 4 cottages are beautifully appointed and cosy with fireplace and natural bush outlook. The cottages are two storey with a fully equipped kitchen, dining and living space on the ground floor as well as the bathroom. Upstairs there is a main bedroom with its own private toilet and a second bedroom on the mezzanine with privacy curtains.

  4. Off Site bookings are available for a limited number of guests. This will include all activities, welcome event and lunch each day.

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.

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.

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

Early Bird Pricing is available whilst the ‘sale’ price is showing.

Standard Pricing is the rate for a Single Share, All Inclusive Stay

Twin Share Pricing is the rate for 2 friends, sharing a room , all inclusive stay.

Off-Site Pricing is for those who live here or have alternative accommodation. This rate does not include accommodation, postage, breakfast or dinner.

Important Notes

Unfortunately I have to adjust the available options manually as people book twin / standard rooms so if your preferred option is booked out, please email me directly to see if I can adjust.

Paying in Instalments

Although I cant offer a staged payment through this website, I can offer an invoiced payment arrangement so that you can pay 50% now, and 50% within 1 month of the Retreat. Please email me at jolene@riverceramics.net if you would like me to set this up for you.

After the Booking

After Booking you will receive a PDF with a few forms to fill in so that we have information on your preferences and any dietary issues we need to be aware of. If you have not received this within a month of the retreat, please get in touch.

Accommodation:

Creative Clay Retreat ~ Winter 2026

Arrive - Thursday 30th July 2026

Depart - Sunday 2nd August 2026

* Early Bird Pricing Available Until January 30th 2026.

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 beautifully designed spaces, 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 2 1/2 days we will have creative workshops to work on guided projects which include; hand building, 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 standard length of 4 days / 3 nights. There are 2 1/2 days full of Creative activities and guided workshops. A draft itinerary has been prepared, though a finalised version will be emailed to participants after booking.

A maximum of 15 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 located between the lovely ‘Brass Moon’ and neighbours ‘The Row Cottages’ . Chosen for their beautiful designs, chic interiors and ideal layout, these properties have beautiful natural surrounds, and a stunning space for our workshops and meals.

Each guest will have their own room for the retreat (except for those choosing twin share), and share a space / chalet with no more than 2 other people. This means you have plenty of private, peaceful space to reflect and relax during your stay if you are quiet like me, though will also have lots of opportunity to connect and socialise through shared meals and activities while you are here.

There is also the option for a limited number of people to stay in a twin share arrangement if preferred.

Room Information

There are 4 spaces available for your stay during the Creative Clay Retreat, and these will be allocated according to our best judgement. Please email me if you have any mobility or other issue which need to be considered.

  1. The Mezzanine Studio is connected to the Gallery/Workshop Space. It has a built in couch for intimate gatherings or relaxing.

    The Mezzanine has a Queen Bed with a tree top outlook. This studio is close to bathroom’s and toilets which will be shared with 1 other guest.

  2. The Rose Room Located in the stunning gardens on the property. Timber floors, high ceilings and views out to the garden. A large round room with ensuite. Bed is set up as King Size for Single Share, or 2 singles if you have chosen to twin share . Situated adjacent to the workshop space.

  3. The Row Cottages are situated a short bush walk away from the workshop venue. Each of the 4 cottages are beautifully appointed and cosy with fireplace and natural bush outlook. The cottages are two storey with a fully equipped kitchen, dining and living space on the ground floor as well as the bathroom. Upstairs there is a main bedroom with its own private toilet and a second bedroom on the mezzanine with privacy curtains.

  4. Off Site bookings are available for a limited number of guests. This will include all activities, welcome event and lunch each day.

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.

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.

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

Early Bird Pricing is available whilst the ‘sale’ price is showing.

Standard Pricing is the rate for a Single Share, All Inclusive Stay

Twin Share Pricing is the rate for 2 friends, sharing a room , all inclusive stay.

Off-Site Pricing is for those who live here or have alternative accommodation. This rate does not include accommodation, postage, breakfast or dinner.

Important Notes

Unfortunately I have to adjust the available options manually as people book twin / standard rooms so if your preferred option is booked out, please email me directly to see if I can adjust.

Paying in Instalments

Although I cant offer a staged payment through this website, I can offer an invoiced payment arrangement so that you can pay 50% now, and 50% within 1 month of the Retreat. Please email me at jolene@riverceramics.net if you would like me to set this up for you.

After the Booking

After Booking you will receive a PDF with a few forms to fill in so that we have information on your preferences and any dietary issues we need to be aware of. If you have not received this within a month of the retreat, please get in touch.

About the Venue ~ Brass Moon & The Row Cottages

Surrounded by bushland & pasture. Brass Moon & The Row Cottages welcomes you to a chic getaway in the middle of the Margaret River wine region. With beautiful amenities set within gardens and natural surrounds, whilst having access to fantastic facilities for our workshops

Activities

This retreat is all about dropping in to a space custom designed to enhance your creativity. Take time to sit by the fire, curl up to read, work in your journal or just rest between classes.

The Accommodation

There are a few variations of room available for this retreat. Each participant will have a beautiful bedroom and living area and bathroom to share with maximum 2 other people.

Please let us know if you are booking with another person who you would like to stay with.

Workshop and Meal Space

The Brass Moon is an exquisite venue space set into beautiful gardens which provides plenty of room for our workshops and to enjoy the catered meals.

Staying on Site

One of the main reasons I chose this venue & adjacent accommodation, was the ability to offer a true retreat where you would not need to go anywhere if you did not want to. If you are looking to unwind and slow down, everything you need is right here.

Getting Here

If you are Self Driving

The Retreat is Located in the Margaret River Area which is approximately 3.5 hours south of Perth. Details to your accommodation will be provided when booking.

Flying Into Perth

You will need to arrange your own transport to Margaret River. Jetstar may offer flights to Busselton by then, or otherwise you can hire a car to drive.

Flying from Sydney to Busselton (BQB)

At time of preparing this, Jetstar flys into Busselton on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays out of Busselton Mondays, Thursdays & Saturdays.

Flying from Melbourne to Busselton (BQB)

At time of preparing this, Jetstar flys into Busselton on Wednesdays, Fridays, Sundays out of Busselton Wednesdays, Fridays & Sundays.

Transfers & Extra Nights

Please contact Janie at The Row Cottages after booking your retreat if you would like to add extra nights. Please also let me know if you are planning to do this so I can ensure you are in that accommodation.

If you would like a car to explore the area while you are here, there are several hire companies available where you can drop and collect in Busselton.

If you would like an airport transfer to and from Tanah Marah for the Retreat, we are happy to offer this as a complementary service on the arrival and departures days of your flights in Busselton. Please let me know when you have booked your flights so that I can send you a transfer form.

What do I bring?

Creativity Materials

This Retreat is intentionally slow and spacious, to allow space for relaxation and reflection. Although everything for our activities is provided, you may wish to bring;

  • Any inspiring photographs, or sketches. (especially if you have a creature sculpture in mind)

  • A Creative Journal

  • Books for relaxed reading.

Clothing

All of the Retreats I am planning are either in Winter, Spring or Autumn. In our area this means you need to pack for all weather conditions! We can get chilly nights or beautiful sunny days at any time of the year.

Be Sure to Include;

  • Sturdy Walking Shoes

  • Rain Coat

  • Comfortable all-day creating clothes

Refund Policy

Cancellations made by Participant

Any Cancellations / Re-bookings Incur a $200 Fee

Payment is refunded/credited for cancellations 6 months prior to the retreat date. (minus Cancellation fee)

50% of payment refunded/credited if dates are rebooked for cancellations between 3-6 months prior.

Payment is non-refundable or transferable for cancellations less than 3 months prior.

Cancellations made by River Ceramics

In the unfortunate event that we have to cancel, you will be given first option to rebook any new events, or get a 100% refund.

Any costs such as flights made outside of your booking with River Ceramics are not covered by us. We suggest taking out travel insurance for your trip in the case of an unforeseen cancellation.

FAQ’s

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.

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. See attached information under heading ‘Getting Here’.

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.

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.

Your Question not answered?

Please get in touch by emailing me at jolene@riverceramics.net