A small-group workshop from 18-20 September at the Falls Forest Retreat, John’s River, south of Port Macquarie.

This workshop is completed. We leave the information here out of interest.
 

SDN workshops are an open space approach - no fixed agenda, no experts, and no hierarchy. Whoever comes is ‘meant to be there’!

Participants (max 12 this time) have the opportunity to talk/present about anything they want, on any issue of importance from global to personal – in a trusting and supportive atmosphere of sharing, conversations and stimulating discussion.

The workshop provides a forum for ideas big and small. It’s a chance to exchange thoughts on creating a good life, share concerns and problems, insights and personal stories, where we’re at in life right now. Sessions are expected to go for an hour and there is no requirement to present if you choose not to. It would be great if you (and/or your partner) can attend.

  • Enquiries: Harry Creamer 0431 158 252 or use our Contact Form
Falls Retreat Workshop Flyer
Where: 
Falls Retreat
When: 

18/9/2020  to 20/9/2020

SDN is an affiliation of around 400 people, started as a social network by an inspirational person who died in 2015 leaving his estate to a foundation that supports workshops and offers grants. A key principle is citizen involvement to use our potential for growth for the benefit of all and a culture of support and mutual appreciation, personal energising and group wholeness.
 
SDN workshops are an open space approach - no fixed agenda, no experts, and no hierarchy. Whoever comes is ‘meant to be there’! Participants (max 12 this time) have the opportunity to talk/present about anything they want, on any issue of importance from global to personal – in a trusting and supportive atmosphere of sharing, conversations and stimulating discussion.
 
The workshop provides a forum for ideas big and small. It’s a chance to exchange thoughts on creating a good life, share concerns and problems, insights and personal stories, where we’re at in life right now. Sessions are expected to go for an hour and there is no requirement to present if you choose not to.  Concession fees are available on request. You never know, this could be what you’ve been waiting for to break the Covid-19 drought!

SDN acknowledges the traditional custodians of the country we meet on and pay respects to their elders past and present.
Workshop Report
Participants at the Falls Forest workshop in September 2020

Workshop Summary Report

Previous attempts to hold an SDN workshop on the mid north coast had failed – it was too hot and humid in summer on the coast, we couldn’t seem to get enough people interested, suitable venues were hard to find… Then, just as the Covid-19 crisis had eased enough for small groups to get together, we found a venue that would be suitable - The Falls Forest Retreat.

Seven people attended, plus the SDN Coordinator, a total of 8. Small but workable. The Falls has motel-style units with private rooms for sleeping, a large kitchen and a distinctive sunken meeting space reflecting the 1970s architecture. Outside, there are tables under a pergola and a short walk through sub-tropical rainforest to an impressive waterfall.

Some of the topics covered during our discussions:

  • How do we live in a world in crisis? The ancient philosophers and their teaching on virtues.
  • Neo-liberalism and the corona virus. Yuval Noah Harari TED talk.
  • Jess Hill’s book – See What You Made Me Do – Power, Control and Domestic Abuse. Presentation and discussion.
  • Psychopathic world leaders, wildlife trade and life story including migration from Holland and service in the Vietnam war.
  • Life story, ex tempore. Gary is a veteran Aboriginal activist – freedom rides, tent embassy.
  • Thunghutti language essentials – ‘Irri-urri-arri’.

This was the first SDN workshop held on the NSW mid north coast. It was a success, reflecting in many ways what an SDN workshop is about – a coming together of people to enjoy honest and open discussion of topics of interest and learn from others in an atmosphere of positive creativity, shared trust and support.

Participant Reflections

Two of us sang some guitar songs and one led a meditation session. Some of the comments from participants:

“Brilliant, stimulating, the informality is good, it’s a safe space for people to have an opinion”.

“This is my first experience of speaking intimately with Aboriginal people. I’m amazed at how complex Aboriginal society is”.

“It’s thought-provoking. I live alone so this is good. Could we include other groups like conservatives who may not agree with us?”

“I have so appreciated having Gary and Ray here”.

“Our views are part of us”.

Workshop Details
Workshop Name: 
Falls Forest Retreat Workshop
Status: 
Completed
Workshop Fee: 
$160.00
Workshop Concession Fee: 
$80.00
Download Workshop Flyer: 
PDF icon Falls_Retreat_workshop_flyer.pdf