2024 NATSICC Spirituality and Formation Retreat
About the retreat
Join us in Galong, NSW for the 2024 NATSICC Spirituality and Formation Retreat. Open to all (both Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders and those that work in Ministry alongside us), the retreat will provide an opportunity to pray, heal and grow in faith with one another whilst surrounded by the peace and stillness of country NSW.
Moving away from the conference mindset, participants will experience the sharing of faith with one another and have ample time to reflect upon their own faith Journey.
Cost
All costings below include 3 nights accommodation (Mon - Thurs), all meals and retreat presentations and activities. Transport costs are not included.
Community Member / Financially Restricted - $50
We are pleased to offer a discounted registration rate of $50 for community members, thanks to the generosity of our sponsors and the Council’s commitment to fostering community engagement. This special rate, which significantly reduces the original price of over $700, is available to:
Individuals who are part of an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander Ministry
Parishioners/Volunteers with a commitment to supporting First Australians
Those who work closely with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities
Anyone who is struggling financially but will gain benefit from attending
Our aim is to create an inclusive space for people to come together, reconnect, and regain strength following the recent referendum. This substantial reduction in fees reflects our dedication to supporting those who are dedicated to the wellbeing and advancement of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples.
Organisational Delegate - $350
We are offering a registration rate of $350 for individuals attending as part of their Professional Development or whose registration is covered by their employer. This rate, which is also substantially subsidised thanks to the generosity of our sponsors (normally over $700), is available to:
Professionals attending for development purposes
Individuals whose registration is covered by their employer
Anyone who has the financial means and willingness to support the event by paying this registration fee
We are deeply grateful to those who choose this option, as your support helps us continue to provide valuable opportunities and resources to the community. Our aim is to create a supportive environment where participants can engage, learn, and grow. This substantial reduction in fees reflects our dedication to making this event accessible while fostering professional growth and community support.
Retreat program and presenters
We can confirm the following presenters and facilitators:
Archbishop Christopher Prowse
Dr. Caroline Hughes AM
Fr Dave Tremble
Beth Riolo and Karan Taylor
Anne Dennis
Sarah Richards
About St Clement's Retreat Centre
St Clement's is situated among rolling hills 4km from the village of Galong on the south-western slopes of NSW and just over an hour from Canberra. It boasts modern facilities set amid historic surrounds, an ideal venue for retreats, conferences, seminars, meetings, corporate training and cultural activities.
The tradition of hospitality at Galong began when Irish transportee Ned Ryan settled there in the late 1820s. His homestead, Galong House, now lies within the embrace of a number of imposing historic buildings.
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It is a unique venue on 320 hectares with a tranquil setting - the perfect place to relax and enjoy the beautiful rural landscape of this region of NSW. A museum in the centre tells a history of the site from pre colonial times to the present day. A short walk from the centre is a National Trust-awarded cemetery dating back to the earliest days of settlement.
Accommodation
Accommodation is on site, mainly consisting of shared bathroom options. The registration process will advise of room availability and allocation will occur on a first come, first served basis. As rooms are limited, we are encouraging people to share where appropriate.
The closest off site accommodation is available 15 minutes away in Harden. The Harden Motel is a suggestion. Depending on numbers, NATSICC may be able to provide shuttle services from Harden to St. Clement's. Please contact us to arrange.
Getting to Galong
We have put together a comprehensive guide to getting to Galong and have also provided some accommodation options in Canberra, should you wish to extend your trip. Train, bus and hire car are possible ways to get to Galong.
Galong isn't the easiest place to get to, but we promise that the effort is worth it.
Canberra to Galong
Canberra is the closest major city to Galong. It is about 1 1/2 hours from the Nation's Capital. The ACM in Canberra will be celebrating Mass St Benedict's (Sturt St Narrabundah) at 6pm on Sunday night.
Public Transport
Other than hiring a car, the only way to Galong from Canberra is using the Trainlink bus service.
The bus leaves Kingston Bus Station at at 9.22am each day. It is suggested that a taxi be taken from the airport to Kingston Station (approximately a 10 Minute journey).
Tickets need to be bought prior to arrival in Canberra and cost around $10 - tickets available online here
We will have a shuttle to meet you upon arrival in Galong at 11.35am
Galong to Canberra
The NSW Trainlink coach leaves Galong at 3.35pm and arrives at Kingston Railway Station at 6.22pm.
Important Notes if you're coming from Canberra
As you can see above, there are limited public transport options to Galong from Canberra. If your flight does not get in with enough time to catch the 9.22am bus, you may have to consider either (all at your own cost):
a) Hiring a car - This can be a cost effective option if there are 3-4 in your group. Galong is just over an hour from Canberra. All major car rental companies operate from the Canberra Airport
b) Fly in the day before and stay in Canberra. Why not take the opportunity to visit some of the attractions and historical landmarks in Canberra the day before coming to the retreat? As mentioned above, the ACM Canberra is hosting Mass at 6pm at St Benedict's Narrabundah.
The following hotels are closest to the bus station:
A 5 minute walk from the Canberra Bus Station
Canberra Short Term and Holiday Accommodation
Budget accommodation that has a range of rooms from single to larger 2 bedroom options. 1km from the Canberra Railway Station.
Sydney to Galong (via Harden)
The train runs from Sydney to Harden - 15 minutes away from Galong. The journey takes around 4 hours.
NSW Trainlink (681 to Melbourne)
7.40am from Sydney Central Station arriving in Harden at 12.10pm. A shuttle will be at Harden to take you to Galong.
Bookings can be made via NSW Trainlink
Tickets need to be bought prior to arrival in Sydney
We will have a shuttle to meet you upon arrival in Harden at 12.10pm
Galong (via Harden) to Sydney
We will provide a shuttle to Harden.
The 624 train leaves Harden at 3.17pm and arrives back at Sydney central at 7.47pm
Important Notes if you're coming from Sydney
As you can see above, there are limited public transport options to Galong from Sydney If your flight does not get in with enough time to catch the 7.40am train, you may have to consider either (at your own cost):
a) Hiring a car - This can be a cost effective option if there are 3-4 in your group. Galong is just under 4 hours from Sydney . All major car rental companies operate from the Sydney Airport
b) Fly in the day before and stay overnight in Sydney.
There are numerous hotels near the train station ranging from hostels to more comfortable options.
Registration
Registration for the retreat can be completed here
Sponsers
