What’s the property like?

We don’t want to give too much away, and it’s not easy to describe anyway. It’ll be a nice surprise, but we know you’ll love it. There are some photos below to give you a hint.

What happens there?

We host gatherings that are part of the Make it Better Menu. This includes multiday gatherings such as Huddles, Retreats and Workations. (We also host Tables and Charrettes for the South Gippsland changemaker community.)

How many people will be there?

Multiday gatherings are small and intimate. There will be six to ten guests, plus the Make it Better hosting and facilitation team, depending on the gathering type.

How long do Venus Bay hosted gatherings go for?

Most gatherings start with lunch at 12.30 on the Tuesday and conclude with breakfast on the Friday; essentially three full days and nights. It works, and magic happens.

What is the address and what’s the best way to get there?

Public transport is a bit tricky, so driving (and ideally, carpooling) is the way to go. The address is 822 Lees Road, Venus Bay.

What do I need to bring?

The usual personal stuff. Clothes appropriate to the forecasted weather including what you’ll need to be comfortable outdoors. Bring toiletries, but your bathroom will have towels and your beds will have linen and pillows.

Whatever exercise gear you might use. There is a pool, and the ocean is close, too. There are enough towels for everyone for swimming or lounging.

We also have an exercise ball and a couple of yoga mats with plenty of outdoor deck space to enjoy.

If running, walking or riding is your thing, bring what you need. There are great tracks to explore.

We’ll have paper, pencils etc, but if you’ve got your own journal or favourite writing material, bring them for sure.

… and once you are there, let us know if you forget anything – chances are we’ll have what you need.

Will I have my own room?

Yes, you will have your own room in which to make yourself at home during your stay.

Food and drinks

Food is important at Venus Bay. Your gathering will be fully catered, but you can of course bring any snack or beverage you think might make your time even better.

Will my accessibility and dietary needs be catered for?

Yes. We’ll make sure we’ve chatted with you beforehand about what you’ll need to participate fully and comfortably.

Is there WiFi/internet?

Yes. Being fully present will be important, so we’ll encourage each other to limit our use of devices during our meeting times. We recognise that being able to check in with loved ones will help make your time away enjoyable, so there will be plenty of opportunity for that.

Will I get a program before I arrive?

Gatherings at Venus Bay are process and/or outcomes-oriented rather than programmed. So, ‘no’, you won’t get a detailed program.

There will be a default design depending on the gathering type, but the details of the program will be co-created by the participants.

Is there other stuff I need to know?

Yes.

We’re on tank water, so be careful with your usage. We’re also on a septic system so, apart from toilet paper, nothing else goes in the toilets.

We leave our outdoor shoes at the door. So, make sure your socks don’t have holes and bring slippers or other dedicated inside footwear that’ll keep you comfortable.