Gunyah Valley Retreat

The project is situated in a 9 acre parcel of land on a 190 acre property 20 minutes from Bendigo. The site currently has upper story large trees in place and we hope to replant the area with second story screening plants and to form a path. Plans for this large semi-forested space include eventually being open to the public seven days a week during daylight hours, as a place of quiet reflection, meditation and/or prayer for anyone who needs time away from the normal bustle of daily life, or a space to reflect during tough times.

This project will assist with:

1. Mental health, by providing a safe and specific place for people to "get away", to find space, to walk in a healthy natural environment, and to de-stress.

2. Reforestation. The 14 species of plant chosen for planting are Indigenous to this local area, helping to recover the under-story layer of native forest. This in turn will attract bird life, native bees and insects and refresh the universal health of the local ecosystem.

3. Physical wellbeing - encouraging people outdoors.

4. The land is a trust for nature reserve, attracting bird watching tourism.