Testimonials
“I’m still taking in how special this experience was. Tania, Jamie and Trudi are truly incredible. The way they hold space is something you don’t come across often. From the moment I arrived, I felt welcomed, safe, and gently invited into something deeper than I expected. The property is breathtaking, with expansive views and a kind of magic woven through it. There’s a real energetic strength to the space, and knowing the house is built on crystals, you can feel it. The music, sound therapy and connection all add to that. What began as a group of strangers quickly became something else entirely… an experience that felt honest, open and beautifully raw. There were moments of pure joy, dancing around the living room together, completely free and in the moment. I also loved the creative side of the retreat, from painting to pulling message cards, along with my chakra alignment session, which felt incredibly grounding. Every detail was thoughtfully considered. The food was delicious and nourishing, and the flow of the retreat felt effortless. The main night will stay with me forever. One of those unforgettable moments that shifts something inside you. I left feeling centred, more in my own body, calm and ready to take my lessons out into the world… even though I wish I could have taken the whole group home with me!” Holly Brisley
“I want to thank you for profoundly changing my life after the retreat. I have been feeling calm, grounded, peaceful, and grateful to be alive. It has brought me clarity, and my worries and anxiety have disappeared. My relationship with my kids has improved, and I now enjoy playing with them instead of worrying about their future. I’ve also had many insights and noticed the power of manifestation. There have been several meaningful coincidences since leaving the retreat. When I think of someone they appear right in front of me – just like in a dream!” Carolina T
“The Soul Nourishing Retreat was exactly that…indescribably nourishing for the soul. The nourishing began on entering the property as I was driven through the natural forest along the driveway to the healing space. The home and heart of Heartlands Retreat is itself a living artwork – designed to flow naturally into the spectacular landscape where it is situated upon the rim of the Wollumbin Caldera. From the moment I arrived I was welcomed warmly by both the guests and the facilitators making me feel immediately comfortable. There was time to unwind and relax before coming together to officially begin. This beginning circle set the tone for the rest of the retreat where we were able to connect and set agreements for both personal and group safety. The felt sense of safety throughout was palpable.
Every exercise and activity from then on assisted a deepening connection and melding with each other, which in turn, allowed for Trust and Openness for a fully transformative experience. The well thought out activities covered an absorption of health and well being through all of our senses…. voice and sound; movement, stretching, breathwork; visuals and aesthetics; scented sprays and beautiful aromas; healthy, scrumptious food to excite the tastebuds and the gut; an array of comfortable spaces for sitting, lying, standing, grounding. Thought was also put into the spaces in between – leaving plenty of time for relaxation, processing, journaling/art work, connecting, walking or just being. The facilitators were highly skilled in their craft – always present, gentle, respectful and humble. They held the space beautifully, adding another layer of safety to the experience.
Finally, the orchestrators of this unique, exquisite experience – of supporting people and allowing them the opportunity to dance with the divine, are down to earth, authentic lovers of humanity and peace. This shines through the whole of Heartlands creating the Masterpiece that it is. I am now able to follow the Tao more authentically. If only we could all hold each other up more often in our everyday lives.” Susan Jenkin, Social Worker, VIC
“The Soul Nourishment Retreat was the most incredible experience. From the stunning location, healing energy and beauty of the landscape, to the luxury accommodation, facilities and food. Heartlands is a retreat venue like no other! Tania, Trudi and Jamie are extraordinary facilitators – from the moment you arrive you feel seen, safe and held – and when you feel seen, safe and held – that’s when the magic happens! I highly recommend The Soul Nourishment Retreat at Heartlands. Any truth seekers looking for rest, re-connection, growth and wonderment, get yourselves to Heartlands.” Emma Park, Nutritionist & Psychotherapist, VIC
“My heart has been carrying something I feel moved to share from our last meeting and singing Tania’s magnificent song together — WALKING EACH OTHER HOME. When I stood between P and C, holding their hands, something inside me opened in a way I didn’t expect. As the group shared that moment together, a rush of goosebumps washed over me, and I felt my mom and dad right there beside me — not as a memory, but as a presence. They felt so tall, so grounded, so unwavering. It was as if I could feel generations behind them — their ancestors standing close, lifting them, guiding them. In their strength, I suddenly felt myself become small again… in the sweetest way. Like a young child being held, protected, and seen. It was one of those rare moments where time feels soft and the heart feels wide open. A TRULY UNIQUE, deeply moving, unforgettable experience. Thank you for giving me the chance to participate in SOUL nourishment — and to feel something so real, so sacred.” Dr Katia Almeida, GP, VIC
“I don’t know how to put this weekend into words, but I’ll try. The Heartland Soul Nourishment Retreat was one of the most profound and nourishing experiences of my life — a blend of yoga, education, music, singing, soul work, and the kind of kindness and acceptance that you can feel in your bones. Tania and Trudi created a level of safety I didn’t know I needed, held by the steady presence of Jamie and the entire team. Every detail was thoughtful: the nourishing food, the space to feel, the space to confront what was necessary, the space to grow. I’ve felt strong, grounded and almost fearless all week. I’ve fallen a little in love with who I am, and how I am. More self-acceptance. More truth. More softness. I am so blessed to have met the people in this room and to have been shaped by their wisdom, their honesty, and their hearts. I cried the whole way to the airport because I have never felt so seen, so safe, or so at home in myself. Thank you for loving me, for holding me, for keeping me safe. Thank you for reminding me who I am. I will never forget this weekend or the impact you’ve had on my whole being. I am forever grateful.” Sophie Bennett, Breathwork and Meditation Teacher, NSW
“The Soul Nourishing retreat was beautiful and exactly what I needed. I arrived from a busy month in Sydney and these few days nourished my mind, heart & body. The land is stunning and makes you feel right at home (no wonder it’s called Heartlands). The accommodation and amenities are beautiful and luxurious: very comfortable bed, gorgeous décor and an infinity pool overlooking the valley … magic. The food was delicious and nourishing. And we were treated to spectacular sunsets. The facilitators were incredible at holding space – warm, skilled, present and attuned. The practices, activities and workshops were crafted with so much depth and care, with a perfect balance of structure, flow and spaciousness. There was a natural sense of support and connection to me, to the group and to the land. I’ve been to quite a lot of retreats (and I also run retreats), and this was honestly one of the most impactful experiences I’ve had. I left feeling expanded, inspired and deeply grateful. Highly recommend!” Claudia Luck-Rodriguez, Trauma-sensitive Therapist, NSW
“Heartlands is a high-end tranquil retreat in the lush rainforest of the Byron Bay hinterland. It sits atop a hill overlooking the valleys of lush rainforest. It is a private retreat by invitation only, hosted by beautiful and caring humans ensuring a professional but intimate ambience. There are 7 king bedrooms with ensuites, an organic chef, a group room, an infinity pool, a sauna, a steam room and an ice bath, just the thing after a stroll down to the meandering river at the base of the property. I have enjoyed a retreat at Heartlands and highly recommend it.” Dr Stephen Proud, Psychiatrist and Meditator, WA
“This is a sacred space where I was able to access and sustain a deeply elevated state of being. The three-day retreat anchored and awakened something profound within me. I felt truly inspired and motivated to live from the heart—connecting authentically with others, savouring nourishing food, being held by the beauty of nature with its greenery and still lakes nearby, and enjoying soul-touching music and wellness facilities. Every detail was thoughtfully and lovingly organized by a team of genuinely caring people. Heartlands is not just a retreat—it’s a sacred place where Heaven, Earth, and Human meet in resonance. A place where you remember who you truly are and reawaken to your soul’s calling.” Yatong, Social Worker, SA
“Heartlands is a stunning retreat nestled in the Byron Bay hinterland, surrounded by lush bush, local wildlife, and crisp air. Heartlands is the place to disconnect from the pressure of life and reconnect with oneself. A stunning home built on the top of a mountain, with incredible amenities. The chef prepared meals were incredibly tasty, nourishing, and healing. It was a perfect adjunct with the retreat activities, wonderful staff, and workshops delivered by world-class experts in their fields.“ Shai, Psychologist
“Heartlands is a special place nestled in the hinterland of the northern rivers that meets the needs of a retreat centre with utmost care. Facilities are of the highest standard with a balanced mixture of modern conveniences and the natural world. The pool, spa, sauna, steam room and incredible view – a wonderland of treats for the body and soul. Beautifully led for heart connections by a team of grounded humans with food that is made with exceptional local produce and nourishment.” Trudi, Counsellor, NSW
“I can thoroughly recommend the Heartlands retreat, a hidden slice of paradise in the Byron Hinterland. The accommodation, food, wonderful hosts and entire experience left me feeling rejuvenated and excited for the future. If you have the opportunity to partake in a retreat here, do so!” Kevin, Psychiatrist, NSW
“Heartlands Retreat was a truly life-changing experience — the stunning property radiates peace, the food was absolutely spectacular, and the leadership and teachings inspired transformation on every level. The top-tier amenities, from the invigorating ice bath to the serene pool, steam room, made every moment feel like a perfect balance of luxury and deep healing.” Henry, Senior Mental Health Clinician, NSW
“Heavenly. I joined a retreat with my partner who was much less ready than I. We were both met where we were and carried through to beautiful places. Heartlands is stunning. Tania, Trudi, Jamie and Alex are masterful. Truly, a life’s reward. Thank you.” Jens and Sarah, ACT
“Attending the Soul Nourishment retreat was a deeply restorative and meaningful experience. The location was extraordinary, nestled within a serene mountain scape and surrounded by nature. It provided a beautiful and safe container, the set and setting were thoughtfully curated and the facilitators were exceptional, present, grounded and genuinely aligned with healing. What unfolded for me was far beyond expectation. I experienced the release of deeply-held, trapped trauma in a profoundly somatic way. Reaffirming that the body truly does keep the score. It was an experience that resonated through my entire nervous system. I left feeling lighter, clearer and with a deep sense that something fundamental had shifted. I will be forever grateful to the facilitators for my experience at Heartlands.” Paul, QLD
“I was very fortunate to recently attend the 4 night Going Deeper retreat at Heartlands with world renowned facilitators, Doug, Naomi and Vincent. Everything about the retreat was fabulous. The facilitators were excellent and the programme delivered all that it promised to and more. It was wonderful to have the opportunity to participate in such a transformational and profound few days. Not only was the programme of a very high level, it was also an absolute treat to stay in Heartlands and to have the opportunity to experience that wonderful house and property and the luxuriant nature all around. Being in a ‘home’ provides a very different, much cosier more personal feel compared to other retreat centres.The rooms were very comfortable and nicely appointed and also very quiet and surrounded by native forest. The food was plentiful, healthful and absolutely delicious – real food for the soul that was made with love and beautifully presented. Wonderful to be treated to a few days of much needed nourishment. There were also a range of things to do in break times: enjoy the beautiful infinity pool with it’s spectacular views, walks on the beautiful grounds, dips in the nearby river as well as a meditative labyrinth, pickle ball court, ice bath, and steam room. Or you could just lounge in one of the many spaces and enjoy views of the lush surrounding landscapes.” Sheelin Coates, BVSc MBA M. Food & Sustainability
“Thank you so much Tania and Peter for this most unusual opportunity to expand with other expanding souls and in the presence of such greats.” Susan Jenkin, Psychologist
“It was a true pleasure to spend time immersed in deep personal and professional inquiry at this retreat with Bessel van der Kolk and Licia Sky. The space created allowed for meaningful exploration of psychedelic-assisted therapies, preparation and integration, held with both care and integrity. The experience felt both deeply connected and expansive—thoughtfully designed, encouraging, and genuinely restorative. There was a sense of openness and curiosity throughout, supported by an exceptional team who brought both expertise and heart to the work. I left feeling inspired, grounded, and re-energised in my clinical practice, with a deeper appreciation for the power of this field and the importance of how it is held.” Paula Watkins
“I’m still finding it hard to put this past Easter weekend into words. Being at Heartlands was something truly special. Being held in a space guided by Bessel van der Kolk and Licia Sky felt like a series of quiet, profound moments where I kept thinking, “How is this real?” These are people who have shaped how many of us understand trauma and healing, and to learn from them in such an intimate setting was deeply meaningful. The retreat itself was exceptional. Tania, Peter and Jamie created an environment that felt both grounded and expansive, where everything was intentional and held with care. You could feel it in the flow of the days, in how people were met, and in how the group came together. The food was incredible. It was truly nourishing, organic, and thoughtfully prepared. It felt like an extension of the whole experience rather than just something on the side. I feel very grateful to have been part of it and I look forward to returning one day soon.” Stephen Moore, Psychotherapist