Have your heard of the Indigenous concept ‘care for Country as it Cares for you’, and wondered about what it means, how that happens and why connection with Country is so important for Aboriginal people?

Here’s your chance to learn and experience Connection with Country for yourself. Join us in this place for an intimate and personal experience with Peramangk/Kaurna Elder, Ivan-Tiwu Copley as we explore The Sanctuary, Yundi.

This is a unique opportunity to learn from Ivan as we sit on the banks of the Finniss river and wander together under the shade of the enormous stringy bark eucalypts on the riverbank. Ivan is an engaging and entertaining storyteller and is generous with his knowledge and wisdom as we seek to learn and understand.

The Sanctuary (as we call it) is a special place. We spend most weekends here and feel like we ‘know’ it on one level. However, when Ivan visits and shares what he sees, feels and understands about this Country it deepens our relationship, understanding and sense of awe and reverence.

We invite you to experience this too.

Our wander to the river will be followed by a shared lunch in the shade of the eucalypts, wattles and apples tree.

Where

Come and see (and smell!) the explosion of spring at The Sanctuary, Yundi, a private National Park Sanctuary. We are north of Mt Compass - less than an hour from Adelaide CBD (45 minutes from Glenelg).

This event is an opportunity to access this private, pristine and protected environment to experience an incredibly peaceful, restorative connection with nature.

The Sanctuary is 82 acres, with most of the bush protected by a Heritage Bush Agreement since 1993. The property is also a private National Park Sanctuary. We have the beginning of the Finniss River running through the property. There are rare species of plants, birds and animals. We see many fairy (blue) wrens every time we are there, as well as wedge tail eagles, vulnerable yellow tail black cockatoos, beautiful little scarlet robins and bright yellow golden whistlers. There are kangaroos, koalas and echidnas. The river is unbelievably beautiful and a rare example of a very healthy ecosystem with reeds, fallen trees, lots of fish, yabbies and dragon flies. We have a large forest of blue gums as well as enormous stringy bark trees. The Sanctuary is a sensory delight and stepping out of the car after driving from the city is a beautiful experience to inhale the clean, scented air.

Who runs this?

Nature OT is the passion of Bronwyn Paynter. I am an occupational therapist with over 30 years experience, and a passion for supporting wellbeing. I am a certified Forest & Nature Therapy Guide with the Association of Forest & Nature Therapy Guides and Programs, and a permaculture designer. Nature connection started with gardening, camping (as a girl guide) and family holidays in nature. For the last few years I’ve been helping occupational therapists internationally in ways to work more closely with nature because there is so much evidence about how nature is the optimal environment for people to flourish.

We purchased The Sanctuary, Yundi in 2018 and, as its current non-indigenous custodians, are dedicated to sharing this heritage protected nature with as many people as we can. We are continuing to learn more about the Indigenous heritage of this place as we deepen our relationship with this Country.

FAQs

Where will we meet?

When you register you will receive a link to the visitor information for The Sanctuary, Yundi, with the full address and google map link. Access is very easy from the Southern Expressway, Victor Harbor Rd, and turn off before Mt Compass - with bitumen road all the way.

Is there a toilet?

There is a ‘long drop loo’ at The Sanctuary. The toilet is not accessible for side transfers. There will also be a trailer mounted porta-loo accessible via stairs (with hand rail). There are flushing (and wheelchair accessible) public toilets in nearby (5min drive) Mt Compass.

Are their age restrictions? Is this suitable for children?

This event is suited to people of all ages. The Sanctuary is largely untamed nature, with exposed water, uneven ground, slopes and branches, sticks etc. on the ground. This is an adventure of exploration! Children will be required to be under the care of a responsible adult to supervise their participation. Children bring a magical creative energy and sense of freedom, and they are very welcome.

Physical ability

This event will require the ability to walk up to 500m on sloping, uneven ground that is likely to include fallen wood, leaf and bark litter and natural obstacles. You will require a good level of mobility to feel comfortable on this walk. This is untamed nature. You are welcome to bring a hiking pole or grab a stick and we move slowly and carefully – we’re definitely not huffing and puffing.

Will I be safe?

I have a current Wilderness first aid certificate and will be carrying a first aid kit. There is mobile phone reception where we will be. Please advise any particular health concerns that may be relevant. Please feel free to contact Bronwyn to discuss any concerns on 0412404700.

Hand washing and sanitising facilities will be provided. Please do not attend if you are unwell.

What should I bring to the event?

We will go ahead regardless of the weather so dress appropriately - it is usually a few degrees cooler than in Adelaide. You will need decent shoes for this experience - boots are good if you have them. Bring a rain jacket in case of rain – we will have shelter for the flower crown making and high tea if required. Consider wearing/bringing an extra layer as well as beanie (hat), gloves and scarf if it's cold or windy and maybe even spare socks/shoes as we may get a little wet pushing through beautiful abundant plant growth. If sunny then suncream, long sleeves and a shady hat are recommended.

Questions about the food?

The lunch menu will be simple, fairly healthy and nature based. We'll have on offer a delicious spread of 'nature food' - salad ingredients with vegetables, carbs, proteins, healthy fats and tasty condiments. You can create your own combinations so all dietary needs are easily accommodated.

If you or anyone in your group have any dietary restrictions or allergies please contact the organiser at bronwyn@natureot.com.au com to advise at least 7 days prior to the event and we will do our best to accommodate you. You are also very welcome to bring your own food and we can provide refrigeration if required.

What's the cancellation policy?

The event will only be cancelled in the case of extreme weather or safety hazards e.g., thunderstorms. If the event is cancelled you will be notified by 8pm the evening prior - by the e-mail you used to register and your registration fee will be refunded (less any booking fees).

We really encourage you to prioritise this wellbeing practice for your self-care and make it important for you to attend once you have booked.

NOTE - you will be required to complete a registration/disclaimer form on arrival prior to the event commencing.

How can I contact the organiser with any questions?

e-mail Bronwyn@natureot.com.au or phone Bronwyn on 0412404700