Sacred Aboriginal Women's Healing Weekend on Wiradjuri Country NSW

FAQs

• Who is Yawarra Migay for?

  Yawarra Migay is a women-only gathering open to women of all walks of life, backgrounds and origins. No previous experience with Aboriginal culture, ceremony, meditation, healing or creative practice is required.

  You simply need to come with an open heart, an open mind and respect for the cultural teachings being shared.

• Do I need to be Aboriginal or Indigenous to attend?

  No. Women of all backgrounds are welcome to gather on Wiradjuri Country and learn through the teachings, stories, ceremony and guidance shared by Diyan — with respect for Aboriginal culture and Country.

• Is this a retreat or a cultural experience?

  We like to say: we are not retreating — we are returning.
  Yawarra Migay is a small women's gathering centred around cultural teachings, ceremony, connection to Country, creative expression and reflection. It isn't a conventional wellness retreat with a fixed schedule of yoga, meditation or workshops — the weekend is designed to flow with the group, Country and the elements.

• Who is Diyan Coe?

  Diyan Coe is a teacher and storyteller and a proud Wiradjuri and Kuku-Yalanji woman. Her birthright country is Gadigal Country, Eora Nation (Sydney), and she grew up on the Erambie Mission in Cowra, NSW.
  An artist and intuitive healer, she shares cultural teachings, ceremony and healing practices from her own lived experience, cultural knowledge and lineage. Read more about Diyan here.

• What happens during the Ochre Healing Ceremony?

  The Ochre Healing Ceremony is a sacred ceremony guided by Diyan. Ochre is a natural earth pigment with deep cultural significance to First Nations peoples.

  The ceremony provides an opportunity to connect with Country, participate in a traditional healing practice and mark the beginning of the weekend.

  Specific elements of ceremony are experienced on the day and are guided by Diyan.

• Do I have to participate in every activity?

  No.

  Everything is a choice. You are welcome to participate in the activities offered, take some quiet time for yourself, rest, or simply connect with Country.

  The sunrise activities at 6am are also optional.

• What if I don't want to swim?

  That's completely fine. The natural-water experience is weather permitting and participation is optional. You can simply enjoy the surrounding Country and bush learning without swimming.

• What happens if the weather is bad?

  Go with the flow!

  The program is designed to work with the elements rather than against them. Outdoor activities may be adapted, changed or moved depending on weather and Country conditions.

  Some activities, such as swimming in natural waters, are specifically weather permitting.

• Where is the weekend held?

  On Wiradjuri Country in and around Cowra, NSW — about 4.5 hours' drive from Sydney. Locations for each activity are shared during the weekend.

• How do I get there?

  Please arrange your own travel to Cowra.

  If you don't have transport, let us know. We can assist with connecting women who may be able to carpool from Sydney or other locations.

• What time should I arrive on Friday?

  Please arrive in Cowra by 5:00pm Friday. Motel check-in opens from 2:00pm.

  
  Welcome to Country begins at 6:00pm sharp, so arriving on time honours the ceremony and the flow of the group. If an unavoidable delay comes up, please contact Elisa as soon as possible.

• What accommodation is provided?

  Two nights in motel accommodation in Cowra township. Choose your room when you select your ticket — twin share or a queen solo room. It's best to book early for your preferred option.

• Do I have to share a room?

  No. Queen solo rooms are available — select that ticket type when booking, while they last.

• What food is included?

  Fresh, nourishing vegetarian meals are provided for Saturday breakfast and lunch, and Sunday breakfast, plus a group dinner in Cowra town on Saturday night. Tea and water are provided throughout. Friday dinner isn't included: BYO, or join the optional group dinner in Cowra (own cost)

• What if I have dietary requirements?

  Please let us know your dietary requirements when booking so we can plan accordingly.

• Can I bring my own snacks?

  Absolutely. Bring your own, or pick some up from Cowra's cafés and supermarket.

• Do I need to be fit?

  No particular level of fitness is required.

  There will be walking and time outdoors on Country, so you should be comfortable with gentle walking and being outside in changing weather conditions.

  If you have any mobility considerations, please contact us before booking so we can discuss what is possible.

• Will I have to share personal experiences with the group?

  No. The weekend includes reflection and creative activities, but you are never required to share anything you don't want to share. You can participate at your own level.

• What should I expect to feel or experience?

  Everyone's experience will be different.

  You may experience connection, stillness, emotion, insight, joy, grounding or simply the pleasure of slowing down and being in nature.

  There is no particular outcome you need to achieve. Come as you are and allow the weekend to unfold.

• Are the teachings suitable if I know very little about Aboriginal culture?

  Absolutely. No prior knowledge is required.

  The weekend is an opportunity to listen and learn directly through storytelling, ceremony, connection to Country and creative practice.

• Can I take photos during the weekend?

  Please follow Diyan's guidance regarding photography.

  Some cultural activities and ceremonies may not be photographed or recorded. We ask everyone to respect any instructions given during the weekend.

• Can I record the teachings?

  No recording of cultural teachings, ceremonies or activities should take place unless Diyan specifically gives permission.

  This helps honour the cultural knowledge being shared and the integrity of the experience.

• Are there any optional activities?

  Yes. Depending on availability, you can book a one-on-one session during the weekend, arranged and paid for on the day:

  • Personal Tarot Reading (30 min) with Erin, co-host of our Women's Tarot Circle

  • Pranic Healing (45 min) with Elisa, co-host of this event.

• Is this suitable for someone attending alone?

  Yes.

  Many women attend these kinds of gatherings without knowing anyone beforehand. The weekend is intentionally designed to create connection between the women who attend.

  Come alone, and leave with your sistas.

• Who can I contact if I have a question before booking?

  If you have any questions about the weekend, accommodation, accessibility, dietary requirements or whether the experience is right for you, please reach out before booking.

  We are happy to answer your questions.