Autumn Retreat: The Tower

Thursday 2 April – Monday 6 April

The Tower

A retreat led by Bodhidasa

‘“You are hardworking—help me build a tower to offer my son,” said Marpa.

The story of Milarepa’s tower stands as a timeless symbol of endurance, service, and inner change. His unwavering perseverance through hardship continues to inspire all who face daunting challenges. Yet this tale holds more treasures to be uncovered—hidden meanings that bridge the symbolism of Himalayan Buddhism with echoes of the Western mystical tradition.

Join Bodhidasa for a four day retreat exploring how to construct and deconstruct The Tower through study, reflection, devotion, and the stupa visualisation practice.

Bodhidasa is a member of the Triratna Buddhist order who leads retreats, classes, and courses at the Sydney Buddhist Centre, emphasizing the role of devotion in the spiritual life.

We hope you can join us on our Autumn Retreat in the beautiful setting of Glenbarr, just outside Strathalbyn. There is dormitory style accommodation available, and there is also the opportunity to camp onsite.

Please note: This retreat is best suited to those with some experience of Triratna and are familiar with the Triratna approach to the Dharma. Please contact us if you are unsure if the retreat will be suitable for you.

Book Now: $450 / $330

We want everyone to have the opportunity to come on retreat. If you cannot afford the cost, we may be able to help. Please contact us to discuss.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to be a Buddhist or have any meditation experience?

You dont have to be a Buddhist to attend this retreat, but it is aimed at those with some experience of meditation, preferably as taught by Triratna. If you would like to come on the retreat, but havent been to a Triratna event yet, please come along on one of our Tuesday evening classes, or if thats not possible, contact us via email on info at adelaidetriratna dot com.

What does the cost include?

The retreat cost covers the full cost of the retreat, including all food.

When does the retreat start and end?

The retreat will begin with dinner on the Thursday evening at 6pm. You are welcome to arrive any time from 5pm. It is normally not advisable to plan to arrive later than this. If you think you might need to, please contact us before booking.

We will finish on Monday morning, just before lunch.

What will the accommodation be like?

Glenbarr provides simple, but comfortable accommodation. Living communally is an important and enjoyable part of the retreat. We will be in shared single-sex rooms with 2-4 people in each, and will eat together communally.

Living communally means caring for each other. The team leading the retreat are volunteers who are on retreat as well and we will ask you to help out with simple chores. Working together is a good way of getting to know each other, and it also helps us keep the cost of the retreat to a minimum.

There is also the opportunity to camp onsite.

Can I have a single room?

In order to allow us to accommodate as many people as want to come, we are not normally able to provide single rooms. If you have a very special circumstance which requires a single room for you to be able to attend, please contact us before booking to discuss.

What will the food be like?

Many Buddhists practice veganism as an expression of non-violence. As such, all food will be vegan.

If you have any allergies that aren't listed on the booking form, please contact us before booking to ensure we can cater for you.

What do I need to bring?

Please bring your own sheets and/or a sleeping bag (pillows and blankets are provided).

It can be surprisingly cold in the early mornings and evenings, and quite hot in the middle of the day, so bring clothes suitable for all weather: we suggest you bring layers as well as a warm jumper or jacket and a sun hat.

In addition you'll need to bring any toiletries you need including a towel, insect repellent, and sun block. It is also a good idea to bring a torch if you have one and you may also want to bring a notebook and pen.

How To Get Here

The retreat is at Glebarr, about 45 minutes south-west of Adelaide in the quiet rural countryside near Strathalbyn.

Driving

Take the Freeway towards the Adelaide Hills and exit at Mount Barker. Follow Wellington Road for approximately 5km through to Wistow. Turn right to Strathalbyn (along the B37) following this road for another 15km into Strathalbyn. Veer to the right at the first roundabout. When you reach the intersection of North Parade and Manse Road turn right and follow this road to the North. The Glenbarr gateway is 100m past the Vet surgery on the left hand side of Paris Creek Road.