More than 150 children, siblings, parents and grandparents from Early Learning to Year 6 joined staff for the annual picnic to experience IGS in nature. Families commented on the peaceful serenity of the property – arriving to enjoy expansive grassy and tree laden spaces to set out picnic rugs alongside other IGS families – new introductions being made and time spent with friends too.
During the picnic, children and their families had the unique opportunity to join an outdoor workshop led by Aaron and Jacob, local Aboriginal custodians from Ghadhungal Marring. They shared their deep knowledge of the land, teaching us how to respectfully gather ochre and create traditional ochre handprints by splattering the pigment. These handprints serve as personal signatures, each one uniquely representing the individual. The colour of the ochre holds cultural significance, reflecting the landscape: coastal communities, known as saltwater people, use different shades than the freshwater people who live further inland.
After, Aaron and Jacob led families to participate in a range of dances, including a female dance about the willy wag tail bird delivering messages and a male dance about spearfishing.
Some families also participated in an engaging music and movement workshop in the Yurt, led by Early Learning Music Specialist Vanessa Hill. The session featured the singing and storytelling of Banjo Patterson’s iconic Waltzing Matilda, alongside hands-on activities such as weaving, painting, and various crafts. Participants also embraced their creativity by constructing imaginative shelters for toy insects, using natural materials gathered from the surrounding property, fostering a deep connection with both music and nature.
Cold drinks and delicious wood-fired pizza proved to be a crowd favourite for lunch. While some families enjoyed the picnic as a day trip to IGS Kangaroo Valley, others shared their plans to extend their stay, exploring the picturesque Shoalhaven and Southern Highlands. Nearby towns such as Robertson and Gerringong were popular choices for weekend getaways, allowing families to immerse themselves in the beauty of the region.
A heartfelt thank you to all the families who joined us for this memorable picnic day.
We hope you enjoyed the experience and would love to hear your feedback so we can continue to plan enjoyable family picnics at the Retreat in years to come! Please see the brief feedback form here – we’d be grateful to receive your feedback.