Once an outcast, Gary Semple has discovered a new tribe deep in the bush and he’s discovering a new peace. It’s truly a kaleidoscopic space and stimulating environment where camaraderie and conversation flourish. Founded in 1997 by Vietnam veterans, the retreat offers a peaceful refuge for veterans to unite and find inner peace. It’s focused on serving veterans, but open to people from all backgrounds. This forms a rich tapestry of community connected through common experiences and narratives.
Members meet every Tuesday at the Cawarral property for a working bee. Whether it’s a leaky roof repair project or creating garden beds, they dig in wherever they are needed. This shared work helps care for the retreat’s land, beauty and resources, and it deepens the connections among participants.
A Unique Gathering Space
Located in the center of the retreat, you’ll find the “Table of Knowledge.” Here, guests come to connect with one another and exchange ideas and inspirations. This relaxed environment fosters an honest conversation where everyone develops a personal connection. Retreat participant Colin Beeton calls the retreat a relaxing space to rejuvenate. It’s an area where you’re able to come and just have a yarn and sort of just forget about it more or less. The ambience invites calm and kindness, offering a much-needed respite from the stress of everyday life.
Gary is now a passionate supporter of the retreat and has expressed his desire to help in any way possible. “We don’t sit down and have big talking sessions about our dramas, but I think you do gradually get rid of some of the incidents that end up bothering you,” he remarked. This feeling is shared by countless others who feel at home just being themselves, laughing and making jokes.
The retreat has an Australia-wide membership of more than 650 people and at least 14 similar properties across the state of Queensland alone. Such growth reflects the increasing recognition of the importance of mental health support for veterans and others affected by trauma.
The Legacy of Bruce Acutt
The land for the retreat was made possible by the late Bruce Acutt, who dedicated much of his life to assisting war veterans throughout his psychology career. In order to create this safe haven he fenced off a 1-hectare piece of land from his farm. Acutt’s legacy lives on, inspiring each and every person who walks through the retreat. Every day, of course, members further fulfill his dream by creating an atmosphere for reflection and connection.
Bob Holmes, a veteran who served in Vietnam, understands what makes it hard to talk about the past. “It was hard to talk about my experiences for 25 years,” he admitted. He’s adamant that places like the bush retreat are one essential way to help people sort through their grief. “They sit there and just talk about things, and that’s what the place is about,” Holmes explained.
Holmes is especially looking forward to some younger people leading the way at the retreat to help inspire and engage their peers. He hopes to create more connections between generations. To this end, he hopes to continue having veterans’ wisdom and experiences shared with future generations. “A lot has changed with that, and now I think everyone’s proud to be called a Vietnam vet,” he stated.
A Place for All
This retreat is inextricably tied to its founding pasture along with its roots among Vietnam veterans. Contrary to these negative images, it is a space that embraces and uplifts all who are seeking refuge. Gary Semple drove home the point that the conversation in the room isn’t about Vietnam, it’s about healing. “We don’t talk about Vietnam or anything … we just love being here,” he affirmed.
This warm environment creates a perfect backdrop for people from all disciplines and walks of life to bond through shared passions and life experiences. And via the replies, many find comfort in knowing they’re not the only ones struggling. “Even in the Army Reserves, it never really affected my life because you never talked about it,” Semple noted, highlighting the importance of safe spaces where individuals can express themselves without judgment.
The retreat’s importance goes far deeper than just socialization. It is a healing space for so many. As Gary Semple pointed out, “It doesn’t take a real lot for people to become traumatized.” The retreat’s existence is a reminder of the need for communities that allow people to heal mutually.
