About Us
Wollemi Ridge Retreats was born out of a growing disconnect between the modern world and nature.
Origins of the Ridge
Our Story
Before it became Wollemi Ridge Retreats, this special property was known as Tipi World—a place where travelers could stay and experience the area while helping out on Harvest Farms and at the nearby Love Cabins. Built in 2010 by Lionel Bucket (of Love Cabins) and friends, Tipi World quickly grew into a vibrant gathering spot for the community, bringing together hardworking people for shared meals and experiences.
In 2019, the Black Fires swept through Bilpin, leaving much of the area in ruins. Miraculously, the tipis at Tipi World survived the fires completely intact, offering a sense of hope amid the devastation. However, with so much of the community in need of rebuilding, restoring Tipi World was put on hold.
Now, after years of recovery, the property has been reimagined as Wollemi Ridge Retreats. It carries forward the spirit of community Tipi World represents, inviting guests to reconnect with nature and community in a beautiful, peaceful setting.
Meet The Team
Wollemi Ridge Retreats was born from the shared dream of Chris and Sally Dulson Barnes, a husband-and-wife team with a deep love for nature and community. Sally’s connection to Bilpin runs deep—her family, the Powells, were among the first settlers to farm this land. When Sally and Chris met at the Glastonbury Festival in 2017, they quickly discovered a shared love for the outdoors, creativity, and the peace that comes from connecting with nature.
Chris, with his passion for extreme outdoor sports and wild camping, and Sally, an artist at heart who loves bringing people together in beautiful spaces, found themselves inspired to create something special. Together, they envisioned a place where people could slow down, reconnect with nature, and find joy in the wild.
With the support of the Bilpin community and their combined skills, they brought Wollemi Ridge Retreats to life—a unique escape that invites you to relax, recharge, and embrace the beauty of the Australian bush. Here, you’ll find a place where adventure and comfort meet, and where every visitor is welcomed as part of the story.
Sustainability at Wollemi Ridge Retreats
Rooted in regeneration, built with intention.
​
At Wollemi Ridge Retreats, sustainability isn’t an add-on — it’s the heart of how we live and host. Our entire business was created to demonstrate what’s possible when we slow down, live simply, and reconnect with the land.
We don’t just aim to “minimise harm.” Our mission is to regenerate — ecologically, socially, and culturally — through every part of the guest experience.
​
​
How We Keep It Off-Grid and Low Impact
​
-
Solar-powered everything: Our tented accommodation and shared spaces are entirely off-grid, powered by solar.
-
No concrete, no buildings: All structures are temporary or movable — low-impact canvas tent cabins by Homecamp designed for light-on-the-land living.
-
Water sourced from the sky: We collect and use rainwater for all retreat needs.
-
Composting and greywater systems: Waste is composted or safely filtered, keeping our waterways clean and soil replenished.
-
Zero single-use plastics: From your toothbrush cup to your teacup, everything is reusable, compostable, or lovingly hand-washed.
Low-Waste, Slow Food Philosophy
​
We cook and serve food in ways that avoid waste and celebrate simplicity:
-
Local produce is bought in bulk or direct from growers (like Harvest Farms, our key partner).
-
We repurpose offcuts, cook over fire, and serve most meals family-style.
-
All retreat snacks and drinks are plastic-free and presented in reusable or compostable containers.
-
​
Experiences That Don’t Cost the Earth
​
Our activities focus on connection, not consumption. Guests walk, forage, chop wood, cook slow meals, journal, rest. We don’t offer quad bikes or air-con; we offer misty morning walks and stars.
​
How Guests Can Help
​
You don’t need to be an eco-expert to contribute. You can:
-
Carpool or take public transport as far as you can.
-
Pack light and reuse what you bring.
-
Support the local growers, producers and artists we showcase during your stay.
-
​
Why We Care
​
The bush gives us so much — quiet, clarity, resilience. At Wollemi Ridge, we believe that once you feel this connection, protecting it becomes second nature.
This isn’t just a place to stay. It’s a way to learn how to live a little lighter — and leave with more than you came with.
