Estate
Workshops & Retreats
Just 15 minutes from Canberra, Goolabri offers a peaceful bushland setting for workshops, retreats and small group gatherings. With a range of indoor and outdoor venues across 300 acres of gardens, parkland and bushland, it provides an inspiring environment for learning, creativity and reflection.
Whether you're hosting a yoga retreat, art workshop, music gathering or outdoor learning experience, Goolabri offers spaces where people can step away from everyday distractions and focus on the experience.
Our Offering
Flexible spaces for group sessions
Choose from indoor and outdoor areas suited to workshops, movement, creative sessions or group discussions.
A setting that supports focus and reflection
The quiet bushland environment provides space to step away from distractions and engage more deeply in the experience.
A blank canvas for your workshop
Start with the space and shape your session around your plans, whether you're running a one-day workshop or a retreat-style event.
A calm and considered environment
Goolabri offers a setting that supports learning, creativity and connection without feeling overly structured or commercial.
Group Session Spaces
Workshops and group sessions can take place across a range of indoor and outdoor environments.
・The Garden Room & Chapel
・The Wren
Outdoor Practice Areas
Open spaces across the grounds are suited to movement, reflection and outdoor sessions.
・Goolabri Estate Grounds
Breakout & Reflection Spaces
Quieter areas allow participants to step away, reflect or connect in smaller groups.
・Gardens and surrounding areas
Discover how our spaces can be used
Across the grounds you'll find several spaces suited to workshops, group sessions and retreat-style gatherings. Each offers a different atmosphere while allowing the natural surroundings to support focus and connection.
Explore our venues
Each venue at Goolabri has its own character and setting. Some are suited to quiet indoor sessions, while others provide open outdoor spaces for movement, creativity or group activities.
The Wren
120 seated ・ 180 standing
Workshops ・ Indoors ・ Group Sessions
An intimate venue suited to smaller workshops and discussions. A warm indoor space suited to smaller workshops, discussions and group work.
・ Indoor space for workshops and discussion
・ Lounge areas for smaller groups
・ Terrace for breakout sessions
・ Restrooms
The Wedgetail Pavilion
450 seated ・ 1000 standing
Workshop ・ Retreats ・ Group Sessions
A spacious venue suited to larger workshops and group sessions. A flexible indoor–outdoor venue suited to larger workshops, group sessions and retreat-style gatherings.
・ Large open space for group sessions
・ Indoor–outdoor flexibility
・ Stage or focal area for facilitation
・ Sound system available
・ Breakout areas nearby
・ Restrooms
The Garden Room
80 seated ・ 120 standing
Workshops ・ Indoors ・ Group Sessions
A light-filled indoor space suited to focused sessions. An airy indoor venue suited to focused sessions and small group work.
・ Indoor space with natural light
・ Suitable for seated or movement sessions
・ P.A. system available
・ Restrooms
The Lawn
80 seated ・ 160 standing
Workshops ・ Outdoors ・ Group Sessions
An open outdoor space suited to movement and group activities. A natural outdoor setting suited to movement, reflection and group activities.
・ Open space for movement or outdoor sessions
・ Suitable for group activities
・ Natural, quiet setting
Goolabri Estate Grounds
Flexible capacity 5000+
Workshop ・ Outdoor ・ Retreats
300 acres of bushland and gardens for retreats and outdoor sessions. The wider grounds offer space for outdoor sessions, reflection and retreat-style experiences.
・ Extensive outdoor areas for retreat use
・ Quiet spaces for reflection
・ Natural bushland environment
・ Flexible use across the property
・ Camping available for multi-day events
We do things differently at Goolabri. That's what people love. We provide the space for you to create your vision. We let you do you.
Your workshop, your way
What will your event look like?
At Goolabri we provide the venue while facilitators shape the workshop around their plans. Events here work a little differently to traditional venues — there are no fixed packages and you only pay for what you actually need.
This approach works well for facilitators who prefer flexibility in how their workshop is structured. While we don’t provide event planning or setup, we’re always happy to recommend trusted suppliers who know the venue well.
Most of the information you need is already here on our website, and we’re always happy to answer any additional questions.
Take a look through the steps below and you’ll be well prepared to build your quote and plan your event.
Choose your spaces
Select the spaces and timing for your event
Choose your catering
Work with the caterer that suits your event
Choose your styling
Create the atmosphere you want for the day
Choose your beverage service
Decide how your bar will operate
Choose your entertainment
Bring your celebration to life
Workshop & Retreat Venue Hire Inclusions
Goolabri provides the venue and the essentials, with the flexibility to add what you need and choose what suits your event.
Inclusions
Everything here is included with your venue hire
Your selected venue space
The space you’ve chosen for your ceremony, reception or event.
Exclusive access to Goolabri Estate Grounds
Enjoy private use of the surrounding gardens, bushland and open areas.
Access to gardens and surrounding areas for photography
Plenty of natural locations across the property for photos throughout the day.
Complimentary rain check
If weather impacts your photos, you’re welcome to return for a follow-up session.
Ambient event lighting and house lighting
Soft lighting throughout the venue to create a relaxed atmosphere into the evening.
Free on-site parking
Ample parking available for guests within the property.
Restroom facilities
Accessible facilities located within or near your venue.
Waste and recycling bins
A set number of bins is provided for general use during your event.
PA system for speeches and background audio
Suitable for speeches and simple audio during your event.
Optional Extras
These are the additional items available through Goolabri — you'll have the option to add these items to your quote.
Furniture
Chairs for dining & ceremony
Dining tables
Bar tables
Vintage rattan lounges
Cutlery
Dinnerware
Table linen & napkins
White table linen and napkins ready to be folded as you choose
Finishing kitchen
For caterers to use in The Wedgetail Pavilion or The Wren
Cutlery & dinnerware
Two or three course settings
Catering packages
Choice of 3 catering packages. Details on quote form.
Tea & coffee facilities
This includes a selection of pod coffees and a selection of teas, fresh milk
Outdoor gas heaters
Ideal for keeping guests comfortable during cooler evenings.
Bluetooth
Allows you to stream music directly through the venue system. Booking in advance ensures it’s ready when you need it.
Data projector
Includes projection screen
Your Choice
You have the freedom to choose your preferred suppliers for your event
Practical Considerations
To help your event run smoothly, a few practical elements will need to be arranged
A single point of contact for the event
Someone to coordinate suppliers and timing on the day.
Cleaning (either arranged or self-managed)
Arrange cleaning or organise a team to reset the space after your event.
Event insurance
One-off cover for your event, typically simple to organise.
Your selected venue space
The space you’ve chosen for your ceremony, reception or event.
Exclusive access to Goolabri Estate Grounds
Enjoy private use of the surrounding gardens, bushland and open areas.
Access to gardens and surrounding areas for photography
Plenty of natural locations across the property for photos throughout the day.
Complimentary rain check
If weather impacts your photos, you’re welcome to return for a follow-up session.
Ambient event lighting and house lighting
Soft lighting throughout the venue to create a relaxed atmosphere into the evening.
Free on-site parking
Ample parking available for guests within the property.
Restroom facilities
Accessible facilities located within or near your venue.
Waste and recycling bins
A set number of bins is provided for general use during your event.
PA system for speeches and background audio
Suitable for speeches and simple audio during your event.
Workshop & Retreat Venue Hire Inclusions
Goolabri provides the venue and the essentials, with the flexibility to add what you need and choose what suits your event.
Inclusions
Everything here is included with your venue hire
Optional Extras
These are the additional items available through Goolabri — you'll have the option to add these items to your quote.
Your Choice
You have the freedom to choose your preferred suppliers for your event
Practical Considerations
To help your event run smoothly, a few practical elements will need to be arranged
Your selected venue space
The space you’ve chosen for your ceremony, reception or event.
Exclusive access to Goolabri Estate Grounds
Enjoy private use of the surrounding gardens, bushland and open areas.
Access to gardens and surrounding areas for photography
Plenty of natural locations across the property for photos throughout the day.
Complimentary rain check
If weather impacts your photos, you’re welcome to return for a follow-up session.
Ambient event lighting and house lighting
Soft lighting throughout the venue to create a relaxed atmosphere into the evening.
Free on-site parking
Ample parking available for guests within the property.
Restroom facilities
Accessible facilities located within or near your venue.
Waste and recycling bins
A set number of bins is provided for general use during your event.
PA system for speeches and background audio
Suitable for speeches and simple audio during your event.
Furniture
Chairs for dining & ceremony
Dining tables
Bar tables
Vintage rattan lounges
Cutlery
Dinnerware
Table linen & napkins
White table linen and napkins ready to be folded as you choose
Finishing kitchen
For caterers to use in The Wedgetail Pavilion or The Wren
Cutlery & dinnerware
Two or three course settings
Catering packages
Choice of 3 catering packages. Details on quote form.
Tea & coffee facilities
This includes a selection of pod coffees and a selection of teas, fresh milk
Outdoor gas heaters
Ideal for keeping guests comfortable during cooler evenings.
Bluetooth
Allows you to stream music directly through the venue system. Booking in advance ensures it’s ready when you need it.
Data projector
Includes projection screen
A single point of contact for the event
Someone to coordinate suppliers and timing on the day.
Cleaning (either arranged or self-managed)
Arrange cleaning or organise a team to reset the space after your event.
Event insurance
One-off cover for your event, typically simple to organise.
Frequently Asked Questions
Events at Goolabri are flexible and self-directed. A few key things to keep in mind:
・ We provide the venue, while you shape the event around your plans
・ There are no fixed packages — you choose what to include
・ You’re free to work with your own suppliers
・ We’re happy to recommend trusted professionals who know the venue well
The FAQs below cover the practical details to help you plan your event.
Does Goolabri provide event planning?
Goolabri is a venue hire space, which means you have the flexibility to organise your event in your own way. Many couples enjoy choosing their own catering, styling and suppliers.
Is this a dry-hire venue?
Yes — Goolabri operates as a flexible venue hire space. You choose how your event comes together and only pay for what you need.
What’s included with venue hire?
Venue hire includes access to your chosen space along with essential facilities such as:
• the venue itself
• ambient house lighting
• a professional P.A. system
• restroom facilities
Additional items and services can be added depending on your needs.Which items are included and which are optional?
Venue hire covers the essentials, while furniture, styling elements and additional equipment can be added as optional extras depending on your plans.
Will I be paying for anything I don’t need?
No — the pricing model is designed so you only pay for what you choose to include. You can adjust your quote at any time to suit your plans and budget.
How can I access your preferred suppliers?
We’re happy to share recommendations for trusted suppliers who know the venue well. These are typically provided once you begin planning or during your venue tour.
What’s the next step?
Once you’ve explored the website and built a quote, the next step is to book a venue tour. This gives you a chance to see the spaces in person and ask any remaining questions.
Does Goolabri provide catering?
Goolabri does not provide catering. This allows you to choose a catering style that suits your event, whether that’s a formal dinner, shared plates or food vans.
Can we choose our own caterer?
Yes — you’re welcome to choose the caterer that suits your event. Many couples use food vans or mobile caterers for a more relaxed style of celebration.
Does the P.A. system come with someone to operate it?
The P.A. system is provided as part of the venue hire, but it does not include a sound technician or operator. It’s suitable for simple use such as speeches or background music.
If your event involves live music or more complex audio, we recommend engaging a professional sound technician. We’re happy to suggest providers who are familiar with the venue.Is the P.A. system included?
A basic P.A. system is included with venue hire. Additional audio or technical equipment can be arranged if needed.
Why does Bluetooth need to be booked in advance?
Bluetooth access is scheduled to ensure reliable use during your event. Booking in advance helps make sure everything is ready when you need it.
Will there be Goolabri staff on the day?
Goolabri staff will be present at key times to support the operation of the venue and ensure everything runs smoothly.
What parking is available?
Ample free parking is available on site. For larger events, it’s helpful to arrange attendants to guide guests on arrival.
Who is responsible for cleaning?
You’re responsible for leaving the venue as you found it. This can be done by hiring a cleaner or organising it yourselves. A cleaning deposit is required at booking.
Do we need insurance?
Yes — you’ll need to arrange one-off Event Public & Products Liability insurance. This is usually straightforward and typically costs between $220 and $450.
Is everywhere accessible by wheelchair?
All venues are accessible.There are easy paved surfaces to The Wren, Garden Room & Ceremony Lawn. To access the Wedgetail Pavilion we provide accessible parking next to the venue. See our Visiting Goolabri page for more detail.
Where is Goolabri and how do guests get there?
Goolabri is located just 15 minutes from Canberra. Guests typically arrive by car, taxi or rideshare depending on the event.
Can guests get taxis or rideshares to and from Goolabri?
Yes — taxis and rideshare services are available, although availability may vary later in the evening.
What facilitators say
Excellent venue nestled in nature
Swiftwalker
Wonderful hosts!
Michell
Brigdens
A beautiful venue run by great people
Andrew
Downs
Great service, beautiful venue
Prue
McCormack
A cozy and intimate venue for functions
Jen
Blake
Absolutely beautiful!
Melissa
Britten
Top location. Owners have turned it on
Chris
Atkinson
Beautiful setting
Chaz
Lewis
An incredible location for any event
Capoiera Angola
Canberra
A great wedding and function venue just at the ACT/NSW border
Boban
Vadakkayil
An amazing venue
Bec
M
Five stars is not enough to give our experience at Goolabri
David
Strickland
Goolabri's wedding and conference centre is brilliant
Mike
Marshall
Very spacious and clean place with a big sitting area and peaceful environment
Kulwinder
Kaur
Book your workshop or retreat at Goolabri today
Every workshop at Goolabri is a little different. Explore pricing by building a quote and book a venue tour to start planning your event.