Our Community
More than a retreat. A place rooted in people.
Our Story
Before Bertha Retreat became a place for rest, reflection and convening, it was home.
The buildings that now welcome guests were once farm workers’ homes, each carrying stories, memories and generations of family life.
When Bertha Retreat opened its doors, we invited the former residents and their families back into the space. With their blessing, different parts of the retreat were named after the families who once lived here—ensuring that their stories remain woven into the fabric of Bertha Retreat.
Because places matter.
But the people who shaped them matter even more.
Then
Now
Built With Community, Not Just For Community
Long before the first guests arrived, conversations began.
As Bertha Retreat was being developed, we worked alongside neighbouring communities, local organisations and partners to understand what was needed most. These conversations shaped everything from how the buildings function to the kinds of spaces we created.
The result is a retreat designed not only for visitors, but as a shared resource for the people who call this area home.
A Space for Communities
At the heart of Bertha Retreat is our Community House— a dedicated space created specifically for local community use.
It exists as a welcoming place where people can gather, learn, create and connect throughout the year.
Whether it’s young people working on school assignments, artists leading workshops or neighbours coming together for celebrations, Community House remains exactly what it was intended to be:
A space that belongs to community.
Community Programmes
Youth Day
Every Youth Day we open our doors to celebrate young people through activities that encourage learning, creativity and connection. These gatherings create opportunities for young people from neighbouring communities to experience Bertha Retreat as a place where they are welcomed, seen and celebrated.
Human Rights Day
Human Rights Day brings people together for conversations, reflection and shared learning around justice, dignity and belonging. The day reminds us that community is strengthened when people have space to listen to one another and imagine a more equitable future together.
Heritage Day
Heritage Day is an opportunity to celebrate the cultures, traditions and stories that make our neighbouring communities so vibrant. Through food, music, storytelling and gathering, we celebrate the richness of our shared heritage.
Growing Creativity
Bertha Retreat proudly hosts Lalela art classes for children from neighbouring communities.
These sessions provide a safe, creative environment where young people can express themselves, build confidence and develop their artistic skills.
The retreat becomes more than a venue that strengthen the communities around us. Thank you for being part.
A Place to Learn
After school, Community House becomes a place of quiet focus.
Students regularly use the space to complete homework, study together and access an environment that supports learning.
Sometimes, the greatest impact a space can have is simply giving young people somewhere welcoming to learn.