DEMBAYA Women’s Drumming Retreat
November 14-16th, 2025
Mid-North Coast, NSW
Immerse yourself in rhythm, nature, & soulful connection.
DEMBAYA (‘family’ in Malinké) is about connection and community!
Join us for a weekend of rhythm magic on a beautiful private 55 acre property hosted by the gorgeous Paul and Sarah. The venue is in the bushland behind Sandy Beach (you can pop down for a swim between sessions!).
Prepare to go on an immersive rhythmic journey…
The weekend is designed to:
Get you more deeply connected with your own sense of rhythm.
Enhance your understanding of West African music and culture.
Allow you to explore traditional & contemporary West African rhythms and arrangements on djembe and dunun (drums played with sticks).
Equip you with more breaks, solos, & songs for rhythms.
Give you the opportunity to meet and connect with women who also love to drum. My favourite people!
Move, drum, eat, relax, drum… repeat.
Each morning we will be guided by Natalie Almond (anahatayogaspace.com) - Wellness Retreat Leader, Yoga Teacher, and Wellness Coach bringing over 30 years of experience in a variety of modalities including yoga, Chi Kung, meditation, & breath work. We will awaken our body and clear our minds - ready to drum!
The amazing Ginny will be wowing us each day with a feast for us to enjoy during our lunch break. This is time to dine, relax, & connect.
If you are new to drumming or haven’t drummed in a while… you will be taken care of.
Simone will ensure that everyone gets what they need - all levels are welcome.
To stay onsite view Yellow Butterfly options on Hipcamp (button below).
Book your spot and organise payment by getting in contact with Paul & Sarah directly via the links below.
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Friday
3:30pm - 5:30pm Welcome & DRUMMING CLASS
Saturday
9am - 9:45am YOGA/mindful movement
10am - 12:30pm DRUMMING (incl. a break w/ snacks provided)
12:30 - 2pm LUNCH / RELAX
2:00- 3:30pm DRUMMING
Sunday
9am - 9:45am YOGA/mindful movement
10am - 12:30pm DRUMMING (incl. a break w/ snacks provided)
12:30 - 2pm LUNCH / RELAX
2:00- 3:30pm DRUMMING
3:30pm CELEBRATE with a glass of bubbles & nibbles (provided)
*If you are staying onsite, liaise with Paul & Sarah as to your check in time.
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We are again going to be at the incredible wildlife sanctuary that is Yellow Butterfly (Sanctuary at Sandy), hosted by Paul and Sarah. These two are exceptional hosts and we are so very grateful that they have welcomed us back.
You can find out all the info about the camping options over at the Hipcamp website. Book directly with Paul and Sarah via the buttons below.
The 55 acre property has a number of camping spots (way more than those listed on Hipcamp) and communal facilities include a covered outdoor camp kitchen, an amenities block with composting toilet and hot showers, and a fire circle/ seating area.
Please note: due to the abundance of wildlife, pets are not permitted on the property.
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COSTS
Full retreat (Fri - Sun) $290
Saturday or Sunday $160
Friday class $60
Remember to let Simone know if you need drum.
PAYMENTS for classes can be made:
on booking
via EFT with the details provided in the email confirmation you receive on booking, or
with cash at the retreat.
Please book in online however you are going to pay.
Camping bookings & payments are to be made with Paul & Sarah and the options can be viewed on HIPCAMP.