NT Writers Festival Retreat
The NT Writers Festival has partnered with Arts Tours of Australia to offer writers an unparalleled experience. With three days of immersive writing workshops and cultural experiences, followed by four days of festival events, this retreat provides unique inspiration and meaningful connections for writers of all backgrounds in the beauty of Mparntwe/Alice Springs.
Key Information
Dates: 25th May – 1st June 2025
Cost: $5,000pp – inclusive of accommodation, meals and an all-access Festival Pass
Capacity: Limited to 15 participants *please note, the retreat is subject to minimum attendance
Itinerary Overview
Sunday 25th May – Thursday 29th May
Award winning tour guide and founder of Art Tours of Australia, Anna Dakin, will guide you through breathtaking landscapes and cultural tours alongside renowned author, Mary Anne Butler, who will facilitate writing workshops to further develop your skills.
Tour highlights include:
- Three-day writing workshops tailored to writers of all backgrounds.
- Cultural tours and the opportunity to connect with the work of local Arrernte authors.
- Inspiring short walks exploring Trephina Gorge and N’Dhala Gorge.
- Guided stargazing of the East MacDonnell Ranges.
- Incredible bush food experiences.
- Araluen Arts Centre visit to delve into the history of Contemporary Aboriginal art movement.
Thursday 29th May – Sunday 1st June
Enjoy an all-access pass to the NT Writers Festival with talks from writers, engaging events, panel discussions and more, with inclusive accomodation only 800m away.
Additional highlights include:
- Complimentary shuttle services to and from your accomodation and the festival.
- Exclusive access to the NT Writers’ Festival artists breakfast; your chance to meet the featured writers, authors and speakers at the festival.
- Receive a $75 voucher to the award winning festival bookstore, Red Kangaroo Bookstore.
- Explore the surrounds of Mparntwe with a 2-week NT Parks Pass included in your trip.
Accommodation
- Ross River Bush Style Homestead:
Enjoy a fully catered stay during the writing retreat. - Mercure Alice Springs Resort:
Just a short 800m from the NT Writers Festival venue with a complimentary shuttle service directly to and from the Festival.
For you to organise
- Flights to and from Mparntwe, including airport transfers (taxi, shuttle bus and hotel transfers are available to you).
- Accomodation prior to commencement of the Retreat (discounted rate available at the Mercure for Saturday 24 May).
- Meals during the NT Writers Festival (dining options at Mercure available, as well as other local options).
- Optional: Extend your stay in Central Australia or visit surrounding national landmarks before or after the retreat with your included 2-week NT Parks Pass (contacts provided).
Deposit and Payment
Deposit Requirement
To secure your place at the NTWF Retreat, a 10% deposit ($500) must be received by 13 April 2025. Upon payment, you will receive a confirmation email with further details. Additional information, including schedules and itineraries, will be provided as the Retreat approaches.
Final Payment
The remaining balance of $4,500 must be paid in full by 4 May 2025. You may choose to pay this amount in advance of the deadline. As places are limited, we encourage early booking to secure your spot.
Booking Process
When paying your deposit, you will be required to create an account, which will allow you to complete the remaining payment. A membership with NT Writers’ Centre is not required to participate in the Retreat.
Refund Policy
The NTWF Retreat is subject to minimum attendance numbers. If these numbers are not met by 13 April 2025, full refunds of all deposits will be issued. For more information about our Refund Policy, please email hello@ntwriters.com.au.
Photo credits: Oliver Eclipse.