Slow down, look closely, and experience the health and wellbeing benefits of time spent in nature at the beautiful Endeavour Fern Gully — a rare remnant fern gully in Red Hill.
Facilitated by Dr Kathleen Bagot of Nothing Like Nature, this three-hour retreat combines a gentle guided wander through natural bushland with a watercolour nature journaling workshop. You’ll be encouraged to observe with a mindful, artist’s eye while exploring creative techniques that deepen your connection to the landscape.
No art or science background is required. If you can hold a pencil or brush, you can nature journal. Blending science, creativity and mindfulness, this immersive session offers a restorative way to engage with one of the Mornington Peninsula’s most significant natural environments.
Spanning 28 hectares, Endeavour Fern Gully is one of four natural landscapes cared for by the National Trust of Australia (Victoria). The National Trust works to foster community connection and wellbeing through these special places. The gully is among the few surviving areas of indigenous bushland on red basaltic soil in the region, supporting rare plant species and providing vital habitat for a diverse range of birds and wildlife.
Helpful Information
- Suitable for beginners and experienced participants
- All supplies provided, including watercolour pencils and paints, with tips, templates and techniques shared
- Light refreshments — herbal tea and homemade treats — available during the journaling component
- Please note this is primarily an outdoor session. Wear clothing and footwear suitable for walking in natural bushland, where some sections may be steep or slippery. Keep your hands free for safety. Part of the workshop will be held indoors at the Nearkey Biik Education Centre onsite.
Session Leader
Dr Kathleen Bagot holds a PhD in Environmental Psychology and brings a deep understanding of how environments influence our thoughts, feelings and behaviours. She is a certified Forest Therapy guide, mindfulness facilitator and nature journaling educator who specialises in the transformative benefits of time spent in nature for both adults and children.
