A list of veterans’ retreats

 Click on the link to view more information about a retreat. Where possible we have provided a page on our website to display some information about the retreat, as well as a Google map to make it easy to find them (This is for information only and does not suggest any recommendation for a particular retreat).

If you have information on a veterans’ retreat somewhere in Australia that is not listed here please click on this link and email us anything you can about it. As long as we have the address and contact information about the retreat we will list it here, but we rely on the sites for the latest information. NOTE: For more information or bookings, please contact the retreat directly. Try searching Facebook or Google if details not listed here.

List of Retreats

This is a list of defence holiday resorts members can visit too:

  1. Army Holidays
  2. RAAF Holidays
  3. Navy Canteens
  4. Defence Holidays NQ

And these are veteran’s retreats:

  • Camp Gregory Veterans Retreat — Situated 30 mins south of Bundaberg lives a relaxing and pristine piece of Australia we call Camp Gregory. A 40 acre rural property adjacent to the Gregory River and 5 minutes drive to Woodgate beach. Owned locally and built by a small network of veterans and supporters who believe that the establishment of a national network of Veterans’ camping retreats Australia-wide will save our nations lives and money. Phone Caretakers Rebecca or Simon 0479728800.
  • Ramon Deeds, Dareton, NSW, 17km from Mildura and 16km from Wentworth.
    Contact:
    The Secretary
    Mail: PO Box 397, Dareton, NSW 2717
    Phone: 03 5027 4447
  • Cockatoo Rise Retreat : CLOSED Call caretaker GREG CARTER T Ph: 0409418332
    Address: 26 High Street McArthur 3286, between Port Fairy and Hamilton Australia.
  • Burdekin Veterans Deep Creek veterans retreat located in Ayre, north Queensland.
  • Zac’s Place is a six bedroom house used as a short / long term accommodation centre in Townsville. No alcohol allowed.
    Tariff: The tariff for staying at Zac‟s Place is $25.00 per night or $150.00 per week. This covers your accommodation but not does include dinner. The meals are normally a light breakfast and lunch.
    Address: 715 Ross River Road, Kirwan, Townsville
    Please note: All accommodation requests are subject to an interview with the House Manager and availability of beds. To arrange interview please phone the Manager, Mrs. Margaret Standfast on PH (07)  4773 6980 or after hours (07) 4723 7022
  • Standown Park is the unique bush camping experience with new, modern facilities, where all campers, motor homers, caravaners and weary travelers are welcome to pull up a stump and meet your old friends or make new ones. Standown Park is half way between Gympie and Tin Can Bay.
    91 Radtke Rd, Kia Ora QLD 4570
    (07) 5486 5144
  • Although Bellthorpe Stays is not a veteran’s retreat, they do give veterans a discount. If you need a relaxing break in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland, Bellthorpe Stays is the place to go.
  • Adavale Veterans Retreat: Nice, clean and cool, comfy accommodation is available at Adavale Veterans Retreat near Quilpie for war veterans, front-liners like police, firemen/women, SES and ambo’s and their partners. Best way for people who have had stressfull situations to deal with in their jobs and duty is to sit back and just let yourself relax around a fire at night with old friends and new or perhaps a hot bath in hot mineralised bore springs. Solar powered, fridges, lights and toilet/showers in each converted container means you can lay down on your bed and read a book, or mix with others doing chores if you choose to.
  • Alaric Outback Retreat — No longer a retreat operated by VVAA Sunshine Coast.
  • Murraguldrie vetereans retreat: The retreat is located in the Murraguldrie State Forest area. The entry is sign posted and is 7 km east of the Hume Highway on the Wagga – Tumbarumba Road and is only 100meters off the main road. Please note the gate is locked. Anyone who wishes to use the facility, phone Gordon on 0428381292
    This Retreat is completely closed during Total Fire Ban periods

Goorambat Veterans Retreat Inc. is located in NE Victoria and provides recreational camping/caravan sites for ADF Veterans & their families. They also have seven accommodation cabins that are used to provide emergency shelter for veterans; however, subject to demand, they may also be available for others to use for recreational purposes. Contact details are Email: email@veteransretreat.com.au, Ph: (03) 9010 6066.

Veterans' retreats of Western Australia
Veterans’ retreats of Western Australia

Madeleine Whitburn has made it easy to find the Veterans Retreats in the state of WA. Visit the website Veterans Retreats of WA website for more information. The retreat is located at Meentheena Station 75km east of Marble Bar in the Pilbara. The aim is to provide a safe location where veterans from the Australian Defense Force and paramilitary services i.e. police, firefighters, and ambulance officers, are able to seek respite from the effects of their war experiences and operational activities through comradeship with their peers.

Cockscomb Veterans Camp in the hills on the southern side of Mt Wheeler. Road access via two-wheel drive and only 30 minutes from Rockhampton. Cockscomb provides a quiet place away from the city, away from all mod cons, a quiet relaxing place to go when you want to get away and get back to some basic living and quality time just kicking back.

McPhersons Plains Alpine Retreat is the perfect accommodation for families to go and ski at Mt Selwyn ski fields. We have a very warm cottage that sleeps up to 10 people and is often used by one or two families at a time who want to ski at mt selwyn with their kids. With a log fire, large kitchen and often snow covered mornings, the SnowGum Cottage at Mcphersons Plains Alpine Retreat is a great place to stay.

Pandanus Park A bush camping retreat for veterans of the Australian Defence Forces at Cape York Peninsula, Queensland –
Contact: Jenny & Geoff
Pandanus
c/- 261 Chevallum Road
Chevallum Qld 4555
– Phone 07 5445 0280

Rocky Creek War Memorial Park — This camp spot is located at Tolga. The Atherton Shire Council maintains it. There is a 72-hour limit and a gold coin donation. There are toilets, barbecue, and non-potable water. It is a memorial site to all soldiers, who trained on  the  tablelands  before  being  sent  overseas.  There  is  a  caretaker  on  site.
Latitude17.18167º S 17º 10′ 54.02″ S
Longitude145.4548º E 145º 27′ 17.35″ E
From Tolga, 5.41kms NW (6.1kms, 6mins driving)
From Kairi, 10.14kms W (14.0kms, 17mins driving)
From Mareeba, 21.01kms S (22.9kms, 20mins driving)
From Dimbulah, 36.84kms E (53.3kms, 58mins driving)

  • Rocky Creek War Memorial Park — This camp spot is located at Tolga. The Atherton Shire Council maintains it. There is a 72-hour limit and a gold coin donation. There are toilets, barbecue, and non-potable water. It is a memorial site to all soldiers, who trained on  the  tablelands  before  being  sent  overseas.  There  is  a  caretaker  on  site.
    Latitude17.18167º S 17º 10′ 54.02″ S
    Longitude145.4548º E 145º 27′ 17.35″ E
    From Tolga, 5.41kms NW (6.1kms, 6mins driving)
    From Kairi, 10.14kms W (14.0kms, 17mins driving)
    From Mareeba, 21.01kms S (22.9kms, 20mins driving)
    From Dimbulah, 36.84kms E (53.3kms, 58mins driving)
  • CORAL HOUSE, 107 Bagot Road, LUDMILLA
    Manager: Jack Hamilton
    Phone: 8948 0050

    Bublacowie Vietnam Veterans Village, SA — A relatively new facility on the Yorke Peninsula – Bublacowie Vietnam Veterans Village operated by a Mr Chris Soar.
    This is a excellent facility in which there is an excellent Military Museum, Accommodation facilities, Chapel and Remembrance Garden/s, and a Camp Kitchen, Dining Room and Bar which are utilised during Commemoration Days (Anzac Day, Long Tan Day & Remembrance Day) The kitchen is of commercial quality and these days are catered for on a professional basis.
    Mr Chris Soar can be contacted on Ph (08) 8853 4379 or at the following address .
    Bublacowie Military Museum and Memorial, PO Box 178 YORKETOWN S.A. 5575

    CAMP ANDREW RUSSELL, SA
    In South Australia is located 35km Sth East of Loxton along the Murray Bridge Road, turn left (or right if coming from Adelaide) onto the Lameroo Road, taking the right fork along the road. The entrance is marked with a cream tractor tyre, just past a road sign.
    There are caravan & camping sites, There are no powered sites. The camp has an ablution building with two flushing toilets and a battery powered shower. You need to heat your water and fill the bucket for your shower. There is a camp kitchen which is screened to keep the bugs out. There is one frig and gas oven. A 6.5Kva generator for power
    You will need a key for access. Contact John Hough mobile 0409 098 093

    Vietnam Veterans Memorial Bush Retreat Tasmania
    DAGO POINT INTERLAKEN
    This Retreat was built in 1989-90 by Vietnam Veterans of Tasmania for the relaxation of all Vietnam Veterans and their families. Mainland Veterans welcome. Situated in the Central Highlands, the Retreat offers peace and quiet all year round. Fishing is at your door stop in Lake Sorell or just a few kilometers away at either the Great Lake or Arthur’s Lake.Retreats are a great healing therapy, and still is for those who take the time to use this facility and just relax. This wonderful Bush Retreat accommodates up to 15 people. The Hut consists of a Kitchen, I Lounge, 5 Bedrooms, Bathroom /Laundry, Carport and undercover BBQ area.
    KITCHEN This has three Fridges (1 Beer), Electric Oven, Hot Water, Crockery, Pots and Pans as well as all utensils, and a large Dining Setting. (Please bring your own food and booze.)
    LOUNGE ROOM Wood Heater, Comfy Lounge Suite, Television, Video, Radio and Stereo.
    BED ROOMS There are three Bedrooms with Double + over- head bunk Beds, also, two bedrooms with Bunk Beds. (Bring your own Linen).
    BATHROOM/LAUNDRY Wheel Chair access to Shower and Toilet. Washing Machine. (Bring your own Toiletries and Towels).
    UNDER COVER BBQ Wood Fired BBQ, Out door Setting, large Cement Fire Pot, Outside Toilet.
    Access to the hut is by Steps at the front door, or the ramp at the Car Port end of the building.
    TO GET THERE
    From HOBART: Travel up the Midland Highway until you get to Oatlands and turn left onto Interlaken Road (C526) and on to Interlaken.
    From LAUNCESTON: Drive down the Midland Highway and turn right at Tunbridge on to (526) or to Oatlands and turn right onto road (527) and onto Interlaken.
    From DEVONPORT: Travel Highway (1) to Deloraine then (A5) to the Steppes (Traversing western shore of Great Lake) Left at the Steppes to road (C527) and” on to Interlaken.
    PLEASE NOTE: If you are staying at the Retreat in Winter, you may get lots of SNOW so be prepared. Don’t forget your CHAINS and a little extra food just in case you get snowed in; also your fishing gear if you like to fish. Great Lake is open all year round.
    HAVE A GREAT STAY
    TARIFF $30.00 per night for the first two people and $5.00 extra per person per night.
    FOR BOOKINGS: Robyn O’Connor — (03) 62240881

    Bruce Rock, WA
    The Shire of Bruce Rock and its town site are situated in the heart of the Wheat belt, 254km east of Perth. It has a population of approximately 700 people, with 1200 people in the shire. Bruce Rock ‘leads the way’ to open spaces and an agricultural experience to be enjoyed by all. We welcome visitors to enjoy the picturesque main street, gardens, amphitheatre and sculpture park, historic buildings, museums, federation style verandahs and great facilities.
    Where to Stay — Bruce Rock Caravan Park – WA
    Latitude31.87556º S 31º 52′ 32? S
    Longitude118.1417º E 118º 08′ 30.01? E
    Location of Bruce Rock Caravan Park
    From Narembeen, 31.79kms NW (39.8kms, 37mins driving)
    From Merredin, 45.61kms S (49.8kms, 44mins driving)
    From Kellerberrin, 48.19kms SE (57.7kms, 45mins driving)
    From Corrigin, 56.91kms NE (67.9kms, 54mins driving)
    Bruce Rock Caravan Park
    Dunstall Street
    Bruce Rock 6418
    Phone 08 9061 1070
    Fax 08 9061 1340

    Camp Hart, WA
    Camp Hart was founded in 1999 as a place where Australian Defence Force Veterans, and their families and friends, could find solitude and /or friendship within the Veteran community year round. More importantly Camp Hart, in conjunction with the Kulin Bush Races, brings together the Veteran Community and the local Wheat belt Country Community.
    TO ENTER CAMP HART follow the signs from Kulin enjoying the display of horses as you drive . Turn left at the races sign and follow the road around for 2 kms. You will see Jilakin Rock on your right and on your left the service entry for The Bush Race personnel only. The Camp Hart entry is approx. 500m on, just before the bend.
    The camp has a four toilet and four shower ablution block- including 1 disabled shower toilet, urinal. There is a fully enclosed “Meet and Greet” area with gas BBQ, 2 pot belly stoves for the cold nights and a 7kva generator for camp facilities only.
    Any enquiries regarding the use of these facilities may be made to:
    President Barry Todd: Home : 08 95348331
    Mobile: 0427 471 541
    Email : b.todd1@bigpond.com
    Vice President Gary Williams: Home : 08 95812681
    Mobile: 0148 945 785
    Email : pecky82@bigpond.com
    Secretary Terry Gott: Home : 08 95817414
    Mobile : 0458 064 337
    Email : terrylynn3@bigpond.com

    Permanent link to this article: https://vietnamvetssc.org.au/a-list-of-veterans-retreats/

    25 comments

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    1. The Goorambat Veterans Retreat Inc. is located in NE Victoria and provides recreational camping/caravan sites for ADF Veterans & their families. They also have seven accommodation cabins that are used to provide emergency shelter for veterans; however, subject to demand, they may also be available for others to use for recreational purposes. Contact details are Email: email@veteransretreat.com.au, Ph: (03) 9010 6066.

      1. Hi Phil, addes to list above. Cheers.

      • GREG CARTER on January 29, 2023 at 7:53 pm
      • Reply

      Good evening, COCKATOO RISE RETREAT in Victoria in NOW CLOSED, if you would like to contact me for details GREG CARTER T 0409418332

      • Josephine on September 23, 2022 at 7:32 pm
      • Reply

      I was wondering if there are any Veterans family retreats anywhere around Taree/ Forster?

        • Dennis FROST on December 28, 2022 at 4:46 pm
        • Reply

        Navy have a holiday set up at Tuncurry/Foster. Only stayed once e but an excellent set up on the lake.

          • on December 29, 2022 at 6:32 am
          • Reply

          Do you have an email address or phone number so we can contact them? We’d like to add them to the list.

      • John Finlay on September 5, 2022 at 6:53 pm
      • Reply

      I think you might find that Cockatoo Rise has closed . I know the golf course is not working.

      • Bee on July 29, 2022 at 5:46 pm
      • Reply

      Do ex NZ army (21 yrs) qualify to use the camps?
      We are starting a circumnavigation trip of Australia (have lived her 10 years) but would like to meet other Srmy personnel

    2. Fantastic list. Thanks for putting this together, just shared it with my mates.

      • Mike Sheahan on October 8, 2021 at 12:48 pm
      • Reply

      Yes Jill

      • Kelly on May 1, 2021 at 2:46 pm
      • Reply

      I am the daughter of a deceased VV (died from cancer of Agent Orange). Can adult children of VV also stay at these retreats around the country. Quiet, company, no pretences, DTE discussions

      • Jill Brash on February 4, 2021 at 11:29 am
      • Reply

      I’m a New Zealand ex NZWRAC, service 1975-1980.
      Are we able to use these camping sites as well please?

      • Neil White on October 21, 2020 at 7:49 am
      • Reply

      Are there any places to stay at Nelson’s bay NSW.

      • Greg on August 6, 2019 at 9:30 am
      • Reply

      Alaric Veterans Outback retreat is not in your list.

      http://vvaavic.org.au/alaric-veterans-retreat/

      • Diane vomiero on August 2, 2019 at 9:08 am
      • Reply

      We have just stayed at a veterans retreat in Sapphire behind the RSL , this is not on your list. Very clean and holds approx 12 vans the managers were very helpful and they have a happy hour every afternoon and do meals Thursday night and Saturday and Sunday nights.

        • on August 2, 2019 at 11:54 am
        • Reply

        If you can email details to us we will be happy to add Saphhire to our list.

      • Delia Holst on June 25, 2019 at 6:36 am
      • Reply

      We usually travel with another couple for safety reasons and as my husbands and I need the other guys’ support. Can we take this couple to these retreats?
      Thank you
      Delia

        • on July 31, 2019 at 2:04 pm
        • Reply

        It would depend on the retreat. Call first to find out.

      • Shane on June 16, 2019 at 5:17 pm
      • Reply

      G’day all,

      My enquiry may me out of left field, however, still a valid one.
      I am a son of a Vietnam Vet and due to his service and lack of help at the time, am a sufferer of PTSD and have been for as long as I can remember (now 55 yrs old). Whilst I will not go into my condition here, needless to say it was due to my father’s emotional and physical abuse.
      I have been to numerous shrinks including the counselling service of the Vietnam Veterans. However, too much time has past and try as I may, memories still haunt me.
      Are you aware that the suicide rate for Vietnam Veterans children was at one stage the highest among any other group and I worry with today’s youth from other recent wars.
      I am unable to blend it society and have been for years. By that, I mean, I am forever on guard and get testy at the slightest incident. I live a hermit life which I prefer as I feel safe.
      I now come to my enquiry, is there a retreat that one can stay on a permanent basis , even as a caretaker?
      I thrive on the solitude and for unknown reasons, prefer the company of vets.
      I am not sure whether you have ever had an enquiry such as this, however if you can help, it would be appreciated.

        • on June 17, 2019 at 7:17 am
        • Reply

        Shane, have you visited this Facebook page yet? https://www.facebook.com/TheWarriorsReturn/

      1. Shane I feel the same and have seen last year at Camp Gregory, Woodgate they wanted a second live in caretaker. They have filled the spot but you can always contact them. Camp Meentheena I just seen the ad saying they are always looking for camp hosts. I can’t do much for a few months or I would be there.

      • Julia Byrne on May 30, 2015 at 5:15 pm
      • Reply

      As the daughter of a Vietnam vet are my husband and I able to stay at the campsite retreats?

      Thank you
      Julia

        • on June 3, 2015 at 10:23 am
        • Reply

        Your request has been forwarded on to our Vice President.

      • Linda Fennell on June 26, 2013 at 7:52 pm
      • Reply

      To Whom it may concern,

      How far in advance do you need to book McPhersons Plains Alpine Retreat and what is the cost.

      Cheers

      Linda & Stephen Fennell
      Both ex RACT Corp

        • on June 27, 2013 at 8:28 am
        • Reply

        I think you would have to contact the retreat directly and talk to them.

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