BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//AEB - ECPv6.16.0//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://engagedbuddhists.org.au X-WR-CALDESC:Events for AEB REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:Australia/Sydney BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+1100 TZOFFSETTO:+1000 TZNAME:AEST DTSTART:20220402T160000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+1000 TZOFFSETTO:+1100 TZNAME:AEDT DTSTART:20221001T160000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+1100 TZOFFSETTO:+1000 TZNAME:AEST DTSTART:20230401T160000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+1000 TZOFFSETTO:+1100 TZNAME:AEDT DTSTART:20230930T160000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+1100 TZOFFSETTO:+1000 TZNAME:AEST DTSTART:20240406T160000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+1000 TZOFFSETTO:+1100 TZNAME:AEDT DTSTART:20241005T160000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+1100 TZOFFSETTO:+1000 TZNAME:AEST DTSTART:20250405T160000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+1000 TZOFFSETTO:+1100 TZNAME:AEDT DTSTART:20251004T160000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+1100 TZOFFSETTO:+1000 TZNAME:AEST DTSTART:20260404T160000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+1000 TZOFFSETTO:+1100 TZNAME:AEDT DTSTART:20261003T160000 END:DAYLIGHT END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20251003T160000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20251006T140000 DTSTAMP:20260512T215725 CREATED:20250811T103109Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250812T235635Z UID:3241-1759507200-1759759200@engagedbuddhists.org.au SUMMARY:Walking the Path: A Weekend Retreat with Grahame White DESCRIPTION:“The happiness of meditation is the highest happiness” – The Buddha \n\n\n\nJoin meditation teacher Grahame White for a weekend retreat exploring the fundamentals of Insight (Vipassana) Meditation. This weekend retreat will be offered in the green heart of NSW’s Southern Highlands at the Vejjasala Retreat Centre\, Wingello. \n\n\n\nPractising Vipassana meditation is perhaps the greatest gift we can give to ourselves and others. Vipassana is concerned primarily with the cultivation of awareness and understanding. Awareness so that we can see our minds more clearly and understanding so that we can know what is useful and what is not useful for experiencing a deep harmonious relationship with ourselves and the world. \n\n\n\nThis retreat is suitable for beginners and practitioners of all levels. \n\n\n\nAbout the Teacher\n\n\n\nGrahame White has been involved in Buddhist meditation practice for over 40 years. He took a primary role in the establishment of Vipassana (insight) meditation in the tradition of Mahasi Sayadaw in Australia and co-founded the Blue Mountains Insight Meditation Centre. He currently leads introductory and day-long courses in Australia and also regularly teaches retreats in the United States and various countries in Asia. Grahame has also helped pioneer the workshop format of teaching meditation that enhances the transfer of mindfulness from the formal sitting practice into daily life. \n\n\n\nVenue and Cost\n\n\n\nVejjasala\, located just outside the village of Wingello in the Southern Highlands of NSW\, is the retreat centre of the Association of Engaged Buddhists (AEB). The name\, Vejjasala\, means a place for healing. \n\n\n\nTickets are assigned on a first-come\, first-served basis via Eventrbite. \n\n\n\nThis retreat is catered with three vegetarian meals per day. Please indicate if you have any allergies or dietary requirements. Please note: we may not be able to accommodate all dietary requests. \n\n\n\nThe cost for the retreat is $250. Members and Friends of the Association of Engaged Buddhists should use the Promo code AEBMEM to receive the member price of $200 (a discount of $50). This cost covers food and accommodation.  \n\n\n\nThe annual membership fee for AEB is $60.00. To join AEB\, visit our membership page. URL:https://engagedbuddhists.org.au/event/walking-the-path-a-weekend-retreat-with-grahame-white/ LOCATION:Vejjasala\, 219 Forest Road\, Wingello\, New South Wales\, 2579\, Australia CATEGORIES:Dhamma Talks and Meditation,Retreat ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://engagedbuddhists.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Oct-Retreat-2025-FBNewsletter-2.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20250606T180000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20250609T140000 DTSTAMP:20260512T215725 CREATED:20250502T035808Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250509T055809Z UID:3222-1749232800-1749477600@engagedbuddhists.org.au SUMMARY:June Long Weekend - Informal Retreat DESCRIPTION:GENERAL \n\n\n\nVejjasala\, located just outside the village of Wingello in the Southern Highlands of NSW\, is the retreat centre of the Association of Engaged Buddhists. The name\, Vejjasala\, means a place for healing. \n\n\n\nThis informal retreat will be held at Vejjasala for Association Members only. Please note that only current financial members of the Association are able to attend these retreats. Membership costs $60/year – details available here. \n\n\n\nThe informal retreat will be held from Friday afternoon/evening through to Monday lunchtime over the June long weekend. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSCHEDULE AND EXPECTATIONS \n\n\n\nAs this retreat will not be formally catered or coordinated beyond a few basics\, a set charge will not be required\, with participants encouraged to donate to the Association according to their means. Details for how to donate will be provided upon registration. Attendees will be asked to choose a group meal to contribute to\, either by bringing ingredients and cooking on-site or pre-prepared meals. Meals will be coordinated in cooperation with attendees by the Retreat Coordinator. \n\n\n\nOther than shared meals\, these retreats are designed for self-reflection and meditation\, with only few formal timings for practice or other activities aside from meals and perhaps a dhamma-talk on the Saturday evening after dinner. As such they are not really designed for those seeking instruction on beginning meditation. \n\n\n\nAttendees will be asked to contribute to the ongoing maintenance of Vejjasala by spending some time on one or more of the various maintenance tasks that are necessary at the time. A list of current/ongoing jobs will be distributed with registration and participants are welcome to contribute to these activities either during the retreat or upon its completion (i.e. after lunch on Monday). The Retreat Coordinator will be able to provide guidance on these tasks at the retreat. \n\n\n\nPlease note: While we won’t be conducting these retreats strictly in noble silence\, we’d encourage a sense of mindfulness in speech and\, outside of shared meals and not to disturb/speak to other participants or hold conversations unless necessary. In this way retreatants can better stay with their own experience\, moment by moment. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nENQUIRIES \n\n\n\nIf you have any questions regarding the retreat program\, please email the Retreat Coordinator\, Chris Burgess URL:https://engagedbuddhists.org.au/event/june-long-weekend-informal-retreat/ LOCATION:Vejjasala\, 219 Forest Road\, Wingello\, New South Wales\, 2579\, Australia CATEGORIES:Retreat ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://engagedbuddhists.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/IMG_5715-Medium.jpeg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20250517T080000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20250518T170000 DTSTAMP:20260512T215725 CREATED:20250424T230222Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250424T230335Z UID:3187-1747468800-1747587600@engagedbuddhists.org.au SUMMARY:Vejjasala Working Bee DESCRIPTION:In order to keep Vejjasala in its current pristine condition and prepare for its use by other groups\, we need volunteers to help with larger tasks on a semi-regular basis. This will be a relaxed weekend of service along with shared meals and some practice. Volunteers are welcome to come for the whole weekend or just part of a day\, whatever you can spare! Please contact Robert via email for details and to let him know when you’ll be there. URL:https://engagedbuddhists.org.au/event/vejjasala-working-bee/ LOCATION:Vejjasala\, 219 Forest Road\, Wingello\, New South Wales\, 2579\, Australia ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://engagedbuddhists.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/IMG_5726-scaled-e1745535787918.jpeg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20250514T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20250514T203000 DTSTAMP:20260512T215725 CREATED:20250424T225805Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250514T075348Z UID:3184-1747249200-1747254600@engagedbuddhists.org.au SUMMARY:Dhamma Talk with Ajahn Yiu DESCRIPTION:Thanks to the hard work and generosity of our good friends at the Metta Centre\, we are fortunate to have Ajahn Yiu visiting from Hong Kong who will be giving the AEB Dhamma Talk on Wed May 14 from 7-8.30pm at the The Yananda Room\, 22 Hudson St\, Lewisham. Ajahn’s talk will also be available on Zoom using the regular details (below). We look forward to welcoming Ajahn Yiu to our regular meditation evening! \n\n\n\nJoin Zoom MeetingMeeting ID: 844 8177 0268Passcode: 828714 \n\n\n\nAjahn Yiu Intro-Eng\n\n\n\nThe Metta Centre is also running a retreat with Ajahn Yiu at Vejjasala: Ease into Stillness May 22 – May 25About Ajahn Yiu: 2011: Ordained as a Bhikkhu under Luang Por Ganha in Thailand; 2020: Began guiding meditation with the blessings of Luang Por Ganha; 2022: Returned to Hong Kong from Thailand and was invited to be the meditation instructor for Hong Kong Theravada Meditation Society; 2023 Established Maggapaṭipadā Meditation Centre on Lamma Island\, Hong Kong. \n\n\n\nInspired by Ānāpānasati sutta\, AjahnYiu gently guides practitioners inward\, layer by layer\, into the inner depths of the body and mind with minimal effort. This approach encourages a natural release of bodily tension and emotional struggles\, opening the way to profound serenity and tranquility\, ultimately guiding practitioners toward letting go of the self. URL:https://engagedbuddhists.org.au/event/dhamma-talk-with-ajahn-yiu/ LOCATION:The Yananda Room\, 22 Hudson St\, Lewisham\, NSW\, Australia ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://engagedbuddhists.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/01ccff517721067d4fda548926f4a3b3-e1745535467800.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20250430T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20250430T203000 DTSTAMP:20260512T215725 CREATED:20250314T025929Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250424T225130Z UID:3166-1746039600-1746045000@engagedbuddhists.org.au SUMMARY:Meditation and Dhamma Teaching: 30th April DESCRIPTION:Dhamma Talks/Meditation will be held every two weeks from 7pm – 8.30pm at The Yananda Room\, at the bottom of Luna Apartments at 22 Hudson St\, Lewisham (venue will open from 6.30pm and close at 9pm).  \n\n\n\nUpcoming dates for meditation: April 30th\, May 14th\, 28th \n\n\n\nTalks will also be shared online using Zoom per the below information (same each time) \n\n\n\nTopic: AEB Dhamma Teaching and MeditationTime: 07:00 PM Canberra\, Melbourne\, SydneyEvery 2 weeks on WedJoin Zoom MeetingMeeting ID: 844 8177 0268Passcode: 828714 URL:https://engagedbuddhists.org.au/event/meditation-and-dhamma-teaching/ LOCATION:The Yananda Room\, 22 Hudson St\, Lewisham\, NSW\, Australia ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://engagedbuddhists.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Copy-of-2024-Dana-Day-Facebook-Post-Landscape-Instagram-Post-Square-1.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20250427T103000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20250427T130000 DTSTAMP:20260512T215725 CREATED:20250408T104726Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250408T105143Z UID:3172-1745749800-1745758800@engagedbuddhists.org.au SUMMARY:Dana Day - Sunday April 27 DESCRIPTION:Dana Days are an opportunity to: \n\n\n\n\ngather as a community\n\n\n\npractise meditation together\n\n\n\noffer a meal to Bhante\n\n\n\nshare social time and a meal\, catching up with others on the path.\n\n\n\n\nPlease note\, as there are no cooking facilities at the Yananda Room\, please bring pre-cooked food along with your own disposable plates\, cups etc… URL:https://engagedbuddhists.org.au/event/dana-day-sunday-april-27/ LOCATION:The Yananda Room\, 22 Hudson St\, Lewisham\, NSW\, Australia ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://engagedbuddhists.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Copy-of-2024-Dana-Day-Facebook-Post-Landscape-Instagram-Post-Square.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20250417T160000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20250421T150000 DTSTAMP:20260512T215725 CREATED:20241108T104321Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250131T042535Z UID:3082-1744905600-1745247600@engagedbuddhists.org.au SUMMARY:Easter 2025 Meditation Retreat with Bhante Tejadhammo DESCRIPTION:A New Start: Leaping Between Life and Death \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nA New Start: leaping between Life and Death\, cultivating appamāda or care and letting go of pamāda\, carelessness. \n\n\n\n‘Don’t run back to the past\, don’t anticipate the future. What’s past is left behind\, the future has not arrived; and any present phenomenon you clearly discern in every case. The unfaltering\, the unshakable: having known that\, foster it. Today’s the day to keenly work! \n\n\n\n~ Bhaddekarattasutta MN. 131 \n\n\n\nThis retreat will focus on developing some practical strategies for change in a changing world. The retreat is open to all. We shall observe Noble Silence for the most part. \n\n\n\nThe retreat will start on Thursday night (17th)\, with guests free to arrive anytime from 4pm\, and conclude at 3pm on Monday (21st) \n\n\n\nBhante Tejadhammo will be your guide along the path. \n\n\n\n\nFull Event Details and Booking Form URL:https://engagedbuddhists.org.au/event/2025-easter-meditation-retreat/ LOCATION:Vejjasala\, 219 Forest Road\, Wingello\, New South Wales\, 2579\, Australia CATEGORIES:Retreat ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://engagedbuddhists.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Easter-Retreat-2025-FBNewsletter-e1731062801889.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20250330T103000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20250330T130000 DTSTAMP:20260512T215725 CREATED:20250314T025706Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250315T043325Z UID:3163-1743330600-1743339600@engagedbuddhists.org.au SUMMARY:Dana Day – Sunday March 30th\, Yananda Room DESCRIPTION:Dana Days are an opportunity to: \n\n\n\n\ngather as a community\n\n\n\npractise meditation together\n\n\n\noffer a meal to Bhante\n\n\n\nshare social time and a meal\, catching up with others on the path.\n\n\n\n\nPlease note\, as there are no cooking facilities at the Yananda Room\, please bring pre-cooked food along with your own disposable plates\, cups etc… URL:https://engagedbuddhists.org.au/event/dana-day-sunday-march-27th-yananda-room/ LOCATION:The Yananda Room\, 22 Hudson St\, Lewisham\, NSW\, Australia ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://engagedbuddhists.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/event_description_image_131368_1706420640_b07c3-2.jpeg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20250305T190000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20250305T203000 DTSTAMP:20260512T215725 CREATED:20250131T042447Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250131T042820Z UID:3147-1741201200-1741206600@engagedbuddhists.org.au SUMMARY:Guest Teacher Venerable Vimokkha (PhD) DESCRIPTION:We’re happy to announce that  Venerable Vimokkha Mendhino\, Ph.D\,  the abbot of the Thai Forest Monastery Pipphalivanaram\, will be our guest teacher on Wednesday March 6th. To find out more about Ven. Vimokkha\, you can find his website here. The topic will be  based on the four foundation of mindfulness (Satipatthana)\, a pragmatic approach will be demonstrated how to turn inwards and seeing inwards in the practice of Samatha  and Vipassana\, thus to develop clear knowing and seeing into the nature of mind. \n\n\n\nWednesday night talks and meditation will also be shared online using Zoom per the below information (same each time) \n\n\n\nTopic: AEB Dhamma Teaching and MeditationTime: Feb 19\, 2025 07:00 PM Canberra\, Melbourne\, SydneyEvery 2 weeks on Wed\, 25 occurrence(s)Join Zoom MeetingMeeting ID: 844 8177 0268Passcode: 828714 \n\n\n\nThe venue is The Yananda Room\, at the bottom of Luna Apartments at 22 Hudson St\, is a great new venue\, easily accessible by train (6 minute walk from Lewisham Station)\, light rail (2 minute walk from Lewisham West)\, Bus (413\, Old Canterbury Rd) and plenty of street parking (Hudson St\, McGill St\, Old Canterbury Rd). More details can be found on the website here. URL:https://engagedbuddhists.org.au/event/guest-teacher-venerable-vimokkha-phd/ LOCATION:The Yananda Room\, 22 Hudson St\, Lewisham\, NSW\, Australia CATEGORIES:Dhamma Talks and Meditation ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://engagedbuddhists.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Ven-Vimokkha-2.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20241124T100000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20241124T133000 DTSTAMP:20260512T215725 CREATED:20241113T084115Z LAST-MODIFIED:20241113T084117Z UID:3094-1732442400-1732455000@engagedbuddhists.org.au SUMMARY:Final Dana Day for 2024 DESCRIPTION:Please join us for our last Dana Day for 2024! Dana Days are an opportunity to: \n\n\n\n\ngather as a community\n\n\n\npractise meditation together\n\n\n\noffer a meal to Bhante\n\n\n\nshare social time and a meal\, catching up with others on the path.\n\n\n\n\nDana Days are a joint venture between the Buddhist Library (90–92 Church Street\, Camperdown) and the Association. from 10 am to 1:30 pm. URL:https://engagedbuddhists.org.au/event/final-dana-day-for-2024/ LOCATION:Buddhist Library\, 90-92 Church St\, Camperdown\, New South Wales\, 2050\, Australia CATEGORIES:Dana Days ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://engagedbuddhists.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Copy-of-2024-Dana-Day-Facebook-Post-Landscape.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20240825T100000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20240825T130000 DTSTAMP:20260512T215725 CREATED:20240819T062905Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240820T104949Z UID:3006-1724580000-1724590800@engagedbuddhists.org.au SUMMARY:Dana Day - Sunday August 25th\, Buddhist Library DESCRIPTION:Dana Days are an opportunity to: \n\n\n\n\ngather as a community\n\n\n\npractise meditation together\n\n\n\noffer a meal to Bhante\n\n\n\nshare social time and a meal\, catching up with others on the path.\n\n\n\n\nPlease note\, as there are no cooking facilities at the Buddhist Library\, please bring pre-cooked food along with your own disposable plates\, cups etc... \n\n\n\nDana Days will be a joint venture between the Buddhist Library and the Association. They will be held at the Buddhist Library\, 90–92 Church Street\, Camperdown\, from 10 am to 1:30 pm on the last Sunday of each month\, with the next one this Sunday 25th August. URL:https://engagedbuddhists.org.au/event/dana-day-sunday-august-25th-buddhist-library/ LOCATION:Buddhist Library\, 90-92 Church St\, Camperdown\, New South Wales\, 2050\, Australia CATEGORIES:Dana Days,Dhamma Talks and Meditation ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://engagedbuddhists.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/2024-06-Dana-Day-1-e1744109368544.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20240728T100000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20240728T130000 DTSTAMP:20260512T215725 CREATED:20240625T071920Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240721T055325Z UID:2989-1722160800-1722171600@engagedbuddhists.org.au SUMMARY:Dana Day - Sunday July 28th\, Buddhist Library DESCRIPTION:Dana Days are an opportunity to: \n\n\n\n\ngather as a community\n\n\n\npractise meditation together\n\n\n\noffer a meal to Bhante\n\n\n\nshare social time and a meal\, catching up with others on the path.\n\n\n\n\nPlease note\, as there are no cooking facilities at the Buddhist Library\, please bring pre-cooked food along with your own disposable plates\, cups etc... \n\n\n\nDana Days will be a joint venture between the Buddhist Library and the Association. They will be held at the Buddhist Library\, 90–92 Church Street\, Camperdown\, from 10 am to 1:30 pm on the last Sunday of each month\, with the next one this Sunday 30th June. URL:https://engagedbuddhists.org.au/event/dana-day-sunday-may-26-buddhist-library-2/ LOCATION:Buddhist Library\, 90-92 Church St\, Camperdown\, New South Wales\, 2050\, Australia CATEGORIES:Dana Days,Dhamma Talks and Meditation ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://engagedbuddhists.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/2024-06-Dana-Day-1.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20240526T100000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20240526T133000 DTSTAMP:20260512T215725 CREATED:20240221T200057Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240519T054004Z UID:2949-1716717600-1716730200@engagedbuddhists.org.au SUMMARY:Dana Day - Sunday May 26\, Buddhist Library DESCRIPTION:Dana Days are an opportunity to: \n\n\n\n\ngather as a community\n\n\n\npractise meditation together\n\n\n\noffer a meal to Bhante\n\n\n\nshare social time and a meal\, catching up with others on the path.\n\n\n\n\nPlease note\, as there are no cooking facilities at the Buddhist Library\, please bring pre-cooked food along with your own disposable plates\, cups etc... \n\n\n\nDana Days will be a joint venture between the Buddhist Library and the Association. They will be held at the Buddhist Library\, 90–92 Church Street\, Camperdown\, from 10 am to 1:30 pm on the last Sunday of each month\, beginning on 26 May. \n\n\n\nAll are welcome to attend. There is no charge\, and you are invited to bring some food to share together. URL:https://engagedbuddhists.org.au/event/dana-day/ LOCATION:Buddhist Library\, 90-92 Church St\, Camperdown\, New South Wales\, 2050\, Australia CATEGORIES:Dana Days ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://engagedbuddhists.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/unnamed-3.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20240425T160000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20240428T140000 DTSTAMP:20260512T215725 CREATED:20240216T211753Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240216T212616Z UID:2936-1714060800-1714312800@engagedbuddhists.org.au SUMMARY:Here for Life: ANZAC weekend retreat with Venerable Pandit Bhikkhu DESCRIPTION:A 4-day\,  3-night meditation retreat in the beautiful Southern Highlands of NSW with Venerable Pandit Bhikkhu \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAbout this event\n\n\n\nDates: Thursday 25th April to Sunday 28th April 2024\, arrive 4pm Thursday\, depart 2pm Sunday \n\n\n\nCost:  $335 – $450 per person depending on the type of accommodation. Early bird prices are available until 4 April. Registrations close 24 April. \n\n\n\nHere for Life\n\n\n\nAbout the retreat: \n\n\n\n“During Covid I was locked down alone in my room for a couple of years – lots of time to reflect. I intensified my cushion time and made a lot of gains\, specifically in meditation. Parts of Dhamma I had not fully understood before became integrated. I was always confident in what was taught in the original by Shakyamuni Buddha\, but now in my mid 50s\, I really understand it. And I look forward to sharing all this with you in the Southern Highlands retreat\, to the best of my ability. When life and death and the drama in between torments our human condition\, the dharma of the present moment\, leads us to be Here for Life! \n\n\n\nDuring this Here For Life retreat\, we will take a look at the Story of the Jumping Mouse – you are welcome to look this up in advance\, or not\, as you like. The meaning and relevance of the story to our path of meditation development will be made clear; hope you enjoy!! \n\n\n\nIn addition to the regular sitting and walking meditation\, this retreat will incorporate some Qi Gong moving meditation\, as taught by Ven. Pandit’s long time associate Marisa Cranfill. Using this kind of gentle movement is sometimes a good alternative to walking meditation\, especially in a retreat where the body can become stiff and uncomfortable. We will do this by recorded video. You can take a look at Marisa at www.youtube.com/@yoqi \n\n\n\nMeditation Method: \n\n\n\nVen. Pandit has experience with all the common Vipassana (Insight) meditation methods and is happy to work with everyone based on their own preferred method. The emphasis of his own approach is to work exclusively with present moment perception as it arises and ceases. As the mind launches one thing into perception at a time only\, insight is used to disentangle consciousness from this process\, and enter into some of the higher\, more mystic states of unified awareness; the direct experience of the life force itself! This is based entirely on Sakyamuni Buddha’s teaching around the Six Senses\, from early Buddhism. There will be continual reference to these original teachings\, as well as some colourful metaphoric teaching aids from relevant story telling. \n\n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\nVenerable Pandit Bhikkhu\n\n\n\nVen. Pandit entered the monastic system in the UK in 1994\, and later ordained as a Bhikkhu (monk) in Thailand in 1996\, in a large country temple\, where his preceptor and teacher Ajahn Sermchai Jayamangalo resided. In 2000 he moved to Bangkok to stay in Wat Paknam\, Bhasicharoen\, so as to attend Thailand’s Buddhist university and study ‘Buddhist Psychology’ (in Thai medium no less!)\, followed by an MA in Buddhist Studies. He studied and taught classes there for 12 years. Aside from the Early Buddhism of the Pali suttas\, he also is well versed in Faerie Tales and how they relate directly to meditation practice. \n\n\n\nVenue and Cost\n\n\n\nVejjasala\, located just outside the village of Wingello in the Southern Highlands of NSW\, is the retreat centre of the Association of Engaged Buddhists (AEB). The name\, Vejjasala\, means a place for healing. This beautiful retreat centre features recently renovated\, comfortable accommodation\, expanses of bushland\, and lots of amazing wildlife. \n\n\n\nThe event cost includes accommodation and food\, with three vegetarian meals per day. Please indicate if you have any allergies or dietary requirements. We may not be able to accommodate all requests. \n\n\n\nCosts range from $335 – $450 per person depending on the type of accommodation. Early bird prices are available until 18 February. Bookings close 25 March. \n\n\n\nRegistrations close 24 April. \n\n\n\nPlease note:  Most accommodation at Vejjasala consists of well-appointed and spacious twin-share rooms. All shared rooms will be allocated to people of the same gender (please indicate on the form if you are booking a shared room and this is not suitable for you). Couples are not encouraged to share rooms during retreats. You can read more about the accommodation options. \n\n\n\nRegistration is at the bottom of the page via Ticket Tailor. Please complete the form and pay the full cost to reserve your place. \n\n\n\nScholarships are available via Open Dharma Foundation. \n\n\n\nPayment to the teacher is made by donation (dāna or generosity) after the retreat. This continues the ancient Buddhist tradition where the teachings are offered freely. Participants are invited to make a donation that feels sustainable and generous according to their situation. These retreats and teachings are possible because of the generosity of others in the past and any dāna given will help make the teachings available in the future. \n\n\n\nFull details about Vejjasala\, accommodation options\, directions\, and information about what to bring can be found on the website. \n\n\n\nThere is a train station in Wingello\, however trains do not frequently stop there. We will attempt to organise carpooling with the organisers and other participants\, or you can take the train to a nearby station and then we will pick you up. Please indicate on the signup form if you require a lift or are able to offer lifts to others. \n\n\n\nVejjasala is a safe and inclusive space for LGBTQIA+ people. \n\n\n\n\n\nFire Danger\n\n\n\nDue to its rural location in the bush\, Vejjasala Retreat Centre is ‘not to be occupied’ on days with an ‘extreme’ or ‘catastrophic’ fire danger rating (per Wingecarribee Shire Council DA for the property). During the bushfire season\, if the forecast before the retreat is for an ‘extreme’ or ‘catastrophic’ fire danger rating\, the retreat will not be able to proceed. We will monitor the fire danger\, and in the case of ‘extreme’ or ‘catastrophic’ fire danger rating\, we will advise all participants as soon as possible and provide a full refund. The on-site retreat manager\, caretaker or other AEB committee member will monitor the fire danger rating for the duration of the retreat. \n\n\n\nRisks and Responsibility\n\n\n\nThis retreat will be conducted in silence (you can talk to the teacher as required). This may not be a good environment for you if you are experiencing mental health issues\, or if you have experienced recent or severe trauma. While meditation retreats are generally beneficial\, intensive meditation practice can lead to distress or adverse effects. The teacher and volunteers will do their best to support you but they are not qualified to provide mental health support. Please consider your own situation and discuss with the organisers and teacher if you have any concerns. The teacher may ask to arrange a phone call prior to the retreat to make sure they understand your situation and how they can best support your meditation practice. \n\n\n\nIt should be noted that participants attend these retreats entirely at their own discretion and should consider their own risks and responsibilities in regard to their own health needs and COVID. While reasonable efforts will be taken in regard to providing a safe environment\, the Association takes no responsibility for individuals’ behaviour or health consequences arising from attending a retreat.  \n\n\n\nIf you are experiencing any symptoms of COVID please take a RAT or PCR test and notify the organisers at office@engagedbuddhists.org.au. If you test positive for COVID you will not be able to attend the retreat and we will arrange a refund. If you have a negative result you may still be able to attend\, depending on the severity of your symptoms and in discussion with the organisers. \n\n\n\nRefund Policy\n\n\n\nPLEASE NOTE: Bookings may be cancelled at no charge 14 days prior to the event with a full refund (minus booking fees). As catering materials need to be purchased in advance by the Association\, bookings cancelled less than 14 days prior to the event will incur a 50% fee\, unless the space is able to be filled by another retreatant\, in which case a full refund (minus booking fees) will be issued. \n\n\n\nEnquiries\n\n\n\nIf you have any questions about the retreat\, please contact office@engagedbuddhists.org.au URL:https://engagedbuddhists.org.au/event/here-for-life-anzac-weekend-retreat-with-venerable-pandit-bhikkhu/ LOCATION:Vejjasala\, 219 Forest Road\, Wingello\, New South Wales\, 2579\, Australia CATEGORIES:Retreat ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://engagedbuddhists.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Here-For-Life-Facebook-Post.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20240329T160000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20240401T140000 DTSTAMP:20260512T215725 CREATED:20240119T065043Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240219T221851Z UID:2920-1711728000-1711980000@engagedbuddhists.org.au SUMMARY:Wisdom from Stillness: Easter weekend retreat with Venerable Akaliko Bhikkhu DESCRIPTION:A 3-night meditation retreat in the beautiful Southern Highlands of NSW \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAbout this event\n\n\n\nDates: Friday 29 March to Monday 1 April 2024 \n\n\n\nCost: $335 – $450 per person depending on the type of accommodation. Early bird prices are available until 18 February. Registrations close 27 March. \n\n\n\nWisdom from Stillness\n\n\n\nEaster weekend retreat with Venerable Akaliko Bhikkhu \n\n\n\nMeditation is not just for de-stressing from life’s busy-ness; it has a far deeper potential to deliver powerful insights about the meaning of life. Learn about the causes and conditions we need to cultivate to transform our practice into a profound tool that cuts through ignorance and illuminates our mind with wisdom. \n\n\n\n\n\nJOIN BHANTE AKĀLIKO FOR A WEEKEND RETREAT ON HOW TO DEVELOP A DEEP AND MEANINGFUL MEDITATION PRACTICE.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\nBhante Akāliko\n\n\n\nAkāliko Bhikkhu is an Australian monk in the Theravada forest tradition. He is the spiritual director of Little Dust and founder of Rainbodhi LGBTQIA+ Buddhist Community. Bhante Akāliko is also the spiritual advisor of Central West Buddhists and a chaplain at Western Sydney University. He sits on the boards of the Buddhist Council of NSW and the Federation of Australian Buddhist Councils. \n\n\n\nBhante Akāliko went forth as a monastic in 2016 and received full ordination with Ajahn Brahm at Bodhinyana monastery in 2017. He lived for several years with Bhante Sujato at the Monastery at the End of the World in Sydney and now lives as a wandering monk\, looking for a place to settle and shake off the dust. \n\n\n\nVenue and Cost\n\n\n\nVejjasala\, located just outside the village of Wingello in the Southern Highlands of NSW\, is the retreat centre of the Association of Engaged Buddhists (AEB). The name\, Vejjasala\, means a place for healing. This beautiful retreat centre features recently renovated\, comfortable accommodation\, expanses of bushland\, and lots of amazing wildlife. \n\n\n\nThe event cost includes accommodation and food\, with three vegetarian meals per day. Please indicate if you have any allergies or dietary requirements. We may not be able to accommodate all requests. \n\n\n\nCosts range from $335 – $450 per person depending on the type of accommodation. Early bird prices are available until 18 February. Registrations close 27 March. \n\n\n\nThere are different prices for different rooms. All shared rooms will be allocated to people of the same gender (please indicate on the form if you are booking a shared room and this is not suitable for you). You can read more about the accommodation options. \n\n\n\nRegistration is at the bottom of the page via Ticket Tailor. Please complete the form and pay the full cost to reserve your place. \n\n\n\nScholarships are available via Open Dharma Foundation. \n\n\n\nPayment to the teacher is made by donation (dāna or generosity) after the retreat. This continues the ancient Buddhist tradition where the teachings are offered freely. Participants are invited to make a donation that feels sustainable and generous according to their situation. These retreats and teachings are possible because of the generosity of others in the past and any dāna given will help make the teachings available in the future. \n\n\n\nFull details about Vejjasala\, accommodation options\, directions\, and information about what to bring can be found on the website. \n\n\n\nThere is a train station in Wingello\, however trains do not frequently stop there. We will attempt to organise carpooling with the organisers and other participants\, or you can take the train to a nearby station and then we will pick you up. Please indicate on the signup form if you require a lift or are able to offer lifts to others. \n\n\n\nVejjasala is a safe and inclusive space for LGBTQIA+ people. \n\n\n\n\n\nFire Danger\n\n\n\nDue to its rural location in the bush\, Vejjasala Retreat Centre is ‘not to be occupied’ on days with an ‘extreme’ or ‘catastrophic’ fire danger rating (per Wingecarribee Shire Council DA for the property). During the bushfire season\, if the forecast before the retreat is for an ‘extreme’ or ‘catastrophic’ fire danger rating\, the retreat will not be able to proceed. We will monitor the fire danger\, and in the case of ‘extreme’ or ‘catastrophic’ fire danger rating\, we will advise all participants as soon as possible and provide a full refund. The on-site retreat manager\, caretaker or other AEB committee member will monitor the fire danger rating for the duration of the retreat. \n\n\n\nRisks and Responsibility\n\n\n\nThis retreat will be conducted in silence (you can talk to the teacher as required). This may not be a good environment for you if you are experiencing mental health issues\, or if you have experienced recent or severe trauma. While meditation retreats are generally beneficial\, intensive meditation practice can lead to distress or adverse effects. The teacher and volunteers will do their best to support you but they are not qualified to provide mental health support. Please consider your own situation and discuss with the organisers and teacher if you have any concerns. The teacher may ask to arrange a phone call prior to the retreat to make sure they understand your situation and how they can best support your meditation practice. \n\n\n\nIt should be noted that participants attend these retreats entirely at their own discretion and should consider their own risks and responsibilities in regard to their own health needs and COVID. While reasonable efforts will be taken in regard to providing a safe environment\, the Association takes no responsibility for individuals’ behaviour or health consequences arising from attending a retreat.  \n\n\n\nIf you are experiencing any symptoms of COVID please take a RAT or PCR test and notify the organisers at office@engagedbuddhists.org.au. If you test positive for COVID you will not be able to attend the retreat and we will arrange a refund. If you have a negative result you may still be able to attend\, depending on the severity of your symptoms and in discussion with the organisers. \n\n\n\nRefund Policy\n\n\n\nPLEASE NOTE: Bookings may be cancelled at no charge 14 days prior to the event with a full refund (minus booking fees). As catering materials need to be purchased in advance by the Association\, bookings cancelled less than 14 days prior to the event will incur a 50% fee\, unless the space is able to be filled by another retreatant\, in which case a full refund (minus booking fees) will be issued. \n\n\n\nEnquiries\n\n\n\nIf you have any questions about the retreat\, please contact office@engagedbuddhists.org.au URL:https://engagedbuddhists.org.au/event/wisdom-from-stillness-easter-weekend-retreat-with-venerable-akaliko-bhikkhu/ LOCATION:Vejjasala\, 219 Forest Road\, Wingello\, New South Wales\, 2579\, Australia CATEGORIES:Retreat ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://engagedbuddhists.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/event_description_image_131368_1703063134_5854a.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20240315T180000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20240317T140000 DTSTAMP:20260512T215725 CREATED:20240201T083711Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240201T083712Z UID:2926-1710525600-1710684000@engagedbuddhists.org.au SUMMARY:Giving Up – Weekend meditation retreat with Bhante Tejadhammo DESCRIPTION:A 2-night meditation retreat in the beautiful Southern Highlands of NSW \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAbout this event\n\n\n\nDates: Friday 15 March to Sunday 17 2024\, arrive from 4pm Friday for a 6pm start\, depart 2pm Sunday \n\n\n\nCost: $250 – $300 per person depending on the type of accommodation. Registrations close 13 March. \n\n\n\nGiving Up\n\n\n\nWeekend meditation retreat with Bhante Tejadhammo \n\n\n\nWhy is so much of our suffering brought about by our wanting something or someone or wanting to be someone? Wanting to be somewhere else or to be a yet unattained self?Welcome to a weekend retreat in which we will try to give up that which only exists in our wanting it or desiring it. \n\n\n\n“Suffering exists but no sufferer is foundDeeds are but no doerNibbana is but no one entersThe Way is but no walker is found.”                                                           ~ Buddhaghosa \n\n\n\nJoin Bhante Tejadhammo for this weekend retreat where we will try to give up these things.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\nBhante Tejadhammo\n\n\n\nVenerable Tejadhammo Bhikku – Bhante – is the Spiritual Director of the Association of Engaged Buddhists. \n\n\n\nVenerable Tejadhammo Bhikku was ordained by Venerable Tanchaokhun Phra Visalsalmanagun\, Chaokhana Changwat\, Phuket\, in Thailand. Bhante has a background in Western Philosophy and Theology\, and has studied and taught at Silpakorn University\, Thailand. Before returning to Australia he taught in Thai universities and jails. Although ordained in the Theravada tradition\, he has also studied with Tibetan and Mahayana teachers and has a commitment to the Dharma that he believes encompasses all traditional expressions of it. He is a founding member of Australian Monastic Encounter\, which seeks to promote inter-religious and inter-monastic dialogue. \n\n\n\nVenue and Cost\n\n\n\nVejjasala\, located just outside the village of Wingello in the Southern Highlands of NSW\, is the retreat centre of the Association of Engaged Buddhists (AEB). The name\, Vejjasala\, means a place for healing. This beautiful retreat centre features recently renovated\, comfortable accommodation\, expanses of bushland\, and lots of amazing wildlife. \n\n\n\nThe event cost includes accommodation and food\, with three vegetarian meals per day. Please indicate if you have any allergies or dietary requirements. We may not be able to accommodate all requests. \n\n\n\nCosts range from $250 – $300 per person depending on the type of accommodation. \n\n\n\nPlease note:  Most accommodation at Vejjasala consists of well-appointed and spacious twin-share rooms. These are generally assigned to same-sex attendees (please indicate on the form if you are booking a shared room and this is not suitable for you). \n\n\n\nCouples (same-sex or otherwise) are not encouraged to share rooms during retreats. You can read more about the accommodation options. \n\n\n\nRegistration is via the Ticket Tailor links above and below. Please complete the form and pay the full cost to reserve your place. \n\n\n\nScholarships are available via Open Dharma Foundation. \n\n\n\nPayment to the teacher is made by donation (dāna or generosity) after the retreat. This continues the ancient Buddhist tradition where the teachings are offered freely. Participants are invited to make a donation that feels sustainable and generous according to their situation. These retreats and teachings are possible because of the generosity of others in the past and any dāna given will help make the teachings available in the future. \n\n\n\nFull details about Vejjasala\, accommodation options\, directions\, and information about what to bring can be found on the website. \n\n\n\nThere is a train station in Wingello\, however trains do not frequently stop there. We will attempt to organise carpooling with the organisers and other participants\, or you can take the train to a nearby station and then we will pick you up. Please indicate on the signup form if you require a lift or are able to offer lifts to others. \n\n\n\nVejjasala is a safe and inclusive space for LGBTQIA+ people. \n\n\n\n\n\nFire Danger\n\n\n\nDue to its rural location in the bush\, Vejjasala Retreat Centre is ‘not to be occupied’ on days with an ‘extreme’ or ‘catastrophic’ fire danger rating (per Wingecarribee Shire Council DA for the property). During the bushfire season\, if the forecast before the retreat is for an ‘extreme’ or ‘catastrophic’ fire danger rating\, the retreat will not be able to proceed. We will monitor the fire danger\, and in the case of ‘extreme’ or ‘catastrophic’ fire danger rating\, we will advise all participants as soon as possible and provide a full refund. The on-site retreat manager\, caretaker or other AEB committee member will monitor the fire danger rating for the duration of the retreat. \n\n\n\nRisks and Responsibility\n\n\n\nThis retreat will be conducted in silence (you can talk to the teacher as required). This may not be a good environment for you if you are experiencing mental health issues\, or if you have experienced recent or severe trauma. While meditation retreats are generally beneficial\, intensive meditation practice can lead to distress or adverse effects. The teacher and volunteers will do their best to support you but they are not qualified to provide mental health support. Please consider your own situation and discuss with the organisers and teacher if you have any concerns. The teacher may ask to arrange a phone call prior to the retreat to make sure they understand your situation and how they can best support your meditation practice. \n\n\n\nIt should be noted that participants attend these retreats entirely at their own discretion and should consider their own risks and responsibilities in regard to their own health needs and COVID. While reasonable efforts will be taken in regard to providing a safe environment\, the Association takes no responsibility for individuals’ behaviour or health consequences arising from attending a retreat.  \n\n\n\nIf you are experiencing any symptoms of COVID please take a RAT or PCR test and notify the organisers at office@engagedbuddhists.org.au. If you test positive for COVID you will not be able to attend the retreat and we will arrange a refund. If you have a negative result you may still be able to attend\, depending on the severity of your symptoms and in discussion with the organisers. \n\n\n\nRefund Policy\n\n\n\nPLEASE NOTE: Bookings may be cancelled at no charge 14 days prior to the event with a full refund (minus booking fees). As catering materials need to be purchased in advance by the Association\, bookings cancelled less than 14 days prior to the event will incur a 50% fee\, unless the space is able to be filled by another retreatant\, in which case a full refund (minus booking fees) will be issued. \n\n\n\nEnquiries\n\n\n\nIf you have any questions about the retreat\, please contact office@engagedbuddhists.org.au URL:https://engagedbuddhists.org.au/event/giving-up-weekend-meditation-retreat-with-bhante-tejadhammo/ LOCATION:Vejjasala\, 219 Forest Road\, Wingello\, New South Wales\, 2579\, Australia CATEGORIES:Retreat ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://engagedbuddhists.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/event_description_image_131368_1706420640_b07c3-2.jpeg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20240303T090000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20240303T170000 DTSTAMP:20260512T215725 CREATED:20240228T025622Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240228T025645Z UID:2966-1709456400-1709485200@engagedbuddhists.org.au SUMMARY:Kynan Tan: Day of Practice at the Buddhist Library (hybrid) DESCRIPTION:Enquiries: info@buddhistlibrary.org.au or (02) 9519 6054\n\n\n\nLocation: Buddhist Library (Camperdown\, Sydney)\n\n\n\nAttendance Mode: In Person or Zoom Event\n\n\n\nContribution: By donation\n\n\n\n\nThe Day of Practice will provide an opportunity to take a pause from the busyness and complexities of daily life to focus on meditation\, awareness\, and tranquility. We will minimise interactions with others\, put our phones on aeroplane mode\, and take a break from our usual concerns. This will create a container that allows us to deepen our meditation and awareness in ways that may not always be possible during daily life. \n\n\n\nUposatha days are a common practice in Buddhism where practitioners reaffirm and renew their commitment to dharma practice. By consciously and intentionally dedicating a period of time to the practice of meditation\, keeping precepts\, and studying the dharma with others\, the practice is developed and strengthened. \n\n\n\nThis is an opportunity to receive instruction from a teacher and practice with others in conditions similar to a retreat setting. Throughout the day there will be seated and walking meditation\, guided group practice\, a dharma talk\, and a 1:1 meeting with Kynan. \n\n\n\nArrive from 8:45am. Please come on time as we will close the doors before beginning the first session. All attendees will be expected to stay for the whole day. \n\n\n\nThere are plenty of chairs\, zafus\, cushions\, and benches. There is a dedicated lunch break with time to get food from a local establishment. There are many cafes and restaurants in the area\, including Newtown which is a 10-minute walk. \n\n\n\nThis event will also be streamed live and participants can join over Zoom if they wish so. \n\n\n\nIf you have any questions\, please contact Kynan on kynantctan@gmail.com \n\n\n\n\n\nAbout Kynan\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nKynan Tan is a meditation teacher who takes a collaborative approach to helping students achieve their meditation goals. He came to meditation after struggles with stress\, anxiety\, and depression and found the practice to be transformative. He believes that meditation has enormous potential for creating positive change and opening up new ways of relating to our experience. \n\n\n\nKynan draws upon a number of different modern and traditional techniques of contemplative and introspective practice. He is a longtime practitioner of the stages of samatha-vipassana (as presented in the book The Mind Illuminated)\, Rob Burbea’s insight meditation techniques\, nondual awareness\, and brahmavihara practices (metta\, compassion\, empathetic joy\, and equanimity). \n\n\n\nKynan studies meditation with Dr. Tucker Peck\, who teaches the Pragmatic Dharma Club at the San Francisco Dharma Collective\, leads retreats\, and teaches one-on-one instruction and online meditation courses. Kynan has sat a number of retreats\, including a month-long solo retreat in 2021. \n\n\n\nCost\n\n\n\nAttendance is by dana (generosity). After the event you will be invited to make a donation to support the teacher\, the Buddhist Library and the Association of Engaged Buddhists. \n\n\n\nAll donations to the Buddhist Library of $2 and over are tax deductible. \n\n\n\nDana is the traditional practice of generosity\, the extending of one’s goodwill\, which is fundamental to Buddhism and other spiritual traditions. The dana you give helps to maintain the Library and allows it to offer more teachings on the Dhamma so that others may benefit in the future. It is up to each person to determine the amount of dana they’d like to offer. We understand that this is a difficult time financially for many\, and people will give what they can. An appropriate dana can’t be prescribed but requires sensitivity to its intent and to the individual’s own situation\, as well as awareness of the cost of organising events and supporting teachers who spread the Dhamma. URL:https://engagedbuddhists.org.au/event/kynan-tan-day-of-practice-at-the-buddhist-library-hybrid-4/ LOCATION:Buddhist Library\, 90-92 Church St\, Camperdown\, New South Wales\, 2050\, Australia CATEGORIES:Retreat ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://engagedbuddhists.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/AEB-and-BL-joint-event.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20240125T160000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20240128T140000 DTSTAMP:20260512T215725 CREATED:20231006T053712Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231027T034127Z UID:2835-1706198400-1706450400@engagedbuddhists.org.au SUMMARY:Silent 3-night Meditation Retreat with Kynan Tan DESCRIPTION:A 3-night silent meditation retreat in the beautiful Southern Highlands of NSW \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAbout this event\n\n\n\nDates: Thursday 25 to Sunday 28 January 2024\, arrive 4pm Thursday\, depart 2pm Sunday \n\n\n\nCost: $335 – $450 depending on the type of accommodation. Early bird prices are available until 20 December. \n\n\n\nThis 3-night meditation retreat allows practitioners to settle into stillness and quiet. The retreat becomes a supportive environment to go deeper into meditation than is typically possible with the busyness and complexities of daily life. The beautiful\, serene environment allows space for cultivating awareness and equanimity and for exploring the mind. \n\n\n\nThe goal of the retreat is to provide an environment where all students can receive the required support and instructions to help them move forward in their practice. \n\n\n\nThis is a student-centred retreat\, which means that there is no set curriculum to follow but rather each student will continue their own meditation practice and all talks and interviews will be responsive to students’ needs and interests. Instructions on meditation techniques will be provided as required and all levels of experience are welcome. If you are unsure about suitability you can speak with the teacher prior to the retreat. \n\n\n\nRETREAT SCHEDULE\n\n\n\nThe schedule will mostly alternate between seated and walking meditation. Each day there will be a dharma talk\, a one-on-one interview with the teacher\, three meals\, and time for exercise or walking outside. We will observe noble silence from Thursday night until Sunday noon. All meals will be provided. \n\n\n\nFAQ\n\n\n\nHere’s a short FAQ about going on retreat. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAbout the Teacher\n\n\n\nKynan Tan is a meditation teacher who takes a collaborative approach to helping students achieve their meditation goals. He came to meditation after struggles with stress\, anxiety\, and depression and found the practice to be transformative. He believes that meditation has enormous potential for creating positive change and opening up new ways of relating to our experience. \n\n\n\nKynan draws upon a number of different modern and traditional techniques of contemplative and introspective practice. He is a longtime practitioner of the stages of śamatha-vipassanā (as presented in the book The Mind Illuminated)\, Rob Burbea’s insight meditation techniques\, nondual awareness\, and brahmavihārā practices (mettā\, compassion\, empathetic joy\, and equanimity). \n\n\n\nKynan studies meditation with Dr. Tucker Peck. He teaches the Pragmatic Dharma Club at the San Francisco Dharma Collective\, leads retreats\, offers one-on-one instruction\, and teaches online meditation courses. He is the co-founder of Sit Down and Practice. Kynan has sat a number of retreats\, including a month-long solo retreat in 2021. \n\n\n\n\n\nVenue and Cost\n\n\n\nVejjasala\, located just outside the village of Wingello in the Southern Highlands of NSW\, is the retreat centre of the Association of Engaged Buddhists (AEB). The name\, Vejjasala\, means a place for healing. This beautiful retreat centre features recently renovated\, comfortable accommodation\, expanses of bushland\, and lots of amazing wildlife. \n\n\n\nThe event cost includes accommodation and food\, with three vegan meals per day. Please indicate if you have any allergies or dietary requirements. We may not be able to accommodate all requests. \n\n\n\nCosts range from $335 – $450 depending on the type of accommodation. Early bird prices are available until 20 December. \n\n\n\nThere are different prices for different rooms. All shared rooms will be allocated to people of the same gender (please indicate on the form if you are booking a shared room and this is not suitable for you). You can read more about the accommodation options. \n\n\n\nRegistration is at the bottom of the page via Ticket Tailor. Please complete the form and pay the full cost to reserve your place. \n\n\n\nScholarships are available via Open Dharma Foundation. \n\n\n\nPayment to the teacher is made by donation (dāna or generosity) after the retreat. This continues the ancient Buddhist tradition where the teachings are offered freely. Participants are invited to make a donation that feels sustainable and generous according to their situation. These retreats and teachings are possible because of the generosity of others in the past and any dāna given will help make the teachings available in the future. \n\n\n\nFull details about Vejjasala\, accommodation options\, directions\, and information about what to bring can be found on the website. \n\n\n\nThere is a train station in Wingello\, however trains do not frequently stop there. We will attempt to organise carpooling with the organisers and other participants\, or you can take the train to a nearby station and then we will pick you up. Please indicate on the signup form if you require a lift or are able to offer lifts to others. \n\n\n\nVejjasala is a safe and inclusive space for LGBTQIA+ people. \n\n\n\nFire Danger\n\n\n\nDue to its rural location in the bush\, Vejjasala Retreat Centre is ‘not to be occupied’ on days with an ‘extreme’ or ‘catastrophic’ fire danger rating (per Wingecarribee Shire Council DA for the property). During the bushfire season\, if the forecast before the retreat is for an ‘extreme’ or ‘catastrophic’ fire danger rating\, the retreat will not be able to proceed. We will monitor the fire danger\, and in the case of ‘extreme’ or ‘catastrophic’ fire danger rating\, we will advise all participants as soon as possible and provide a full refund. The on-site retreat manager\, caretaker or other AEB committee member will monitor the fire danger rating for the duration of the retreat. \n\n\n\nRisks and Responsibility\n\n\n\nThis retreat will be conducted in silence (you can talk to the teacher as required). This may not be a good environment for you if you are experiencing mental health issues\, or if you have experienced recent or severe trauma. While meditation retreats are generally beneficial\, intensive meditation practice can lead to distress or adverse effects. The teacher and volunteers will do their best to support you but they are not qualified to provide mental health support. Please consider your own situation and discuss with the organisers and teacher if you have any concerns. The teacher may ask to arrange a phone call prior to the retreat to make sure they understand your situation and how they can best support your meditation practice. \n\n\n\nIt should be noted that participants attend these retreats entirely at their own discretion and should consider their own risks and responsibilities in regard to their own health needs and COVID. While reasonable efforts will be taken in regard to providing a safe environment\, the Association takes no responsibility for individuals’ behaviour or health consequences arising from attending a retreat.  \n\n\n\nIf you are experiencing any symptoms of COVID please take a RAT or PCR test and notify the organisers at office@engagedbuddhists.org.au. If you test positive for COVID you will not be able to attend the retreat and we will arrange a refund. If you have a negative result you may still be able to attend\, depending on the severity of your symptoms and in discussion with the organisers. \n\n\n\nRefund Policy\n\n\n\nPLEASE NOTE: Bookings may be cancelled at no charge 14 days prior to the event with a full refund (minus booking fees). As catering materials need to be purchased in advance by the Association\, bookings cancelled less than 14 days prior to the event will incur a 50% fee\, unless the space is able to be filled by another retreatant\, in which case a full refund (minus booking fees) will be issued. \n\n\n\nEnquiries\n\n\n\nIf you have any questions about the retreat\, please contact Kynan – kynantctan@gmail.com \n\n\n\nLOCATION\n\n\n\nVejjasala\, 219 Forest Road Wingello\, NSW 2579 URL:https://engagedbuddhists.org.au/event/silent-3-night-meditation-retreat-with-kynan-tan-2/ LOCATION:New South Wales CATEGORIES:Retreat ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://engagedbuddhists.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Kynan-Retreat-Jan-2023.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20231130T193000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20231130T210000 DTSTAMP:20260512T215725 CREATED:20231102T052223Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231102T052224Z UID:2886-1701372600-1701378000@engagedbuddhists.org.au SUMMARY:Gratitude Evening for All AEB Friends DESCRIPTION:Description\n\n\n\nAs the year draws to a close\, let’s come together for a special Gratitude Evening on November 30th. This isn’t just a meetup; it’s a moment of connection and reflection. There will be no talks; instead\, the focus will be on simply being present\, checking in with each other\, and ensuring everyone is doing well. We may do some chanting and short meditation together\, and if you are comfortable and willing\, share the moments that you are grateful for and perhaps your reflections with the group. This is an opportunity for mutual understanding and support. \n\n\n\nThis gathering will be a heartfelt celebration of our shared journey and a moment to express gratitude for the experiences that have shaped us throughout the year. \n\n\n\nAll human and animals are welcome. 😛🐕🐱🐇🐢 \n\n\n\nPlease join us on Thursday 30 November 2023 ~ 7.30pm – 9.00pm. \n\n\n\nInfo\n\n\n\nView live on Zoom from 7.25pm on the night. Talks include meditation and generally conclude at 9pm. Download iCal calendar for the Zoom event. \n\n\n\n\nMeeting ID: 985 1050 0274\n\n\n\nPasscode: 645945 URL:https://engagedbuddhists.org.au/event/gratitude-evening-for-all-aeb-friends/ LOCATION:New South Wales CATEGORIES:Dhamma Talks and Meditation ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://engagedbuddhists.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Nov-Gratitude-Evening.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20231116T193000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20231116T210000 DTSTAMP:20260512T215725 CREATED:20231102T051108Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231102T051127Z UID:2881-1700163000-1700168400@engagedbuddhists.org.au SUMMARY:Spiritual Friendship in Buddhism DESCRIPTION:Description\n\n\n\nSpiritual friendship\, known as kalyāṇa-mitta in Pali\, refers to the deep and supportive relationship between individuals who are committed to spiritual growth and the practice of the Dhamma (the teachings of the Buddha). \n\n\n\nDavid O‘Rose will be exploring the qualities ideal in fostering spiritual maturity between friends. This will be a lively and interactive discussion among friends. Please join David & the community on Thursday 16 November 2023 at 7.30pm – 9.00pm. \n\n\n\nSpeaker\n\n\n\nDavid O’Rose is an experienced leader of meditation groups\, both in Sydney and Hong Kong. His approach is utterly simple\, where the living experience of a meditative approach to everyday life is the aim of practice. \n\n\n\nInfo\n\n\n\nView live on Zoom from 7.25pm on the night. Talks include meditation and generally conclude at 9pm. Download iCal calendar for the Zoom event. \n\n\n\n\nMeeting ID: 985 1050 0274\n\n\n\nPasscode: 645945 URL:https://engagedbuddhists.org.au/event/spiritual-friendship-in-buddhism/ LOCATION:New South Wales CATEGORIES:Dhamma Talks and Meditation ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://engagedbuddhists.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Nov16-David-ORose.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20231112T090000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20231112T170000 DTSTAMP:20260512T215725 CREATED:20230831T012426Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231102T074516Z UID:2803-1699779600-1699808400@engagedbuddhists.org.au SUMMARY:Kynan Tan: Day of Practice at the Buddhist Library (hybrid) DESCRIPTION:Enquiries: info@buddhistlibrary.org.au or (02) 9519 6054\n\n\n\nLocation: Buddhist Library (Camperdown\, Sydney)\n\n\n\nAttendance Mode: In Person or Zoom Event\n\n\n\nContribution: By donation\n\n\n\n\nThe Day of Practice will provide an opportunity to take a pause from the busyness and complexities of daily life to focus on meditation\, awareness\, and tranquility. We will minimise interactions with others\, put our phones on aeroplane mode\, and take a break from our usual concerns. This will create a container that allows us to deepen our meditation and awareness in ways that may not always be possible during daily life. \n\n\n\nUposatha days are a common practice in Buddhism where practitioners reaffirm and renew their commitment to dharma practice. By consciously and intentionally dedicating a period of time to the practice of meditation\, keeping precepts\, and studying the dharma with others\, the practice is developed and strengthened. \n\n\n\nThis is an opportunity to receive instruction from a teacher and practice with others in conditions similar to a retreat setting. Throughout the day there will be seated and walking meditation\, guided group practice\, a dharma talk\, and a 1:1 meeting with Kynan. \n\n\n\nArrive from 8:45am. Please come on time as we will close the doors before beginning the first session. All attendees will be expected to stay for the whole day. \n\n\n\nThere are plenty of chairs\, zafus\, cushions\, and benches. There is a dedicated lunch break with time to get food from a local establishment. There are many cafes and restaurants in the area\, including Newtown which is a 10-minute walk. \n\n\n\nThis event will also be streamed live and participants can join over Zoom if they wish so. \n\n\n\nIf you have any questions\, please contact Kynan on kynantctan@gmail.com \n\n\n\n\n\nAbout Kynan\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nKynan Tan is a meditation teacher who takes a collaborative approach to helping students achieve their meditation goals. He came to meditation after struggles with stress\, anxiety\, and depression and found the practice to be transformative. He believes that meditation has enormous potential for creating positive change and opening up new ways of relating to our experience. \n\n\n\nKynan draws upon a number of different modern and traditional techniques of contemplative and introspective practice. He is a longtime practitioner of the stages of samatha-vipassana (as presented in the book The Mind Illuminated)\, Rob Burbea’s insight meditation techniques\, nondual awareness\, and brahmavihara practices (metta\, compassion\, empathetic joy\, and equanimity). \n\n\n\nKynan studies meditation with Dr. Tucker Peck\, who teaches the Pragmatic Dharma Club at the San Francisco Dharma Collective\, leads retreats\, and teaches one-on-one instruction and online meditation courses. Kynan has sat a number of retreats\, including a month-long solo retreat in 2021. \n\n\n\nCost\n\n\n\nAttendance is by dana (generosity). After the event you will be invited to make a donation to support the teacher\, the Buddhist Library and the Association of Engaged Buddhists. \n\n\n\nAll donations to the Buddhist Library of $2 and over are tax deductible. \n\n\n\nDana is the traditional practice of generosity\, the extending of one’s goodwill\, which is fundamental to Buddhism and other spiritual traditions. The dana you give helps to maintain the Library and allows it to offer more teachings on the Dhamma so that others may benefit in the future. It is up to each person to determine the amount of dana they’d like to offer. We understand that this is a difficult time financially for many\, and people will give what they can. An appropriate dana can’t be prescribed but requires sensitivity to its intent and to the individual’s own situation\, as well as awareness of the cost of organising events and supporting teachers who spread the Dhamma. \n\n\n\nCOVID Safety\n\n\n\nAdequate social distancing\, hand-washing and other sensible measure should be followed by all attendees. \n\n\n\nIt should be noted that participants attend these retreats entirely at their own discretion and should consider their own risks and responsibilities in regard to COVID. While reasonable efforts will be taken in regard to providing a safe environment\, the Association takes no responsibility for individuals’ behaviour or health consequences arising from attending a retreat. If you are experiencing any symptoms and may have COVID\, please do not attend the event. URL:https://engagedbuddhists.org.au/event/kynan-tan-day-of-practice-at-the-buddhist-library-hybrid-3/ LOCATION:Buddhist Library\, 90-92 Church St\, Camperdown\, New South Wales\, 2050\, Australia CATEGORIES:Retreat ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://engagedbuddhists.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/AEB-and-BL-joint-event.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20231109T193000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20231109T210000 DTSTAMP:20260512T215725 CREATED:20231102T045617Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231102T045822Z UID:2871-1699558200-1699563600@engagedbuddhists.org.au SUMMARY:Signs of the True Teaching DESCRIPTION:Description\n\n\n\nPlease join us on Thursday 11 November 7.30–9.00pm AEST (5.30pm Bangkok time) when Venerable Pandit Bhikkhu will speak on the topic of the whole path of Enlightenment from the Lesser Sutta on the Elephant‘s Footprint. \n\n\n\nSpeaker\n\n\n\nVenerable Pandit Bhikkhu was ordained in the Thai Theravada Buddhist tradition in 1997 in a parkland monastery\, Rajaburi Province. In 2001 he moved to Wat Paknam\, Bangkok\, where he completed degrees in the monastic university in Buddhist Psychology (BA) and Buddhist Studies (MA). He organised and ran the Little Bangkok Sangha group in Bangkok\, which was the only English-speaking group in the capital of Thailand. His interests include psychology and the dhamma of fairy tales. \n\n\n\nInfo\n\n\n\nView live on Zoom from 7.25pm on the night. Talks include meditation and generally conclude at 9pm. Download iCal calendar for the Zoom event. \n\n\n\n\nMeeting ID: 985 1050 0274\n\n\n\nPasscode: 645945 URL:https://engagedbuddhists.org.au/event/signs-of-the-true-teaching/ LOCATION:New South Wales CATEGORIES:Dhamma Talks and Meditation ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://engagedbuddhists.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Nov9-Bhante-Pandit-2023-1.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20231026T193000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20231026T210000 DTSTAMP:20260512T215725 CREATED:20231015T011924Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231015T014015Z UID:2856-1698348600-1698354000@engagedbuddhists.org.au SUMMARY:The journey of losing Lucy - by Thay Thong Phap DESCRIPTION:Description\n\n\n\nLucy\, Thay’s beloved dog\, his companion & loyal friend\, passed away peacefully in his arm on September 21. The bond between a human and a canine companion is a unique and profound connection. It transcends words\, built on shared experiences\, silent understanding\, and the purest form of love. Lucy was not just a pet for Thay; she was family — a source of joy\, comfort\, and solace. As Thay cradled Lucy in his arms during her final moments\, he found refuge in the teachings that guide us through the inevitable pain of losing our loved ones. Buddhism teaches us about the nature of suffering and the impermanence of life. Lucy’s departure has become a profound lesson\, a reminder that life is a fleeting\, fragile gift that we must cherish and appreciate. In this talk\, Thay will share with you the experience of losing Lucy and all that he has learned from the whole of our lives together. There will be lots of discussion and reflection. \n\n\n\nPlease join Thay & the community for this insightful talk and meditation on Thursday 26 October\, 2023 ~ 7.30pm – 9.00pm. \n\n\n\nSpeaker\n\n\n\nThích Trúc Thông Pháp is a bhikkhu (fully ordained monk) in a Vietnamese meditation tradition. His teacher is the Most Venerable Thầy Thích Thanh Từ\, a meditation master in the Truc Lam (Bamboo Forest) school. Originating from Port Adelaide in South Australia and then Tasmania from 2010- 2017\, he now lives in the Southern Flinders Ranges with a small community of Anglican religious brothers and sisters. He has a Master’s Degree in Social Sciences (Counselling) and a Diploma in Psychosynthesis and was the Buddhist representative chaplain at the University of Tasmania for four years prior to working for four years as the Buddhist chaplain at Oasis\, the multifaith chaplaincy centre at Flinders University\, SA. \n\n\n\nInfo\n\n\n\nView live on Zoom from 7.25pm on the night. Talks include meditation and generally conclude at 9pm. Download iCal calendar for the Zoom event. \n\n\n\n\nMeeting ID: 985 1050 0274\n\n\n\nPasscode: 645945\n\n\n\n\n\n $250 – $300 \n \n\n\n\n \n \n\n \n Details \n \n \n\n \n \n Start:\n \n 3 October 2025 @ 4:00 pm \n \n \n\n \n End:\n \n 6 October 2025 @ 2:00 pm \n \n \n\n \n \n Cost:\n $250 – $300 \n \n \n \n Event Categories: Dhamma Talks and Meditation\, Retreat URL:https://engagedbuddhists.org.au/event/new-the-journey-of-losing-lucy-by-thay-thong-phap/ LOCATION:New South Wales CATEGORIES:Dhamma Talks and Meditation ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://engagedbuddhists.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Thay-Loosing-Lucy-2023-4.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20231019T193000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20231019T210000 DTSTAMP:20260512T215725 CREATED:20231006T001444Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231006T001445Z UID:2828-1697743800-1697749200@engagedbuddhists.org.au SUMMARY:Those Pesky Thoughts – how to control thinking and when to just observe it DESCRIPTION:Description\n\n\n\nAfter Venerable Pandit Bhikkhu‘s enlightening talk “What Do You Think” in July\, where Bhante delved deep into the intricacies of our thought processes\, many requested further teachings on how to control our minds. We’re thrilled to announce that Bhante is returning to speak on this topic! \n\n\n\nJoin us on Thursday 19 October 7.30–9.00pm AEST (5.30pm Bangkok time) when Venerable Pandit Bhikkhu will guide us on the journey to understanding and managing our thoughts. Learn when to take control and when to simply observe those pesky thoughts that can tangle our mind.  \n\n\n\nSpeaker\n\n\n\nVenerable Pandit Bhikkhu was ordained in the Thai Theravada Buddhist tradition in 1997 in a parkland monastery\, Rajaburi Province. In 2001 he moved to Wat Paknam\, Bangkok\, where he completed degrees in the monastic university in Buddhist Psychology (BA) and Buddhist Studies (MA). He organised and ran the Little Bangkok Sangha group in Bangkok\, which was the only English-speaking group in the capital of Thailand. His interests include psychology and the dhamma of fairy tales. \n\n\n\nInfo\n\n\n\nView live on Zoom from 7.25pm on the night. Talks include meditation and generally conclude at 9pm. Download iCal calendar for the Zoom event. \n\n\n\n\nMeeting ID: 985 1050 0274\n\n\n\nPasscode: 645945 URL:https://engagedbuddhists.org.au/event/those-pesky-thoughts-how-to-control-thinking-and-when-to-just-observe-it/ LOCATION:New South Wales CATEGORIES:Dhamma Talks and Meditation ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://engagedbuddhists.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Oct19-Bhante-Pandit-2023.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20231012T193000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20231012T210000 DTSTAMP:20260512T215725 CREATED:20231006T000418Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231006T000418Z UID:2822-1697139000-1697144400@engagedbuddhists.org.au SUMMARY:Health (Wholeness) and Buddhist Practice\, Part II DESCRIPTION:Description\n\n\n\nHealth is a state of complete physical\, mental\, social and spiritual well-being\, a deep sense of “wholeness”\, interconnection and belonging. Health is not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. \n\n\n\nThrough considering this proposition we may gain a new perspective on the “world out there”\, with its living inhabitants (many are self-declared Homo sapiens)\, and multifarious other extant creatures and infinite other phenomena\, and may gain a deep insight into the “world in here”. \n\n\n\nWe may gain a greater felt sense of our mutual interdependence with all of life. As Thich Nhat Han says: “We actually experience inter-being with each other and the world.” \n\n\n\nPlease join Dr Jonathan Page on 12th October 2023\, 7.30pm for the second part of the talk on Health (Wholeness) and Buddhist Practice. \n\n\n\nSpeaker\n\n\n\n Dr Jonathan Page has been a medical oncologist for 40 years and whose meditation practice goes back to 1984\, but to his chagrin was largely an erratic practitioner until 2004\, generally employing meditation as a last resort to manage innumerable life crises (with variable impact). \n\n\n\nOver time he has found meditation to be of great personal benefit\, particularly in navigating the major challenges of life\, notably aging and mortality\, the impermanence of relationships and the ravages of burnout. In understanding and largely overcoming burnout it has been possible to treat cancer patients with greater compassion\, attending to the vital psycho-spiritual domain\, whilst retaining some degree of resilience. Meditation can open the door to clear understanding and vast possibility. \n\n\n\nInfo\n\n\n\nView live on Zoom from 7.25pm on the night. Talks include meditation and generally conclude at 9pm. Download iCal calendar for the Zoom event. \n\n\n\n\nMeeting ID: 985 1050 0274\n\n\n\nPasscode: 645945 URL:https://engagedbuddhists.org.au/event/health-wholeness-and-buddhist-practice-part-ii/ LOCATION:New South Wales CATEGORIES:Dhamma Talks and Meditation ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://engagedbuddhists.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Oct12-Jonathan-Page.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20230930T100000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20231002T120000 DTSTAMP:20260512T215725 CREATED:20230811T023825Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230825T025540Z UID:2776-1696068000-1696248000@engagedbuddhists.org.au SUMMARY:Long Weekend Meditation Retreat with Megan Thorpe DESCRIPTION:A 3-day meditation retreat in the beautiful Southern Highlands \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAbout this event\n\n\n\nDates: Saturday 30th September\, 10 am – Monday 2nd October\, 12 pm \n\n\n\nCost: Cost is $250-$300 including vegetarian meals and accommodation. \n\n\n\nAre you a “Would-Be” Meditator? \n\n\n\n\nWould meditate if you had more time?\n\n\n\nWould meditate if you didn’t have such a busy mind?\n\n\n\nWould meditate if you only knew how?\n\n\n\n\nCome along to this three-day retreat over the October long weekend at Vejjasala Retreat Centre in the beautiful Southern Highlands of NSW\, only 2 hours drive from Sydney. \n\n\n\nThe retreat will commence at 10am on Saturday and finish at 12pm noon on Monday. Please arrive by 9:30am on Saturday\, to settle in to your accommodation before the retreat starts promptly at 10 am. \n\n\n\nThis retreat will be led by Megan Thorpe\, who will provide meditation instruction for those who are new or inexperienced\, and guidance to take your meditation practice deeper for those who already have some experience. Sometimes\, going back to basics can help reinvigorate an existing practice. \n\n\n\nA variety of sitting and walking meditation will be explored\, along with some personal reflective exercises\, and an exploration of what might be preventing you moving from a Would-Be Meditator to an I Am a Meditator. \n\n\n\nThere will be time for being in nature\, perhaps a walk to the nearby waterfall\, an opportunity to develop more mindfulness of yourself and your surroundings\, and an opportunity to reap the benefits of being with a group of others who are on a similar journey\, and having a shared intention. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAbout the Teacher\n\n\n\nMegan Thorpe has been meditating for over 30 years. She has experience in most Buddhist traditions and since 2003 has practised in the Thai Forest tradition. Her primary teachers are Bhante Tejadhammo and Bhante Sujato. She has led many retreats and workshops in Australia and in the UK. \n\n\n\nCurrently Megan is the President of the Association of Engaged Buddhists. \n\n\n\nShe was previously the President and Director of Training of the Australian Association of Buddhist Counsellors and Psychotherapists (AABCAP) and helped to develop and teach the professional training course which is still running many years later. She continues to be involved in the course as a student supervisor. \n\n\n\nShe is also the Manager of the Bereavement Counselling Service at Calvary Hospital Kogarah and has worked in palliative and end of life care and bereavement counselling for over 20 years. She is a psychospiritual psychotherapist\, having trained in Core Process Psychotherapy\, a Buddhist based psychotherapy\, at the Karuna Institute in Devon\, England. \n\n\n\nMegan is warm and approachable with a deep understanding of dhamma and a quirky sense of humour. \n\n\n\nVenue and Cost\n\n\n\nVejjasala\, located just outside the village of Wingello in the Southern Highlands of NSW\, is the retreat centre of the Association of Engaged Buddhists (AEB). The name\, Vejjasala\, means a place for healing. This beautiful retreat centre features recently renovated\, comfortable accommodation\, expanses of bushland\, and lots of amazing wildlife. The address is 219 Forest Road Wingello\, NSW 2579. \n\n\n\nThe event cost includes accommodation and vegetarian meals plus refreshments throughout the day. Please indicate if you have any allergies or dietary requirements. We may not be able to accommodate all requests. \n\n\n\nCosts range from $250.00 – $300.00 depending on the type of accommodation. \n\n\n\nThere are different prices for different rooms. You can read more about the accommodation options. Full details about Vejjasala\, \, accommodation options\, directions\, map and information about what to bring can be found on the website. \n\n\n\nRegistration is at the bottom of the page via Ticket Tailor. Please complete the form and pay the full cost to reserve your place. \n\n\n\nThese retreats and teachings are possible because of the generosity of teachers and volunteers donating their time and expertise. The fee for the retreat covers food\, accommodation and running costs of the centre. Participants are invited to make a donation to the teacher after the retreat\, if they wish. This is not compulsory. In the Buddhist tradition this donation is called dāna\, meaning generosity. This continues the ancient Buddhist tradition whereby the teachings are offered freely. \n\n\n\nThere is a train station in Wingello\, however trains do not frequently stop there. We will attempt to organise carpooling with other participants if possible. Please indicate on the signup form if you require a lift or are able to offer lifts to others. \n\n\n\nVejjasala is a safe and inclusive space for LGBTQIA+ people. \n\n\n\nRisks and Responsibility\n\n\n\nWhile meditation retreats are generally beneficial\, intensive meditation practice can lead to distress or adverse effects. The teacher and volunteers will do their best to support you but they are not qualified to provide mental health support. Please consider your own situation and discuss with the organisers and teacher if you have any concerns. The teacher may ask to arrange a phone call prior to the retreat to make sure they understand your situation and how they can best support your meditation practice. \n\n\n\nIt should be noted that participants attend these retreats entirely at their own discretion and should consider their own risks and responsibilities in regard to their own health needs and COVID. While reasonable efforts will be taken in regard to providing a safe environment\, the Association takes no responsibility for individuals’ behaviour or health consequences arising from attending a retreat. \n\n\n\nIf you are experiencing any symptoms of COVID please take a RAT or PCR test and notify the organisers at office@engagedbuddhists.org.au. If you test positive for COVID you will not be able to attend the retreat and we will arrange a refund. If you have a negative result you may still be able to attend\, depending on the severity of your symptoms and in discussion with the organisers. \n\n\n\nRefund Policy\n\n\n\nPLEASE NOTE: Bookings may be cancelled at no charge 14 days prior to the event with a full refund (minus booking fees). As catering ingredients need to be purchased in advance by the Association\, bookings cancelled less than 14 days prior to the event will incur a 50% fee\, unless the space is able to be filled by another retreatant\, in which case a full refund (minus booking fees) will be issued. \n\n\n\n\n\nEnquiries\n\n\n\nIf you have any questions about the retreat\, please contact Megan on megan.thorpe@rocketmail.com URL:https://engagedbuddhists.org.au/event/long-weekend-meditation-retreat-with-megan-thorpe/ LOCATION:Vejjasala\, 219 Forest Road\, Wingello\, New South Wales\, 2579\, Australia CATEGORIES:Retreat ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://engagedbuddhists.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Megan-Thorpe-retreat-Oct-2023-FB.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20230928T193000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20230928T210000 DTSTAMP:20260512T215725 CREATED:20230831T012123Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230831T012142Z UID:2800-1695929400-1695934800@engagedbuddhists.org.au SUMMARY:Thay Thích Trúc Thông Pháp: To study the Way is to study the Self DESCRIPTION:Description\n\n\n\nThay Thich Truc Thong Phap reflects the profound insight of his journey of self-discovery in finding “The Way”! \n\n\n\nThere will be lots of discussion and reflection. \n\n\n\nPlease join Thay & the community for the delightful talk and meditation on Thursday 28 Sept\, 2023~7.30pm – 9.00pm. \n\n\n\nSpeaker\n\n\n\nThích Trúc Thông Pháp is a bhikkhu (fully ordained monk) in a Vietnamese meditation tradition. His teacher is the Most Venerable Thầy Thích Thanh Từ\, a meditation master in the Truc Lam (Bamboo Forest) school. Originating from Port Adelaide in South Australia and then Tasmania from 2010- 2017\, he now lives in the Southern Flinders Ranges with a small community of Anglican religious brothers and sisters. He has a Master’s Degree in Social Sciences (Counselling) and a Diploma in Psychosynthesis and was the Buddhist representative chaplain at the University of Tasmania for four years prior to working for four years as the Buddhist chaplain at Oasis\, the multifaith chaplaincy centre at Flinders University\, SA. \n\n\n\nInfo\n\n\n\nView live on Zoom from 7.25pm on the night. Talks include meditation and generally conclude at 9pm. Download iCal calendar for the Zoom event. \n\n\n\n\nMeeting ID: 985 1050 0274\n\n\n\nPasscode: 645945 URL:https://engagedbuddhists.org.au/event/thay-thich-truc-thong-phap-to-study-the-way-is-to-study-the-self/ LOCATION:New South Wales CATEGORIES:Dhamma Talks and Meditation ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://engagedbuddhists.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Thay-2023-1-1.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20230921T193000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20230921T210000 DTSTAMP:20260512T215725 CREATED:20230831T011948Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230831T011949Z UID:2798-1695324600-1695330000@engagedbuddhists.org.au SUMMARY:Sue Toohey: Enlightened people or enlightened actions DESCRIPTION:Description\n\n\n\nMany of us find the idea of enlightenment almost too big to comprehend. The idea that we might become fully enlightened beings seems unlikely – at least in this life. Tonight with Sue Toohey we discuss a saying from the Zen teacher\, Shunryu Suzuki\, which may help us explore our understanding of what enlightenment is and at the same time help us develop greater compassion for ourselves and for our teachers. \n\n\n\nSpeaker\n\n\n\nSue Toohey is an experienced Dhamma\, meditation and yoga teacher\, qualified in both Hatha and Dru styles of yoga. She regularly takes meditation drop-in classes at the Buddhist Library. Formerly a university lecturer in the School of Public Health at UNSW\, she has a lifelong interest in using yoga to counteract depression and anxiety and develop mental well-being. She has been a Buddhist practitioner for more than 30 years. \n\n\n\nInfo\n\n\n\nView live on Zoom from 7.25pm on the night. Talks include meditation and generally conclude at 9pm. Download iCal calendar for the Zoom event. \n\n\n\n\nMeeting ID: 985 1050 0274\n\n\n\nPasscode: 645945 URL:https://engagedbuddhists.org.au/event/sue-toohey-enlightened-people-or-enlightened-actions/ LOCATION:New South Wales CATEGORIES:Dhamma Talks and Meditation ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://engagedbuddhists.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Sue-Toohey-with-topic-1.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20230914T193000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20230914T210000 DTSTAMP:20260512T215725 CREATED:20230831T011826Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230831T011826Z UID:2793-1694719800-1694725200@engagedbuddhists.org.au SUMMARY:Venerable Pandit Bhikkhu: Saving Snow Whites DESCRIPTION:Description\n\n\n\n“Saving Snow White” is not about rescuing the princess from a poisoned apple or an evil queen. Instead\, it’s about saving the wisdom embedded within the story. Venerable Pandit will enlighten us with the dharma of the snow white story\, and lessons for the unconscious mind \n\n\n\nSpeaker\n\n\n\n\nPandit Bhikkhu: While searching aimlessly for something to read in a quiet library in rural New Zealand Pandit came across a book on Buddhism. Inspired to investigate further he devoured what few books on the topic he could find\, and then took off to start some monastery stays and short retreats. Before leaving NZ and heading back to his native England he took some longer retreats\, including 10 days at Te Moata retreat centre in the Coromandel Peninsula of NZ with Steven Smith teaching Mahasi style meditation. Following the Forest temples in the lineage of Luang Phor Chah for a few years\, Pandit entered Ratanagiri Monastery in Newcastle\, Northern UK in 1994 as an Anagarika (novice). Six months there\, and then six months further in Amaravati while Ajahn Sumedho was abbot\, convinced him to ordain as a monk. He headed off to Thailand in late 1996 and ordained as a Buddhist monk at Wat Luang Phor Sodh in Rajaburi Province. Four years later he moved to Wat Paknam\, Bhasicharoen in order to attend the monastic university\, gaining a degree in psychology. \n\n\n\nHaving had experience in meditation styles of  Mahasi Sayadaw\, Ajahn Chah\, Dhammakaya\, and some Tibetan\, Pandit Bhikkhu claims no lineage other than Buddhism. His own approach uses reflection on the six senses to hold the mind in empty alert awareness. But there are various techniques that are useful for people at different times in their practise. Just so long as you keep making an effort\, with the right goal in mind\, progress will be made. \n\n\n\nHis interests\, besides nuclear power\, vertical axis wind turbines and the Electric Universe theory\, include psychology\, faerie tales\, and other mystic religious traditions. \n\n\n\n\nInfo\n\n\n\nView live on Zoom from 7.25pm on the night. Talks include meditation and generally conclude at 9pm. Download iCal calendar for the Zoom event. \n\n\n\n\nMeeting ID: 985 1050 0274\n\n\n\nPasscode: 645945 URL:https://engagedbuddhists.org.au/event/venerable-pandit-bhikkhu-saving-snow-whites/ LOCATION:New South Wales CATEGORIES:Dhamma Talks and Meditation ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://engagedbuddhists.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Bhante-Pandit-2023.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20230907T160000 DTEND;TZID=Australia/Sydney:20230910T140000 DTSTAMP:20260512T215725 CREATED:20230616T082846Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230616T082940Z UID:2698-1694102400-1694354400@engagedbuddhists.org.au SUMMARY:Silent 3-night Meditation Retreat with Kynan Tan DESCRIPTION:A 3-night silent meditation retreat in the beautiful Southern Highlands of NSW \n\n\n\n\n\nAbout this event\n\n\n\nDates: Thursday 7 to Sunday 10 September 2023\, arrive 4pm Thursday\, depart 2pm Sunday \n\n\n\nCost: $335 – $450 depending on the type of accommodation. Early bird prices are available until 31st July. \n\n\n\nThis 3-night meditation retreat allows practitioners to settle into stillness and quiet. The retreat becomes a supportive environment to go deeper into meditation than is typically possible with the busyness and complexities of daily life. The beautiful\, serene environment allows space for cultivating awareness and equanimity and for exploring the mind. \n\n\n\nThe goal of the retreat is to provide an environment where all students can receive the required support and instructions to help them move forward in their practice. \n\n\n\nThis is a student-centred retreat\, which means that there is no set curriculum to follow but rather each student will continue their own meditation practice and all talks and interviews will be responsive to students’ needs and interests. Instructions on meditation techniques will be provided as required and all levels of experience are welcome. If you are unsure about suitability you can speak with the teacher prior to the retreat. \n\n\n\nRetreat Schedule\n\n\n\nThe schedule will mostly alternate between seated and walking meditation. Each day there will be a dharma talk\, a one-on-one interview with the teacher\, three meals\, and time for exercise or walking outside. We will observe noble silence from Thursday night until Sunday noon. All meals will be provided. \n\n\n\nFAQ\n\n\n\nHere’s a short FAQ about going on retreat. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAbout the Teacher\n\n\n\nKynan Tan is a meditation teacher who takes a collaborative approach to helping students achieve their meditation goals. He came to meditation after struggles with stress\, anxiety\, and depression and found the practice to be transformative. He believes that meditation has enormous potential for creating positive change and opening up new ways of relating to our experience. \n\n\n\nKynan draws upon a number of different modern and traditional techniques of contemplative and introspective practice. He is a longtime practitioner of the stages of śamatha-vipassanā (as presented in the book The Mind Illuminated)\, Rob Burbea’s insight meditation techniques\, nondual awareness\, and brahmavihārā practices (mettā\, compassion\, empathetic joy\, and equanimity). \n\n\n\nKynan studies meditation with Dr. Tucker Peck. He teaches the Pragmatic Dharma Club at the San Francisco Dharma Collective\, leads retreats\, offers one-on-one instruction\, and teaches online meditation courses. He is the co-founder of Sit Down and Practice. Kynan has sat a number of retreats\, including a month-long solo retreat in 2021. \n\n\n\nVenue and Cost\n\n\n\nVejjasala\, located just outside the village of Wingello in the Southern Highlands of NSW\, is the retreat centre of the Association of Engaged Buddhists (AEB). The name\, Vejjasala\, means a place for healing. This beautiful retreat centre features recently renovated\, comfortable accommodation\, expanses of bushland\, and lots of amazing wildlife. \n\n\n\nThe event cost includes accommodation and food\, with three vegan meals per day. Please indicate if you have any allergies or dietary requirements. We may not be able to accommodate all requests. \n\n\n\nCosts range from $335 – $450 depending on the type of accommodation. Early bird prices are available until 31st July. \n\n\n\nThere are different prices for different rooms. All shared rooms will be allocated to people of the same gender (please indicate on the form if you are booking a shared room and this is not suitable for you). You can read more about the accommodation options. \n\n\n\nRegistration is at the bottom of the page via Ticket Tailor. Please complete the form and pay the full cost to reserve your place. \n\n\n\nScholarships are available via Open Dharma Foundation. \n\n\n\nPayment to the teacher is traditionally made by donation (dāna or generosity) after the retreat. This continues the ancient Buddhist tradition where the teachings are offered freely. Participants are invited to make a donation that feels sustainable and generous according to their situation. These retreats and teachings are possible because of the generosity of others in the past and any dāna given will help make the teachings available in the future. \n\n\n\nFull details about Vejjasala\, accommodation options\, directions\, and information about what to bring can be found on the website. \n\n\n\nThere is a train station in Wingello\, however trains do not frequently stop there. We will attempt to organise carpooling with the organisers and other participants\, or you can take the train to a nearby station and then we will pick you up. Please indicate on the signup form if you require a lift or are able to offer lifts to others. \n\n\n\nVejjasala is a safe and inclusive space for LGBTQIA+ people. \n\n\n\n\n\nRisks and Responsibility\n\n\n\nThis retreat will be conducted in silence (you can talk to the teacher as required). This may not be a good environment for you if you are experiencing mental health issues\, or if you have experienced recent or severe trauma. While meditation retreats are generally beneficial\, intensive meditation practice can lead to distress or adverse effects. The teacher and volunteers will do their best to support you but they are not qualified to provide mental health support. Please consider your own situation and discuss with the organisers and teacher if you have any concerns. The teacher may ask to arrange a phone call prior to the retreat to make sure they understand your situation and how they can best support your meditation practice. \n\n\n\nIt should be noted that participants attend these retreats entirely at their own discretion and should consider their own risks and responsibilities in regard to their own health needs and COVID. While reasonable efforts will be taken in regard to providing a safe environment\, the Association takes no responsibility for individuals’ behaviour or health consequences arising from attending a retreat.  \n\n\n\nIf you are experiencing any symptoms of COVID please take a PCR or RAT test and notify the organisers at office@engagedbuddhists.org.au. If you test positive for COVID you will not be able to attend the retreat and we will arrange a refund. If you have a negative result you may still be able to attend\, depending on the severity of your symptoms. \n\n\n\nRefund Policy\n\n\n\nPLEASE NOTE: Bookings may be cancelled at no charge 14 days prior to the event with a full refund (minus booking fees). As catering materials need to be purchased in advance by the Association\, bookings cancelled less than 14 days prior to the event will incur a 50% fee\, unless the space is able to be filled by another retreatant\, in which case a full refund (minus booking fees) will be issued. \n\n\n\nEnquiries\n\n\n\nIf you have any questions about the retreat\, please contact Kynan – kynantctan@gmail.com URL:https://engagedbuddhists.org.au/event/silent-3-night-meditation-retreat-with-kynan-tan/ LOCATION:Vejjasala\, 219 Forest Road\, Wingello\, New South Wales\, 2579\, Australia CATEGORIES:Retreat ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://engagedbuddhists.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Kynan-Retreat-Sep-2023.jpg END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR