FAQs
LOCATION
361 Mount Eliza Rd
Riddells Creek VIC 3431
Situated in the stunning Macedon Ranges, we are just 58 km from Melbourne CBD and 30 km from Melbourne Airport
GETTING HERE
Charlies Creek Farm is approximately a one-hour drive from Melbourne CBD.
Hourly V/Line trains run from Southern Cross Station to Riddells Creek. Transfers to and from the train station can be arranged upon request.
Please note that we are unable to offer airport transfers. The average cost for an Uber or taxi from Melbourne Airport to Charlies Creek Farm is around $80.
STUDIO SPACE
Our large purpose-built studio accommodates up to six students, allowing for a relaxed and supportive working environment.
ACCOMMODATION
The Millinery Retreat offers four guest rooms - two located within the farmhouse and two in separate guest cottages.
The farmhouse bedrooms each feature two king single beds, while the cottages offer a queen bed and a king single bed, providing flexible accommodation for those travelling alone or with a friend.
All rooms are equipped with air conditioning, heating and private ensuite bathrooms, along with hairdryers, body wash, shampoo and conditioner.
We charge per room rather than per person, so you’re welcome to enjoy a room to yourself or share with a friend.
ROOM SERVICES
Please note that there is no daily room service. Beds will not be made or changed during your stay and towels will only be replaced upon request.
DRESS CODE
Closed-toe shoes must be worn at all times in the studio and we recommend bringing an apron to protect your clothing.
Located high in the Macedon Ranges, temperatures are often 2 to 5 degrees cooler than Melbourne. We suggest bringing layers - warm clothing for any time spent outside and lighter layers for inside, as the studio can become warm with irons and steamers in use.
MEALS
For day classes, lunch, tea/coffee and cold drinks are provided for all attendees.
Guests staying in-house will enjoy breakfast, lunch, dinner, tea/coffee and cold drinks.
We emphasise plant-based meals using ingredients sourced from local farmers’ markets and specialist suppliers, with all meals prepared on-site.
ARRIVAL
All workshops start at 10 am.
We ask that all attendees of daily classes arrive no later than 9:45 am.
For those staying for overnight retreats, your schedule, including arrival and departure times, will be provided at the time of booking
PAYMENT AND CANCELLATION
All workshops must be paid in full at the time of booking.
Payments for workshops are non-refundable. However, if you are unable to attend, we will offer you an alternative date where possible.
In the unlikely event that we need to cancel a workshop, you will receive a full refund.
If a class cannot proceed due to a government lockdown, you will be eligible for a full refund.
POSTAL SERVICES
If your work hasn’t fully dried, or you’re unable to fit everything into your luggage, we can arrange for your items to be shipped home. Postage costs will be provided and reimbursed to The Millinery Retreat. We recommend bringing folding hat boxes for packing your pieces.
SAFETY
While care is taken The Millinery Retreat is not liable for any damages or injuries arising from the use of materials, equipment or techniques taught in the courses. It is the student's responsibility to read and comply with the safety data sheets and occupational health and safety guidelines provided by the manufacturers of the materials and equipment they are using. Students will be working with hot irons and steamers, so it's essential to remain alert and mindful of your own safety. We request that closed-toe shoes be worn at all times in the studio classroom and that you bring your own apron to protect your clothing.
PETS
We share our home with three small dogs (and the occasional foster dogs) who you’ll often find cosily bundled in their baskets inside the studio while we work. They will never have access to guest bedrooms.
Outside, we have cows and horses, whose paddocks are off-limits to guests, but you’re welcome to interact with them from the other side of the fence during your outdoor time.
While we love animals, we kindly ask that guests do not bring their pets to The Millinery Retreat. Our own pets help create a warm and peaceful environment and we appreciate your understanding.
PHOTOS/SOCIAL MEDIA
The Millinery Retreat regularly photographs and films workshops for use across our website and social media, capturing both the process and the finished work.
We’d also love for you to share photos of your workshops and time with us on your social media.