Learn more about Catalina Lake-Front Retreat

Catalina Conference Centre provides an environment far removed from the distractions of city life, where participants will be sure to enjoy the opportunity to engage in recreational activities. Catalina Conference Centre offers: A sheltered BBQ area an...We facilitate community by providing accessible accommodation for groups, and facilitate inclusiveness by providing holiday accommodation and opportunities for social interaction for people with special needs.

Our mission is to reach out to disadvantaged groups and enrich the lives of:

• Young people with disabilities and

• Seniors requiring respite care...

by facilitating programs designed to rescue them from social isolation and feelings of despair, with an objective of building inclusiveness with the wider community.

Catalina Lakefront Retreat plays an active role in convening group events and promoting social inclusion. The entire facility is well equipped, on one level, with accessible features to suit all needs.

The retreat is nestled within a peaceful environment, surrounded by nature. Catalina Lake-Front Retreat is at Rathmines, on beautiful Lake Macquarie near Newcastle, in the Hunter region. FULLY ACCESSIBLE, SINGLE LEVEL ACCOMMODATION suitable for LARGE GROUPS up to 80 guests. 28 bedrooms and bathrooms.

Sited on parkland fronting the foreshores of beautiful Lake Macquarie, watching the afternoon light twinkling on its rippling water is the perfect tonic to help you physically and mentally relax, to recover from life’s stresses and pressures and fortify yourself. This peaceful environment offers shaded walks on paved pathways along the waterfront. Community sports grounds, Catalina bowling club, and village shops are all within walking distance.

Catalina Lakefront Retreat was established by David and Heather Hagen who share a passion to help people with a disability to enjoy a better quality of life.

This venue, together with their charity Disability Life Enrichment, is part of the greater vision that has led them to make a contribution to improve the lot of people less fortunate. Their team of dedicated staff and volunteers ensure that guests are comfortable and able to gain the greatest possible enjoyment during their stay.



OUR PURPOSE & OBJECTIVES

To enrich the lives of people with disabilities and support those challenged by mental health issues.

The NDIS provides funding to create opportunities for Short Term Accommodation. Inclusion means that people with special or accessible needs should be able to have a holiday, the same as everyone else. It is also “important for family and carers to take time off to manage their own health and wellbeing” as well.

Catalina Lakefront Retreat provides a relaxing venue by the water at Rathmines, with expansive parklands, plenty of room for walking and other outdoor activities. The facility is wheelchair-friendly with no steps, wide doors and hallways, and plenty of accessible bathrooms. Small or large groups can be catered for and is ideal to host holidays, respite or a range of activities.



OPPORTUNITIES INCLUDE

• Disability camps/retreats for kids or adults

• Holidays for families with a special needs member

• Supported holidays for group homes

• Group respite

• Transitional accommodation

• Accommodation for disability travel groups

• Day programs

• Capacity building – music, skills of living - cooking

• Sleepovers – movie night, disco

• Family reunions

• Carer retreats

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