Escape to Broke for a one-of-a-kind Wellness Farm Retreat
In 2020 Rachel and Simon Hockings made the decision to sell their Central Coast physiotherapy business and take a gap year with their four children to explore the East Coast of Australia.
The time out would also double as the perfect opportunity to track down their perfect plot of land and begin working towards their bigger dream.
Ironically Simon stumbled upon 37 acres of stunning land only an hour’s drive north of the Central Coast. Located in the ruggedly beautiful region of Broke in the Hunter Valley it took little to convince Rachel it was the spot, with Rachel's first visit to the property soon seeing the couple pack their bags, relocating in early 2022 as Rachel explains,
“The area kind of sells itself and it was the perfect location for The Wellness Farm.”
A back injury whilst playing professional rugby is what initiated Simon’s move into the world of physiotherapy, opening an Allied Health clinic practice on the Central Coast,
“We had the physio business for seven years and Simon is still practicing, but we wanted to incorporate a more intensive patient focused bio hacking experience and that’s where The Wellness Farm idea came about.”
“We wanted to create a place where guests are able to receive a range of intensive treatments such as holistic physio, deep tissue remedial massage, body activations and acupuncture as well as enjoying all that this beautiful area has to offer, that being the incredible food and wine experiences.”
Catering to groups of 16, with a plan to expand to up to 25, as a part of your retreat experience guests are able to access the onsite infrared sauna and hyperbaric oxygen chamber, pilates and yoga classes in what is possibly the most beautiful studio in Australia.
Laying down your mat in the Lake House the building's bi-fold doors open directly onto the calming lake views and also take in Broke's famous Yellow Rock landscape, a breath-taking vista that proves to be somewhat distracting.
Whilst The Wellness Farm already sounds too good to be true, Rachel and Simon are only just getting started with Rachel going onto explain,
"We're investing a lot into this property and have purchased a gym, eight Pilates reformers and other exercise and rehabilitation equipment. Our guests will also have access to a magnesium float tank, large barrel wet saunas, hot magnesium spa baths and red cedar wood ice baths that will allow us to offer daily breathe work sessions, with the goal being to run two retreats per month."
“The Wellness Shed will house our Pilates Reformers and gym equipment, float tanks, ice baths, and barrel saunas which will have you sweating it out whilst enjoying those beautiful views.”
“The retreats are designed to offer as much or as little as you want, Simon and I want our guests to immerse themselves and make use of what we have to offer and most importantly the opportunity to be present and reconnect with your surroundings."
For those wanting to enjoy the property as just a weekend getaway Rachel and Simon have a variety of accommodation options available at select times during each month.
“We have 6 luxury villas and a beautiful Hamptons style 3 bedroom cottage, which all feature private patios so you can enjoy those incredible sunrises and sunsets."
Hidden amongst evergreens, rose bushes and gum trees the Wellness Farm accommodation offers guests a tranquil escape and the time to take in those spectacular mountain views. On your visit drop past the alpacas or say hello to the kangaroos who usually make early morning and evening visits.
Whether it's a romantic escape for two or the ultimate girls weekend away, The Wellness Farm offers guests a boutique and incredibly personalised experience for all tastes and wellness levels. For more information about Rachel and Simon's retreats visit thewellnessfarm.com.au.