mary Caldwell – Ganden Kadampa Buddhist Centre https://goldcoastmeditation.org.au Meditation & Buddhism on the Gold Coast Fri, 10 Apr 2026 05:06:34 +0000 en-AU hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.4 https://goldcoastmeditation.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/cropped-New_Medman_turq-32x32.png mary Caldwell – Ganden Kadampa Buddhist Centre https://goldcoastmeditation.org.au 32 32 Springbrook Rainforest Meditation Retreat 2024 https://goldcoastmeditation.org.au/springbrook-rainforest-meditation-retreat-2026/ Sat, 25 Jun 2022 04:00:00 +0000 https://goldcoastmeditation.org/?p=1105524

Springbrook Meditation Retreat

30 October - 1 November

A rare opportunity to truly rest, reset, and begin to create a happier, more peaceful life.

A weekend of guided Buddhist meditations, practical teachings, and deep rest in a beautiful natural setting.

Bookings Open Soon

What You'll Gain from this Weekend

  • practical methods to reduce stress and mental busyness
  • an experience of deeper inner peace and clarity
  • tools to respond more calmly and positively to life
  • a chance to step back and reflect on what really matters
  • real connections with like-minded people

Everyone is welcome, regardless of background or experience.

Experience the Retreat

Enjoy fresh mountain air, quiet surroundings, and time to simply rest, reflect, and recharge.

To get a feel for the retreat experience, watch the short video below.

Retreat Details

Serene, Rainforest Location

springbrook rainforest meditation retreat

KOONJEWARRE CAMP, SPRINGBROOK

Enjoy fresh mountain air, the quiet of the rainforest, and time to simply rest, reflect, and reconnect.

Located on the Springbrook Plateau in the Gold Coast Hinterland, adjacent to the World Heritage-listed Gondwana Rainforests.

Chef-Prepared Meals

The Retreat is fully catered with delicious, chef-prepared vegan and vegetarian meals. 

Everything is taken care of — so you can simply arrive, relax, and enjoy the weekend.

Accommodation Options

Accommodation options include basic single-sex dormitories or camping.

Stay in a shared, ensuited dormitory with up to four people or bring your camper van or tent. 

Take time to step away from your usual routine, reconnect with yourself, and begin to create a more peaceful and positive life.

Emptiness

About The Retreat Leader

Emptiness

Gen Kelsang Tsalden is a fully ordained, western Buddhist nun and Resident Teacher of Ganden Kadampa Buddhist Centre on Queensland’s Gold Coast.

Gen Tsalden has studied and practiced Kadampa Buddhism for almost 20 years, and has over 17 years experience as a Resident Teacher. Gen Tsalden imparts a deep, personal experience of the practice of Buddhism in daily life.

Her clear, warm and light hearted delivery of profound, life-changing Buddhist teachings, has seen a new generation of Gold Coasters discovering and using these practical, logical and helpful instructions, to solve their daily problems and increase their happiness and peace of mind.

If this feels like the right opportunity for you, you can book your place below. 

Everyone is welcome, regardless of background, beliefs, gender identity, or experience with meditation.

 

Retreat Information

If you have any questions before booking, feel free to contact us — we’re happy to help.

Retreat Timetable

Retreat Fees and Bookings

This is a fully residential retreat, with arrival on Friday afternoon or evening. Accommodation options include camping or shared single-sex dormitories.

Full Retreat* (including accommodation and meals).

Prices:

  • Camping $315pp
  • Single-sex dormitory $350pp

Take this time for yourself — you might be surprised how much can change.

 

Secure Your Place

Bookings Open Soon
]]> Introduction To Tantra https://goldcoastmeditation.org.au/introduction-to-tantra/ Sun, 13 Mar 2022 06:44:57 +0000 https://goldcoastmeditation.org/?p=1104976

Meditation Workshop

INTRODUCTION TO TANTRA

Saturday 23 April 10am - Robina Community Centre (Room 2.2 Upstairs)

Add to Cart
Days
Hours
tantra gold coast

INTRODUCTION TO TANTRA

Tantra is a special inner science that harnesses the creative power of the mind to produce powerful inner transformation and deep inner peace. Tantra especially develops both our wisdom and our compassion until it produces a bliss so powerful that it completely purifies our mind and we quickly attain enlightenment. Everyone is welcome.

TIME: 10am to 1pm

COST: $40pp (includes morning tea)

What To Expect

There are two sessions in each workshop. They consist of an introduction, simple breathing meditation and teaching and conclude with a contemplative meditation on the teaching from that session.

Buddhist meditation involves staying alert and keeping our back straight, so we sit on chairs for the duration of the course. There’s no need to bring anything, although you may wish to bring some water and a jacket. Refreshments are provided in the break session.

Attendees come from all walks of life and there’s no need to have any meditation experience as all meditations are guided.  Everyone is welcome.

learn to meditate near me

About The Teacher

Gen Kelsang Ani

Gen Kelsang Ani is Resident Teacher of Kadampa Meditation Centre Brisbane and the Gold Coast and teaches all the main classes and courses at both Centres.

Gen Ani has been studying and practising Modern Kadampa Buddhism with Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso Rinpoche for over 15 years. Ani teaches with warmth and compassion, making modern Buddhism accessible and applicable to all.

TIMETABLE
Registration/sign-in - 9.45am
Session 1 - 10am – 11.15am
Break - 11.15am – 11.45am
Session 2 - 11.45am – 1pm

BOOK NOW

COST: $40pp
Centre members $0
Bookings are essential.
Add to Cart

COVID19 PRECAUTIONS & RESTRICTIONS

All our venues comply with COVID-safe guidelines. Hand sanitiser will be available at the event. Social distancing measures will be in place and chairs may not be moved from their position. Brunch and refreshments have been prepared under the strictest COVID19-safe conditions by a fully accredited food preparation person.

YOUR COVID19 RESPONSIBILITIES

  • If you are feeling unwell on the day or have been in contact with anyone who is unwell, please do not attend on the day – we will arrange a refund for you.
  • Please maintain social distancing at all times.

Our focus is to keep everyone safe and healthy and we appreciate your cooperation.

HELPING ON THE DAY

You are very welcome to arrive early and help our volunteers set up for the day. We also need help packing and cleaning up afterwards. If you’d like to stay and help, you are most welcome to.

]]> How To Deal With Change and Uncertainty Meditation Workshop https://goldcoastmeditation.org.au/how-to-deal-with-change-and-uncertainty-meditation-workshop/ Fri, 23 Jul 2021 01:24:10 +0000 https://goldcoastmeditation.org/?p=1103481

Meditation Workshop

How To Deal With Change and Uncertainty

Sunday 22 August 10am - Mermaid Beach Community Centre

Add to Cart
Days
Hours

HOW TO DEAL WITH CHANGE AND UNCERTAINTY

We are all living in uncertain times, both globally and personally. It is easy to feel troubled by everything that we see in the world, and upset by the difficulties that we’re dealing with daily.

Times of change and uncertainty can be unsettling, but they also can become transformative. By learning to accept and embrace change, we free our mind from fear and anxiety and can cultivate wisdom views that help us keep calm and positive amidst the uncertainty of our lives.

TIME: 10am to 1pm

COST: $40pp (includes morning tea)

What To Expect

There are two sessions in each workshop. They consist of an introduction, simple breathing meditation and teaching and conclude with a contemplative meditation on the teaching from that session.

Buddhist meditation involves staying alert and keeping our back straight, so we sit on chairs for the duration of the course. There’s no need to bring anything, although you may wish to bring some water and a jacket. Refreshments are provided in the break session.

Attendees come from all walks of life and there’s no need to have any meditation experience as all meditations are guided.  Everyone is welcome.

learn to meditate near me

About The Teacher

Gen Kelsang Ani

Gen Kelsang Ani is Resident Teacher of Kadampa Meditation Centre Brisbane and the Gold Coast and teaches all the main classes and courses at both Centres.

Gen Ani has been studying and practising Modern Kadampa Buddhism with Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso Rinpoche for over 15 years. Ani teaches with warmth and compassion, making modern Buddhism accessible and applicable to all.

TIMETABLE
Registration/sign-in - 9.45am
Session 1 - 10am – 11.15am
Break - 11.15am – 11.45am
Session 2 - 11.45am – 1pm

BOOK NOW

COST: $40pp
Centre members $0
Bookings are essential.
Add to Cart

COVID19 PRECAUTIONS & RESTRICTIONS

All our venues comply with COVID-safe guidelines. Hand sanitiser will be available at the event. Social distancing measures will be in place and chairs may not be moved from their position. Brunch and refreshments have been prepared under the strictest COVID19-safe conditions by a fully accredited food preparation person.

YOUR COVID19 RESPONSIBILITIES

  • If you are feeling unwell on the day or have been in contact with anyone who is unwell, please do not attend on the day – we will arrange a refund for you.
  • Please maintain social distancing at all times.
  • You will be required to sign in on arrival at the event and include your name, email address and phone number.

Our focus is to keep everyone safe and healthy and we appreciate your cooperation.

HELPING ON THE DAY

You are very welcome to arrive early and help our volunteers set up for the day. We also need help packing and cleaning up afterwards. If you’d like to stay and help, you are most welcome to.

]]> Clear Mind Half Day Meditation Retreat https://goldcoastmeditation.org.au/clear-mind-half-day-meditation-retreat/ Mon, 14 Jun 2021 03:52:01 +0000 https://goldcoastmeditation.org/?p=1103161

Clear Mind Half Day Meditation Retreat

Saturday 24 July 9.30am

SAT 24 JULY

9.30am to 1.30pm

Mermaid Beach Community Centre
$55pp - INCLUDES REFRESHMENTS
Centre Members FREE
Time to workshop
Days
Hours

CLEAR MIND
Half Day Meditation Retreat

Join us for a relaxing day retreat in a quiet and peaceful environment, providing a rare opportunity to refresh your mind through meditation.

Everyone is welcome. No prior experience is necessary.

About The Teacher

Gen Kelsang Ani

Gen Kelsang Ani is Resident Teacher of Kadampa Meditation Centre Brisbane and the Gold Coast and teaches all the main classes and courses at both Centres.

Gen Ani has been studying and practising Modern Kadampa Buddhism with Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso Rinpoche for over 15 years. Ani teaches with warmth and compassion, making modern Buddhism accessible and applicable to all.

TIMETABLE
Registration/sign-in - 9.15am
Session 1 - 9.30am – 10.30am
Break - 10.30am – 11am
Session 2 - 11am – 12pm
Break - 12pm - 12.30pm
Session 3 - 12.30pm - 1.30pm

BOOK NOW

COST: $55pp
Centre members $0
Bookings are essential.
BOOK NOW

COVID19 PRECAUTIONS & RESTRICTIONS

All our venues comply with COVID-safe guidelines. Hand sanitiser will be available at the event. Social distancing measures will be in place and chairs may not be moved from their position. Brunch and refreshments have been prepared under the strictest COVID19-safe conditions by a fully accredited food preparation person.

YOUR COVID19 RESPONSIBILITIES

  • If you are feeling unwell on the day or have been in contact with anyone who is unwell, please do not attend on the day – we will arrange a refund for you.
  • Please maintain social distancing at all times.
  • You will be required to sign in on arrival at the event and include your name, email address and phone number.

Our focus is to keep everyone safe and healthy and we appreciate your cooperation.

HELPING ON THE DAY

You are very welcome to arrive early and help our volunteers set up for the day. We also need help packing and cleaning up afterwards. If you’d like to stay and help, you are most welcome to.

]]> Booking Form – Springbrook Rainforest Retreat https://goldcoastmeditation.org.au/booking-form-springbrook-rainforest-retreat/ Fri, 04 Jun 2021 06:24:00 +0000 https://goldcoastmeditation.org/?p=1103001

Springbrook Rainforest Retreat

Friday 29 - Sunday 31 October 2021

]]> Developing Inner Strength – Meditation Workshop https://goldcoastmeditation.org.au/developing-inner-strength-meditation-workshop/ Fri, 14 May 2021 01:27:57 +0000 https://goldcoastmeditation.org/?p=1102796

Developing Inner Strength

Sunday 13 June 10am

You've Gotta Have Faith - Sun 30 August

SUN 13 JUNE

10am to 1pm

Mermaid Beach Community Centre
$40pp - INCLUDES MORNING TEA SNACKS
Centre Members FREE
Time to workshop
Days
Hours

DEVELOPING INNER STRENGTH
Half Day Meditation Workshop

Connect with your own potential for inner resilience and unshakeable happiness, no matter what happens around you. Be empowered to rise above negative habits of mind and learn how to overcome them with proven meditation techniques that enable us to develop attitudes that support inner peace.

Everyone is welcome. No prior experience is necessary.

About The Teacher

Gen Kelsang Ani

Gen Kelsang Ani is Resident Teacher of Kadampa Meditation Centre Brisbane and the Gold Coast and teaches all the main classes and courses at both Centres.

Gen Ani has been studying and practising Modern Kadampa Buddhism with Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso Rinpoche for over 15 years. Ani teaches with warmth and compassion, making modern Buddhism accessible and applicable to all.

TIMETABLE
Registration/sign-in - 9.45am
Session 1 - 10am – 11.15am
Break - 11.15am – 11.45am
Session 2 - 11.45am – 1pm

BOOK NOW

COST: $40pp
Centre members $0
Bookings are essential.
BOOK NOW

COVID19 PRECAUTIONS & RESTRICTIONS

All our venues comply with COVID-safe guidelines. Hand sanitiser will be available at the event. Social distancing measures will be in place and chairs may not be moved from their position. Brunch and refreshments have been prepared under the strictest COVID19-safe conditions by a fully accredited food preparation person.

YOUR COVID19 RESPONSIBILITIES

  • If you are feeling unwell on the day or have been in contact with anyone who is unwell, please do not attend on the day – we will arrange a refund for you.
  • Please maintain social distancing at all times.
  • You will be required to sign in on arrival at the event and include your name, email address and phone number.

Our focus is to keep everyone safe and healthy and we appreciate your cooperation.

HELPING ON THE DAY

You are very welcome to arrive early and help our volunteers set up for the day. We also need help packing and cleaning up afterwards. If you’d like to stay and help, you are most welcome to.

]]> Overcoming Anxiety – Meditation Workshop https://goldcoastmeditation.org.au/overcoming-anxiety-meditation-workshop/ Tue, 09 Mar 2021 02:33:33 +0000 https://goldcoastmeditation.org/?p=1102014

Developing Inner Strength

Sunday 13 June 10am

You've Gotta Have Faith - Sun 30 August

SUN 13 JUNE

10am to 1pm

Mermaid Beach Community Centre
$40pp - INCLUDES MORNING TEA SNACKS
Centre Members FREE
Time to workshop
Days
Hours

DEVELOPING INNER STRENGTH
Half Day Meditation Workshop

Connect with your own potential for inner resilience and unshakeable happiness, no matter what happens around you. Be empowered to rise above negative habits of mind and learn how to overcome them with proven meditation techniques that enable us to develop attitudes that support inner peace.

Everyone is welcome. No prior experience is necessary.

About The Teacher

Gen Kelsang Ani

Gen Kelsang Ani is Resident Teacher of Kadampa Meditation Centre Brisbane and the Gold Coast and teaches all the main classes and courses at both Centres.

Gen Ani has been studying and practising Modern Kadampa Buddhism with Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso Rinpoche for over 15 years. Ani teaches with warmth and compassion, making modern Buddhism accessible and applicable to all.

TIMETABLE
Registration/sign-in - 9.45am
Session 1 - 10am – 11.15am
Break - 11.15am – 11.45am
Session 2 - 11.45am – 1pm

BOOK NOW

COST: $40pp
Centre members $0
Bookings are essential.
BOOK NOW

COVID19 PRECAUTIONS & RESTRICTIONS

Burleigh Masonic Hall complies with COVID-safe guidelines. Hand sanitiser will be available at the event. Social distancing measures will be in place and chairs may not be moved from their position. Brunch and refreshments have been prepared under the strictest COVID19-safe conditions by a fully accredited food preparation person.

YOUR COVID19 RESPONSIBILITIES

  • If you are feeling unwell on the day or have been in contact with anyone who is unwell, please do not attend on the day – we will arrange a refund for you.
  • Please maintain social distancing at all times.
  • You will be required to sign in on arrival at the event and include your name, email address and phone number.

Our focus is to keep everyone safe and healthy and we appreciate your cooperation.

HELPING ON THE DAY

You are very welcome to arrive early and help our volunteers set up for the day. We also need help packing and cleaning up afterwards. If you’d like to stay and help, you are most welcome to.

]]> The Illusion of Loneliness – Meditation Workshop https://goldcoastmeditation.org.au/the-illusion-of-loneliness-meditation-workshop/ Fri, 26 Feb 2021 10:48:38 +0000 https://goldcoastmeditation.org/?p=1101797

The Illusion of
Loneliness

Saturday 27 March 10am

SAT 27 MAR

10am to 1pm

BURLEIGH WATERS COMMUNITY CENTRE
$40pp - INCLUDES SNACKS
Centre Members FREE
Time to workshop
Days
Hours

VERY LIMITED SEATING. BOOK NOW

THE ILLUSION OF LONELINESS
Half Day Meditation Workshop

Discover how this perception of being separate is an illusion; and that in truth we are all naturally and profoundly interconnected.
 

Everybody is welcome to attend this course, regardless of experience. This half day course will consist of practical teachings and short guided meditations that will give rise to a peaceful feeling in the mind and improve your ability to live a peaceful life.

About The Teacher

Gen Kelsang Ani

Gen Kelsang Ani is Resident Teacher of Kadampa Meditation Centre Brisbane and the Gold Coast and teaches all the main classes and courses at both Centres.

Gen Ani has been studying and practising Modern Kadampa Buddhism with Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso Rinpoche for over 15 years. Ani teaches with warmth and compassion, making modern Buddhism accessible and applicable to all.

TIMETABLE
Registration/sign-in - 9.45am
Session 1 - 10am – 11.15am
Break - 11.15am – 11.45am
Session 2 - 11.45am – 1pm

BOOK NOW

COST: $40pp
Centre members $0
Bookings are essential.
BOOK NOW

COVID19 PRECAUTIONS & RESTRICTIONS

Burleigh Masonic Hall complies with COVID-safe guidelines. Hand sanitiser will be available at the event. Social distancing measures will be in place and chairs may not be moved from their position. Brunch and refreshments have been prepared under the strictest COVID19-safe conditions by a fully accredited food preparation person.

YOUR COVID19 RESPONSIBILITIES

  • If you are feeling unwell on the day or have been in contact with anyone who is unwell, please do not attend on the day – we will arrange a refund for you.
  • Please maintain social distancing at all times.
  • You will be required to sign in on arrival at the event and include your name, email address and phone number.

Our focus is to keep everyone safe and healthy and we appreciate your cooperation.

HELPING ON THE DAY

You are very welcome to arrive early and help our volunteers set up for the day. We also need help packing and cleaning up afterwards. If you’d like to stay and help, you are most welcome to.

]]> Breaking Bad Habits – Meditation Workshop https://goldcoastmeditation.org.au/breaking-bad-habits-meditation-workshop/ Tue, 09 Feb 2021 02:35:12 +0000 https://goldcoastmeditation.org/?p=1101491

Breaking Bad
Habits

Saturday 27 February 10am

SAT 27 FEB

10am to 1pm

$40pp - INCLUDES SNACKS
Centre Members FREE
Time to workshop
Days
Hours

BREAKING BAD HABITS
Half Day Meditation Workshop

MASONIC HALL, BURLEIGH HEADS

Bad habits make us unhappy, unhealthy and destroy our relationships and sense of self-worth. By understanding the mental attitudes that cause our bad habits, we can gradually undo them. Through understanding our mind in this way we can finally bring it under control and find mental peace, freedom, integrity and confidence. We can break our bad habits forever.

Everybody is welcome to attend this course, regardless of experience. This half day course will consist of practical teachings and short guided meditations that will give rise to a peaceful feeling in the mind and improve your ability to live a peaceful life.

BOOK NOW

About The Teacher

Gen Kelsang Ani

Gen Kelsang Ani is Resident Teacher of Kadampa Meditation Centre Brisbane and the Gold Coast and teaches all the main classes and courses at both Centres.

Gen Ani has been studying and practising Modern Kadampa Buddhism with Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso Rinpoche for over 15 years. Ani teaches with warmth and compassion, making modern Buddhism accessible and applicable to all.

TIMETABLE
Registration/sign-in - 9.45am
Session 1 - 10am – 11.15am
Break - 11.15am – 11.45am
Session 2 - 11.45am – 1pm

BOOK NOW

COST: $40pp
Centre members $0
Bookings are essential.
BOOK NOW

COVID19 PRECAUTIONS & RESTRICTIONS

Burleigh Masonic Hall complies with COVID-safe guidelines. Hand sanitiser will be available at the event. Social distancing measures will be in place and chairs may not be moved from their position. Brunch and refreshments have been prepared under the strictest COVID19-safe conditions by a fully accredited food preparation person.

YOUR COVID19 RESPONSIBILITIES

  • If you are feeling unwell on the day or have been in contact with anyone who is unwell, please do not attend on the day – we will arrange a refund for you.
  • Please maintain social distancing at all times.
  • You will be required to sign in on arrival at the event and include your name, email address and phone number.

Our focus is to keep everyone safe and healthy and we appreciate your cooperation.

HELPING ON THE DAY

You are very welcome to arrive early and help our volunteers set up for the day. We also need help packing and cleaning up afterwards. If you’d like to stay and help, you are most welcome to.

]]> Beginners’ Meditation Retreat https://goldcoastmeditation.org.au/beginners-meditation-retreat/ Sun, 24 Jan 2021 04:53:36 +0000 https://goldcoastmeditation.org/?p=1101181

Beginners' Meditation Retreat

Sunday 21 March 9.30am

SUN 21 MAR

9.30am to 2pm

$55pp - INCLUDES BRUNCH AND REFRESHMENTS LIMITED SPACES
Centre Members FREE
Time to workshop
Days
Hours

BEGINNERS' MEDITATION RETREAT
Meditations For Relaxation

MASONIC HALL, BURLEIGH HEADS

Restore your inner peace and unlock your minds’ potential for lasting happiness. Join us for a relaxing day retreat in a quiet and peaceful environment, providing a rare opportunity to refresh your mind through meditation. Through meditation we can learn how to relax and develop peaceful and positive states of mind.

Everybody is welcome to attend this course, regardless of experience. This beginners meditation retreat will consist of practical teachings and short guided meditations that will give rise to a peaceful feeling in the mind and improve your ability to live a peaceful life.

 
BOOK NOW

About The Teacher

Gen Kelsang Ani

Gen Kelsang Ani is Resident Teacher of Kadampa Meditation Centre Brisbane and the Gold Coast and teaches all the main classes and courses at both Centres.

Gen Ani has been studying and practising Modern Kadampa Buddhism with Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso Rinpoche for over 15 years. Ani teaches with warmth and compassion, making modern Buddhism accessible and applicable to all.

TIMETABLE
Registration/sign-in - 9.15am
Session 1 - 9.30am – 10.30am
Brunch break - 10.30am – 11.30am
Session 2 - 11.30am – 12.30pm
Snack break - 12.30pm - 1pm
Session 3 - 1pm - 2pm

BOOK NOW

COST: $55pp
Centre members $0
Bookings are essential.
BOOK NOW

COVID19 PRECAUTIONS & RESTRICTIONS

Burleigh Masonic Hall complies with COVID-safe guidelines. Hand sanitiser will be available at the event. Social distancing measures will be in place and chairs may not be moved from their position. Brunch and refreshments have been prepared under the strictest COVID19-safe conditions by a fully accredited food preparation person.

YOUR COVID19 RESPONSIBILITIES

  • If you are feeling unwell on the day or have been in contact with anyone who is unwell, please do not attend on the day – we will arrange a refund for you.
  • Please maintain social distancing at all times.
  • You will be required to sign in on arrival at the event and include your name, email address and phone number.

Our focus is to keep everyone safe and healthy and we appreciate your cooperation.

HELPING ON THE DAY

You are very welcome to arrive early and help our volunteers set up for the day. We also need help packing and cleaning up afterwards. If you’d like to stay and help, you are most welcome to.

]]>