About Us
Wollemi Ridge Retreats was born out of a growing disconnect between the modern world and nature.
Origins of the Ridge
Our Story
Before it became Wollemi Ridge Retreats, this special property was known as Tipi World—a place where travelers could stay and experience the area while helping out on Harvest Farms and at the nearby Love Cabins. Built in 2010 by Lionel Bucket (of Love Cabins) and friends, Tipi World quickly grew into a vibrant gathering spot for the community, bringing together hardworking people for shared meals and experiences.
In 2019, the Black Fires swept through Bilpin, leaving much of the area in ruins. Miraculously, the tipis at Tipi World survived the fires completely intact, offering a sense of hope amid the devastation. However, with so much of the community in need of rebuilding, restoring Tipi World was put on hold.
Now, after years of recovery, the property has been reimagined as Wollemi Ridge Retreats. It carries forward the spirit of community Tipi World represents, inviting guests to reconnect with nature and community in a beautiful, peaceful setting.
Meet The Team
Wollemi Ridge Retreats was born from the shared dream of Chris and Sally Dulson Barnes, a husband-and-wife team with a deep love for nature and community. Sally’s connection to Bilpin runs deep—her family, the Powells, were among the first settlers to farm this land. When Sally and Chris met at the Glastonbury Festival in 2017, they quickly discovered a shared love for the outdoors, creativity, and the peace that comes from connecting with nature.
Chris, with his passion for extreme outdoor sports and wild camping, and Sally, an artist at heart who loves bringing people together in beautiful spaces, found themselves inspired to create something special. Together, they envisioned a place where people could slow down, reconnect with nature, and find joy in the wild.
With the support of the Bilpin community and their combined skills, they brought Wollemi Ridge Retreats to life—a unique escape that invites you to relax, recharge, and embrace the beauty of the Australian bush. Here, you’ll find a place where adventure and comfort meet, and where every visitor is welcomed as part of the story.
