FNQ Harp Connection 2022 Retreat

Loni Fitzpatrick gives a harp workshop at Quinola Lakes.

Our second (ever) retreat got underway in October 2022 and was again a jam-packed weekend celebration of all things harp, good conversation and great food.

We gathered together at the beautiful Quinola Lakes which provided a dam as a great cooling off spot in the unseasonal hot weather which hit that weekend.

Workshops ranged from the technical (warm up, rhythm) to jazz, folk, minimalist, improvision and the more esoteric plant resonance and sound meditation. Workshop facilitators did a great job in competing with noisy fans to provide ongoing encouragement and inspiration. Many thanks to Joy, Hannah, Loni, Naomi, Kat and Natalia for the time and effort they put into providing such great activities.

The sound meditation was a special, relaxing and uplifting session on Saturday night at the end of a busy hot day. Thanks to Murphy Ryland who travelled some distance to bring us her beautiful sounds and to Loni for providing an inspirational harp accompaniment.

We were fortunate this year to secure a grant from the Tablelands Regional Council that was extremely helpful in keeping costs to a minimum.  Cairns Produce once again came to the party providing a fantastic selection of fresh fruit and vegetables which made breakfast truly splendid. Lovelee Catering kept us well fed with luscious lunches and dinners.

Thanks also have to go to the planning committee of Natalia, Kat, Leoni, Gretchen, Hannah, Glen. Anita and Bronwyn. After such a busy 2022 we are taking 2023 off to regroup and plan to hold the next retreat in 2024. 

Sound Meditation Saturday night