For a week, you can have it all — the time, space, guidance and support to immerse yourself in your writing, music, art, or other focus. Disconnect from the obligations of the outside world, lean in to the surrounding peace and stillness, and let your creativity flow in your own private studio.

Nestled in the tranquility of the Australian bush, the Brushtale Arts Residency offers a self-contained modern cabin for creators — of all kinds — seeking inspiration and focus. As well as the space itself, the residency includes meals, coaching support, and the opportunity to share your skills through a workshop.

Residency weeks are offered 3 times a year. There is a commitment of $15 to apply, with successful applicants chosen based on the merit of their submissions. If selected, you have access to the Brushtale Arts Residency free of charge — including accommodation, meals, coaching support, and transfers to/from Drake Village. The dates for your residency week are agreed once you are selected.

Residency weeks for small groups is possible; please contact Jess to discuss before you apply.

The current round of applications closes on 31 July 2025. This is our first round ever — you could be our very first resident.

Brushtale Arts Residency is located in Rocky River 2372, northern NSW.

As part of the residency you will receive:

• advice and tools from your host Jess, an experienced writers’ coach, to refine your work, boost your creativity, and tackle any cheeky obstacles

• breakfast and lunch at the cabin, plus home-cooked dinners shared with Jess and her family and other guests*

• an opportunity to deepen your practice by delivering a workshop to members of the local community

• plenty of time to yourself to soak up the peaceful surroundings, beautiful walks, refreshing dips in the river, and the friendly cows and other local wildlife.

* our meals are typically vegan-ish and mostly gluten-free. We can cater to most dietary requirements. You’re welcome to BYO meat to cook on the outdoor bbq.

Your host

Jess lives over the hill, out of sight but not too far if needed. She facilitates retreats and workshops for private groups, universities and corporate groups, and draws on 20+ years of working with non-fiction writers and other creators — including medical researchers, rebel poets, maritime lawyers, sailing instructors, anthropologists and archaeologists, entrepreneurs, AI experts, artists and activists, TV show producers and Michelin-star chefs.

Jess is offering this residency because she loves artistic growth and creation, and believes it makes the world a better place. She knows what it’s like to just need some time to focus, and wants to share this beautiful space with you to do just that.

Apply