The Francis Retreat

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Welcome to the Francis Retreat

Nestled in peaceful coastal surroundings in Bonny Hills, the Francis Retreat is the perfect place to rest, reflect, and connect.

Whether you’re planning a school retreat, a group conference, or a family holiday, our welcoming accommodation and tranquil setting create the ideal base for your visit. With Rainbow Beach just a short stroll away and Port Macquarie nearby, there’s plenty to see, do, and enjoy.

“There were so many people coming and going that the Apostles had no time to even eat. Then Jesus said to them “You must come away to some lonely place all by yourselves for a while” Mark (6:30).

This reading embodies the purpose of The Francis Retreat – “A place to take time, to reassess, to redirect our lives if necessary and to be the still in our turning world.”

– Fr Leo Donnelly, St Agnes’ Parish Priest 2015

Swimming pool

Dining hall

Meeting spaces

Conference facilities

Sporting facilities

Onsite chapel

Our accommodation options

School retreats

Our dormitory-style rooms feature 88 comfortable beds with ensuite bathrooms, along with dedicated rooms for leaders and supervisors.

The facilities are designed to cater to primary and secondary school groups, providing spaces for activities, reflection, and team building.

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Group retreats and conferences

Offering a quiet, natural setting for focus, connection, and growth, our conference hall is equipped with AV technology, breakout areas, and optional catering.

Guests also have access to the chapel, sports facilities, and outdoor spaces, making it a great venue for groups.

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Holiday accommodation

Our self-contained coastal cabins sleep up to six people and are fully equipped with a kitchen, bathroom, living spaces, and a relaxing veranda.

The tranquil environment provides the perfect backdrop for couples or families looking for a peaceful escape near the beach.

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"Loads of space, located in a <span class="highlighttext"> great spot</span> with easy access to local beaches and lots to explore close by."

"Loads of space, located in a great spot with easy access to local beaches and lots to explore close by."

- Stephen

"Stayed at Bonny’s Cottage.<span class="highlighttext"> Lovely place</span>. Thanks Joady for hosting us. Indeed a memorable experience. Highly recommend it!"

"Stayed at Bonny’s Cottage. Lovely place. Thanks Joady for hosting us. Indeed a memorable experience. Highly recommend it!"

- Muhammed

"We had a couple of little kids with us and this place was <span class="highlighttext"> great for kids</span>, with the secure backyard. Everything you want and a short walk to the beach"

"We had a couple of little kids with us and this place was great for kids, with the secure backyard. Everything you want and a short walk to the beach"

- Mike

The location

Rainbow Beach – 500m walk (2 min drive)

Dooragan National Park (North Brother Mountain) – 15 min drive

Port Macquarie – 20 min drive

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St Agnes’ Catholic Parish acknowledges the Birpai people as the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we live, work, and serve. We acknowledge their deep connection to this land, its waters, skies, and stories, nurtured with wisdom, care, and resilience for countless generations. We pay our respects to Elders past, present, and emerging and extend this respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.