We are individuals united in seeking to create conscious community that are havens liberating and nurturing the potential of all through social equity, integrity, courage, transformative growth, collaborative enterprises, and celebration and care of the planet.
In December 2008 we created a four-bottom-line intentional community / ecovillage on the Sunshine Coast hinterland at Belli Park, near Noosa, to model sustainable community living.
The first bottom line is personal transformative growth and the recognition of the connection that exists in all of us and our planet. The community thus has a spiritual, though non-denominational, basis. Our intention is fundamentally outward focused, with the intent to interact and contribute to society in positive ways.
The second is social sustainability and connection. This incorporates facilitating people from different ages, backgrounds and economic circumstances, setting a community size of 12 or more. It incorporates governance that is honouring to all, recognising the need to be heard; and communication and conflict resolution skills. We have clear processes in place to give transparency.
The third is economic sustainability, which incorporates the community’s stability as well as desirable industry that supports individual economic sustainability. We also seek the growth of non-currency based internal economies.
The fourth is environmental sustainability, which incorporates food production on our rural site; rainwater harvesting, treatment, and dispersal; building design, construction, and refurbishments; and renewable energy. Overarching this is respect and care of the natural country of which we are the current stewards.
Our 16 hectare (40 acre) property has conference/workshop facilities including a hall, restaurant, and suites of accommodations for small groups. We welcome enquiries for holding workshops and retreats that further our sustainable and ethical practices.
We are also open to additional community members at this stage. There may be building sites and rental spaces for like-minded people who share our vision and have the energy and enthusiasm to see this project through.
We are exploring living in ways that are spiritually, socially, environmentally and economically sustaining, whilst sharing and engaging with the world.
All decisions regarding membership (beyond 28 days) are made by the Bellbunya Community Association and can be initiated as a request/application or as an invitation.
Those staying longer than a month may be invited to take part in BCA meetings.
*A sponsor/mentor is allocated for each member (after first month for up to a year)
*reviews are held by the BCA at 1 month, 3 months, 6 months and thereafter annually for all members.
*sponsors can check in with candidates using the Community Commitments (see website) for reporting/feedback, at the intervals indicated. BCA reviews can be held at the BCA meeting closest to the intervals stated.
*You may be invited to become a Full Member after at least 6 months membership. A $5000 membership fee becomes due. ($8000 for couples) Your level of participation, personal contribution and responsibility will increase as will your opportunity to affect the direction of Bellbunya. At the same time, some costs may decrease.
Casual visitors are welcome. We have have a range of accommodation available at affordable rates. WWOOFing/volunteering is also available. Visit our website for information about coming events, accommodation options, volunteering opportunities. Go to www.bellbunya.org.au
A few people (not elected by the broader community) make the major decisions.
Generally seek agreement, but have backup methods when consensus isn’t reached.
Power and responsibility are shared relatively equally among members.
Consensus (not unanimity) is always sought.
Sociocratic principles are used when numbers allow
All community members contribute to decision-making although the process for proposals requires time .
Members maintain separate personal finances with minimal sharing.
Regular fees: $500
Labor: Yes (8 hrs/week)
Expect at least 8 hours/week (doesn’t include shared meal roster, meeting attendance). Committed community members generally don’t count!
Membership and other (rental) fees – figures above will vary with exchange rates and space rented. Although community membership requires application and group approval there is no initial fee. After 1 year “full” membership maybe offered and if accepted costs USD$4000 approx or USD$8000 couples
Food pool, utilities are extra although economy of scale operates advantageously!
Common House, Garden(s), Library, Workshop, Outbuilding(s), Swimming pond or pool, Large Scale Kitchen, Tractor & Farm Equipment, Stage or Auditorium, Fire pit, Internet
Countryside locations with significant distance from urban centers.
Integrated communities designed around ecological principles with sustainable living practices.
A residential project: people live here as their primary home.
An institution, business, network, or project that isn’t a residence (e.g. a learning center, farm, or network with no one living there full-time).
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