Kingscliff, October 2025
The beach is calling! Escape to sunny Kingscliff in the NSW Northern Rivers for a transformative sewing retreat unlike any other. Immerse yourself for a special time away with us stitching, beach-combing, and connecting with fellow artists with the coast as our backdrop. Learn from renowned tutors Cindy Watkins, Meredith Woolnough, and your host Caroline Sharkey, nestled in the comfort and beauty of Mantra Salt Beach Resort’s luxurious venue.
Spots are limited, so secure yours now to avoid disappointment.
An immersive sewing experience you’ll never forget.
Calling all textile artists! Are you ready to weave a tapestry of memories unlike any other? Join Caroline Sharkey and a community of passionate stitchers for a transformative retreat by the sea in Kingscliff, northern NSW!
Innovative textile
art classes
Explore cutting-edge techniques and push your creative boundaries with our curated selection of workshops.
Breathtaking destination to explore
Immerse yourself in the stunning coastal surroundings and relax at our luxurious venue, creating lasting memories with fellow artists.
A place to belong
Feel fully supported and valued throughout the retreat with our dedicated team ensuring your well-being, greet old friends and make new connections to cherish when you return home.
Seamless retreat experience
Enjoy a meticulously planned and flawlessly executed retreat, exceeding your expectations in every detail.
Wherever you are in your textile art journey, we have a place for you.
Textile artists of all skill levels, from beginners seeking inspiration to seasoned stitchers looking to refine their craft.
Anyone who craves a unique and enriching travel experience that combines creativity, connection, and cultural immersion.
Those seeking a chance to escape the everyday and reconnect with their inner artist in a place of profound beauty and serenity.
“A definite bucket list item.”
“Attending the 2023 Sewing up a Storm in the Desert with Caroline and her team was my third time and definitely the best. Such a wonderful group of sewers including old friends and many new friends. The workshops were excellent, Hard to choose which one to do as they were all exciting, and then the evening activities handpicked by Caroline and her crew were amazing. I would definitely recommend Sewing up a Storm in the Desert as a definite bucket list item. 2025 is likely to be even more wonderful if I know the team!”
Vicki M.
An experience so exquisite, you can feel it already.
Sun-drenched days spent learning new techniques and creating breathtaking textile art inspired by the sparkling coastline, lush hinterland, and vibrant marine life of Kingscliff.
Evenings filled with lively conversations, shared laughter, and the comforting clinking of glasses under a star-studded sky.
Intimate workshops led by world-renowned tutors, where you'll gain valuable skills and unlock new creative possibilities.
Immerse yourself in the relaxed coastal lifestyle and explore the beauty of the surrounding coastline.
Stitch up a storm with talented guest tutors Cindy Watkins, Meredith Woolnough, and your host Caroline Sharkey.
Luxury Accommodations
Relax and recharge in beautifully appointed rooms at Mantra Salt Beach Resort or surrounding accommodations on the coast or in the hinterland.
Delicious Meals
Savour the flavours of the coast with gourmet meals prepared with fresh, local ingredients.
Excursions & Local Experiences
Dig your toes into the sand and feel the sun on your face, and enjoy the best the coast has to offer in the warmth of spring.
Meet the Tutors
Meredith Woolnough
Capture the essence of both strength and delicacy in embroidery with Meredith Woolnough.
Explore the art of free-motion stitching in Meredith’s class called ‘Sculptural Embroidery: Shadow Mounted Reef’.
Meredith's artistic journey is deeply rooted in the awe-inspiring patterns, structures, and shapes found in the natural world. Drawing inspiration from the intricate designs of plants, coral, cells, and shells, she skillfully captures the essence of both strength and delicacy in her 3D embroideries.
Meredith’s art is a testament to the profound beauty that exists in the natural world. With every stitch, she invites us to marvel at the delicate intricacies that surround us, reminding us of the fragile yet resilient nature of life itself.
Embark on a transformative journey with Meredith as she brings vibrant waters to life through thread, echoing the intricate forms of a coral reef.
This is a rare opportunity to spend time with a brilliant and talented young artist who will inspire you to push the boundaries of your own creativity.
Cindy Watkins
Transform thread and fabric into exquisite trees & textural landscape designs with Cindy Watkins.
Branch out with freestyle machine embroidery in Cindy’s class called ‘Thread Through the Forest’.
An award-winning artist and published in magazines the world over, Cindy’s breathtaking art is inspired by the natural world - and specifically the flora and fauna of Tasmania.
Join Cindy's class and immerse yourself in the art of landscape design. Discover the power of making a tree the focal point of your art piece, and witness firsthand how Cindy masterfully incorporates stitch colour to bring her designs to life.
Whether you're a beginner or an advanced artist, this class is tailored to suit all skill levels. Prepare to be captivated by Cindy's talent as she guides you through an unforgettable session that will leave you in awe.
Caroline Sharkey
Bring the bush to life with raw-edge appliqué and thread painting with Caroline Sharkey.
Craft a textural masterpiece of leaves and flowers in a soothing palette inspired by the coastal bush in Caroline’ class called ‘Coastal Flora’.
A renowned artist, tutor, and event facilitator, Caroline effortlessly weaves her many talents into every aspect of her work. From her captivating artwork to her thriving textile art workshops and retreats, Caroline's influence can be felt worldwide.
Join Cindy's class and immerse yourself in the art of landscape design. Discover the power of making a tree the focal point of your art piece, and witness firsthand how Cindy masterfully incorporates stitch colour to bring her designs to life.
Step into the enchanting world of Caroline’s workshop and immerse yourself in the art of recreating the surface to craft a textural masterpiece. Caroline will guide you through the process of creating a stunning 3-D appliqué, bringing flowers and leaves to life with raw edge techniques, learn the art of bin work and embellishment, and add that extra touch of magic to your individual Coastal Flora project.
YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED
-
Your ticket purchase covers the cost of the retreat sessions, workshops, venue, some materials and special guests to make your experience fulfilling and unforgettable, from Friday 1st – Sunday 5th August 2025.
Your Accommodation and Travel are not included and must be booked by each delegate separately.
-
The retreat is located in the heart of the Australian Outback near Uluru. The most common way to arrive is by flying into Ayers Rock Airport and then taking a shuttle or rental car to the Ayers Rock Resort location to check into your accommodation. Book your flights as soon as possible to avoid logistical issues.
-
Booking your accommodation at Ayers Rock Resort offers a variety of options to suit different preferences and budgets. From luxury hotels and eco-friendly lodges to comfortable campsites and self-contained apartments, there is something for everyone – we’re frequent Uluru visitors, so let us know if you’d like our recommendations or advice.
Book your accommodation as soon as possible to secure your preference.
-
Our Welcome Poolside Soiree held on the opening night of the retreat is fully catered for, thanks to our incredible sponsors at Bernina. The soiree will be held at the Sail within the retreat venue - Ayers Rock Resort. Gourmet lunches are provided for delegates during session times.
No other meals are included in your ticket, but there are so many delectable restaurants to sample! What better excuse to get to know your newfound friends by dining with other delegates.
-
The weather in the Outback can be unpredictable, so it's best to pack layers. Comfortable clothing suitable for sewing and crafting activities, as well as closed-toe shoes for safety during workshops, are recommended. If you plan to do any additional exploring during your visit, make sure to pack appropriately for your activities.
-
You will be required to bring some resources for your classes, and will be provided with a list prior to the event. If your classes require any materials from your tutors, you can purchase these and they will be provided at the event.
Be sure to pack any sewing supplies or tools you may need for the workshops, as well as personal items like sunscreen, a hat and water bottle. A small backpack or tote bag is ideal for carrying your essentials around the retreat.
-
The retreat is open to artists of all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned stitchers. Inspiration abounds for everyone, and with so many sewists and caring tutors in the room, you will never be without a helping hand.
-
The event itinerary is packed with classes, social gatherings and experiences that you’ll not want to miss. While there is ample room for relaxing in between gatherings, we recommend extending your stay if you wish to take in all that Uluru has to offer. You might like to bring your partner or family along to enjoy this special location too.
-
Take advantage of the stunning desert scenery by participating in outdoor activities or simply relaxing and soaking in the unique surroundings. Don't be afraid to ask questions, connect with fellow attendees, and fully immerse yourself in the creative and inspiring atmosphere of the retreat.
Don't Miss Out on This Unforgettable Experience!
Limited spots are available for Sewing Up a Storm on the Coast 2024. This is your chance to immerse yourself in creativity, culture, and breathtaking beauty alongside a vibrant community of textile enthusiasts.
Imagine yourself learning from world-renowned tutors, creating exquisite textile art inspired by the coastal setting, and forging lasting friendships under the warmth of the spring sun. This retreat offers an experience unlike any other.
Secure your place today and embark on a transformative journey.
“It was certainly worth the wait!”
“After rescheduling because of Covid and the uncertainty of closed borders, the 2023 Uluru Retreat finally happened after a 3 year wait. So much hard work was done by Caroline Sharkey, her family and the wonderful, ‘behind the scenes’ team to make this happen.
As a ‘first timer’ to Uluru what impressed me was the level of communication that was sent to delegates. The Delegates Booklet, outlining the classes on offer, the accommodation options, things to do around the resort, included tours and a schedule of events and times made organising the trip very manageable.
The choice of tutors was excellent. Our 2 brilliant Australians, Caroline Sharkey and Gloria Loughman, along with highly acclaimed textile artists Sandra Mollon and Judy Coates Perez from the USA all made for an exciting and fulfilling 4 days of creativity and learning.
Bernina Australia sponsors this event and each delegate got to bring home a new Bernina 325 sewing machine that they used during the workshops. What an amazing feat to organise so many specially skinned machines showing Caroline Sharkey’s award winning quilt, ‘Star Talk’.
Although it was a busy schedule we had time to meet and chat with other delegates, getting to catch up with old friends and meet new ones.”