BOUNDLESS PLAINS RETREAT

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Far North Queensland, uncovering the rich and often untold stories of Muslim heritage in the region. Walk in the footsteps of Albanian Muslims who settled in Mareeba in the 1920s as you tour a working sugarcane and coffee farm. Then, discover the deep history of Malay pearl divers at the Maritime Museum in Townsville. This immersive experience promises a rare blend of history, culture, and exploration, offering insights that will leave a lasting impression.

We invite participants aged 18-30 who are artists, content creators, musicians, fashion designers, and writers to join us. Throughout the seven-day journey, from 1-6 May 2025, you will have the opportunity to create a reflection piece, which can be developed and completed after your return. Acceptable reflection pieces include artworks (in any medium), poems, stories, vlogs, films, documentaries, garments or textiles, and music or songs.

A reflection piece is a mandatory component of participation. These works will be displayed at the Islamic Museum of Australia. The creative reflections should focus on personal insights, cultural engagement, and the overall journey. It should encapsulate your experiences and learnings from the trip. While diverse perspectives are encouraged, submissions must be respectful, non-offensive, and aligned with the spirit of the Boundless Plains Retreat project. The IMA reserves the right to

Project Goal & Intent

The Boundless Plains Retreat is designed to educate both Muslims and non-Muslims about the deep and enduring historical connections between Muslims and Australia. Through immersive experiences in North Queensland, participants will explore the rich cultural and historical narratives that have shaped these connections over centuries.

By fostering reflection and creative expression, the retreat encourages participants to engage with Australia’s diverse heritage in meaningful ways. Applications are open to individuals across Australia who are eager to learn, reflect, and contribute to a broader understanding of the Muslim presence in the nation's history.

The experience is supported by the Department of Home Affairs’ Social Cohesion Measures grant to support Australian Palestinian, Muslim and other communities affected by the Hamas-Israel conflict. The grant supports an integrated and cohesive multicultural Australia.

Places for this trip are limited, successful applicants will need to secure their place with a $300 deposit that will be refunded at the completion of the project.