FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Last updated 19/09/19
DISCLAIMER: These FAQ's are a guide only and are subject to change without notice. Terms and Conditions must be read prior to booking.
Should I read the Terms and Conditions?
You must read the Terms and Conditions prior to making your booking with On The Verandah. You can request a copy of the Terms and Conditions be sent to you by email or post, or you can read them on the website at http://www.ontheverandah.com.au/policies-terms-and-conditions.html
What is On The Verandah?
On The Verandah is an Australian creative tourism business run by Perth based couple, Rachel Dillon and Andrew Kikeros. We offer adventure holidays, creative workshops and events. Our hope for our guests is that during their time with us, they get to spread their wings and discover what they are truly capable of. Click for more information about our backgrounds https://www.ontheverandah.com.au/our-story.html
Where is the Kimberley?
The Kimberley is a vast, scarcely populated region in the far north of Western Australia. Most of our tours take place 130kms from Kununurra and 37kms from Wyndham, one of Australia's most remote towns.
Where and what is the workshop venue?
Digger’s Rest Station is a remote cattle station and horse-trekking business owned and operated by third generation cattle man, Roderick Woodland and his wife, Alida. The station is located 37kms along the King River Road from Wyndham. A stay at Digger’s Rest provides an authentic experience of life in the Kimberley region and just happens to be set in an incredible landscape.
What is Kimberley weather like?
The region has a tropical climate with the ‘Wet’ (very hot) season between November and April and the ‘Dry’ (warm to hot) season between May and October. We operate our tours in the Dry season between May and August. Possible temperature range at Digger’s Rest Station, from overnight lows to day time highs for each month of the dry season are approximately –
May: 20°C to 36°C. Showers are possible in early May becoming less likely later.
June: 18°C to 34°C. Rain possible but unusual.
July: 9°C to 33°C. Rain possible but unusual.
August: 15°C to 37°C. Rain possible but unusual.
What is included in a Kimberley tour?
Accommodation, meals at the station, tea and coffee, workshop tuition, transfers between Kununurra and the venue, other transport as per the itinerary, wilderness passes, other activities as per the itinerary.
What is not included in a Kimberley tour?
What are the prices?
Please refer to the website page relevant to the trip you are interested in for current pricing. If you would like a quote to bring your own group please contact us.
Are there any concessions or discounts?
We do not offer age concessions. We offer several discounts. Discounts are not cumulative. Select the best discount that applies to you and nominate it at the time of booking.
Single Supplement
The single supplement is $250pp on all Kimberley accommodation including forced singles. There is no single supplement on tent accommodation.
Bookings
Bookings can be made by phone on 0428 254 529 or email us. A registration form will be emailed for you to fill out and return. You must read the Terms and Conditions on the website (or request a hard copy) prior to completing your booking.
Deposits and Payment
Preferred payment is by EFT bank deposit. Bank details are on the registration form. We can accept cheque payment where a guest has no internet access.
A $500 deposit and a completed Registration Form are required on booking. Final payments are due 90 days before the start of your trip. (Or 120 days before the start of your trip if taking advantage of an Early Bird discount.)
Credit Cards - We can arrange payment by credit card it if that is your only option. You will be required to pay the additional charges associated with the credit facility – approximately 2%.
Cut-off dates
There may be a cut-off date associated with your chosen trip which is the latest date that we will take bookings for a trip. At the cut-off date we will announce whether we have achieved the numbers for it to go ahead. Early cut-off dates allow our venues time to secure new bookings in the event that our trip does not go ahead as well as giving you (and us) time to purchase flights and hotel rooms at reasonable prices.
Cut-off dates are:
2020 - Kimberley Art: No cut-off date.
What is the accommodation?
The 2 main types of accommodation at Digger’s Rest Station are Bush huts and Bunkhouse rooms. Please let us know your preference when booking. Book early to secure non-shared accommodation.
Will I be sharing?
If you do not wish to share, you’ll usually stay in a bush hut. The bunkhouse rooms are usually only available for sharing with one other. There is a single supplement of $250 for an unshared bush hut.
Will I be Camping?
Refer to your itinerary as some itineraries include 1 or 2 night’s camping. All camping gear is provided by us – camp chair, dome tent, swag & mattress, blankets, pillow, towel and linen. If you are unsure about camping we encourage you to give it a try! Guests often comment it was the highlight of their stay.
Food and Dietary Requirements
On our trips we do not have the services of a full time chef or cook, however you will find the meals healthy and home-style with a variety of options. We can prepare Gluten Free dishes and meals for Celiacs. We can provide vegetarian options. We cannot provide or guarantee vegan options. We cannot accommodate complex dietary needs, some allergies or lifestyle diets.
How do I get there?
Driving
If you are planning to drive to Digger’s Rest Station you will need a 4WD vehicle. We will meet you at an agreed point near Wyndham and you can follow in your vehicle. If you have a 2WD drive vehicle, or are towing a van, we recommend you leave them in Kununurra in secure parking. Contact the Kununurra Visitor Centre for secure parking options. Guests bringing their own car or a car they have hired to the station do so at their own risk.
Where can I get quotes and advice?
For flights, accommodation and travel insurance, we use and highly recommend Carolyn Burgmann at Travel Managers. Email Carolyn at carolynb@travelmanagers.com.au or phone 0459 434 909. We do not take a commission.
Is it a tour?
For the purposes of the website descriptions we call them tours but they are not really tours. You won't drive for miles each day before setting up camp in a new location. For the duration of the trip you will be based on a working cattle station, making short daily trips to locations and activities. Some itineraries have a one or two night camp.
What events are available?
Can I bring my own group and tutor?
You can bring your own tutored or non-tutored group. Please contact On The Verandah to check for available dates and to request information and the applicable Terms and Conditions. Terms and Conditions for these groups are different to the ones provided on this website.Please phone 0428254529 or email.
What is there to do during my stay?
As well as your daily workshop activities your itinerary may include some of the activities below.*
How big are groups?
Group size is between 7 and 10 for our Kimberley trips and usually a maximum of 8 for international trips.
Can I join a trip if I don't know anyone on it?
Of course! Many of our guests are lone travellers!
I don’t need instruction. Can I tag along?
Artists, photographers & writers: no tag along option in 2020.
Contact us if you are interested in a non-tutored retreat or bringing your own tutored group. Phone 0428 254 529. Non-workshop partners or friends are always welcome.
What should I bring to the Kimberley?
Regarding alcoholic beverages and mixers – please put your order in with On The Verandah prior to the trip.
Art Guests
Is there free time?
Our residential itineraries average 1 - 2 hours of free time each day and workshop activities (except for photography) usually finish by 5.30 each day.
I'm planning to ride horses while there. Do I need a helmet?
We require you to wear a helmet when riding. If you don't want to bring one there is a wide selection at the station. Riders need to be experienced horse riders. There is a 90kg weight limit for riders.
Are there communications?
Mobile phone signal at the station varies from zero to 3/5 signal depending where you are. To connect a laptop to the internet, try using the hotspot feature on your smart phone. There is a landline at the station and you can give the number to your family or friends for contacting you in an emergency. The number is 08 9161 1029.
Is the water safe to drink?
Yes, it is rainwater.
Are there crocodiles?
All creeks, rivers, dams, riverbanks and tidal zones in the Kimberley should be considered as crocodile habitat and treated with caution.
Can I do some washing?
There are coin operated washing machines at the Station (5 x $1 coins per load). Bring a small amount of washing powder.
Will I need cash?
Please refer to your itinerary as you may need to buy your lunch when we pick you up on day 1. Some itineraries include a day-trip when you may need to buy lunch. If On The Verandah has purchased alcohol on your behalf you’ll need to reimburse us with cash. The station has coin operated washing machines. Horse rides can be scheduled and are an extra, payable to Digger’s Rest using cash or card. All other activities on the itinerary are included.
Can I extend my stay?
You can extend your stay if there is accommodation available. Please deal directly with Alida at Digger’s Rest to extend your stay, phone 08 9161 1029. We ask that you stay on after the workshop rather than arrive prior.
What if I have a medical condition?
Please let us know if you have any medical conditions we need to be aware of. Refer to our Terms and Conditions about your responsibility to disclose certain conditions to us prior to confirming your booking.
Can I post to Facebook about my trip?
If you are a Facebook or Instagram user, we would love it if you post some of your photographs and comments and tag On The Verandah in them – you can also post directly to our pages! www.facebook.com/ontheverandah www.instagram.com/on_the_verandah
Will On The Verandah use my photo?
If you would rather we did not use photographs of you on our social media pages or in our marketing material, please let us know at the start of the trip. If you agree to us using them – thank you! Please read our Terms and Conditions relating to photos.
What is the cancellation policy?
Please refer to the Terms and Conditions on the On The Verandah website for up to date information on the cancellation policy at https://www.ontheverandah.com.au/policies-terms-and-conditions.html
Will the itinerary change?
Itineraries are provided as a guide only. Please read the Terms and Conditions https://www.ontheverandah.com.au/policies-terms-and-conditions.html
Will there be changes to tutors or guides?
Please read the Terms and Conditions https://www.ontheverandah.com.au/policies-terms-and-conditions.html
What are the contact details of the venue?
Digger’s Rest Station address is King River Rd, Wyndham.
Postal address: PO Box 5, Wyndham WA 6740.
Tel. (08) 9161 1029. Mobile. 0418 780 337.
Owners - Roderick and Alida Woodland.
www.diggersreststation.com.au
What are the contact details of On The Verandah?
On The Verandah.
PO Box 716, Subiaco, WA, 6008.
Tel. (08) 9388 1513. Mobile. 0428254529.
How do I reserve my place?
Call Rachel on 0428 254 529 or send an email.
Last updated 19/09/19
DISCLAIMER: These FAQ's are a guide only and are subject to change without notice. Terms and Conditions must be read prior to booking.
Should I read the Terms and Conditions?
You must read the Terms and Conditions prior to making your booking with On The Verandah. You can request a copy of the Terms and Conditions be sent to you by email or post, or you can read them on the website at http://www.ontheverandah.com.au/policies-terms-and-conditions.html
What is On The Verandah?
On The Verandah is an Australian creative tourism business run by Perth based couple, Rachel Dillon and Andrew Kikeros. We offer adventure holidays, creative workshops and events. Our hope for our guests is that during their time with us, they get to spread their wings and discover what they are truly capable of. Click for more information about our backgrounds https://www.ontheverandah.com.au/our-story.html
Where is the Kimberley?
The Kimberley is a vast, scarcely populated region in the far north of Western Australia. Most of our tours take place 130kms from Kununurra and 37kms from Wyndham, one of Australia's most remote towns.
Where and what is the workshop venue?
Digger’s Rest Station is a remote cattle station and horse-trekking business owned and operated by third generation cattle man, Roderick Woodland and his wife, Alida. The station is located 37kms along the King River Road from Wyndham. A stay at Digger’s Rest provides an authentic experience of life in the Kimberley region and just happens to be set in an incredible landscape.
What is Kimberley weather like?
The region has a tropical climate with the ‘Wet’ (very hot) season between November and April and the ‘Dry’ (warm to hot) season between May and October. We operate our tours in the Dry season between May and August. Possible temperature range at Digger’s Rest Station, from overnight lows to day time highs for each month of the dry season are approximately –
May: 20°C to 36°C. Showers are possible in early May becoming less likely later.
June: 18°C to 34°C. Rain possible but unusual.
July: 9°C to 33°C. Rain possible but unusual.
August: 15°C to 37°C. Rain possible but unusual.
What is included in a Kimberley tour?
Accommodation, meals at the station, tea and coffee, workshop tuition, transfers between Kununurra and the venue, other transport as per the itinerary, wilderness passes, other activities as per the itinerary.
What is not included in a Kimberley tour?
- Your mandatory Comprehensive Travel Insurance
- Flights to and from Kununurra
- Your stopover accommodation
- Alcohol, soft-drinks, extra snacks, unusual dietary ingredients
- Art materials
- Off-station meals
- Horse riding
What are the prices?
Please refer to the website page relevant to the trip you are interested in for current pricing. If you would like a quote to bring your own group please contact us.
Are there any concessions or discounts?
We do not offer age concessions. We offer several discounts. Discounts are not cumulative. Select the best discount that applies to you and nominate it at the time of booking.
- Early Bird Discount - Some trips offer a $200 discount per guest if paid in full 120 days or more before the start of the trip. There is no Early Bird Discount on Judith White trips.
- Non-participating guest discount - Your friend is welcome to join us. We offer a 5% discount off the TWIN Share price for friends or guests who are not participating in the workshop. Add a single supplement of $250 if not sharing a room. Non-participating guest is defined as a guest on an art trip not doing art; a guest on a photography trip not taking photos, etc.
- Couples discount - 5% discount off the TWIN Share price for a couple who share a bush hut. Both guests receive the discount.
- Club members discount - 5% discount off the TWIN Share price for members of WAPF, VAPS, NSWWC, QWC, VIC WRITERS. Add a single supplement of $250 if not sharing a room.
- Returning guests - Guests who travelled with us for the first time in 2019 and since,receive a 7.5% discount off the TWIN Share price for all subsequent On The Verandah trips and events. Add a single supplement of $250 if not sharing a room. Guests who travelled with us prior to and including 2018 receive a 10% loyalty discount off the TWIN Share price for all subsequent On The Verandah trips and events. Add a single supplement of $250 if not sharing a room.
Single Supplement
The single supplement is $250pp on all Kimberley accommodation including forced singles. There is no single supplement on tent accommodation.
Bookings
Bookings can be made by phone on 0428 254 529 or email us. A registration form will be emailed for you to fill out and return. You must read the Terms and Conditions on the website (or request a hard copy) prior to completing your booking.
Deposits and Payment
Preferred payment is by EFT bank deposit. Bank details are on the registration form. We can accept cheque payment where a guest has no internet access.
A $500 deposit and a completed Registration Form are required on booking. Final payments are due 90 days before the start of your trip. (Or 120 days before the start of your trip if taking advantage of an Early Bird discount.)
Credit Cards - We can arrange payment by credit card it if that is your only option. You will be required to pay the additional charges associated with the credit facility – approximately 2%.
Cut-off dates
There may be a cut-off date associated with your chosen trip which is the latest date that we will take bookings for a trip. At the cut-off date we will announce whether we have achieved the numbers for it to go ahead. Early cut-off dates allow our venues time to secure new bookings in the event that our trip does not go ahead as well as giving you (and us) time to purchase flights and hotel rooms at reasonable prices.
Cut-off dates are:
2020 - Kimberley Art: No cut-off date.
What is the accommodation?
The 2 main types of accommodation at Digger’s Rest Station are Bush huts and Bunkhouse rooms. Please let us know your preference when booking. Book early to secure non-shared accommodation.
- Bush Hut - Bush Huts have a double bed, verandah, mosquito net, en-suite, fan, power-point, light, towels and linen. Perksof a bush hut - peaceful, views, wildlife, an authentic Kimberley experience.
- Bunkhouse room – Each of the two bunkhouse rooms are usually shared by two guests. Each bunkhouse room has a double bed and a single bed, air conditioning, overhead fans, towels, linen. The bunkhouse has a shared bathroom. Perksof the bunkhouse - spacious, air conditioned, large verandahs, close to the homestead.
- Tent at Digger's Rest - we have a discounted option of a comfy tent for guests who don't mind roughing it a little and do not want to share. Usually only offered when all unshared accommodation is taken. No single supplement is charged.
Will I be sharing?
If you do not wish to share, you’ll usually stay in a bush hut. The bunkhouse rooms are usually only available for sharing with one other. There is a single supplement of $250 for an unshared bush hut.
Will I be Camping?
Refer to your itinerary as some itineraries include 1 or 2 night’s camping. All camping gear is provided by us – camp chair, dome tent, swag & mattress, blankets, pillow, towel and linen. If you are unsure about camping we encourage you to give it a try! Guests often comment it was the highlight of their stay.
Food and Dietary Requirements
On our trips we do not have the services of a full time chef or cook, however you will find the meals healthy and home-style with a variety of options. We can prepare Gluten Free dishes and meals for Celiacs. We can provide vegetarian options. We cannot provide or guarantee vegan options. We cannot accommodate complex dietary needs, some allergies or lifestyle diets.
How do I get there?
- Flying In - If you can, get a direct flight to Kununurra from your city, otherwise fly to Darwin or Broome and get a connecting flight to Kununurra with Airnorth.
- Flying Out - We’ll return you to Kununurra on the final day of your trip. Please select a flight that leaves Kununurra after 3pm.
Driving
If you are planning to drive to Digger’s Rest Station you will need a 4WD vehicle. We will meet you at an agreed point near Wyndham and you can follow in your vehicle. If you have a 2WD drive vehicle, or are towing a van, we recommend you leave them in Kununurra in secure parking. Contact the Kununurra Visitor Centre for secure parking options. Guests bringing their own car or a car they have hired to the station do so at their own risk.
Where can I get quotes and advice?
For flights, accommodation and travel insurance, we use and highly recommend Carolyn Burgmann at Travel Managers. Email Carolyn at carolynb@travelmanagers.com.au or phone 0459 434 909. We do not take a commission.
Is it a tour?
For the purposes of the website descriptions we call them tours but they are not really tours. You won't drive for miles each day before setting up camp in a new location. For the duration of the trip you will be based on a working cattle station, making short daily trips to locations and activities. Some itineraries have a one or two night camp.
What events are available?
- Short Workshops - None scheduled at this time.
- Residential - Kimberley Painting and Drawing with Judith White. 9 Days. June 29 – July 7, 2020.
- International - None scheduled at this time.
Can I bring my own group and tutor?
You can bring your own tutored or non-tutored group. Please contact On The Verandah to check for available dates and to request information and the applicable Terms and Conditions. Terms and Conditions for these groups are different to the ones provided on this website.Please phone 0428254529 or email.
What is there to do during my stay?
As well as your daily workshop activities your itinerary may include some of the activities below.*
- Complimentary welcome nibbles and bubbles at the sunset spot
- Evenings around the campfire
- Visit ancient boab trees and the Prison Tree
- A overnight camp (on some trips)
- Fish for barramundi
- Aboriginal rock art
- Observe station life, cattle work, young horses being trained
- Crocodile spotting
- Visit Five Rivers Lookout, Parry’s Lagoon/Marlgu Billabong, Wyndham Port
- Cultural event on some itineraries
- Final evening party with complimentary nibbles and bubbles
- Horse riding is available for experienced riders. There is a 90kg weight limit for riders. Horse riding is an additional charge if not included in your itinerary.
How big are groups?
Group size is between 7 and 10 for our Kimberley trips and usually a maximum of 8 for international trips.
Can I join a trip if I don't know anyone on it?
Of course! Many of our guests are lone travellers!
I don’t need instruction. Can I tag along?
Artists, photographers & writers: no tag along option in 2020.
Contact us if you are interested in a non-tutored retreat or bringing your own tutored group. Phone 0428 254 529. Non-workshop partners or friends are always welcome.
What should I bring to the Kimberley?
- It’s very warm so bring lightweight long sleeve shirts with collar you can turn up
- A pair of cool long pants (or cotton jeans which are good in spinifex)
- Pair of shorts
- Wide brim hat
- Sturdy, closed footwear with grip sole
- Thongs are useful in some instances
- Bathers
- Comfy clothing for evenings around the fire. A warm jacket. Shirts you can layer
- Sturdy, re-usable drinking water bottle (minimum 750ml)
- Sunglasses, sunscreen, personal toiletries, insect repellant and anti-itch cream
- Sufficient supply of your medication, antihistamines
- Good headlamp and/or compact torch
- Camera
- Spare batteries or chargers for cameras & torches
- Double adaptor or power board
- Your art or workshop materials – refer to the list provided by your tutor at booking
- A back pack or similar sized bag for day use / overnight camp. (Artists - Light cotton shoulder bags are useful for art gear & is compact in luggage)
- Quick dry compact travel towel might be handy
- A few sachets of powdered electrolytes
- Small amount of washing powder
- Labelled, zip-lock bag for any medication requiring refrigeration
- Please pack light: 1 suitcase, and 1 or 2 backpack-size bags per guest.
Regarding alcoholic beverages and mixers – please put your order in with On The Verandah prior to the trip.
Art Guests
- Do I need to be a professional artist?
- Does On The Verandah provide easels and art materials?
- Can I take my artworks with me?
- What is the art focus?
Is there free time?
Our residential itineraries average 1 - 2 hours of free time each day and workshop activities (except for photography) usually finish by 5.30 each day.
I'm planning to ride horses while there. Do I need a helmet?
We require you to wear a helmet when riding. If you don't want to bring one there is a wide selection at the station. Riders need to be experienced horse riders. There is a 90kg weight limit for riders.
Are there communications?
Mobile phone signal at the station varies from zero to 3/5 signal depending where you are. To connect a laptop to the internet, try using the hotspot feature on your smart phone. There is a landline at the station and you can give the number to your family or friends for contacting you in an emergency. The number is 08 9161 1029.
Is the water safe to drink?
Yes, it is rainwater.
Are there crocodiles?
All creeks, rivers, dams, riverbanks and tidal zones in the Kimberley should be considered as crocodile habitat and treated with caution.
Can I do some washing?
There are coin operated washing machines at the Station (5 x $1 coins per load). Bring a small amount of washing powder.
Will I need cash?
Please refer to your itinerary as you may need to buy your lunch when we pick you up on day 1. Some itineraries include a day-trip when you may need to buy lunch. If On The Verandah has purchased alcohol on your behalf you’ll need to reimburse us with cash. The station has coin operated washing machines. Horse rides can be scheduled and are an extra, payable to Digger’s Rest using cash or card. All other activities on the itinerary are included.
Can I extend my stay?
You can extend your stay if there is accommodation available. Please deal directly with Alida at Digger’s Rest to extend your stay, phone 08 9161 1029. We ask that you stay on after the workshop rather than arrive prior.
What if I have a medical condition?
Please let us know if you have any medical conditions we need to be aware of. Refer to our Terms and Conditions about your responsibility to disclose certain conditions to us prior to confirming your booking.
Can I post to Facebook about my trip?
If you are a Facebook or Instagram user, we would love it if you post some of your photographs and comments and tag On The Verandah in them – you can also post directly to our pages! www.facebook.com/ontheverandah www.instagram.com/on_the_verandah
Will On The Verandah use my photo?
If you would rather we did not use photographs of you on our social media pages or in our marketing material, please let us know at the start of the trip. If you agree to us using them – thank you! Please read our Terms and Conditions relating to photos.
What is the cancellation policy?
Please refer to the Terms and Conditions on the On The Verandah website for up to date information on the cancellation policy at https://www.ontheverandah.com.au/policies-terms-and-conditions.html
Will the itinerary change?
Itineraries are provided as a guide only. Please read the Terms and Conditions https://www.ontheverandah.com.au/policies-terms-and-conditions.html
Will there be changes to tutors or guides?
Please read the Terms and Conditions https://www.ontheverandah.com.au/policies-terms-and-conditions.html
What are the contact details of the venue?
Digger’s Rest Station address is King River Rd, Wyndham.
Postal address: PO Box 5, Wyndham WA 6740.
Tel. (08) 9161 1029. Mobile. 0418 780 337.
Owners - Roderick and Alida Woodland.
www.diggersreststation.com.au
What are the contact details of On The Verandah?
On The Verandah.
PO Box 716, Subiaco, WA, 6008.
Tel. (08) 9388 1513. Mobile. 0428254529.
How do I reserve my place?
Call Rachel on 0428 254 529 or send an email.
