FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is On The Verandah?
On The Verandah brings people together to try new things in exciting places, have fun and meet new friends.
We run art workshops and nature itineraries in the Kimberley WA, Tasmania and sometimes other places.
We hope you’ll come and explore with us, discover your hidden talents and make some amazing memories! On The Verandah is a West Australian tourism business based in Perth, owned and operated by Rachel Dillon and Andrew Kikeros.
Upcoming workshops and tours
Bookings
Check availability by calling Rachel on 0428 254 529 or send an email at [email protected].
If there are free places, we’ll send you an invoice. Your booking is confirmed when you have paid the deposit, provided your details and signed a waiver.
What discounts are available?
Reading the Terms and Conditions
When you book a trip with us you must read and agree to our terms and conditions (also called a Contract or Service Agreement) before payment. These conditions will be attached to your invoice and you can read them on our website at any time.
Cancellations
If you cancel your On The Verandah trip 91 days or more from departure, we’ll subtract a $90 cancellation fee and refund the remainder. Cancelling more than 60 days but less than 90 days from departure results in the loss of your deposit. We’ll refund 50% of the tour cost if you notify us of cancellation between 31 and 60 days from departure. If you cancel 30 days or less from departure, fail to join, or leave after it has started, there is no refund.
If we cancel your tour you will receive a full refund. Always refer to the terms and conditions attached to your booking.
Is travel insurance compulsory?
Guests of On The Verandah must obtain Travel Insurance as per our terms and conditions.
Prices
The price of our trips vary so it’s best to refer to the webpage for the itinerary you are interested in. We offer discounts so see if there's one for you!
What are the inclusions?
On all On The Verandah trips the tour price includes all accommodation. On Kimberley trips the price includes all meals during the stay. Some meals on the Tasmania trip need to be purchased by the guest. Pick ups and drop offs are included as described in your itinerary. Transport during the itinerary is included.
What is not included?
Airfares, travel insurance (mandatory), meals not listed in the itinerary, beverages including alcohol and art materials are not included.
What will you learn on an art workshop?
Our art workshops often begin with fundamentals and loosening up exercises. Your tutor will delve into demonstrations and discussions on technique, composition, colour, tone, line and form to name a few. Tutors are there to help you try new techniques, see the landscape in a different way and produce works that reflect your personal response.
What level of artist do you need to be?
Artists of all levels join our trips however our Judith White workshops are for intermediate to advanced painters only. All other trips suit beginners to advanced.
How big are the groups?
We love being a small group specialist and want to deliver a great experience for every guest.
In 2027 our art workshop trips have a maximum of 11 guests.
In 2027 our bird and wildlife trips have a maximum of 6 guests.
Can you join a trip if you don’t know anyone?
Of course! Many of our guests are solo travellers!
Can you take your artworks with you?
Of course!
Are easels or art materials provided?
Easels and art materials are not provided. When you book, we'll give you a materials list and your tutor may suggest an easel in that list. All Kimberley guests are provided with their own table in a shaded area or on the verandah. On other trips, we arrange tables for you to work on where we can. Stools and chairs are provided on Kimberley outings.
Medical conditions and disability
When you’re booking your trip, you must let us know if you have any medical conditions, mobility issues, or disabilities that might affect your ability to participate in our itinerary. We may ask for a letter from your doctor confirming that you’re physically and mentally fit for the adventure. This letter should address some things like the possibility of being a few hours away from medical care, the potential for extreme heat and humidity, the possibility of very active days, and the fact that you’ll be hours from creature comforts like toilets at times. Right now, we can’t accept bookings from guests who can’t walk without assistance.
Can you post on Facebook or Instagram about your trip?
We love it when guests post about their adventures and tag us @ontheverandah.
Will On The Verandah use your photo?
We might! Let us know at the start of the trip if you don’t want us to.
More about Kimberley trips
Where is the Kimberley?
The Kimberley is a large, sparsely populated region covering the northern third of Western Australia. We pick up guests from Kununurra airport or township. The closest capital city is Darwin in the Northern Territory.
Where are Kimberley workshops held?
Our Kimberley itineraries operate mainly from a cattle station called Digger’s Rest - 130km from Kununurra and about 40km from Wyndham. Digger’s Rest is a working cattle station owned by Roderick and Alida Woodland. Roderick is a third-generation cattleman and Alida, a horsewoman, originally from North Carolina has called Australia home for about 30 years. A stay at Digger’s Rest is an authentic slice of Kimberley life a spiritual landscape.
What is Kimberley weather like?
We run tours in the Kimberley in the Dry season - between May and August, when the weather is dry and warm. Dry season daytime temperatures are usually between 26°C and 36°C, and at night it’s unusual to go below 12°C. Rain and very cold weather at this time of year is unusual.
What is included on an On The Verandah Kimberley trip?
Our Kimberley itineraries are usually 7 days (6 nights) and include all accommodation during the itinerary, all meals (except for lunch on day 1 and 7), complimentary glass of bubbles, morning tea, workshop tuition, transfers between Kununurra and the workshop, transport during the itinerary, bedding, linen, soap and towel.
What is not included in the Kimberley tour price?
Tour price does not include airfares, beverages including alcohol, art materials or travel insurance which is mandatory.
Kimberley Dietary Requirements
What are the Kimberley accommodation options?
Flying to the Kimberley workshop
If possible, arrive in Kununurra the day before your workshop begins and stay in a hotel. We'll collect you from your hotel on the morning of Day 1 of the itinerary. If you FLY in before midday on Day 1, we'll collect you from the airport.
If possible, book a direct flight to Kununurra, otherwise fly to Darwin, Perth or Broome then get a connecting flight to Kununurra. For the connecting flight, try Airnorth or Nexus.
We return you to Kununurra airport or your Kununurra hotel on the final day of your trip. If flying out that day, select a flight that departs Kununurra after 3pm.
Luggage - Kimberley
Guests can bring on the tour: 1 large suitcase (Airnorth limit is 20kg), 1 smaller item up to 7kg and a poster tube or large camera.
What should you bring to the Kimberley?
Are the Kimberley itineraries tours?
Not really. We don’t drive for hours each day and then set up camp in a new spot. Instead, we base ourselves at one place, taking daily excursions, so you can make the most of your time, creating art, watching birds and enjoying the surroundings!
What else is there to do during your Kimberley stay?
Is there free time on Kimberley itineraries?
Most days are full, but you can often take an hour or so around lunch and activities usually finish by 5.30pm with time to freshen up before dinner.
Do you need to buy drinks for your Kimberley trip?
Alcohol and soft drinks are not included in the tour price. Kimberley bottle shops are open 12pm - 6pm and are NOT OPEN on Sundays. Purchase your alcohol from the bottle shop (take your Driver's Licence) the day you arrive in Kununurra, or on Day 1 before we leave town.
WIFI on Kimberley trips
We provide free Wi-Fi for guests.
Is the Kimberley water safe to drink?
Absolutely – it’s delicious rainwater. Please bring a refillable bottle for drinking water, but not bulk, bottled water from the supermarket. There’s limited recycling and all that plastic creates headaches on a remote station!
Can you wash clothes during the Kimberley trip?
Sure! There are washing machines at the station (bring some cash!)
Are there crocodiles in the Kimberley?
All bodies of water in the Kimberley should be treated with extreme caution as they can harbour both saltwater and freshwater crocodiles. Saltwater crocodiles can burst from the river at a speed of 12 metres per second, so do not walk, stand or fish near the water’s edge.
Can you extend your Kimberley stay?
You can extend your stay at the cattle station if there is accommodation available. Speak with Alida at Digger’s Rest on (08) 9161 1029. Please stay on AFTER the workshop rather than arrive early.
Can you Self Drive?
There is no discount if you self drive to join an On The Verandah trip.
If you are plan to drive to a Kimberley workshop you'll need a 4WD vehicle and 2 spare tyres. We will meet you at an agreed point and you can follow in your vehicle. If you have a 2WD drive vehicle or are towing a caravan, we advise leaving them in Kununurra in secure parking. Contact the Kununurra Visitor Centre on 1800 586 868 for parking options.
Can I bring my camper van and camp during the workshop?
There is no discount if you stay in a camper van onsite during an On The Verandah trip.
Your camper van will need to be an off-road vehicle with extra clearance. See self drive info above.
Can you bring your own group and tutor to the Kimberley venue?
You can bring your own tutored or non-tutored group of up to 8 people. Call or email for pricing and conditions.
What are the contact details of the Kimberley station?
Digger’s Rest Station Owners - Roderick and Alida Woodland.
King River Rd, Wyndham
Tel. (08) 9161 1029. Mob 0418 780 337
www.diggersreststation.com.au
More about Tasmania Trips
What is included on Tasmania trips?
What is not included on Tasmania trips?
Where do Tasmanian trips start and end?
In 2027, we begin the CRADLE MOUNTAIN trip in Launceston CBD. On the last day, we’ll drop you at Launceston airport or at a hotel.
In 2027, the FREYCINET trip begins in Hobart and concludes in Launceston. On the last day, we’ll drop you at Launceston airport or at a hotel.
Will you be sharing on a Tasmania trip?
On the CRADLE MOUNTAIN trip, all guests have an ensuite room (4-star).
On the FREYCINET trip, you may share a bathroom and/or cottage for 2 nights, and have your own ensuite room or 4-star cabin for the remaining nights.
Dietary Requirements on Tasmania trip
Tell us about allergies or food intolerances on the booking form. We will advise venues and eateries but cannot guarantee all dietary requirements will be met during the Tasmania itinerary.
What are the contact details of On The Verandah?
On The Verandah
PO Box 42, Darlington WA 6070
Rachel Dillon 0428 254 529
Andrew Kikeros 0419 706 860
[email protected]
www.ontheverandah.com.au
Tourism Council of Western Australian Accreditation Number TCWA-ANW-02-0395.
Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Approved Tour Operator 58249.
Updated 13/08/26
On The Verandah brings people together to try new things in exciting places, have fun and meet new friends.
We run art workshops and nature itineraries in the Kimberley WA, Tasmania and sometimes other places.
We hope you’ll come and explore with us, discover your hidden talents and make some amazing memories! On The Verandah is a West Australian tourism business based in Perth, owned and operated by Rachel Dillon and Andrew Kikeros.
Upcoming workshops and tours
- Cradle Mountain Tasmania Painting and Drawing Masterclass with Judith White February 18 - 23, 2027
- Kimberley: Free dates for PRIVATE GROUPS of Artists: May - July 2027
- Kimberley: Bird and Wildlife Tour: May 15 - 21, 2027
- Kimberley: Bird and Wildlife Tour: July 20 - 26, 2027
- Kimberley: Painting and Drawing Masterclass with Judith White: July dates TBC 2027
- Kimberley: Wild Marks: Painting the Kimberley Workshop with Debbie Mackinnon: 2028
Bookings
Check availability by calling Rachel on 0428 254 529 or send an email at [email protected].
If there are free places, we’ll send you an invoice. Your booking is confirmed when you have paid the deposit, provided your details and signed a waiver.
What discounts are available?
- Couples and friends
Couples sharing a double room, or friends who book in together AND share a room receive 5% off the base price, per person. - Non-participating guests
We offer 5% off the base price for guests who are not participating in the workshop. Non-participating guests can join all activities and outings except for sitting in on or photographing / videoing workshop demo / sessions unless approved by On The Verandah prior to booking. - Past guests Loyalty Discount
Past guests of On The Verandah receive a loyalty discount of 5% off the base price. - Discounts are not cumulative. One discount per guest.
- No youth or senior concessions are available.
Reading the Terms and Conditions
When you book a trip with us you must read and agree to our terms and conditions (also called a Contract or Service Agreement) before payment. These conditions will be attached to your invoice and you can read them on our website at any time.
Cancellations
If you cancel your On The Verandah trip 91 days or more from departure, we’ll subtract a $90 cancellation fee and refund the remainder. Cancelling more than 60 days but less than 90 days from departure results in the loss of your deposit. We’ll refund 50% of the tour cost if you notify us of cancellation between 31 and 60 days from departure. If you cancel 30 days or less from departure, fail to join, or leave after it has started, there is no refund.
If we cancel your tour you will receive a full refund. Always refer to the terms and conditions attached to your booking.
Is travel insurance compulsory?
Guests of On The Verandah must obtain Travel Insurance as per our terms and conditions.
Prices
The price of our trips vary so it’s best to refer to the webpage for the itinerary you are interested in. We offer discounts so see if there's one for you!
What are the inclusions?
On all On The Verandah trips the tour price includes all accommodation. On Kimberley trips the price includes all meals during the stay. Some meals on the Tasmania trip need to be purchased by the guest. Pick ups and drop offs are included as described in your itinerary. Transport during the itinerary is included.
What is not included?
Airfares, travel insurance (mandatory), meals not listed in the itinerary, beverages including alcohol and art materials are not included.
What will you learn on an art workshop?
Our art workshops often begin with fundamentals and loosening up exercises. Your tutor will delve into demonstrations and discussions on technique, composition, colour, tone, line and form to name a few. Tutors are there to help you try new techniques, see the landscape in a different way and produce works that reflect your personal response.
What level of artist do you need to be?
Artists of all levels join our trips however our Judith White workshops are for intermediate to advanced painters only. All other trips suit beginners to advanced.
How big are the groups?
We love being a small group specialist and want to deliver a great experience for every guest.
In 2027 our art workshop trips have a maximum of 11 guests.
In 2027 our bird and wildlife trips have a maximum of 6 guests.
Can you join a trip if you don’t know anyone?
Of course! Many of our guests are solo travellers!
Can you take your artworks with you?
Of course!
Are easels or art materials provided?
Easels and art materials are not provided. When you book, we'll give you a materials list and your tutor may suggest an easel in that list. All Kimberley guests are provided with their own table in a shaded area or on the verandah. On other trips, we arrange tables for you to work on where we can. Stools and chairs are provided on Kimberley outings.
Medical conditions and disability
When you’re booking your trip, you must let us know if you have any medical conditions, mobility issues, or disabilities that might affect your ability to participate in our itinerary. We may ask for a letter from your doctor confirming that you’re physically and mentally fit for the adventure. This letter should address some things like the possibility of being a few hours away from medical care, the potential for extreme heat and humidity, the possibility of very active days, and the fact that you’ll be hours from creature comforts like toilets at times. Right now, we can’t accept bookings from guests who can’t walk without assistance.
Can you post on Facebook or Instagram about your trip?
We love it when guests post about their adventures and tag us @ontheverandah.
Will On The Verandah use your photo?
We might! Let us know at the start of the trip if you don’t want us to.
More about Kimberley trips
Where is the Kimberley?
The Kimberley is a large, sparsely populated region covering the northern third of Western Australia. We pick up guests from Kununurra airport or township. The closest capital city is Darwin in the Northern Territory.
Where are Kimberley workshops held?
Our Kimberley itineraries operate mainly from a cattle station called Digger’s Rest - 130km from Kununurra and about 40km from Wyndham. Digger’s Rest is a working cattle station owned by Roderick and Alida Woodland. Roderick is a third-generation cattleman and Alida, a horsewoman, originally from North Carolina has called Australia home for about 30 years. A stay at Digger’s Rest is an authentic slice of Kimberley life a spiritual landscape.
What is Kimberley weather like?
We run tours in the Kimberley in the Dry season - between May and August, when the weather is dry and warm. Dry season daytime temperatures are usually between 26°C and 36°C, and at night it’s unusual to go below 12°C. Rain and very cold weather at this time of year is unusual.
What is included on an On The Verandah Kimberley trip?
Our Kimberley itineraries are usually 7 days (6 nights) and include all accommodation during the itinerary, all meals (except for lunch on day 1 and 7), complimentary glass of bubbles, morning tea, workshop tuition, transfers between Kununurra and the workshop, transport during the itinerary, bedding, linen, soap and towel.
What is not included in the Kimberley tour price?
Tour price does not include airfares, beverages including alcohol, art materials or travel insurance which is mandatory.
Kimberley Dietary Requirements
- Let us know when booking if you are Coeliac (we’ll call to discuss) or Vegetarian, and we’ll make sure you are looked after.
- We DO NOT offer Vegan meals or ANY other kind of diet including GF (except for diagnosed Coeliacs). You'll be staying in a remote area where it's not easy to secure fresh produce. Nevertheless the Digger's Rest menu is always varied, serving a selection of healthy salads at lunch and dinner along with the usual hearty fare. (Did I mention the daily hot breakfasts?)
- We regret we do not accept bookings from guests with anaphylactic food allergies because we cannot guarantee there won’t be cross contamination in the kitchen.
What are the Kimberley accommodation options?
- Bush Hut - has a bed, small verandah, mosquito net, ensuite, cool shower, fan, power-point, light, linen (sheets/pillow/quilt or blankets/towel).
Perks of a bush hut - peaceful, views, adventure, wildlife, an authentic Kimberley experience. There are 5 huts with DBL beds and 1 with twin SGL beds.)
- Bunkhouse room - Bunkhouse rooms have air-con, fan, linen (sheets/pillow/quilt or blankets/towel), verandahs and shared bathroom.
Perks of the bunkhouse - spacious, air-conditioned, wide verandahs, close to the homestead. The two bunkhouse rooms each have a DBL and SGL bed.
- Tent - has a fully made-up SGL bed on a frame, linen (sheets/pillow/quilt/towel/soap), lighting, mat, small table. You can stand up in the tents, open the windows and it has an awning. Perks of a tent - a more affordable option, close to the homestead and workshop area, simplicity.
Flying to the Kimberley workshop
If possible, arrive in Kununurra the day before your workshop begins and stay in a hotel. We'll collect you from your hotel on the morning of Day 1 of the itinerary. If you FLY in before midday on Day 1, we'll collect you from the airport.
If possible, book a direct flight to Kununurra, otherwise fly to Darwin, Perth or Broome then get a connecting flight to Kununurra. For the connecting flight, try Airnorth or Nexus.
We return you to Kununurra airport or your Kununurra hotel on the final day of your trip. If flying out that day, select a flight that departs Kununurra after 3pm.
Luggage - Kimberley
Guests can bring on the tour: 1 large suitcase (Airnorth limit is 20kg), 1 smaller item up to 7kg and a poster tube or large camera.
What should you bring to the Kimberley?
- A sturdy, re-usable drinking water bottle with a minimum capacity of 750ml. (Not to be confused with a water bottle used with painting)
- A bright headlamp or compact torch. (Headlamps are strongly recommended over your phone torch because they keep your hands free to carry things and are usually much brighter)
- Protect from heat-induced illness and sunburn with a wide brim hat and light cotton, long sleeve shirts with collars that can stand up
- Sunglasses, sunscreen, personal toiletries
- Dangerous mosquito-borne viruses occur in the Kimberley. Cover up in the early and late part of the day and wear insect repellent for mozzies and sandflies. Anti-itch cream and antihistamines are useful if you get bitten.
- Ample supply of your medication. (If it needs refrigeration – pop it in a Zip-lock bag with your name on and store in the station fridge)
- Sturdy, closed footwear with non-slip soles
- Shorts and cool, long pants or jeans to provide protection against spinifex while walking and against insects in evenings.
- A coat for cool nights, a scarf or beanie
- A backpack or similar sized bag for day use
- Art guests – for your art supplies - calico shoulder bags are good for art gear on outings - they are light and pack flat in suitcase.
- A small amount of cash for when the “internet’s down”, for washing machines etc
Are the Kimberley itineraries tours?
Not really. We don’t drive for hours each day and then set up camp in a new spot. Instead, we base ourselves at one place, taking daily excursions, so you can make the most of your time, creating art, watching birds and enjoying the surroundings!
What else is there to do during your Kimberley stay?
- Visit ancient boab trees
- Evenings around the campfire to gaze upon a million stars
- Incredible bird and nature watching
- Observe station life, cattle work, horses being trained, stockwork
- Final evening exhibition of your paintings
- Complimentary glass of bubbles and happy hour nibbles
Is there free time on Kimberley itineraries?
Most days are full, but you can often take an hour or so around lunch and activities usually finish by 5.30pm with time to freshen up before dinner.
Do you need to buy drinks for your Kimberley trip?
Alcohol and soft drinks are not included in the tour price. Kimberley bottle shops are open 12pm - 6pm and are NOT OPEN on Sundays. Purchase your alcohol from the bottle shop (take your Driver's Licence) the day you arrive in Kununurra, or on Day 1 before we leave town.
WIFI on Kimberley trips
We provide free Wi-Fi for guests.
Is the Kimberley water safe to drink?
Absolutely – it’s delicious rainwater. Please bring a refillable bottle for drinking water, but not bulk, bottled water from the supermarket. There’s limited recycling and all that plastic creates headaches on a remote station!
Can you wash clothes during the Kimberley trip?
Sure! There are washing machines at the station (bring some cash!)
Are there crocodiles in the Kimberley?
All bodies of water in the Kimberley should be treated with extreme caution as they can harbour both saltwater and freshwater crocodiles. Saltwater crocodiles can burst from the river at a speed of 12 metres per second, so do not walk, stand or fish near the water’s edge.
Can you extend your Kimberley stay?
You can extend your stay at the cattle station if there is accommodation available. Speak with Alida at Digger’s Rest on (08) 9161 1029. Please stay on AFTER the workshop rather than arrive early.
Can you Self Drive?
There is no discount if you self drive to join an On The Verandah trip.
If you are plan to drive to a Kimberley workshop you'll need a 4WD vehicle and 2 spare tyres. We will meet you at an agreed point and you can follow in your vehicle. If you have a 2WD drive vehicle or are towing a caravan, we advise leaving them in Kununurra in secure parking. Contact the Kununurra Visitor Centre on 1800 586 868 for parking options.
Can I bring my camper van and camp during the workshop?
There is no discount if you stay in a camper van onsite during an On The Verandah trip.
Your camper van will need to be an off-road vehicle with extra clearance. See self drive info above.
Can you bring your own group and tutor to the Kimberley venue?
You can bring your own tutored or non-tutored group of up to 8 people. Call or email for pricing and conditions.
What are the contact details of the Kimberley station?
Digger’s Rest Station Owners - Roderick and Alida Woodland.
King River Rd, Wyndham
Tel. (08) 9161 1029. Mob 0418 780 337
www.diggersreststation.com.au
More about Tasmania Trips
What is included on Tasmania trips?
- All accommodation – usually unshared, ensuite rooms
- All breakfasts, some lunches, some dinners (including a 3-course a la carte dinner)
- Painting demonstrations, tuition and critiques with your tutor
- Art studio space to work
- All land transport during the itinerary
- National Park permits
- Complimentary farewell bubbles and final night mini exhibition
- Hike to Wineglass Bay lookout (2027 Freycinet trip)
- Time to browse Salamanca Markets (2027 Freycinet trip)
What is not included on Tasmania trips?
- Airfares or transport to the starting point of the trip and your transport home at the end
- You’ll need to purchase some meals, refer to your itinerary
- Beverages including alcohol
- Art materials
- Travel insurance (mandatory)
Where do Tasmanian trips start and end?
In 2027, we begin the CRADLE MOUNTAIN trip in Launceston CBD. On the last day, we’ll drop you at Launceston airport or at a hotel.
In 2027, the FREYCINET trip begins in Hobart and concludes in Launceston. On the last day, we’ll drop you at Launceston airport or at a hotel.
Will you be sharing on a Tasmania trip?
On the CRADLE MOUNTAIN trip, all guests have an ensuite room (4-star).
On the FREYCINET trip, you may share a bathroom and/or cottage for 2 nights, and have your own ensuite room or 4-star cabin for the remaining nights.
Dietary Requirements on Tasmania trip
Tell us about allergies or food intolerances on the booking form. We will advise venues and eateries but cannot guarantee all dietary requirements will be met during the Tasmania itinerary.
What are the contact details of On The Verandah?
On The Verandah
PO Box 42, Darlington WA 6070
Rachel Dillon 0428 254 529
Andrew Kikeros 0419 706 860
[email protected]
www.ontheverandah.com.au
Tourism Council of Western Australian Accreditation Number TCWA-ANW-02-0395.
Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Approved Tour Operator 58249.
Updated 13/08/26
