Since our last update on 23 October, significant progress has been made in preparation for the official opening of the Sanctuary of Stillness on 26 January 2025. The urgency to finalize construction before the opening has driven remarkable efforts, though not without challenges.
Externally, extensive concreting has been completed for the steps and disabled access ramps, ensuring accessibility for all. Inside, the internal walls and ceilings of the main hall have been finished and painted, and electricians are now installing fittings to bring the space closer to completion. Floor heating in both the cottages and the main hall has also been commissioned, providing much-needed warmth for the bitterly cold Newbury winters to come.
The cottages are now furnished after a thoughtful selection process. Samples were tested for practicality before the final choices were made, and the furniture was ordered in bulk. Thanks to the efforts of dedicated volunteers, the furniture has been assembled and set up, creating inviting and functional spaces. commercial-grade kitchen and laundry equipment has also arrived and is ready for installation.
The landscaping work has advanced significantly, with attention given to the stupa courtyard to address drainage issues. On 26 November, we achieved a major milestone by securing the occupancy permit for the cottages, including the caretaker’s cottage. This required resolving numerous defects and navigating a mountain of paperwork to get the permit
However, not everything has gone as smoothly as hoped. Delays caused by the contractor responsible for the air conditioning and kitchen exhaust systems have impacted our timeline. While the main hall may be ready for use, these delays jeopardise the kitchen and office space readiness for the opening retreat. New contractors have been engaged to resolve these issues as quickly as possible.
With the official opening fast approaching, we need help from the community during the Christmas and New Year period. There is still cleaning to be done, light landscaping, furniture to be moved and preparations for a trial retreat to identify and address potential issues before Ajahn Brahm’s retreat begins on 17 January. Following the official opening on 26 January, we will also need volunteers to assist with remaining landscaping.
This progress has been made possible by the tireless dedication of individuals who have given enormous amounts of their time and energy. The committee would like to acknowledge the incredible contributions of Ajahn Mudito, Indira and Rohan Jayasinghe, Praveen Sumanasekara, Anil Amunugama, David Ong, and Piyal Dahanayake of Colorden Home Pty Ltd. We are also immensely grateful to the NBM residents, monastics, and lay supporters who worked tirelessly—morning and afternoon—alongside Ajahn Mudito, volunteer building professionals, and tradespeople.
The Sanctuary of Stillness is coming to life thanks to the collective effort and support of our community. With your help, we are confident that this space will soon be ready to welcome everyone.
If you’d like to support the preparations for the Retreat Centre’s official opening on January 26th, we welcome your help during the Christmas and New Year period! To learn more about how you can get involved, simply email us at office@bsv.net.au expressing your interest to get involved along with your contact details and availability.
Thank you for walking this journey with us.
BSV Committee


