Stage 2 - Meditation Centre Project
Latest Project Funding Update
The NBM Building Project Stage 2a is now fully funded. Thanks to your generous donations and support, we have now collected the funds needed to pay the builder’s contracted amount for the NBM Meditation Retreat Centre Stage 2a, equipping and furnishing the centre to operational stage.
The BSV-NBM communities extend their heartfelt thanks to all supporters and donors, Australia and overseas, for their kindness and generosity supporting this meritorious project that will benefit sentient beings to practise the Buddha Dhamma and reduce suffering.
The NBM Meditation Retreat Centre project was officially launched in March 2020 by Ajahn Brahmali and Bhante Mudito. This project is Stage 2 of the overall 3 stage NBM Building Plan as follows:
Stage 1 – Monks Accommodation was completed in September 2020.
Stage 2 – NBM Meditation Retreat Centre which also include a Dana offering hall.
Stage 3 – Nuns Accommodation (to be scoped)
For ease of manageability and funding, Stage 2 has been divided into at least 2 phases (ie Stage 2a and Stage 2b; and maybe Stage 2c if some of the structures are needed to be phased out of Stage 2b due to insufficient funding. A summary of stages 2a, 2b & 2c is outlined in the other tabs as indicated on this page.
The designs of Stage 2 – NBM Meditation Retreat centre are sensitive to the pristine forested natural environment and work toward supporting spiritual activities taking place on site. The buildings are organized around a strong spiritual axis of progression from mundane to spiritual – Entry Foyer – Dāna Hall – Stupa Courtyard – and through to the Meditation Hall (to be constructed in either Stage 2b or 2c ). The cottages are placed around a series of courtyards connected by landscaped gardens and colonnaded walkways. They also serve as tranquil contemplative spaces and pathways for walking meditation.
The Centre will facilitate Ajahn Brahm, Ajahn Brahmali and other senior monastics to provide teachings to the community
The current phase of Construction – Stage 2a – consists of:
- 4 Cottages – 24 rooms with ensuites for lay retreatants
- Dāna Hall and Kitchen
- Office and Amenities
- Caretakers Cottage
- All necessary infrastructure services
The construction of the centre had commenced in September 2021. Due to shortages of the building materials and labours, which have impacted the entire Australia construction industry, the construction works have been progressing quiet slowly causing significant delays. We are hopeful that the construction of Stage 2a will be completed in October 2023.
The following building structures and facilities are planned for construction in Stage 2b and Stage 2c – if required depending on funding availability:
- Retreat Centre Meditation Hall
- Additional Retreatants Cottages; adding another 36 more retreatant’s rooms – bringing the total number of rooms to 60.
- Expansion of the existing Sewage Treatment Plant
- Amenities and other infrastructures to support the additional capacity.
- Building the planned remaining monastics’ Kuties for monastics.
Current estimated cost for the construction for the above structures and infrastructures is approximately $13 Million.
