Frequently Asked Questions

01: General Overview

1. What is the Garden States: Regeneration Conference? I’ve never been — what can I expect?

Entheogenesis Australis (EGA) hosts a unique ethnobotanical, lifestyle, and art conference gathering that brings together a diverse community of thinkers, gardeners, scientists, artists, environmentalists, and plant enthusiasts. EGA’s work in the field of ethnobotany is world renowned and has been active for more than two decades.

Held outdoors in a beautiful bushland setting, EGA blends academic presentations, hands-on workshops, immersive art, plant wisdom, and cultural conversation into a vibrant and deeply connected experience.

The outdoor gathering is a cross between a conference and a festival. Expect inspiring lectures, meaningful connections, art, and ethnobotanical days and evenings under the stars—all wrapped in a spirit of learning, care, and respect for nature.

2. Where is the event held, and what is the venue like?

Garden States: Regeneration is hosted at Gilwell Park, an historic Scout camp nestled in the bushland of Gembrook, Victoria—about an hour’s drive east of Melbourne.

Set on over 450 acres of forested terrain, the site offers a peaceful and immersive natural setting ideal for camping and outdoor learning. Our event will take place in a designated section of this beautiful property, with activities and camping concentrated in this area. The well maintained facilities include flushing toilets, warm showers, and shared camp kitchens—similar to what you would find at a more basic style caravan park. The camping areas are surrounded by towering trees, walking trails, and open spaces—creating a tranquil environment for connection, reflection, and community.

Gilwell Park has a long history of hosting outdoor education programs and gatherings, making it a fitting home for EGA’s blend of nature, knowledge, and culture.

3. What does the event site look like? Is there a map?

Yes! You can now view the draft site map for Garden States: Regeneration 2025. The map outlines the key zones across the event area at Gilwell Park, including the main stages, camping areas, markets, carparks, info points, and amenities. While some details may still evolve, this layout gives a great sense of the site’s flow, natural features, and facilities. From shaded forest camping and winding bush paths to centralised program areas and welcoming gathering spaces, the design reflects our commitment to creating an accessible, beautiful, and community-focused environment for learning and connection.

02: Camping & Transport

1. You say it’s a camping event. What does that mean?

Camping at an outdoor EGA event is similar to a festival experience. It’s mostly bushland camping, under trees rather than in open paddocks, and you’ll need to bring everything to be self-sufficient. Most attendees camp on-site, and we encourage it to get the most out of the event. For those who prefer a more convenient option, we also offer furnished glamping packages through our partnership with Wow Tents.

2. Can I drive and park at the conference?

Yes. Parking is available on-site. All entry tickets include long-stay parking at no extra cost. You may unload your gear near the campground, but your vehicle must then remain in the long-stay car park unless you have a Campground Parking Pass.

3. Is there a shuttle from Melbourne CBD or the airport? How do I time my flights?

Yes! The EGA shuttle will be running again this year, offering a convenient round-trip service. It will depart from both Melbourne Tullamarine Airport (after 11:15am) and Flinders Street Station in the CBD (after 12:15pm) on Friday 29 November 2025.

The return shuttle will leave the conference site on Monday 1 December between 1:00pm and 1:30pm, stopping at Flinders Street Station before arriving back at Melbourne Airport at approximately 4:00pm.

We recommend booking your flights to arrive at the airport by 10:30am at the latest on Friday, and to depart after 6:00pm on Monday to allow time for the return trip.You're welcome to bring all your camping gear and food on the bus. We're also arranging for the shuttle to stop at a supermarket en route, where you can collect pre-ordered groceries (click and collect).

Further details, including exact departure times and booking information, will be shared closer to the event to assist with your travel planning.

4. Can I bring a campervan or camp with my car?

Yes. However, if you wish to camp with your vehicle, you must purchase a Campground Parking Pass ($65). Spaces are limited, and most attendees park in the long-stay area and set up camp separately.

5. Can I stay off-site (e.g. at an Airbnb)?

While we encourage everyone to camp on-site to experience the full sense of community, attendees are permitted to stay off-site. If staying off-site, please purchase an Off-Site Access Pass ($30) which provides flexible access to the short-stay carpark.
If you require off-site accommodation due to accessibility needs, please contact us—we’re happy to assist.

6. Do I need one Extended Camping Pass per person to stay Monday night?

Yes. Each person staying on Monday night must purchase an Extended Camping Pass.

7. Can we have a campfire at our campsite?

No. Individual campfires are not permitted anywhere on site due to safety and fire regulations.

However, we’re hoping to have one central community fire operating during the event, weather and fire conditions permitting. This shared space will offer a warm, welcoming spot to gather—as long as it's not a total fire ban day.

8. Can I use a camping cooker or gas stove on-site?

Yes. Gas camping cookers and stoves are permitted, as long as:

It is not a total fire ban day
Your setup is well-ventilated and used in a safe, stable location
The cooker is never left unattended while in use

Permanently installed campervan stoves are also permitted under the same conditions.

Please always check the daily fire risk rating and follow any directions from event staff regarding fire safety.

9. Are there any shared kitchen facilities available if I don’t have my own cooking setup?

Yes. There is a basic, shared camp kitchen available on site. It includes hot water, cookers, and very limited refrigeration space.

Please note:

The kitchen is self-managed by attendees
Availability is first-come, first-served
You’ll need to bring your own cooking utensils, pots, pans, and cutlery
You are expected to clean up after yourself and leave the space tidy for others
It is intended for preparing and cooking food, not long-term storage

In addition, there are some external BBQ areas on site that attendees are welcome to use for grilling and preparing meals.

03: Facilities & Amenities

1. Are there toilets, showers, and BBQs on site?

Yes. The site is equipped with flushing toilets, warm shower blocks, and several camp kitchens for shared use.

2. Are there powered sites in the campground?

No, there are no powered sites. However, charging stations for phones and small devices will be available at the information tent. There is also some easy power to access in the bathroom and toilet blocks.

3. Will there be accommodation on-site?

The venue has very limited permanent on-site accommodation, which will be used for operational purposes. However, we've partnered with Wow Tents to offer glamping packages for those seeking a hassle-free accommodation option. These furnished bell tents come in 4m and 5m options with flexible bedding configurations for up to four people per tent, and all include mattresses, bedding, matting, and fairy lights. Classic, Premium, and Deluxe packages are available to suit different needs, with prices starting at $550 for 2 people. To book glamping packages or find further information, visit wowtents.com.au/ega.

Please note that glamping packages do not include conference admission tickets, which must be purchased separately via EGA’s ticketing page.

04: Program & Participation

1. Will there be outdoor amplified sound after 11pm?

No. While some conference sessions and performances use amplification, all outdoor amplified programming concludes before 11:00pm to comply with EPA noise regulations and respect nearby neighbours.
After this time, activities shift to non-amplified or indoor spaces, including art installations, quiet community gatherings, and informal late-night sessions.

2. Can I submit a proposal for a lecture, workshop, or other offering?

Yes! EGA welcomes community contributions and we’re accepting proposals until 1 August 2025.

Click here to see the current submission opportunities for lectures, workshops, wellness offerings, and art/performance proposals. We’ll make an announcement when applications open for volunteers and market stalls.

3. Are there testimonials or previous programs available to learn more?

Discover what past attendees have to say on our testimonials page, explore highlights from some of our previous programs to see the depth and diversity of past content, or visit our photo gallery for a visual experience of the event atmosphere.

4. Are there opportunities to volunteer at the event?

Yes! A limited number of volunteer positions will be available. More details will be released in the lead-up to the event via our newsletter and website.

05: Tickets & Pricing

1. Why do tickets cost what they do?

EGA is committed to keeping ticket prices as accessible as possible. Hosting a multi-day outdoor conference with camping, infrastructure, and a carefully curated program involves significant costs—particularly given recent bushfires, global disruptions, and inflation.

If attending remains beyond your means, we invite you to explore our YouTube channel for hundreds of hours of free educational content from past events.

2. Do I need to pay for parking?

Long-stay parking is included with your ticket. However, if you wish to keep your vehicle in the campground, you must purchase a Campground Parking Pass (limited and best for interstate and campervans).
If staying off-site, an Off-Site Access Pass is required. Contact us if you need to stay off-site due to a disability.

3. Do you offer concession, hardship, or subsidised tickets?

Yes. A limited number of concession and hardship tickets are available for those experiencing financial difficulty. This system works on trust—we do not require proof of financial hardship.

4. Are there discounted tickets for First Nations peoples?

Yes. We offer a discounted First Nations ticket as part of our commitment to recognition, access, and inclusion. If you identify as a First Nations person, you’re warmly invited to select this ticket type during booking.

5. Can I transfer my ticket to someone else or get a refund?

Each ticket includes one free name change - email tickets@entheogenesis.org at least one week before the event to request this (note that complimentary, promotional, and staff tickets cannot be transferred).

Conference tickets, add-ons, and accommodation packages are non-refundable, and tickets may not be resold or transferred for profit. For complete details, please review our full Terms & Conditions.

06: Food, Water, and Market Stalls

1. Is there drinking water available on site?

Yes. Drinking water refill points are available on site, including near the campground and main event areas.

If you’re camping, it’s a good idea to bring a small supply of drinking water to keep at your campsite for convenience, especially for your arrival and setup. We also recommend bringing a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the event—this supports both self-sufficiency and our sustainability goals.

There is also access to some onsite BBQs where you can do some cooking.

2. Can I bring alcohol?

While alcohol is not encouraged in event spaces, BYO is allowed at your campsite. We ask everyone to enjoy responsibly and help maintain the respectful and educational spirit of the gathering.

3. Is glass allowed on-site?

No glass is permitted on-site—please bring canned drinks and decant other beverages into suitable containers. Designated recycling bins will be available on-site for the disposal of empty cans.

4. What are the food and drink options on-site?

This is a BYO food and drink event. We recommend you come prepared for a self-sufficient camping experience, just as you would for any multi-night stay in the bush.

That said, there will be a limited food and market stall area on-site offering a selection of meals, snacks, and drinks. While it’s a great way to support local vendors and grab a bite, availability may be limited—so we strongly encourage attendees to pack for the full three nights where possible.

Less than 10 minutes from the site is the township of Gembrook, with an IGA supermarket for any last minute supplies. Other large supermarkets you might consider stopping at with a larger selection and later opening hours could be Belgrave, Monbulk, and or Lilydale, depending on how you are approaching the site.

07: Unanswered Questions

1. Where can I find more information?

Additional details will be released in the lead-up to the event via our newsletter and website. This FAQ will be regularly updated as new questions arise, so we encourage you to check back periodically. You can also check our ticket Terms and Conditions. If you have specific questions that haven’t been addressed, please contact us and we’ll be happy to assist you.

2. How do I keep up to date with EGA events and publications?

Subscribe to the EGA newsletter to receive the latest news, event announcements, and community updates.

3. I’d like to ask a question. How can I get in touch?

No worries! Please direct your enquiries to: