A Welcome Visit from Lou Nicholson MP

Today we were delighted to welcome Lou Nicholson MP, the new State Member for Finniss, to Toc H South Australia’s Cooinda Retreats site in Victor Harbor.

Lou spent time with Adam and Beck walking through the property, hearing more about the history of Toc H South Australia, and learning about the work currently being done to reimagine Cooinda Retreats as a future-focused community centre and village.

The visit provided a valuable opportunity to share the vision for the site, not simply as a place of accommodation, but as a long-term community asset with the potential to support wellbeing, connection, inclusion and practical community service across the Southern Fleurieu.

Over many years, Cooinda Retreats has played an important role in bringing people together through camps, retreats, family programs, social enterprise, autism supports and community initiatives. The emerging community centre village concept builds on that legacy by exploring how the site can continue to serve people in more flexible, sustainable and meaningful ways.

During the visit, Adam and Beck were able to discuss the opportunities that exist across the property, including the potential for intergenerational programs, disability and neurodiversity supports, social enterprise, community partnerships, small group gatherings, wellbeing activities and practical services that respond to local need.

It was encouraging to have Lou take the time to understand the broader purpose behind the work, and to appreciate the care, planning and community thinking that is shaping the future direction of the site.

The conversation reflected the importance of long-term thinking about community infrastructure, particularly in regional areas where connection, support and access to safe gathering places matter deeply.

We thank Lou for taking the time to visit, listen and engage with the vision for Cooinda Retreats. It was a positive and constructive conversation, and we look forward to continuing to share the story of Toc H South Australia as this next chapter unfolds.