CRAFTING a MEDICINE DRUM is more than making a musical instrument - it is a birthing of an ally, a way of connecting with the heart beat of your ancestors, with the very heart beat of Mother Earth.

The ancient rite of Drum Birthing is calling us, when we can feel the anticipation, the longing, the unease, the readiness, the rightness, a knowing that it is time to give our innate medicine a voice.

What is this MEDICINE?

This questions has been asked on previous retreats. It is our own inner knowing of what we need at this time and place in our life to deepen into the remembering of who we are. What is ready to let go, surrender and transform into vital energy for that which support, nurtures, activates and reminds us of a more soul-aligned truer version of who we are – connected and in loving relationship with our fellow tribe and the more than human world. Beings that support, nurture, activate and remind our loved ones around of a way to be and live in connection and belonging.

Sometimes we don’t even know what this exactly might be. It might be just that, a feeling a message from the unconsciousness of calling in an ally, a soul-filled instrument that offers a way of listening and receiving, what you already know deep inside.

Even though the actual birthing act is an innately soul-ly feminine rite, it takes the whole tribe and a healed and wholed masculine for a woman to fully surrender into trust and safety to BE in her birthing and mother power.

Gabor Mate spoke on this:

“For the child, the mother is the world, literally… The problem is, for the mother to be able to be the world, the world has to be there for the mother.”

He also speaks to the wounded masculine and the father role, which is inevitably linked to the lack of support for their mothers… which comes from the patriarchal deviation from our evolutionary roots of hunter and gathers societies, where the mothering was supported by the whole culture.

Lovingly held space is ready for you to be witnessed and seen and heard in this. Calling in the women who feel their soul is yearning to gift each other with their presence and experience.


The actual CRAFTING…

… of the drum flows in close connection with nature and the elements and is hand-on. You will get to know and love your frame and hide in a intimately embodied way.

The frames are handcrafted by my friend Doug on the Dorrigo Plateau. They are a delight to work with – sanding and smoothing getting to know the grain and the feel of the weight and strength of the circle. Imbuing your love and prayers while oiling and nurturing the wood.

The hides usually are either Kangaroo, a powerful relation unique to this beautiful ancient land we live on. The mild translucency of the skins may speak of an ethereal quality, but you will find out, just how strong and powerful they are when cutting and weaving them with reverence and intention. They can also be Fallow Deer, another powerful ally connected to the old world where some of our ancestors hail from. Its strong sturdy hide gives your drum an earhty energy and sound.

We will be calling on all elements to support us in this process. The hides will soak in the life-giving waters of the Kalang River, we will sit on Gumbaynggirr earth. We will gather around the fire and the wind will carry our prayers and intentions. Aether will be the bridge from the blueprint to the manifest. Inviting the soul that has chosen your Primal Drum.

Am so looking forward to meet and connect with you.

EveOak


The SHORT VERSION:

WHEN: 6 - 8.6.2025; 3 days, 2 nights

WHERE: Deep Kalang (directions provided)

FACILITIES: camping, BYO tents and sleeping gear etc.

COST: Sliding scale $488 - $599
deposit of $150 needed to secure your place

INCLUDED all materials, wholesome food, camping, and loving guidance... drum journeys, sacred circle, ceremony, intuitive movement and nature immersion

HOW TO BOOK: contact Evelin Oaktree, via WhatsApp 0428338541 or email: evelin.oaktree@gmail.com

Please reach out, if you are interested. I would love to have a chat with you.


Comments from the group chat (unique to each retreat):

"So much gratitude for you all. Thanks for holding such a potent space. Thank you to the midwives and EveOak. This weekend was much more than I expected and hoped for . Such medicine. Thank you for sharing such deep and loving stories and opening your hearts. I am so honoured to be a part of this journey. I can't wait to try out my drum and experience her medicine."

'I am in awe of the journey we all adventured together. So much more connection and insight continues to flow. God I loved our weekend together... presence patience allowing , trust , joy, crazy love. I feel great love for my drum the journey to its birth and for my sisters"

"Thank you so much for holding such a beautiful space & feeding our bellies and souls!!! it was incredible to be with you all! My heart is full! Many blessings and lots of love to everyone."