These Terms and Conditions apply to all bookings, stays, retreats, events, and services provided by BODY WIZE PTY LTD (ABN 56 688 340 043), trading as SOMA Retreats, of 221 Kennedys Lane, Ewingsdale, New South Wales 2481, Australia. By making a booking or participating in a retreat at SOMA you agree to these Terms.

Bookings and Payments

A deposit of 50% of the total booking fee is required to secure your booking. This deposit is non-refundable as it reflects the costs and losses we incur in reserving SOMA exclusively for you, including administration, scheduling, and the loss of opportunity to accept other bookings. The balance of your booking fee is payable no later than ninety days before your retreat unless otherwise stated in your agreement. Payments may be made by EFT, Visa, MasterCard, or American Express. A surcharge of 2% applies for Australian cards and 2.9% for international cards. All fees must be paid in Australian dollars. A valid credit card is required for a security bond. SOMA reserves the right to release reserved rooms or spaces if payment terms are not met.

Cancellations and Refunds

All bookings require a 25% non-refundable deposit. A second payment equal to 25% is due within 30 days of the initial deposit. At this point you will have paid a 50% non-refundable deposit of the total booking cost. The 25% or the 50% deposit will not be refunded under any circumstances.

If you cancel within ninety (90) to one hundred and twenty (120) days before your arrival date, you will forfeit the deposit but any additional amounts paid will be refunded.

If you cancel within and under ninety (90) days of arrival, you will not receive a refund and remain liable for the balance.

If you cancel with more than one hundred and twenty (120) days’ notice, you may request to reschedule your booking to another available date within twelve (12) months. Rescheduling is subject to SOMA’s approval, can only be exercised once, and must be for a retreat of equal or greater value (with any difference payable). Your deposit will be transferred to the new booking with a 5% administration fee being added.

No-shows, late arrivals, or early departures are strictly non-refundable and non-transferable.

If cancellation is required due to illness, emergencies, government restrictions, or other force majeure events, SOMA will act reasonably in deciding whether to issue a credit or partial refund.

Travel insurance is strongly recommended for all guests and is a condition of booking for overseas travelers. SOMA does not accept responsibility for changes in travel plans, missed flights, changes of mind, transport delays, illness, or other personal circumstances that affect your ability to attend.

Security Bond and Additional Charges

A security bond may be required and will generally be pre-authorised on a valid credit card in the Hirer’s name. SOMA may deduct from the bond, or charge the credit card provided, to cover damages, breakages, or loss of property, including furniture, fittings, and fixtures, as well as missing items such as towels, linen, or other property. A fee of forty dollars applies for each lost key. SOMA may also deduct costs for excessive cleaning required beyond normal housekeeping standards, for noise complaints or disturbances resulting in intervention by management, security, or police, for unpaid charges, or for unauthorised late check-outs and unapproved use of restricted facilities or areas.

Any deduction will be supported by evidence such as invoices, photographs, or incident reports. If the total losses or costs exceed the value of the bond, you agree to pay the balance within seven days of receiving notice from SOMA.

In addition, extra charges apply for the use of certain facilities and services, including access to the infrared sauna unless otherwise agreed with management, for any approved professional photography or videography conducted on the property (including photography of artwork), and for other services requested during your stay that fall outside the scope of the standard booking. SOMA reserves the right to deduct these charges in a reasonable and transparent manner and will make at least one attempt to contact the cardholder before finalising any deductions.

Parking

Guests and visitors must park vehicles only in the designated parking areas provided by SOMA. Parking on grassed areas, gardens, or in any location outside the allocated spaces is strictly prohibited. A penalty of $1,000 will apply if vehicles are parked in non-approved areas. SOMA accepts no responsibility for damage, theft, or loss of vehicles or personal property left in vehicles while on the premises. Guests are responsible for ensuring that their visitors also comply with these parking requirements.

Check-in and Check-out

Check-in time is 2.00 pm and check-out is 10.00 am. Early check-in or late check-out may be arranged in advance subject to availability and charges. No refunds are given for early departure. Any outstanding balance will be deducted from the credit card held.

Lost Key

Guests are responsible for the safe return of all keys issued at check-in. A replacement fee of forty dollars ($40.00) per key will apply if keys are lost, damaged, or not returned at the time of check-out. This fee will be automatically charged to the credit card provided as security for the booking. Additional charges may apply if locks require replacement for security reasons.

Capacity and Rooms

SOMA has ten bedrooms, each with a king bed, and two rooms that can be split into singles. There is also a cabin that sleeps three. The maximum capacity for on-site accommodation is twenty-three guests and the overall capacity including offsite guests is twenty-eight. Any additional guests must be approved in advance and may incur additional charges.

Use of Premises and Facilities

You must use the premises respectfully, safely, and only for the agreed purpose. Children must be supervised at all times. Pools, stairs, decks, and outdoor areas carry natural risks which you accept by using the facilities. Confetti, glitter, fireworks, candles, and unauthorised equipment are not permitted. No alterations or installations are allowed without prior written consent. Off-limit areas include the Sound Healing Room, Massage Rooms, Zen Garden, and certain areas around Baby SOMA, the Studio, car park, and driveway between 8.00 pm and 8.00 am.

Shooting Content

Guests are welcome to take personal photographs and short videos of their retreat experience for private use or sharing on personal social media, provided SOMA is credited by tagging @SOMA.byron in captions and location.

However, professional or commercial photography and videography (including aerial drones, brand promotion, or content creation for websites, future retreats, or personal businesses) are not permitted without prior written approval from SOMA.

If professional or commercial shoots are requested, a separate agreement and fee structure will apply, which may range from $5,000 to $10,000 per day depending on the scope, content, and property usage. Any unapproved professional shooting may result in immediate termination of stay and additional charges.

Professional Photography and Insurance

If you wish to conduct a professional or commercial photo or video shoot at SOMA, you must obtain prior written approval from SOMA. You are required to provide evidence of valid and current public liability and professional indemnity insurance before the shoot commences. If you are unable to provide satisfactory evidence of insurance, a bond of $25,000 will be charged as security. SOMA reserves the right to refuse or cancel any shoot where adequate insurance is not in place. Fees for professional photography or videography will be separately quoted and must be paid prior to commencement.

Behaviour and Noise

SOMA is a retreat sanctuary. Parties and disruptive gatherings are not permitted. Guests must behave respectfully towards SOMA staff, neighbours, and other guests. Noise must be kept to a minimum and must cease by 10.00 pm. Breaches may result in forfeiture of your bond and termination of your stay without refund. SOMA may call security or police to deal with complaints of noise or anti-social behaviour. Any costs of callouts or fines will be charged to you. External entertainment equipment such as speakers, DJs, or sound systems is prohibited.

Alcohol, Drugs, Smoking, and Food

SOMA is a vegetarian and alcohol-free venue. Caterers and menus must reflect this policy. Alcohol is not permitted on the property and any breach may result in bond deductions or termination of your stay. Illegal drugs and unlawful substances are prohibited. Smoking is not permitted in rooms, decks, dining areas, or poolside. Smoking is only allowed in designated outdoor areas if provided.

Child Safety

If children are present you must supervise those in your care at all times. Children must not participate in unsafe activities. You must not photograph, film, or record children without the consent of their parent or guardian and SOMA’s approval. You must not share or distribute images or personal information about children without consent. All interactions with children must be safe, positive, and appropriate.

Health, Fitness, and Participation Risks

Retreats at SOMA involve physical and wellness activities such as yoga, meditation, breathwork, swimming, and hiking. Participation carries risks of injury, illness, or emotional distress. You are responsible for ensuring that you are fit to participate and for disclosing any conditions, injuries, or allergies before your retreat. You participate voluntarily and at your own risk, except where loss arises from SOMA’s proven negligence, fraud, or wilful misconduct.

Maintenance

SOMA is a large property requiring regular maintenance such as lawn mowing, gardening, pool service, and general repairs. These may occur during your stay and will be conducted with minimal disruption.

Photography, Filming, and Consent

Professional or commercial photography, videography, or drone use is not permitted without SOMA’s prior written consent. Formal photo shoots may be approved subject to separate agreement and fees. Guests may take candid photos of their experiences for private or social media use, provided they tag @SOMA.byron. Guests may not use such content to promote personal brands, external retreats, or commercial activities. By attending SOMA you consent to being filmed or photographed and agree that such images may be used by SOMA for marketing and promotional purposes.

Gift Cards

SOMA Gift Cards may be redeemed towards retreats, treatments, accommodation, or purchases from the SOMA shop, subject to availability. Gift Cards cannot be exchanged for cash, refunded, or transferred, and no change will be given. Gift Cards are valid for three (3) years from the date of issue unless otherwise required by law. Expired Gift Cards will not be accepted. To redeem a Gift Cards, please contact SOMA by email at info@SOMAbyron.com.au and provide the Gift Card details at the time of booking. Gift Cards must be presented at the time of redemption. SOMA is not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged Gift Cards, and such Gift Cards will not be replaced.

Insurance and Travel Responsibility

Guests are strongly encouraged to obtain comprehensive travel insurance at the time of booking. For international guests, travel insurance is a condition of booking. Insurance should cover cancellations, medical needs, illness, travel delays, loss of personal property, and other unforeseen circumstances.

SOMA accepts no responsibility or liability for:

• changes or delays in flights, transport services, or other travel arrangements
• changes in government restrictions or border closures outside New South Wales
• additional costs or losses caused by illness, injury, accident, strikes, weather events, or other force majeure events
• changes in exchange rates, tariffs, or additional expenses arising from cancellations or delays
• personal property loss, theft, or damage during your stay

Guests are solely responsible for their own travel arrangements, including visas, entry requirements, and transport to and from SOMA. SOMA does not provide refunds or credits for changes of mind, missed flights, late arrivals, or early departures.

SOMA does not provide medical cover, and guests are responsible for organising and paying for any medical treatment, prescriptions, or hospital care required during their travel or stay.

External Facilitators’ Insurance

All external facilitators, teachers, or contractors engaged to deliver retreats, workshops, or programs at SOMA must hold current and adequate insurance coverage for the activities they conduct. This includes, at a minimum, public liability insurance and professional indemnity insurance where applicable. Facilitators are required to provide SOMA with copies of their certificates of currency before commencing any program or event on the premises, and coverage must remain valid for the entire duration of the retreat or booking. SOMA reserves the right to refuse access or cancel bookings where satisfactory evidence of insurance is not provided.

Lost Property

SOMA is not responsible for lost, stolen, or left-behind items. Items found will be held for fourteen days. Guests are responsible for postage or courier fees for return.

Emergency Procedures and Safety

You must comply with all safety instructions, fire rules, and emergency procedures. You must follow staff directions in emergencies, evacuations, or serious incidents.

Responsibility for Guests and Invitees

You are responsible for ensuring that all guests, invitees, and contractors associated with your booking comply with these Terms. Any breach by your guests or invitees will be treated as a breach by you.

Liability

To the maximum extent permitted by law SOMA is not liable for injury, illness, death, theft, loss, or damage except where caused by SOMA’s proven negligence, fraud, or wilful misconduct. Nothing in these Terms excludes your rights under the Australian Consumer Law. Where liability cannot be excluded SOMA’s liability is limited at SOMA’s option to resupplying the services or paying the cost of resupply. You indemnify SOMA against any loss, damage, or expense caused by your breach of these Terms, your negligence, or your unlawful conduct.

Privacy

SOMA collects personal information to manage bookings, provide services, and with your consent send marketing information. Sensitive information such as health or dietary details will only be collected with consent and used for lawful purposes. Personal information will be handled in accordance with SOMA’s Privacy Policy available on our website. You may unsubscribe from marketing at any time.

Force Majeure

SOMA is not liable for failure or delay in performing obligations caused by circumstances beyond our control, including natural disasters, pandemics, strikes, terrorism, or government restrictions. In such cases SOMA will attempt to reschedule your booking within twelve months or issue a credit. Refunds will not be unreasonably withheld if rescheduling is not possible.

Governing Law

These Terms are governed by the laws of New South Wales, Australia. By booking with SOMA you submit to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of New South Wales.

Copyright and Website Disclaimer

The contents of SOMA’s website including information, text, graphics, images, sounds, and software are the property of BODY WIZE PTY LTD and may not be copied or reproduced without written consent. SOMA does not warrant the accuracy, currency, or completeness of website contents including pricing or availability. SOMA may update its website and services at any time without notice.