The Call Back Home
—
The Call Back Home —
Hear the Call
Somewhere deep inside, you know there’s more to this journey than busy schedules, lesson plans and comparing yourself to everyone else.
You’ve felt it .. that quiet tug, the whisper: “there’s another way”.
The Call Back Home is your invitation to step off the treadmill of pressure and expectation, and return to what you know in your heart matters most: connection, curiosity, play and trust.
This isn’t about doing more. It’s about coming back. Coming back to your child, your family, your own instincts and to your homeschooling journey - whole, confident and free from doubt.
If you’ve ever felt uncertain, overwhelmed or isolated in your choices, this day is for you.
This is your call back home.
On October 10, 2026 we gather for the very first Homegrown + Whole Conference.
A day to slow down, remember what matters and step into a different way of living and learning.
This isn’t just a conference. It’s a movement.
Be in the room. Save your seat!
Meet the Voices
Eleanor de Jager
Homegrown Nature Play
Host
Issy Buston
Stark Raving Dad starkravingdad.comLife Without School Live Stream
The Occuplaytional Therapist occuplaytional.comKey Note Speaker
Eleanor Parks
Nicola Apps
It's not a sprint, it's a marathon!
Amanda Bartle & Patricia Fitzgerald
Free 2 Homeschool free2homeschool.org
Homeschool Hotline homeschoolhotline.comJillina Whittaker
Codey Bromilow
the_wholistic_parent
Dr Rob Bakss
Eagle Consulting eaglecs.com.au
MusicianLaura Otto
Conference Program
A day to explore home education, alternative education, play and raising capable children.
We'll release the actual program as the event gets closer. Until then, here is a general schedule for the conference:
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 10
8:00 AM – Doors Open - Enjoy Barista Coffee and live music, browse the Markets.
9:00 AM – Welcome and Opening
10:00 AM – Speaker
10.45AM – Workshop
11.15AM - Speaker
12:15 PM – Shared Lunch, Interactive Installations and Makers Markets
1:15 PM – Live Stream
1.45 PM – Speaker
2.45 PM - Interview
3.00 PM - Workshop
3.45 PM - Keynote
5.00 PM – Panel Conversations and Audience Q and A
5:30 PM – Conference Close.
6PM - Invitation to stay for drinks and dinner
Please note: Tickets are transferable but non-refundable. Speakers are subject to change.
Details
Location
We're meeting at Headricks Lane, a beautifully restored 1894 heritage building in the city centre of Rockhampton.
With a nod to its history and a look to the future, Headricks Lane draws you from its grand exterior façade into its breathtaking modern interior featuring stunning raw materials juxtaposed with natural bespoke beauty.
It features a large private function space on level one, complemented by a bar, micro-brewery, and in-house fine catering.
Headricks Lane, Rockhampton
189 East Street
Rockhampton, 4700
Learn more at @exploreRockhampton
Conference Prices
EARLY RATE
By August 1
$309
GENERAL RATE
By September 1
$329
THE FINAL CALL RATE
Tickets Close October 1
$359
Tickets are transferable but non-refundable. Speakers subject to change.
See Terms around Ticket Transfers HERE
Makers Markets
Homegrown & Whole Makers Market
W'e’re hosting a Makers Market in the Upper Level of Headricks Lane. The Market is designed for makers or sellers of handmade goods and products.
If you’re interested, you can apply for a spot here:
We're also welcoming sponsors to be a part of the conference. To request to become a sponsor, email Eleanor at admin@homegrownplay.com.au or Sponsor a Parent to attend the conference here.
Family Adventure Weekend Giveaway
When you purchase a ticket to Homegrown and Whole, you’ll have the opportunity to go into the draw to win an unforgettable Family Adventure Weekend valued up to $1000.
The prize includes:
Two nights accommodation in a Reef Room at Keppel Island Hideaway (2 adults, 2 children)
Return ferry transfers with Keppel Konnections (2 adults, 2 children)
A family pass to Cooberie Park Wildlife Sanctuary and Mini Golf