Cooinda Retreats is a beautiful retreat, bunkhouse or tented camp experience for schools and community groups.

Primary and Secondary School groups, community groups, and people that gather to learn, come to Cooinda Retreats to enjoy a fully- or self-catered camp experience. We also provide quality programs, along with volunteer opportunities, to help strengthen communities.

A great camp experience builds independence, enhances social skills, supports positive decision making and creates environmental awareness. By booking your next camp with us, or attending one of our many camping programs, an inclusive, innovative and sustainable experience awaits.


Our Vision

Purpose

To strengthen a diverse and inclusive community through service, while providing opportunities for individuals to participate in ways they choose.

Vision

A connected community where members come together and participate in the support of one another through friendship and service.

Mission

Cooinda Retreats is committed to providing inclusive, innovative, and sustainable programs and services that support the social, recreational, and wellbeing needs of individuals and communities.


Our Values

Participation

Active service that is inclusive and valuing of an individual’s ability.

Innovation

Adopting new methods to address community needs.

Partnerships

Collaborations to advance our shared interests.

Connectedness

Engagement through positive and strong relationships, strengthened through diversity.

Sustainability

Relevant, appropriate and viable for the future.

Integrity

Upholding of high standards in all our actions.

Progression

Adapting with a proactive approach to change and opportunity.

Reverance

Cherishing, respecting and acknowledging our Toc H history and those who served before us.


What does Cooinda mean?

Cooinda is an Aboriginal word meaning 'Happy Place'

Cooinda Retreats is positioned with coastal views of Victor Harbor; the pristine sea surrounded by beautiful native bushlands and wildlife. That’s why we call it:

Executive Staff

Adam Hooper

Chief Executive Officer

Hi, I’m Adam Hooper. I thrive on strategy, innovation, and turning bold ideas into real-world solutions. As the CEO of Toc H South Australia, I lead with a vision for sustainable, community-driven impact—ensuring that our programs, services, and social enterprises don’t just exist, but excel.

I have a deep background in governance, business development, and operational leadership, with a track record of transforming struggling initiatives into thriving, purpose-driven enterprises. Cooinda Retreats is one such example—a project I’ve led from a traditional campsite into a dynamic hub for social impact, workforce development, and inclusive community engagement.

Beyond leadership, I’m a hands-on problem solver, a strategist who sees the big picture, and someone who isn’t afraid to challenge the status quo. Whether it’s pioneering employment pathways through the My Turf@work program, creating innovative autism support initiatives, or ensuring financial sustainability for not-for-profits, my focus is always on making meaningful change with long-term impact.

At my core, I believe in action over words, strong governance as the foundation for growth, and the power of community to drive real outcomes. The work we do at Toc H South Australia isn’t just about programs—it’s about people, purpose, and the future we’re building together.

Rebecca Butler

Executive Director - Strategy, Governance & Programs

Hi, I’m Beck Butler, and I am passionate about creating inclusive, strengths-based spaces where individuals and communities can thrive, connect, and grow. As the Executive Director Strategy, Governance & Programs at Toc H South Australia, I have had the privilege of leading Cooinda Retreats and My Turf programs for neurodivergence, initiatives designed to foster belonging, resilience, and meaningful support networks for individuals and families.

With a background in governance, community development, and advocacy, I have dedicated my career to amplifying voices, driving impact, and designing programs that respond to real community needs. I believe in learning from lived experience, working alongside people to co-create solutions that empower, uplift, and create lasting change.

At Cooinda Retreats, we strive to offer a space of rest, renewal, and connection, supporting individuals and families in ways that honour their experiences and strengths. Whether through nature-based retreats, tailored programs for neurodivergence, or community partnerships, my focus is on ensuring every individual feels heard, valued, and supported.

I am proud to be part of a movement that is shaping a more inclusive, compassionate, and community-driven future—where everyone has the opportunity to live, learn, and lead in their own way.

Matthew Hutchinson

Retreat Manager

Hi, I’m Matt, and my focus is simple—making sure Cooinda Retreats runs smoothly and that every guest has a great experience. As Retreat Manager, I take a no-fuss, hands-on approach to getting things done, ensuring everything from site operations to guest services is seamless and stress-free.

I’m all about practical solutions, great service, and creating a welcoming space for everyone who visits. Whether it’s running events, managing logistics, or just making sure things work as they should, I take pride in delivering the best outcomes with minimal hassle. At the end of the day, it’s about people, good experiences, and getting the job done right.

Sharnie Hutchinson

Catering Coordinator

Hi, I’m Sharnie, and I believe great food is about more than just cooking—it’s about organisation, precision, and delivering an exceptional experience. As Catering Coordinator at Cooinda Retreats, I ensure every meal is thoughtfully planned, expertly prepared, and served with care.

I’m highly organised with a sharp eye for detail, making sure everything runs smoothly behind the scenes. From menu planning to service delivery, I’m committed to providing high-quality food and hospitality that makes every event, retreat, or gathering a memorable one. Great service starts with great preparation, and I make sure every detail is covered.


Board Members

Michael Thomas

Chairperson & Treasurer

I have been an active member of Toc H South Australia since 1963, dedicated to its mission of service, leadership, and community connection. Over the years, I have had the privilege of serving as National Director of Toc H Australia and working alongside Tubby Clayton as ADC in England. In 2024, I returned to the Toc H SA Board as Chair, continuing my lifelong commitment to the movement.

Passionate about the Four Points of the Compass—Friendship, Service, Fair-mindedness, and The Kingdom of God—I am focused on ensuring Toc H remains a force for good, both honouring its rich history and shaping its future. Through strong governance and strategic leadership, I work to uphold the values that have defined Toc H for generations, fostering an organisation that continues to make a meaningful impact in people’s lives.

Rebecca Butler

Secretary

In addition to my role as Executive Director – Strategy, Governance & Programs, I serve as Secretary of Toc H South Australia, ensuring strong governance and effective board operations. My role is to support the Board in maintaining transparency, compliance, and accountability while upholding the values and mission of Toc H.

With a keen eye for detail and a commitment to best-practice governance, I manage board processes, maintain records, and facilitate clear communication to support informed decision-making. Good governance is the foundation of a strong organisation, and I am dedicated to ensuring Toc H SA continues to operate with integrity, purpose, and long-term sustainability.

Adam Hooper

Board Member

As a Board Member of Toc H South Australia, I am committed to strong governance, strategic oversight, and ensuring the long-term sustainability of the organisation. While my role as CEO focuses on operational leadership and program development, my position on the Board allows me to contribute to Toc H SA’s broader vision, ensuring alignment between governance, strategy, and impact.

With a deep understanding of not-for-profit leadership, risk management, and financial sustainability, I work alongside fellow Board members to guide Toc H SA’s future. My focus is on maintaining a strong, accountable organisation that continues to serve the community with purpose and innovation.

Nathan Hodges

Board Member - State Chaplain

As Board Director and State Chaplain of Toc H South Australia, I am committed to fostering a culture of service, compassion, and community connection. With 14 years as an Officer in The Salvation Army, my journey has been dedicated to supporting individuals facing hardship, mentoring young people, and helping build inclusive spaces where everyone feels valued.

My work has taken me from street outreach in Kings Cross to leading multiple churches alongside my wife, Kylie, and supporting regional youth and children’s ministries across NSW. Now based in Victor Harbor, I’ve had the privilege of repurposing a former Salvation Army campsite into a thriving church and community hub, creating programs that bring hope to those in need.

In my role with Toc H SA, I bring this same passion for service and practical action, ensuring our mission remains deeply rooted in faith, friendship, and making a tangible difference in people’s lives.

Christine Thomas

Board Member

I have been actively involved with Toc H since 1979, dedicated to its mission of service and community impact. As the current Chair of Toc H Adelaide East and a Board Member of Toc H South Australia, I bring a strong commitment to humanitarian work, ensuring that our programs and initiatives make a meaningful difference in people’s lives.

With a background as a Nurse Practitioner, I have always been driven by care, precision, and attention to detail—values I continue to apply in my role with Toc H. I am passionate about fostering inclusive, service-driven initiatives that uphold the organisation’s legacy while addressing the evolving needs of the community.

Cooinda Retreats is an initiative of Toc H South Australia Inc, established in 1925.

In 1925, Toc H opened its first Australian branches with the first Youth Camp held at Mannum in 1928. Toc H also pioneered community projects such as the Blood Transfusion Service in 1928 (now run by the Red Cross) and The Royal Queensland Bush Children’s Health Scheme in 1935 (now known as BushKids).

In 1938, Edward Bruce (brother of Adelaide Lord Mayor Sir Wallace Bruce), heard of the work Toc H, volunteers were performing with children in need. Mr Bruce donated several acres of land at Victor Harbor to Toc H, to be used for the establishment of a permanent campsite. Plans for the main hall and a layout for the surrounding area were drawn up by Sir James Irwin. The main hall was named for the Governor of South Australia at the time, Sir Winston Dugan.

For some eighty years since, Cooinda Retreats has been running camps for children in need at the Victor Harbor campsite.

Today, our focus is on enhancing the lives of our community through camps.


Strategic Intent

Cooinda Retreats has been strengthening communities since 1925. Enhancing lives through camps, it’s in our nature.

For over 90 years, we have been strengthening communities through service. Our strategic development continues this focus through transformational services and corporate success, having two important meanings for us.

Firstly, we are strengthening and supporting our communities through our service, helping those in need.

Secondly, we are building our own community of diverse people, united by a common mission of service to those in need.

There are two inter-related parts of Cooinda Retreats that work in cooperation to help us strengthen communities:

  • Community-driven service; and
  • Socially responsible enterprise.

Our service is driven by communities – our communities of volunteers and the communities that we help. In many cases, these two groups are the same, which ensures that we are working with, and for, the best interests of all.

Our commitment to our communities extends to our business enterprises, which are run on the core principle of social responsibility. Our business not only supports and enables our community services, but it is a natural extension of those services.

We welcome you to Cooinda Retreats and together we look forward to enhancing the lives of our community through camps.