Volunteering at De-Tong Ling

"You cannot imagine how much merit you can create by working for the Centres of Lama Zopa Rinpoche for even one day, because Rinpoche's Bodhicitta is so huge." - Ribur Rinpoche.

Photo: Neill Bell

De-Tong Ling Retreat Centre (DTL) has always relied on the kindness, generosity and ongoing support of volunteers for the centre to flourish and fulfill its intended purpose. That purpose is to be a place of refuge and solitude for those who wish to engage in long-term meditation in isolation, thereby benefiting all beings through the spiritual gifts they bring with them when they return to society.

Offering service to DTL is a great way to amass heaps of merit (positive energy) and advance on your own spiritual path - not to mention a great way to get away from the crazy business of mainland life and spend time with like-minded people in the beautiful environment of the western end of Kangaroo Island. Currently we run two work retreats and one ten day meditation retreat every year, for which we always need volunteers.

The retreat houses and grounds at DTL need continuous maintenance and improvement - and of course the Enlightenment Stupa project is still a work in progress. All this is accomplished only through the work and kindness of volunteers and benefactors.

We are always in need of volunteers with trade skills, especially in the electrical, carpentry and plumbing fields, and for a cook with expertise in vegetarian cooking to cook for the annual 10-day retreat. However, a willing pair of hands and a wish to be of benefit to others is at the heart of all we could wish for.

Please be aware

Currently DTL does not have accommodation for volunteers. All volunteers stay at the adjoining private property of Yacca Creeks. Accommodation at Yacca Creeks is very limited and we strongly suggest that a tent would be the best option for most people. For those who have not stayed at Yacca Creeks previously you should be aware that the set-up is quite "rustic", in the middle of the bush and with very basic living conditions.

To be able to cover costs, a nominal fee is charged to cover food, gas, consumables and volunteer insurance.

It is important to know that volunteers at DTL stay at Yacca Creeks by prior arrangement and only during specific work retreats. In order to register as a volunteer at DTL you must contact the volunteer co-coordinator at DTL prior to arrival at Yacca Creeks. Visits at any other time are negotiated by specific arrangement with the owners of Yacca Creeks, through the Director.

There are also often other types of volunteer opportunities that present themselves and there are many jobs that can be done from home particularly in the area of administrative tasks, such as newsletter publication, publicity, database management and fundraising. If you feel you could help out in these areas we would be very happy you hear from you. Please contact the Director or Secretary for further information.

Code of Conduct

While on De-Tong Ling / Yacca Creek properties it is expected that all will endeavor to maintain the following standards of behavior:

• To abstain from intentionally killing any living being
• To abstain from stealing or taking that which is not freely given
• To abstain from lying
• To abstain from sexual misconduct
• To abstain from becoming intoxicated
• To engage in respectful speech and actions towards all Sangha, visitors, residents and other volunteers
• To avoid harmful speech such as slander, gossip, arguing or complaining and instead, if necessary, use appropriate grievance procedures to resolve concerns
• To behave in a way that is mindful of the DTL values of compassion, respect, harmony and spiritual focus
• To refrain from smoking except in the designated area

We hope this code of behavior is accepted in the spirit in which it is intended - that is, to provide a safe, harmonious and caring environment in accord with basic Buddhist principles.

If you would like more information about volunteering or to be put on our email list for updates on work retreats and volunteer opportunities, please contact the volunteer coordinator.