In 1902, a modest transaction occurred in a remote part of Victoria - a stretch of land, later affectionately named "the bull paddock" by locals, was sold for 17 pounds. It would remain in the same family for more than a century, a silent witness to the transformations of Australian rural life, until it was purchased by Janine and her family in 2012. After two years of living on the land, the family realised they possessed something extraordinary, something that transcended the physical space: a sense of place so compelling it demanded to be shared with others. Thus, 17Pounds was born - a boutique wellness retreat nestled in a landscape where history and nature quietly converse.

Janine, who has spent over three decades in the fitness industry, leading classes in boxing and aqua exercise, approaches her work at 17Pounds with the same dedication to well-being that has marked her career. Her philosophy is simple yet profound. "What we offer is quite unique," she says, speaking not just of the physical space but of the intimate, almost familial atmosphere she’s cultivated. "It’s a small group experience, more like a private session than a group class. It’s about participation, inclusion, and feeling comfortable in the environment."

From the moment guests walk through the door, they are greeted with a sensory immersion into a world apart - the clean country air, the thoughtfully designed changing rooms, and, of course, the coffee machine ready to soothe any early morning grogginess. "Everyone feels loved the moment they walk in," Janine explains. It’s an atmosphere of quiet luxury, where the comforts of modernity blend seamlessly with the tranquillity of nature.

The design of 17Pounds reflects Janine’s belief that personal transformation is inextricably linked to the environment. "It’s about bringing nature to the door," she says. Every detail, from the landscape outside to the amenities within, is designed to create a calming and nourishing experience. "You need to feel loved, nurtured, and nourished," she insists. Without these qualities, the retreat would be incomplete. It is this philosophy that allows 17Pounds to occupy a rare space in the wellness world, balancing the indulgent pleasures of a luxury retreat with a deeply personal approach to transformation.

The land itself plays a significant role in this delicate balance. When Janine and her family first purchased the property, they worked with an architect to design a house that would sit harmoniously with the tall gum trees, the land’s silent sentinels. "We consider the back of the house the front, and vice versa," she says, an indication of the way they allowed the landscape to guide their decisions. The garden grew around the house as if in conversation with it - on one side, edible plants reflect the family’s desire for self-sufficiency; on the other, the architectural elements balance form and function. "Being in a cool climate can be challenging," Janine admits, "but you just give it a go and hope for success."

One of the most striking features of 17Pounds is the pool, filled with Bullarto spring water and magnesium. It’s a detail that speaks to the retreat’s commitment to providing guests with more than just a break from daily life. The benefits of magnesium are well documented - it’s known to aid muscle recovery and soothe nerve endings - but here, it’s also about the sensory experience. The water is softer than in chlorinated pools, and its gentle feel is echoed by the surrounding landscape. Aqua Bikes, a concept popular in Europe but rare in Australia, offer a novel way to exercise. "You cycle and sing to music while looking at the Wombat State Forest," Janine says, smiling. "Nobody else in Victoria is doing what we do here. It’s very special and unique."

While the physical space of 17Pounds offers serenity and rejuvenation, Janine is aware that the true challenge lies in sustaining the effects of a wellness retreat once guests return home. "That’s a tough one," she confesses. The motivation that comes so easily in the retreat’s supportive atmosphere can be difficult to maintain alone. But for her regular clients, Janine provides ongoing guidance, sometimes even creating programs for them to follow when she’s away.

As she looks to the future, Janine sees the role of aqua fitness expanding, particularly for ageing populations. "Aqua fitness is gentler on the joints, with greater muscle and hip rotation," she explains. "As more people become aware of the benefits of magnesium, I believe our wellness events will become a weekly occurrence, with more locals getting involved."

In an industry often associated with fleeting indulgences, 17Pounds offers something more enduring: a retreat grounded in nature, community, and personal growth. It is a place where luxury meets simplicity, and where the land itself becomes part of the experience - quiet, nourishing, and eternal.

17Pounds Country Estate & Wellness Retreat Bullarto South @17poundscountryestate 17pounds.com

Story by Mahmood Fazal
Photos by Chris Turner