About Us
At Encompassed, we create space for mothers and their children to reconnect with each other, with nature, and with themselves.
Our retreats are intentionally simple: built around time outdoors, shared activities, and gentle guidance that help strengthen communication, confidence, and understanding.
Founded by two sisters, Amanda and Kristy Lee, Encompassed grew from a belief that connection is the foundation of every strong family. Life is busy, but slowing down together can change everything.
Who We Are
"We’re two sisters, best friends, and neighbours with a shared passion for helping families reconnect. Raising children side by side, we’ve seen how easy it is to lose touch in the rush of modern life. Through both joy and challenge - including the loss of our parents - we’ve leaned on each other and our own “village” of support."
That experience shaped Encompassed: a place where mothers and children can rediscover connection, community, and fun in a down-to-earth, supportive space.
Rooted in the Macedon Ranges community, Amanda and Kristy live locally in Woodend, surrounded by the people and places that shaped Encompassed.
What began as their own village of family, friends, and neighbours has grown into a wider network of mothers and children reconnecting across Victoria.
Meet The Founders
Amanda Lee
Amanda has spent over 20 years working in social welfare, specialising in youth outreach, housing and homelessness, mental health, and behaviour support within the NDIS sector.
She holds a Bachelor of Arts (Psychology & Sociology) and is currently completing her Diploma of Counselling. For the past two years, Amanda has facilitated workshops and retreats for mothers and children, helping families build stronger, lasting bonds.
A mum of two (and cavoodle Banjo), Amanda brings warmth, humour, and grounded insight to every retreat. Her background enables her to create safe, inclusive spaces where genuine connection can naturally occur.
Kristy Lee
Kristy is a passionate educator with over 20 years of experience in primary school teaching, currently working as a Physical Education Specialist.
She holds a Postgraduate Degree in Education and a Bachelor of Business (Accounting), and writes classroom activities for the Herald Sun’s Kids News website.
As a mum of four, Kristy knows the ups and downs of family life first-hand. She thrives on helping children grow in confidence and helping mothers see the joy in slowing down and sharing moments that matter.
Kristy brings creativity, energy, and a deep understanding of child development to each Encompassed retreat.
Our Philosophy
Connection takes time and space.
We believe in removing the noise of everyday life so families can focus on what really matters: talking, laughing, and learning from one another.
Our retreats are guided by four simple principles:
• Presence: putting away technology and tuning into each other
• Play: reconnecting through shared experiences and activities
• Perspective: seeing one another in new ways, outside daily roles
• Practicality: taking home simple tools that keep connection alive
What You Can Expect
Every Encompassed retreat includes:
• Guided group activities that foster teamwork and trust
• Connection sessions led by experienced facilitators
• Time for rest, laughter, and self-reflection
• Supportive small groups to ensure everyone feels included
• A comfortable, tech-free setting surrounded by nature
We’re Here to Help!
If you’re curious or have questions about whether a retreat is right for you and your child, we’d love to talk.
This is about comfort, trust, and making sure you both get the most out of the experience.
