what this Event is about
In this conference retreat, we will explore the impact on a person facing workplace bullying. We will examine how resilience links to healthy boundaries and mental well-being.
Our presenters will examine the issue of burnout. The content is vital knowledge for all of us as we face the distinctive challenges currently around us, not only for our self-development but also to have the knowledge and skills to provide support to our families, friends, and colleagues.
This unique retreat offers not just education but also a supportive environment with caring and experienced facilitators to assist you in exploring these difficult topics. Participants will learn practical strategies for working with very difficult people in their personal and professional lives.
In addition to the conference program, attendees will have the opportunity to explore a number of activities to assist them in managing stress and preventing burnout. We will explore different forms of meditation and explore topics that can be unpacked only in a supported learning environment.
This one-of-a-kind retreat was developed by two experienced facilitators who look forward to working with you and supporting you as we work our way through the content together.
WHY A CONFERENCE RETREAT?
A conference retreat is designed to facilitate the ability of a group to step back from their day-to-day demands and activities for a period of concentrated discussion and exploration of specific issues.
Many people lack the support needed to navigate bullying and other difficult workplace situations, and their specific needs have often gone unmet. In the past, nurses and other professionals have not offered the kind of retreats or support systems more commonly available in other fields. This is especially concerning given that nurses make up the largest group of healthcare professionals. This retreat was initially created to help fill that gap—offering a safe, supportive environment where participants from all backgrounds can now come together, learn valuable skills, and feel truly heard and supported.
The need for this conference retreat is based on the counselling work of Anne Evans-Murray, as she works with many clients, from nursing and other fields who have experienced bullying or who wish to develop their own personal assertiveness skills.
It is also based on feedback from Nursing CPD subscribers in evaluating the sessions provided on resilience, bullying and assertiveness training and with requests for more practical assistance to deal with multiple issues.
So, join us at this conference as we step back from our day-to-day demands and stressors and take advantage of the supportive environment that it offers.
“I can not truly express what this retreat has meant to me and the dedication that Anne and Sue show to the improvement of positive psychological outcomes for nurses. Thank you to both of you.”
– Marise, Nursing Retreat: Exploring Psychological Workplace Violence and Personal Resilience

Who is this conference for?
This conference retreat is open to all nurses and healthcare professionals, regardless of clinical specialty. While some sessions retain a nursing focus, the program is designed to support individuals from all professions and career paths who recognise they are experiencing bullying and are seeking support.
The skills and insights gained at this retreat will be invaluable, and we warmly welcome participants from other fields of work. More than just an educational event, this retreat offers a safe and supportive environment, guided by compassionate and experienced facilitators.
Together, we will explore these challenging topics with care, respect, and understanding.

Learning Outcomes
At this retreat you will:
- Explore bullying and the effects on a person exposed to people with narcissistic traits or narcissistic personality disorder
- Undertake assertiveness training and learn practical hints on how to develop assertive body language and vocabulary
- Examine the manifestation of burnout and strategies to assist with healing
- Investigate the term ‘resilience’ and how we can put strategies in place to increase or develop resilience

You will learn:
At this retreat you will:
- The impact of hidden workplace or relationship bullying on your physical health
- The hidden tactics of bullies that rob you of your emotional peace and cause you great pain
- The psychological impact of bullying: from causing embarrassment through to loss of professional credibility
- The spectrum of narcissism (from selfishness traits to a personality disorder) which may be in your family as well as at work
- To recognise the primary techniques of those on the narcissistic spectrum including gas-lighting and the use of silent treatment
- How to manage your stress and restore your peace of mind
- To enhance your understanding of resilience and burnout
- How to regain your reputation and self-esteem after a difficult experience or assist others to do so
- Practical skills on how to be assertive and powerful
- Tips on how to avoid legal problems as a target of bullying or as a nurse leader
- Assertiveness to manage criticism
- The skills to apply both in the workplace environment and your personal life
“The overall conference was fantastic. I would out change anything. There was a lot of content to cover, but it was enjoyable. Sue and Anne you were wonderful. Thank you.”
– Angelika, Nursing Retreat: Exploring Psychological Workplace Violence and Personal Resilience
Our Presenters:
Anne Evans-Murray
R.N., BHlthSc, MACCCN, Grad.Dip Ed, MEd, Dip Counselling, GradCertCritCare, CertIV Training and Assessment, CertIV in Mediation
Anne has a passion for teaching which she does in an unpretentious way that ensures you will not only understand and retain what she presents but will enjoy this learning experience. She has extensive experience of over 26 years of lecturing for Gold Coast Health District and Griffith University.
Anne is a frequent presenter at workshops, conferences and seminars throughout Australia and New Zealand on subjects such as high dependency nursing, cardiac arrhythmias & ECG interpretation, chest x-ray interpretation, clinical assessment of the deteriorating patient, assertiveness training and leadership. She conducts accredited advanced life support training for nurses, doctors and paramedics.
Anne has a passionate commitment to empower all clinical staff through increased awareness and knowledge of the critically ill patient’s condition so that timely intervention is implemented, which will benefit patient outcomes.
She is the author of three books; “ECGs Simply”, “Interpretation of Chest X-rays Simply” and ‘Uncomplicating Life, Simply’. Her ECG book is a textbook sold in many universities in Australia.
Sue Walker
RN, BN, BN (ADMIN), MPHC, MACN, Specialist Nurse Educator
Sue is the director and co-founder of the Nurses for Nurses Network. Sue is a key contributor to the online education platform Nursing CPD – a Continuing Professional Development platform to assist Nurses in meeting their annual CPD requirements.
As a Registered Nurse, Sue holds Degrees in both Nursing and Health Administration, a Master’s Degree in Public Health, as well as a number of certificate courses in Psychiatry of Ageing, Gerontology, Chemotherapy Administration, and Training and Assessment. She is also an Accredited Mental Health First Aid Trainer, Mindfulness Practitioner, and Clinical Supervisor.
Sue has extensive experience as a clinician, educator, and senior manager. She has presented at local and international conferences on many topics including, key issues in healthcare, such as the psychological impact of the work that Nurses do and how the work requirements to deliver healthcare impact the health of the clinician. Other topics presented comprise of Nursing Leadership, Emergency Management, Mental health, Aged Care, Advanced Life Support, Assertiveness, Grief and Loss, and Workplace Bullying.
Sue is passionate about making a difference in how the community and Nurses experience the healthcare system.
“Nurses are the backbone of the healthcare system and work in difficult environments that can take advantage of their commitment to ensuring the best possible care is delivered. To continue to meet professional and community expectations Nurses and Midwives need to acknowledge their unique contribution to health care delivery and assert their collective strength to safeguard the community and ensure their ongoing professional needs are recognised and met.
Healthcare should be delivered by competent, knowledgeable individuals to ensure the best possible experience for the recipient of that care. Nursing is a fabulous profession. The knowledge and skill of the individual Nurse will have the greatest influence on the happiness and health outcomes of each and every client”.
“I cannot truly express what this retreat has meant to me and the dedication that Anne and Sue show to the improvement of positive psychological outcomes for nurses. Thank you to both of you.”
– Asa, Nursing Retreat: Exploring Psychological Workplace Violence and Personal Resilience
Conference Program:

Day one:
Topics covered today will include:
- Self-esteem – Developing Confidence and Improving Physical and Mental Health
- Personality Profile – Increasing Emotional Intelligence
- Workplace Bullying
- Narcissism in Families
Evening: Drinks and Canapes (Attendees Only)
Take a moment to relax, enjoy refreshments and network with other retreat attendees.

Day Two:
Topics covered today will include:
- Meditation Practice
- Burnout
- Let’s Explore Mindfulness and Meditation
- Communication and Assertiveness
- Strategy Workshop and Assertiveness Training
- Resilience and Emotional Freedom Technique
- Meditation, and Relaxation Therapy
“Well worth attending Content was very interesting & well presented. So much to take away & put into practice & relevant. Felt so good after this Retreat – Just what I needed. Thank you so very much Sue & Anne!!!!”
– Toni-Maree, Nursing Retreat: Exploring Psychological Workplace Violence and Personal Resilience
What’s included
- An extensive Conference program based on current best practice
- Conference Presenters are excited to be able to share their skill, knowledge, and passion with Conference Attendees
- Attendees’ get together function including drinks and canapes
- A Conference pack that includes a pen, and additional information to support a fantastic Conference experience
- Morning tea, lunch and afternoon tea as outlined in the program
- A Conference Transcript that identifies each session held at the Conference including the session synopsis and session presenters
- A Certificate of Completion identifying the CPD hours attached to the Conference Program for you to include in your CPD Evidence Portfolio
Registration Cost
$890.00
Need more info?
Venue: TBA
Things to do During your Visit
Visit the zoo
Tucked away in the heart of the Waikato, Hamilton Zoo is a must-visit for animal lovers of all ages. Home to over 600 native and exotic animals, including Sumatran tigers, chimpanzees, and New Zealand’s own kea, the zoo offers a relaxed, up-close experience in a lush, park-like setting.
Whether you’re strolling through the free-flight aviary or catching a keeper talk, there’s something special about the way Hamilton Zoo blends conservation with connection.
A perfect day out for families, couples, or anyone who appreciates wildlife and nature.
be amazed at the waitomo caves
The Waitomo Caves are one of New Zealand’s true natural wonders, and they’re every bit as magical as they sound.
Famous for their glowworms that light up the underground like a starry night sky, the caves offer a surreal, almost otherworldly experience.
Whether you’re gliding quietly on a boat beneath the glow, exploring limestone chambers, or getting adventurous with black water rafting, Waitomo is a place where nature puts on a show you’ll never forget.
Tour the movie sets of hobbiton
Step into the magic of Middle-earth with a visit to Hobbiton, the movie set made famous by The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit films.
Nestled in the rolling green hills of Matamata, this charming village of hobbit holes, the Green Dragon Inn, and winding garden paths feels like it’s been plucked straight from the screen.
Whether you’re a devoted Tolkien fan or just love beautiful scenery, Hobbiton is a whimsical experience that’s pure New Zealand magic.
WHAT OUR ATTENDEES HAD TO SAY
All the Education Team were approachable and very interested in all of us as Individuals. Thank you to Anne for making it easier to understand the basics of heart function and ECG interpretation. To both Anne and Sue for sharing the updated research on the "Controversial" topics and health care/practice.
Loretta
Great event. Amazing presentations by Sue and Anne. Very well presented with a lot of examples. Thank you very much for the amazing conference.
Dorothy
Absolutely fantastic! I got so much out of this retreat, with so many tools to use in my professional and personal life. Having it at the beach made it all the more enjoyable. I feel so rejuvenated! I learnt a lot about myself , what and how I can improve in my communication. The strategies practiced in the workshop were most beneficial. I will be at the next one. Best thing I have ever attended!!!!
Rachel
I can not truly express what this retreat has meant to me and the dedication that Anne and Sue show to improving positive psychological outcomes for nurses. Thank you to both of you.
Asa
Anne and Sue are beyond exceptional.
Lenor
Use coupon code NCPDREF to get a 20% discount.






