Kalapa Cook Helper Second Vajra Yoga Retreat 2026
Description
We are seeking a dedicated volunteer to serve as Cook Helper to support the 2026 Second Vajra Yoga of Kālachakra Empowerment, Teachings and Retreat at Dzokden Kalapa taking place from August 11 – 21, 2026.
Service during the entire retreat is highly preferred. However, if a commitment for the entire period is not possible, accommodations may be possible, but not guaranteed.
Timing ~12 days – Sunday, August 9 (arrival) through Friday, August 21–evening or Saturday, August 22 – morning (departure)
Hours
8 hours a day for 12 days = total 96 hours onsite + 4 hours preparation = total 100 hours
* Note: This role also counts for EAP
Responsibilities
* Assisting the Main Cook with the preparation of a breakfast, a varied nourishing lunch, and a light dinner for a group of retreatants at the size of around 25‑35 persons.
* The food is vegetarian and must include a vegan and a gluten‑free alternative.
* You will also be responsible for cooking‑related activities such as
o supporting the kitchen flow
o keeping its space nice and clean
o cleaning cooking utensils
o preparing tea/coffee throughout the day
o and other kitchen‑related tasks as the need arises
* Final deep cleaning of kitchen, washroom & dining hall after Retreat ended.
* Note: the exact division of activities depends on the number of volunteers supporting the event.
Skills & Qualifications
* Hospitality
* The most important qualification is your willingness to help the retreat in this role.
* Previous cooking experience for large groups is not mandatory, but helpful.
* Ability to work independently and collaborate with other staff members and volunteers to fully support the retreat; ability to work in a team is essential.
* Good communication and organizational skills, diligence and flexibility.
What Dzokden Kalapa Offers:
You will be able to enjoy all the areas in the retreat centre except for the Kālachakra Temple where the retreatants will practice. Unlike the retreatants, the external volunteers can access electronic devices, the internet, and so forth. If you commit to the whole volunteering period, during your stay, we can provide free access to an online course or recorded retreat at our digital learning centre if you would like to support your practice and study while you are volunteering. Alternatively, if you have already received the 2nd Vajra Yoga before, you can also participate in any sessions of the event in the temple for free.
Location: Tibetan Buddhist Rime Institute – 1584 Burwood Highway, Belgrave, Vic 3160 Australia
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