Profile information
Host rating
100 %
Last replied
16 Apr 2025
Reply rate
100.0 %
Usually responds within 2 days
Feedback
76
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Email verified
Badges (4)
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Details
Description
We live on Raymond Island in the middle of Australia's beautiful Gippsland Lakes. Our home has a large garden (1.2 hectares) with food crops and Australian native plants. Our garden is home to many animals (including kangaroos and koalas) and birds.
We're an easy-going couple who moved from the city to rural Victoria for a sea/tree change. Jane's background is education (university and technical) and Tom's background is international marketing. We've decided to be Workaway hosts after enjoying an unexpected visit in 2015 from two German exchange students.
Types of help and learning opportunities
Gardening
DIY and building projects
Animal Care
Creating/ Cooking family meals
Help around the house
General Maintenance
Cultural exchange and learning opportunities
We can help you to improve your English, no matter what skill level you already have. You'll learn more about Australian culture - not just the Crocodile Dundee image that you see at the movies. You'll have the opportunity to participate in Island life and meet other Islanders. We can teach new cooking and other practical skills if you're interested. Our aim is to provide a fun and rewarding cultural stay.
Raymond Island is located 4 hours east of Melbourne on Australia's largest lakes system in internationally recognised RAMSAR wetlands. It is 8km x 2km and home to arond 500 people. Apart from discovering the challenges of organic coastal gardening, there's lots of local wildlife to see in a natural habitat. We're happy to spend time with our travellers exploring the local region on the mainland (mountains to ocean beaches), especially at the weekends.
Help
We enjoy sharing our lovely garden and ask for general help around the property and especially in the garden in return. Help could be anything from painting to planting trees, cooking dinner, spring cleaning or puppy-sitting. There's no fixed schedule and work is active but doesn't require great physical strength.
Languages
Languages spoken
English: FluentThis host offers a language exchange
This host has indicated that they are interested in sharing their own language or learning a new language.
You can contact them directly for more information.
Accommodation
Our house is large and comfortable and you can share our home with your own bedroom/s. We have good Internet access to contact home but avoid downloading movies (there's a largish DVD collection instead). We have two friendly dogs who love attention and walks.
What else ...
In summer the water's great for swimming and in winter curl up with movies or books in front of the fire. We have a strong local music culture and you're likely to have at least one opportunity to see a live performance.
We cook a wide range of foods and can accommodate special dietary requirements, for example if you are a vegetarian.
We are a no-smoking house.
There are no shops on the Island but have a short ferry ride to the mainland shops at Paynesville. We have bicycles to explore the Island. Public transport is limited and we are happy to help with transport from the country trains at Bairnsdale (our nearest town).
A little more information
Internet access
Limited internet access
We have pets
We are smokers
Can host families
Can host digital nomads
They could work from their own bedroom/sitting room.
Space for parking camper vans
We live on over a hectare so plenty of room.
Can possibly accept pets
Friendly dogs yes. We have two Labradoodles.
How many Workawayers can stay?
Two
My animals / pets
Host ref number: 564382269413
Feedback (37)
4 May 2025
Left by Workawayer (Feng) for host
Sorry for the delay response and appreciate your kind reminders and thank you for your review.
Here’s my feedback:
Jane and Tom are living in a beautiful island with a large garden. They were kind to showed me around and treated me a nice Chinese dinner on my last day.
The work schedule was flexible: I did light household tasks for the first… read more
Here’s my feedback:
Jane and Tom are living in a beautiful island with a large garden. They were kind to showed me around and treated me a nice Chinese dinner on my last day.
The work schedule was flexible: I did light household tasks for the first… read more
26 Apr 2025
Left by host for Workawayer (Feng)
Feng worked amazingly hard in the garden to prepare for winter. And, best of all, she is a wonderful cook! She is very curious to learn about the places she is visiting, and about life in Australia. Her journalist background makes her a very thoughtful and polished interviewer. Wishing her plenty of warmer weather and lots of adventures as she… read more
(Excellent
)
26 Apr 2025
Left by host for Workawayer (Krystian)
Our time with Krystian was over so quickly - it was wonderful sharing our home with him. His special gift to us was helping with a large renovating challenge - we restored our old timber floors throughout the house and he was an enormous help with moving furniture around, sanding, staining, and then applying polish. What a wonderful job he did! As… read more
(Excellent
)
25 Apr 2025
Left by Workawayer (Krystian) for host
Staying with Jane and Tom was my first experience of this type. I wish everyone could volunteer like that.
Jane is an extremely warm and patient person, Tom topped everything off with his sense of humor. I felt very comfortable in their home. They helped me a lot in developing my language skills, through conversations on every topic.
During my… read more
Jane is an extremely warm and patient person, Tom topped everything off with his sense of humor. I felt very comfortable in their home. They helped me a lot in developing my language skills, through conversations on every topic.
During my… read more
25 Dec 2024
Left by host for Workawayer (Charles)
Charles is a terrific Workawayer! He thrives outside, working independently on a range of tasks to help us prepare our large garden for summer and the bushfire season. He has a keen interest in wildlife and love his encounters with the Australian native animals who we share our lives with. In the house, he's smart, has a great sense of humour, is… read more
(Excellent
)
24 Dec 2024
Left by Workawayer (Charles) for host
I had a wonderful experience with Jane and Tom. They welcomed me into their home and treated me as family. they were very puntual, organized, and loved to share their property, community, and dogs with me. They gave me a flexible workload with a rewarding amount of free time. they offered me a pedal bike to enjoy the region with. They provide… read more
Photos
Feedback
These are extra optional ratings when members leave feedback. The average rating left for each option is displayed.
Accuracy of profile:
(5.0)
Cultural exchange:
(4.8)
Communication:
(4.9)
4 May 2025
Left by Workawayer (Feng) for host
Sorry for the delay response and appreciate your kind reminders and thank you for your review.
Here’s my feedback:
Jane and Tom are living in a beautiful island with a large garden. They were kind to showed me around and treated me a nice Chinese dinner on my last day.
The work schedule was flexible: I did light household tasks for the first… read more
Here’s my feedback:
Jane and Tom are living in a beautiful island with a large garden. They were kind to showed me around and treated me a nice Chinese dinner on my last day.
The work schedule was flexible: I did light household tasks for the first… read more
26 Apr 2025
Left by host for Workawayer (Feng)
Feng worked amazingly hard in the garden to prepare for winter. And, best of all, she is a wonderful cook! She is very curious to learn about the places she is visiting, and about life in Australia. Her journalist background makes her a very thoughtful and polished interviewer. Wishing her plenty of warmer weather and lots of adventures as she… read more
(Excellent)
26 Apr 2025
Left by host for Workawayer (Krystian)
Our time with Krystian was over so quickly - it was wonderful sharing our home with him. His special gift to us was helping with a large renovating challenge - we restored our old timber floors throughout the house and he was an enormous help with moving furniture around, sanding, staining, and then applying polish. What a wonderful job he did! As… read more
(Excellent)
25 Apr 2025
Left by Workawayer (Krystian) for host
Staying with Jane and Tom was my first experience of this type. I wish everyone could volunteer like that.
Jane is an extremely warm and patient person, Tom topped everything off with his sense of humor. I felt very comfortable in their home. They helped me a lot in developing my language skills, through conversations on every topic.
During my… read more
Jane is an extremely warm and patient person, Tom topped everything off with his sense of humor. I felt very comfortable in their home. They helped me a lot in developing my language skills, through conversations on every topic.
During my… read more
25 Dec 2024
Left by host for Workawayer (Charles)
Charles is a terrific Workawayer! He thrives outside, working independently on a range of tasks to help us prepare our large garden for summer and the bushfire season. He has a keen interest in wildlife and love his encounters with the Australian native animals who we share our lives with. In the house, he's smart, has a great sense of humour, is… read more
(Excellent)
24 Dec 2024
Left by Workawayer (Charles) for host
I had a wonderful experience with Jane and Tom. They welcomed me into their home and treated me as family. they were very puntual, organized, and loved to share their property, community, and dogs with me. They gave me a flexible workload with a rewarding amount of free time. they offered me a pedal bike to enjoy the region with. They provide… read more
29 Sep 2024
Left by Workawayer (Christina & Maja) for host
Jane and Tom were our first Workaway hosts. From the first moment on we felt welcomed and they did everything to make us feel comfortable. In addition, they told us everything that we need to know about the wildlife on Raymond Island. They also shared a lot of their knowledge about different topics with us. Furthermore, they were really openminded… read more
29 Sep 2024
Left by host for Workawayer (Christina & Maja)
How lucky we were to be Christina and Maja's first Workaway hosts! They arrived in southern Australia at the start of spring and experienced everything our weather could throw at them. But, not to be deterred, they worked amazingly in our garden, turning the mess from a recent storm into or normal garden. They loved the wildlife and were adopted… read more
(Excellent)
27 May 2024
Left by Workawayer (Sebastiano & Sara) for host
We did our first workaway experience at Tom and Jane's house and it was a great experience. They provided everything we needed to be comfortable during our stay and have always respected our needs. Unfortunately we could not move a lot around due to the lack of an international driving licence and because we had to study a lot, but Tom have kindly… read more
11 May 2024
Left by host for Workawayer (Sebastiano & Sara)
Seb and Sara are a very nice, self-contained couple. This was their first Workaway and they will enjoy foreign cultures as they gain more confidence. Over their month stay, they helped us to paint our house in the mornings and then threw themselves into studying during the afternoons. Preparation for exams when they return home meant that they… read more
(Very good)
23 Mar 2024
Left by host for Workawayer (KarinaHa)
Karina joined us on Raymond Island for two weeks at the beginning of March. She is a wonderful independent lady who is both charming and thoughtful. She helped on the property helping both as a team and solitary carrying out many tasks. These included building maintenance, solar panel and gutter cleaning and then gardening, pruning, weeding,… read more
(Excellent)
22 Mar 2024
Left by Workawayer (KarinaHa) for host
My time with Tom and Jane as my hosts on Raymond Island was a delight. I felt immediately welcomed to their very beautiful home, and treated to their great cooking skills every day. I already miss Molly and Remy, the two very friendly and affectionate Labradoodles, and my morning walk in the expansive, gorgeous garden. So much wildlife, up close!… read more
8 Mar 2024
Left by Workawayer (Chloe & Lison) for host
Tom and Jane are lovely people and made us feel right at home. It's an unusual workaway, on an island where you can meet lots of kangaroos, koalas, wallibi... You'll be as close as possible to the flora and fauna. The landscapes are Tom's and Jane made us discover the surroundings with great pleasure. We were able to share some great moments of… read more
26 Feb 2024
Left by host for Workawayer (Chloe & Lison)
The girls stayed with us for a week and had their first experience of real Australian warm weather! They were great in the garden and covered many tasks in just a couple of days, to help us get ready for autumn. They are super friendly, observant and fun to have around. They took every opportunity to explore their surroundings and enjoyed the… read more
(Excellent)
4 Nov 2023
Left by Workawayer (Héléna) for host
I had an amazing week with Jane, Tom and their two dogs Molly and Remy. I enjoyed my work in their nice garden, most of the time a koala was nearby. I have great memories from my bike excursions on the island with Tom, the sailing adventure (we won the race !), all the interesting conversations with Jane (you're gonna learn a lot and they have… read more
3 Oct 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Héléna)
Helena stayed with us for a week before she left for more adventures overseas. The weather was very ordinary and we spent several days inside, spring cleaning and cooking. Finally the sun came out and Helena was able to spend some time in the garden as we prepared for spring and summer plantings. Once pointed in the right direction, Helena sees… read more
(Excellent)
31 Jul 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Sulhee)
We loved having Sulhee to stay with us - she brightens the day with her infectious smile, good humour and approach to absorbing everything she can about where she travels. Sulhee was with us for nearly four weeks and, like many of her other hosts, we loved her being here. She helped with outside building work and then as the weather turned cold,… read more
(Excellent)
25 Jul 2023
Left by Workawayer (Sulhee) for host
I stayed with Jane and Tom for a little under four weeks during the beautiful winter season(July). They are incredibly welcoming, knowledgeable and caring people that truly open their home to their guests. I am very grateful that I was able to be one of them.
Work days are Mon - Fri and usually start around 9 am. Each "shift" is 5 hours and are… read more
Work days are Mon - Fri and usually start around 9 am. Each "shift" is 5 hours and are… read more
12 Jul 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Kai Chun)
There's usually lots to do in the garden and we knew that Kai had plenty of experience in that field - but the weather was patchy so, after a day of battling cold and damp weather, we moved to some inside jobs. This was Kai's first experience painting small pane window frames and he was meticulous. Our arrangement of working a couple of longer… read more
(Excellent)
9 Jul 2023
Left by Workawayer (Kai Chun) for host
I arrived at Jane and Tom's place on July 2nd and stayed until July 9th. The accommodation was exceptionally comfortable and clean. During my time there, I worked for 2 full days and 2 half days, the rest was my free time. My tasks involved removing old barge boards around the house and painting Tom and Jane's study rooms. They always trusted me… read more
4 May 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Veronika)
Vroni was stuck and came at short notice but we are so thrilled that she did! Having Veronika stay with us was what makes being a Workaway host worthwhile. She is kind and thoughtful, shows great initiative and has wisdom beyond her years. She works hard, is a great cook, and settled straight into our family life. We were thrilled when she shared… read more
(Excellent)
22 Apr 2023
Left by Workawayer (Veronika) for host
I stayed 1,5 weeks with Jane, Tom, Remy and Molly on Raymond Island and it was just amazing!
I had so much fun, saw a lot of wildlife (koalas, kangoroos, a lot of different birds) and I learned a lot from this amazing family.
Jane and Tom picked me up and I felt welcomed from the very beginning to the end of my stay. They showed me around and did… read more
I had so much fun, saw a lot of wildlife (koalas, kangoroos, a lot of different birds) and I learned a lot from this amazing family.
Jane and Tom picked me up and I felt welcomed from the very beginning to the end of my stay. They showed me around and did… read more
4 May 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Ellen)
Ellen is great to host - not least because she's a wonderful baker (kept us in sweet treats) and an entertaining pianist (great night's concert). She is hardworking and cheerfully sets about tasks with great humour and care. She's really organised. Ellen fitted into our household very comfortably. She relished the opportunity to meet our dogs and… read more
(Excellent)
28 Apr 2023
Left by Workawayer (Ellen) for host
My time here has been truely amazing.
Jane and Tom are the loveliest and most welcoming people you could imagine and they made me immediately feel at home when I arrived at their beautiful place on Raymond Island.
Tom picked me up at the train station in Bairnsdale which made it very easy to come to Raymond Island from Melbourne.
I spent almost… read more
Jane and Tom are the loveliest and most welcoming people you could imagine and they made me immediately feel at home when I arrived at their beautiful place on Raymond Island.
Tom picked me up at the train station in Bairnsdale which made it very easy to come to Raymond Island from Melbourne.
I spent almost… read more
26 Feb 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Jules)
Jules spent a couple of weeks with us on Raymond Island. He has a quiet character and is a hard worker. He loved our dogs and the wildlife that Raymond Island offers. Jules and I worked together on a number of projects and I found him to be a team player with no job too hard. He learns quickly and mastered various tools under supervision,… read more
(Excellent)
25 Feb 2023
Left by Workawayer (Jules) for host
The stay with Jane and Tom and the dogs Molly and Remy was wonderful. The Island is really peaceful with a lot of koalas and kangaroos which often can be seen in the garden! There is a lot of places to explore around the island and Jane and Tom took me multiple times to see the surroundings and even took me on a sailing boat one day to see the… read more
16 Feb 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Amaia)
Amaia is smart, engaged, aware of the world around her, eager to learn about culture (gardening, and anything else new). She's willing to help, easy to have in our home - in short a fabulous workawayer. Amaia - any time you pass our way, you will always be a welcome guest and friend. We loved your time with us. T&J
(Excellent)
14 Feb 2023
Left by Workawayer (Amaia) for host
Jane and Tom gave me the best experience on Raymond Island. They live on a beautiful property guarded by the friendliest puddles. Already from their garden you can see the island's wildlife including lots if birds, koalas and kangaroos. Jane and Tom are welcoming and communicative people who always make sure you are comfortable in the house and… read more
16 Feb 2023
Left by host for Workawayer (Tobias)
Tobi is great fun to host! He quickly takes on all challenges with gusto and great humour - even joining in sailing on a returning ocean-going yacht. He shares, he reflects on his experiences and how they are shaping his future. Tobi's pumpkin and grape salad has already become a firm favourite in our kitchen! We wish him every good thing with his… read more
(Excellent)
2 Feb 2023
Left by Workawayer (Tobias) for host
Jane & Tom are simply fantastic hosts. Alongside with their two awesome labradoodles (Princess Pushy aka Molly and Remy the Gentleman) they made my first workaway experience an unforgettable one as they provided me with as many information as I wanted about the island and life in Australia in general. They also made sure that there is always… read more
11 Oct 2021
Left by host for Workawayer (Madeline)
Restrictions in movement Covid-19 has played havoc with Workaway plans and dreams for so many young people! Maddie's plans were disrupted and so she came to us. She brought with her great good will and determination to learn, share and make her time with us rewarding, even with restricted opportunities to see the area, meet other neighbours and… read more
(Excellent)
9 Oct 2021
Left by Workawayer (Madeline) for host
I don’t think I could’ve asked for a better first workaway experience! Tom and Jane were so lovely, I felt right at home with them. They were very generous and always made sure I had what I needed. They had so many wonderful stories and memories to share from their lives which I always loved listening to, and sharing my own experiences as well, it… read more
17 Apr 2021
Left by host for Workawayer (Taryn)
It was lovely to have Taz to stay. She has an awesome personality that fits in with any life style. She is self motivated and her work is detailed. She loves to help from the garden, (zero Turn Mowing) to painting, to cooking and general house work. She loves to walk or ride bikes to explore new regions. If she is back our way at anytime she would… read more
(Excellent)
2 Nov 2020
Left by host for Workawayer (Marcoline)
In this pandemic year we hadn't expected any Workaways - but when Marcolina and Arthur contacted us to ask if they could stay, they sounded like they could use a couple of weeks away from camping and we said "yes, come!" What a marvellous month we had together. They turned their capable hands to anything we asked and the house and our large garden… read more
(Excellent)
30 Oct 2020
Left by Workawayer (Marcoline) for host
Such a beautiful experience to live with Jane & Tom ! They are amazing people, big heart and generous. We shared a lot of time together, beautiful moments like a family. They have 2 adorable dogs and an amazing house with a big garden. You will have your proper room and bathroom.
The life on Raymond island is wonderful, you can explore on… read more
The life on Raymond island is wonderful, you can explore on… read more
22 Jan 2020
Left by host for Workawayer (Samuel & Aurélie)
Lilie and Sam had their first taste of Australia with us in Dec – Jan 2019-20.
They had some unexpected adventures but managed them all well. They experienced the preparation of a property for the Victoria bush fire season and then actually experienced a close by bush fire that saw them evacuated to another property outside our region with my… read more
They had some unexpected adventures but managed them all well. They experienced the preparation of a property for the Victoria bush fire season and then actually experienced a close by bush fire that saw them evacuated to another property outside our region with my… read more
(Excellent)
20 Jan 2020
Left by Workawayer (Samuel & Aurélie) for host
A great adventure!
We spent 3 incredible weeks with Tom, Jane and their two dogs Molly & Remy. It was our first Workaway experience outside of France for us and we were very pleasantly surprised! The island is lovely and very wild, we shared the garden with kangaroos, koalas and birds of all colors. Tom and Jane really like to cook and we really… read more
We spent 3 incredible weeks with Tom, Jane and their two dogs Molly & Remy. It was our first Workaway experience outside of France for us and we were very pleasantly surprised! The island is lovely and very wild, we shared the garden with kangaroos, koalas and birds of all colors. Tom and Jane really like to cook and we really… read more
6 Dec 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (Cindy)
Cindy is a lovely adventurous young French lady. She can turn her hand to anything from cooking to mowing and trimming our 1.5 hectare garden. She is a hard worker. Her English language skills in are very good and is always eager to learn new skills. Her computer skills are good, and she is very handy at creating videos from the many photos she… read more
(Excellent)
3 Dec 2019
Left by Workawayer (Cindy) for host
This was a lovely stay, Tom and Jane are wonderful and super kind people. I spend three weeks with them.
I learnt a lot of skills in cooking, gardening, computer software etc. They took me to markets, beautiful beaches, lakes entrance, winery, boat's races, turism and hospitality course and meeting with the yacht club. And then, we cooked… read more
I learnt a lot of skills in cooking, gardening, computer software etc. They took me to markets, beautiful beaches, lakes entrance, winery, boat's races, turism and hospitality course and meeting with the yacht club. And then, we cooked… read more
8 Oct 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (Rainie)
Rainie stayed with us for two weeks in September 2019. She is a delightful easy going person; she loves to learn new things and is happy to discuss cultural differences from around the world. Rainie is inquisitive and adventurous. Her cooking and work ethic are excellent. She had her first real introduction to living with two dogs and found that… read more
(Excellent)
5 Oct 2019
Left by Workawayer (Rainie) for host
I have to say, the two fantastic weeks with Tom and Jane(of course and lovely Molly &Remy) of course will be a highlight in my long Australia trip!
Tom and Jane are respect workawayer and full of patience, willing to teach workawayers to learn new skills and experience anything new. I did furniture painting, garden watering, house cleaning,… read more
Tom and Jane are respect workawayer and full of patience, willing to teach workawayers to learn new skills and experience anything new. I did furniture painting, garden watering, house cleaning,… read more
3 Jun 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (Nagisa)
Nagisa, visited us twice for a total period of 5 weeks in Autumn 2019. She is an amazing woman and able to learn new skills easily. Her character is easy going and she is very communicative and fun to have in our home. Her language skills and self-confidence improved immensely during her stay with us. She is a fantastic cook of traditional… read more
(Excellent)
29 Apr 2019
Left by Workawayer (Nagisa) for host
Tom and Jane are wonderful and super super suuuper kind people. I spend time with them for 4 weeks. They gave me a lot of great experiences. They took me to market, farm's festival, beautiful beach, winery, boat's race, beautiful vegetables farm and meeting of island. And then, we cooked together, walked dogs together, watched movies or TV… read more
5 Apr 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (Nicole)
Nicole stayed with us for two weeks in March 2019. She is a wonderful young lady who loves discovering new things. She has a great work ethic and learns how to do different tasks easily, whether it be using mechanical equipment on the property or just in the kitchen. Her language skills are excellent. Nicole was a pleasure to have as part of our… read more
(Excellent)
30 Mar 2019
Left by Workawayer (Nicole) for host
Tom and Jane are such nice people! I stayed with them for two weeks and it was amazing! I helped Tom around the house from panting to chopping wood, watched all kind of movies in the evening and went for a walk in the morning to spot some koalas they have in their garden.
It is a beautiful place to stay and I really recommend staying with them. I… read more
It is a beautiful place to stay and I really recommend staying with them. I… read more
13 Feb 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (laflordelaluna)
Claudia, stayed with us for one week. She fitted in to our way of life well and participated in general house chores including cooking, cleaning and gardening. She trained me (Tom) in basic Yoga stretching exercises, including leaving an instruction manual, something I will use for the rest of my life. She is an animal lover. Her passion for… read more
(Excellent)
9 Feb 2019
Left by Workawayer (laflordelaluna) for host
I stayed one week with Jane and Tom in their beautiful property on Raymond Island. They are both very interesting people, warmhearted and helpful. We watched good movies, did nice walks with their 2 supercute labrapoodle dogs Molly and Remy, did yoga sessions, delicious food and koala spotting. I was so lucky to find up to 4 koalas in their… read more
4 Feb 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (Jakub & Jakub)
Sharing time with the two Jacobs was wonderful, if a little unexpected - but a lucky opportunity during the fire season. As well as picking up our work schedule, we spent time exploring each other's cultures - how Poland and Australia are similar and where they are different. For us, as hosts, the Jacobs reminded us of how much we gain in learning… read more
(Excellent)
1 Feb 2019
Left by Workawayer (Jakub & Jakub) for host
What we could say about our stay with Jane, Tom, Molly, and Remy, that it was truly home atmosphere experience. They invited us, after our last minute message, when we decided to leave Tasmania sooner, because of the bushfire danger. During our 10 days stay (which we extended), we were helping in the garden, painting the boat, doing general… read more
21 Jan 2019
Left by Workawayer (Workaway member) for host
3 weeks (12/18-01/19).
50% work, 50% fun. Georgeous.
Hands dirty because of house renovations, sanding, plastering, painting..? Never mind, all good fun.
Being on the peaceful Raymond Island is something like detox from fast town-life style.
Share and respect..!! Great chats, sophisticated conversations. Jane and Tom are really easy-going and… read more
50% work, 50% fun. Georgeous.
Hands dirty because of house renovations, sanding, plastering, painting..? Never mind, all good fun.
Being on the peaceful Raymond Island is something like detox from fast town-life style.
Share and respect..!! Great chats, sophisticated conversations. Jane and Tom are really easy-going and… read more
17 Jan 2019
Left by host for Workawayer (Workaway member)
Blanka stayed with us for 3 weeks over the 2018 Christmas period. She fitted into our family life style easily.
She has a tremendous work ethic and no task is too hard for her. From operating Zero Turn lawn mowers, gardening to house renovations, plastering, painting, boat sanding and rejuvenation, house cleaning and cooking all taken in her… read more
She has a tremendous work ethic and no task is too hard for her. From operating Zero Turn lawn mowers, gardening to house renovations, plastering, painting, boat sanding and rejuvenation, house cleaning and cooking all taken in her… read more
(Excellent)
17 Dec 2018
Left by host for Workawayer (Caroline)
Everything for Caroline was 'amazing'! On her first trip to Australia, she just wanted to absorb everything she could about being independent and overseas. She helped look after our animals (they loved her), cleaned the house and helped to weed our pathways (patience needed!) When the weather turned stormy, Caroline kept us amazed by her puzzle… read more
(Very good)
13 Dec 2018
Left by Workawayer (Caroline) for host
A stay rich in human relations, shares and knowledge. High level fun and you can be sure that you will laugh. I felt welcomed at the very first second, Jane's anecdotes, the journeys with Tom and their kindness are endless!! I'm so thankful for having met them! The best for me was that we shared everything: tasks, cooking, movies watching, koala… read more
17 Dec 2018
Left by host for Workawayer (Greetta)
Greetta arrived into a full house at Raymond Island and fitted straight into a busy routine as we prepared the garden for a long and hot summer. She is a breath of fresh air with her brightness and willingness to try anything on offer. We were particularly impressed by the way she helped to nurture a younger visitor who was less sure of travelling… read more
(Excellent)
3 Nov 2018
Left by host for Workawayer (Soraya & Carina)
What fun to have Soraya and Carina to stay with us! They worked in our garden and managed all of the spring weeding and tidying up ready before the summer. They planted out the summer season of seeds in the vegetable garden too. The best treat was when they shared their Kaiserschmarrn with us! They only stayed for a short time be we enjoyed their… read more
(Excellent)
27 Oct 2018
Left by Workawayer (Soraya & Carina) for host
We really enjoyed our time at their place and we will definitely miss them. Tom and Jane are very friendly and welcoming. We felt really familiar, because we cooked together, watched movies and had lots of fun. Tom drove us around and showed us different, beautiful places around the region of Bairnsdale.
The wildlife is amazing there, you can… read more
The wildlife is amazing there, you can… read more
31 Oct 2018
Left by Workawayer (Bernard) for host
Je suis maintenant dans la fin de mon année la découvert de l'Australie et je prends le temps de laisser mes avis.
Ce séjour fut pour moi très exceptionnel malgré ma difficulté de la langue, j'ai trouvais ici deux personnes qui m' ont profondément marqué par la chaleur de leur accueille, leur gentillesse, d'une grand aide pour moi dans… read more
Ce séjour fut pour moi très exceptionnel malgré ma difficulté de la langue, j'ai trouvais ici deux personnes qui m' ont profondément marqué par la chaleur de leur accueille, leur gentillesse, d'une grand aide pour moi dans… read more
22 Apr 2018
Left by host for Workawayer (Bernard)
Bernard stayed with us at the start of autumn and following a terrific wind storm that made our garden a mess. He was a wonderful help, patiently restoring the garden to its normal state and preparing it for winter. Bernard has much courage and has embarked on an exciting adventure this year as he travels around Australia and improves his English.… read more
(Very good)
11 Jun 2018
Left by host for Workawayer (Timothée & Helena)
Wow - Helena and TImothee did an amazing job for us - repairing a couple of windows and painting around the verandahs on the house, and creating a new 'picking' garden for us. They were easy company, great in the house and happy to share stories about Australia and about their life in France and Belgium. These are two very capable and independent… read more
(Excellent)
11 May 2018
Left by Workawayer (Timothée & Helena) for host
Jane, Tom and the two dogs Molly and Remy warmly wecomed us in the picturesque Raymond Island, where we stayed almost 3 weeks and would have stayed more if winter wasn't coming. As soon as you enter in their garden, you understand that their home is the result of long years of work, reflexion, love and passion. And it was a pleasure to contribute… read more
1 Jan 2018
Left by host for Workawayer (Juliette & Clémence)
Clémence and Juliette stayed with us on Raymond island for 4 fun filled weeks. During their time with us they worked on renovating a classic wooden boat and got our property ready for the summer season. They both are willing to learn new skills including using various mechanical tools in the garden. They enjoyed using the ride on mower on our… read more
(Excellent)
20 Dec 2017
Left by Workawayer (Juliette & Clémence) for host
We stayed 1 month with Tom and Jane. We were delighted. Tom and Jane are lovely people. Always ready to help. They did not hesitate to help us to prepare our trip. They are very happy to talk about their region. In addition Raymond island is a beautiful place very quiet and we could observe many animals . People on the island are also very nice… read more
1 Jan 2018
Left by host for Workawayer (Florence)
It was lovely to have Florence to stay with us for approximately two weeks. She worked in the garden doing various jobs including learning to drive the Zero turn lawn mower. Florence was always willing help in the kitchen and loved looking after our pet dogs. If she is travelling again in the future we would happily recommend her as a willing… read more
(Excellent)
24 Dec 2017
Left by Workawayer (Florence) for host
I spend two week by Jane and Tom with the two dogs :grinning: They are great hosts, they really created a home for us volunteers and I can´t say thank you enough!
The work isn´t hard, moreover I´ve learned a lot about food, how to cook.
It was a nice experience and the people on Raymond Island are very welcoming. You will see koalas and kangaroos… read more
The work isn´t hard, moreover I´ve learned a lot about food, how to cook.
It was a nice experience and the people on Raymond Island are very welcoming. You will see koalas and kangaroos… read more
28 Oct 2017
Left by host for Workawayer (Sarah)
Sarah only stayed for a short time before she headed to Melbourne but we really enjoyed having her with us. She has a great sense of humour and is happy to explore new things. Our garden is looking fresh for spring because of the work she did around the pathways.
(Excellent)
27 Oct 2017
Left by Workawayer (Sarah) for host
I spend one week by Jane and Tom (and the two dogs :-)).
It was a really nice experience and the people on Raymond Island are very welcoming. The house is really comfortable and you will see koalas in the garden! Thank you for teaching English and the great time on Raymond Island! :-)
It was a really nice experience and the people on Raymond Island are very welcoming. The house is really comfortable and you will see koalas in the garden! Thank you for teaching English and the great time on Raymond Island! :-)
10 Oct 2017
Left by host for Workawayer (Agustin)
We loved hosting Agustin! Everything he says in his profile is true - he is a curious traveller! He fitted into our home and the social activities on Raymond Island, meeting other Islanders and absorbing as many aspects of our life as was possible in a short time. We shared conversations, films, stories and food - celebrating the similarities and… read more
(Excellent)
7 Oct 2017
Left by Workawayer (Agustin) for host
Highly recommended! I spent two unforgettable weeks with Tom and Jane. They are a lovely couple, very nice and open-minded. You can talk with them about everything. When they say in their profile that their aim is to provide a fun and rewarding cultural stay, is absolutely true. We went exploring the beautiful ocean beaches and had a nice day next… read more
6 May 2017
Left by host for Workawayer (Anja & Annika)
Anja stayed with us for 3 weeks and helped in the garden. We had fun teacher her to ride a zero turn mower. She has a great sense of humour and was terrific with helping to train our new puppy. Her English is very good and we had a good time together.
(Very good)
6 May 2017
Left by host for Workawayer (Laura)
We loved having Laura to stay with us and quickly discovered that we shared a love of cooking, music and good movies. She fitted in well and felt like one of the family. She was a terrific help with painting part of the house and was happy to be part of anything we were doing. We wish her the very best as she continues her travels and hope to keep… read more
(Excellent)
6 May 2017
Left by Workawayer (Laura) for host
I spend 3 weeks at Janes and Toms place and it was awesome. After one day it's felt like home. They are two lovely people, who wants to make your stay on Raymond Island special. They showed me a lot of things on and around Raymond Island. So I had the chance to go sailing twice and it was great. The natur and especially the koalas and kangaroos… read more
15 Mar 2017
Left by Workawayer (Jakob) for host
I spent three weeks at Janes and Toms place and had a great time. They are very welcoming people and are succeding to give you a good time. The work with Tom was great, espacially driving around with the zero turn mower. They are happy to teach you new things and allways care for your wealth. Now they have two amazing dogs with wich you can have a… read more
11 Jan 2017
Left by host for Workawayer (Jakob)
We enjoyed having Jake to stay, although being over our Christmas / New Year break we weren't doing a lotof work. Jake happily took to evrything we asked him to try, including learning new skills in sailing and puppy minding. In his spare time,he worked through novels in English to improve his already very good language skills. Jake has a great… read more
(Very good)
10 Oct 2016
Left by host for Workawayer (Chika)
It was lovely having Chika to stay. She was happy to experience new things and to learn new skills and improve her already good English. Her work was particularly good and she got on very well with our dogs who already miss her games and care! Our best wishes go with her as she embarks on new adventures and travels.
(Excellent)
5 Oct 2016
Left by Workawayer (Chika) for host
I really enjoyed staying with Tom and Jane in Raymond Island. You will find many wild animals. I've got a chance to see wild Koala and her baby in their garden which was amazing :) Tom and Jane are lovely couple who respect and understand different cultures of the world. We had relly good conversation and they gave me many of great advices which… read more
7 Aug 2016
Left by Workawayer (Lena & Pascale) for host
We spend five weeks by Jane and Tom. It was one of our best time in Australia. We enjoyed to live and work with them so much. We always had nice chats with them
Raymond Island is a nice place and the people their are very welcoming.
The accommodation is really nice and comfi.
We would highly recommend Jane and Tom.
We love you both and… read more
Raymond Island is a nice place and the people their are very welcoming.
The accommodation is really nice and comfi.
We would highly recommend Jane and Tom.
We love you both and… read more
