The Offline Club @ Papershell Farm, Willunga South SA 6/7/2025
In a world where our phones are our master, some of us did the unthinkable during the Illuminate Adelaide experience The Offline Club, they had their phones confiscated for four hours. Yes, you read correctly no phones the entire time of the event. In many ways it was liberating and frustrating at the same time. After some time, you eventually get used to not having a device attached to your hand where you are free to explore other interactive options.
The Offline Club, founded by three lads from Amsterdam, Ilya Kneppelhout, Jordy van Bennekom, and Valentijn Klok, to have fun and meaningful conversations in spaces with people open to connect with each other without the distraction of our screens. Basically, to get offline, get creative and nurture human interaction.
The Offline Club’s first event in Australia was at Papershell Farm, a tranquil and serene setting in Willunga South, Kaurna Country. Set amongst the almond groves we were welcomed by Papershell Farm owner, Surahn Sidhu then Ilya introduced us to the concept of The Offline Club and what we were to expect. The activities started with an hour of silence. Whether it’s on your own or interacting with others, it was pure silence. There were people writing, reading, creating postcards, or creating origami figures, completing jigsaw puzzles and playing chess.
After the silence there was a flurry of conversation flowing between friends and strangers. People were talking, laughing and there was a sense of happiness flowing through the air. I know its sounds cheesy but it was really a fun and meaningful experience. There was even an opportunity to plant a tree and we were invited to come back and see how much it has grown. Lunch was provided with a selection of wines available for purchase and in the last hour we were privileged to hear an acoustic performance by Surahn and his band of soulful songs.
It was a well spent afternoon or pure serenity and getting back in touch with our inner selves without the distractions that we have become accustomed to since phones have been in our lives. During my time of silence, I felt a flow of words about the experience. I do hope this experience comes back again next year. It’s well worth the time separated from our device!
“Chicken sizzling on the grill
while my mind remains still.
Protecting the King in chess
clearing the mind, reducing the stress.
No buzz, no fuss, no ringtone, no phone.
Just me, my thoughts, my peace, alone.
Jazz playing in the background
a simple yet joyous sound.
Solace is fine.
Even better with a glass of wine.
Stop. Think. Immersed in the silence.
Serenity calls in its abundance.
I stopped to smell the roses,
amongst the almond grove of poses.
Solace in the mind,
not bound by time.
Safe. Still. No alarm
Here on Papershell Farm.”
Illuminate Adelaide Review by Anastasia Lambis
Photo Credit: Click Films