The Tibetan Buddhist Society was established in Australia by our much-loved and respected Spiritual Leader, Geshe Acharya Thubten Loden. Geshe-la first came to Australia to teach in the 1970s. Since then he has given teachings and initiations to thousands of students, led the development of centres in Melbourne, Sydney, Perth and Brisbane, and has written a number of sacred texts in English.
Geshe-la founded the Tibetan Buddhist Society Perth during a visit to Western Australia in 1981, asking one of his students, Les Sheehy to be resident teacher. Initially a group of only six students met for weekly teaching and meditation sessions, and over the past three decades the Tibetan Buddhist Society has evolved into a significant centre of Buddhist practice and learning, offering a number of weekly classes, regular introductory courses and seminars. Every year we hold several retreats, providing accommodation facilities for those who are able to attend full time.
Members are mostly Perth residents who attend weekly classes and retreats. We are a varied group from different backgrounds with a shared interest in applying the Buddha’s teachings to our daily life to benefit both ourselves as well as others. Apart from formal teachings, there is always plenty to be done at our centre, including gardening, cleaning and other duties. The atmosphere is friendly, relaxed and ‘can do.’ Visitors often comment on the peaceful atmosphere and how refreshing it is that nobody tries to ‘convert’ them!
The only things we do sell are to be found in our beautifully appointed book shop, which stocks a range of books on Buddhism and meditation, including Tushita books by Geshe Acharya Thubten Loden, CDs and books by His Holiness the Dalai Lama, David Michie’s Buddhism for Busy People and Hurry Up and Meditate, books on stress management, mindfulness and depression, parenting and several children’s books.
We also stock meditation cushions and stools, mala beads, shawls and jewellery from Nepal, a range of gifts and products, as well as home made produce such as the ever popular muesli, panforte, cordials and jams and chutneys, many using products from our own orchard. We also offer Gift Vouchers which can be redeemed against a course, or anything from our shop.
For the most up to date information, please read our most recent newsletter here.