Kiah Ridge History
During the sixties and seventies the property that is now known as Kiah Ridge was the home of a local builder and his family. In those days what is now the main building was a modest fibro cottage.
Upon retirement the builder placed the property on the market and at that time it was purchased by a Sydney Doctor for development. The doctor had grand plans to develop a health & fitness centre and with this in mind began negotiations with Wollondilly Shire Council for approval of the development. The scope of the development was grand but as a result of difficulties in meeting some of the constraints of the local authority and some health issues, the development was not completed.
By the mid to late 1980's the property was offered for sale at auction. The main building was in the midst of remodelling and renovation, the adjacent accommodation block (The Pines) was completed, two new houses located near the new swimming pool (Acacia & Silky Oak) were completed, plus some stables and a partially built Golf Course. At this time Christian Youth Travel Association purchased the centre with the view to establishing a country retreat for young people. After completing the buildings the centre was opened and operated until 1989. The centre was sold to The Baptist Union of NSW & ACT, who are the current owners and operators.
During the time that The Baptist Churches have owned Kiah Ridge it has become a popular retreat centre for schools, churches, youth groups and social groups and is heavily booked year round. Additional buildings added during this time include a large auditorium, self-contained cottages and staff accommodation. After commencing in May 1991, long time managers, Ian and Jenny Clisdell retired in December 2009, after 18 ½ years of service to Kiah Ridge.