Australia: Epic Outback

Arrive into Darwin Airport (DRW) and meet your Program Leaders who will be with you for the duration of the program. Head to your hotel and settle in, relaxing after your long flight, and join the group for an orientation discussion about the week ahead, expectations for your adventure, and an introduction to the local culture. Stretch your legs exploring Darwin’s waterfront precinct and experience an amazing sunset over the ocean.

Get your first taste of the outback of Australia on a cruise to see saltwater crocodiles from the safety of a boat. Afterward, learn about Aboriginal culture from a local family, custodians of the land who will teach you how to weave a basket, throw a spear, and play the didgeridoo. Learn about traditional bush food and medicine.

Take a short one-hour morning flight to Kununurra in the East Kimberley region of Western Australia. Travel by 4×4 to Lake Argyle, one of the largest man-made lakes in the Southern Hemisphere. Cruise the lake and watch for rock wallabies and fresh-water crocodiles as the sunset glows all around you.

Spend two days working on Rustic’s service projects, which may include cooking meals for a women’s refuge, running activities for Aboriginal youth, or caring for wildlife. Spend time with Aboriginal elders and learn about the social issues faced in remote Australian towns. Camp at night, learning how to make hot, delicious meals and enjoy the solitude and stories around a campfire.

Join your group for a post-service debrief in the evening, discussing what you experienced and learned through hands-on work in the community.

Explore El Questro Wilderness Park, one of Australia’s premier Outback destinations. Hike through towering gorges, swim in natural pools under towering waterfalls, and soothe yourself in tranquil hot springs. Harness your inner Crocodile Dundee during two days of adventure!

Say farewell to your new friends in the Kimberley and catch a flight back to Darwin. Learn about Australian history through interactive museums and virtual reality then celebrate your time in Australia over dinner and a Rustic Ties ceremony by the beach.

At the end of each program, students reflect on their experiences and the issues they engaged with, and talk about how to apply this new understanding to their own worlds. During or after their closing discussion, groups participate in Rustic Ties, a unique and powerful activity that allows students to capture the memories and learning moments of their program to process and share with their communities back home.

Your Program Leaders will take you to the airport for your departure as you say goodbyes and reflect on your adventure.