Student Travel Programs in Australia
The magical Land Down Under occupies a special place in our history as the origin of the first Rustic Pathways program in 1983. As Rustic has grown across the world, Australia has remained at the heart of our operations, thanks to the tireless efforts of our energetic and expert Aussie staff. Whether on adventure or service trips, these blokes and sheilas bring with them years of expertise, knowledge, and a strong pride in their wild homeland.
Beaches, countryside, rainforests and farm life in the Outback on this service adventure.
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Animal conservation at Steve Irwin's Australia Zoo
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Gain practical experience in wildlife research at the Steve Irwin Wildlife Reserve.
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The ultimate journey through the landscapes of the land Down Under
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Swim with whales and dive the Great Barrier Reef on a once-in-a-lifetime aquatic adventure
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The quintessential Rustic adventure in the remote Australian Outback
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Inspiring service, great surfing, and unforgettable Aussie adventure
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The ultimate challenge for body, mind, and soul
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The ultimate journey through the landscapes of the land Down Under
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Novice and experienced travelers alike will find themselves in awe of Australia. While some come for our beaches, reefs, and wildlife, others seek the dramatic gorges and red dirt of the Outback. In a country that’s nearly the size of the United States, yet with only 23 million people, it’s not hard to escape the crowds and find true adventure. – Sam Murray, Australia Country Director
Quote by: Sam joined Rustic Pathways in 2008 after working in outdoor education for 10 years. He serves as director for both inbound and outbound operations in Australia. With education degrees from La Trobe and Monash universities, Sam’s passion for travel and love of the outdoors inspires him to provide life-shaping programs for students. Sam loves sharing adventures with people and is proud to show off his beautiful country. He lives near Melbourne with his wife and three young girls.
Meet the Rest of Team Australia
Tracey Murray
Australia Community Impact Manager
Tracey joined Rustic Pathways in 2008 after nearly a decade of teaching and surfing professionally. A natural educator who believes in developing the intellectual and physical capacities of all students, Tracey is passionate about inspiring students to live healthy, active lives with a strong sense of purpose. She manages our community service partnerships in Australia to maintain relationships and ensure our students are empowered to positively impact lives through responsible travel.
Alejandro Romero
Australia Country Manager
With a degree in business and tourism management, Alejo has been an integral part of the Rustic Pathways team since 2011. Originally from Colombia, he now lives in Australia where he manages our operations across Australia. With a unique Spanish twist to his new-found Aussie accent, Alejo brings an exciting blend of cultures to our leadership team.
Melanie Ward
Australia Outback Operations Manager
Melanie has been working with Rustic Pathways since 2014 and now manages our Outback Operations. She grew up in the East Kimberley of Western Australia, spending her childhood flying in helicopters, riding horses and wrestling crocodiles. Melanie’s strong leadership skills and adventurous personality make her a wonderful role model for students and an exceptional manager.
Katie Newman
Group Travel Manager
A Brit / American raised in Switzerland, Brunei and the United States, Katie holds a bachelor’s in Public Relations from the University of Florida. After four years of backpacking the world, working and traveling, she moved to Melbourne where she now resides. Her passions for adventure, people and wanting to teach others about travel have led her to Rustic Pathways. She has been a Program Leader in Fiji and is now Group Travel Manager for the Australian division.