Australia – Beachside Wildlife Adventure

Australia is renowned for its kaleidoscope of indigenous creatures. Unfortunately, despite strict environmental regulations, the continued destruction of habitats, combined with climate change and the effect of invasive species, has wreaked havoc on Australia’s extraordinary wildlife population.

We’ll be learning from local rangers and conservation experts about the threats facing Australia’s magnificent indigenous wildlife, and the measures being taken to protect it. To achieve our purpose, spend time volunteering in the region’s leading wildlife conservation park, taking part in hands-on projects with iconic animals such as the koala and the kangaroo including gathering food and feeding the animals, as well as helping plant foliage as part of a legacy project.

(Volunteer Time = 12 hours, or 4 half-days)

Despite strict environmental regulations, the continued destruction of habitats coupled with climate change and invasive species have wreaked havoc on Australia’s unrivaled indigenous wildlife population. As a result, conservation parks have been established throughout the country to implement research, breeding and education programs which ultimately aim to preserve these fragile populations, most of which can only be found in Australia.

Over the course of the trip, you’ll lend a hand at a local wildlife conservation park on the Gold Coast. Help the rangers care for the park’s wallabies, koalas and kangaroos as well as improve the infrastructure, plant trees and get a behind the scenes perspective on these curious creatures.  

Arrive to the sea and sand of Australia’s Gold Coast and unwind in your accommodation just steps from the beach. Spend the first days getting acquainted with area, enjoy a traditional Aboriginal ceremony, and cruise along the Gold Coast waterways. You will also get the rare opportunity to spend time learning about wildlife and getting hands-on with the rangers.

End the trip with two nights in seaside bungalows on North Stradbroke Island, the second largest sand island in the world. Learn to throw the boomerang and try the didgeridoo, spot kangaroos and koalas in the wild, take a kayak out into the calm sea and scout for dolphins along the island’s white sand beaches.

Continue on our post-trip extension to Sydney for 3 days of exploration along sandy beaches and Sydney’s iconic harbor.

During your time on the Gold Coast, you’ll be based at spacious beachside apartments surrounded by nature. All apartments have air-conditioning and are completely self-contained with fully equipped kitchens, laundry, balconies and double or single occupancy rooms. There is an outdoor in-ground pool and plenty of sunshine to relax under.

We’ll also spend two nights in charming seaside bungalows (with resident koalas) during our expedition to North Stradbroke Island. Take in stunning views of the bay and possibly spot dolphins just off the bungalow’s pier!