On this trip you can learn to surf (or perfect your craft) on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast. While there, learn about local community life and explore the beautiful environment. Stay on a farm, experience Aboriginal culture and work alongside marine biologists. Contribute to ongoing service projects that will engage you with many aspects of local life. Lend a hand to conservation efforts while you’re enjoying the nature and culture that Australia’s east coast has to offer.
Today you will meet your Rustic Pathways program leaders at Brisbane Airport. You will then travel to your accommodation in the Glass House Mountains and settle in. Then it’s time for an orientation discussion about the week ahead and the expectations for your adventure.
Overnight: Glass House Mountains
This is a learn to surf trip, so today you’ll get right into it! This morning you will participate in your first surf lesson with a surf school in Coolum. Learn the basics today and watch your skills develop. You will also learn about ocean safety and surf rescue. This afternoon visit the impressive dome-shaped Mount Coolum for a short hike with spectacular coastal views. Later today we will head to a watersports complex. There, you will have the opportunity to learn to wakeboard in a safe and controlled environment.
Overnight: Sunshine Coast
These days you will participate in your second and third surf lessons. Hopefully you will see your skills really start to grow. In the afternoons you will participate in a service project with one of our community service partners. You will be placed on a project based on the time of year and the needs of our partners. You cmay help out on an environmental project or engage with residents at an aged care facility. One evening, you will hike up Mt Ngungun which is the sixth tallest summit in the Glass House Mountains. Hear the history of the land as your program leaders share the Indigenous stories of the Glass House Mountains.
Overnight: Sunshine Coast
We’re off to the famous Eumundi Markets this morning! This is one of Australia’s biggest outdoor markets, full of unique Aussie handcrafts and delicious foods. Enjoy sampling the local delicacies and shopping for souvenirs.
This afternoon, participate in your fourth and final surf lesson. You will be catching waves like a pro! Then head back out onto the water for a jet boat ride. Get your adrenaline pumping as we zip across the waves on this high speed adventure. Marvel at the beautiful coastline surrounding us.
Overnight: Sunshine Coast
Spend this morning exploring Noosa. Have some shopping time and swim at the main beach. Then hike in the national park to Tea Tree Bay. This afternoon we head to our farm retreat where we’ll camp out in swags amongst the kangaroos and kookaburras. Enjoy meals around the campfire, learn new skills, work with horses and help farmers with daily tasks.
Overnight: Farm Stay
Wake up this morning to the sounds of the Aussie bush. After a hearty breakfast, get ready for a day on the farm! Learn about natural horsemanship from expert trainers. Witness 30 horses running into the yard at the call of a whistle! This afternoon, you’ll be split into teams for your bush challenge! Learn how to crack a stockwhip, throw a boomerang, play the didgeridoo, and cook damper over the fire.
This evening you’ll enjoy an outback cinema experience and another cosy night in a swag.
Overnight: Farm Stay
Every trip comes to an end and today will be full of farewells as you say goodbye to your Rustic leaders. Safe travels!