Australia Summer Program: Conservation Volunteering, Cultural Insights, & Adventure Travel

  Australia

• Sydney: 
Sydney
• Gold Coast: 
Gold Coast
• Brisbane: 
Brisbane
• Great Barrier Reef: 
Great Barrier Reef
• New South Wales: 
Byron Bay,  Crescent Head,  Katoomba,  Blue Mountains
• Queensland: 
Rockhampton,  Cairns,  Hervey Bay,  Queensland,  Fraser Island
• Sunshine Coast: 
Sunshine Coast

Term: Summer 
Duration of Program: 2-4 weeks
Typical Duration of Program: 2-4 weeks
Dates: July every year

Description: This summer program gives you the chance to experience Australia's incredible environment and unique culture. During this one-month program, we spend a week doing rewarding volunteer conservation work on an island in Keppel Bay Islands National Park, based from an environmental education centre. A further three weeks of insight, exploration and adventure take us canyoning in the Blue Mountains, learning to surf over 3 days in coastal national parks, kayaking with dolphins in Byron Bay, backpacking on beautiful Fraser Island and exploring the Whitsunday Islands by boat. There's also time to explore vibrant Sydney, Brisbane and Cairns. Throughout your time in Australia you'll learn an enormous amount about Australia's environmental and ecological history and how that unique history has shaped Australia's flora, fauna and people.

This travel-study abroad summer or gap year program is suitable for students, graduates and non-students, ideally 18 25 years.

Australia's warm climate, friendly people, unusual wildlife and dramatic natural beauty make it a fantastic destination. With a landmass comparable to the United States, but a population of only 20 million people, Australia is sparsely populated, yet home to some of the world's most vibrant cities. Australia's natural diversity is staggering - the world's largest coral reef, lush rainforests, and the most beautiful beaches. Wildlife is abundant, colorful and visible - kangaroos, koalas, flocks of raucous parrots, sea turtles and colourful reef fish.

Highlights: Australia Summer Program Highlights

* Rewarding week-long volunteer conservation project in Keppel Bay Islands National Park.
* Exploring Sydney - harbor, beaches, museums.
* Thrilling Tiger Snake Canyon in the Blue Mountains - rappelling, scrambling and hiking.
* 3-day learn to surf safari at secluded coastal national parks.
* Soaking up the ambience of Byron Bay.
* Ocean kayaking to see wild dolphins.
* Visit amazing Australia Zoo and learn about wildlife and the conservation initiatives of founder, Steve Irwin, the Crocodile Hunter.
* 3-day backpacking trip on Fraser Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
* A day island hopping among the spectacular Whitsunday Islands.
* Snorkeling on the Great Barrier Reef.
* Rainforest walks and beach-time at stunning palm-fringed Mission Beach.
* Informal lectures and discussions on history, culture, society and environment.
* Very personalized small group experience maximum of 11 participants (compare with other programs of up to 40 students).
* Fantastic program leader/s supported by local guides.

Degree Level: Bachelors Degree (Undergraduate)

Qualifications: No experience needed - just an interest in conservation, enthusiasm and a passion for new experiences

Cost in US$: 3,950

Credit Available: yes

Experience Required: no

Typical Volunteer: Interested in conservation and other cultures, enthusiastic and open to new experiences

Age Range: 18 - 25 yrs ideal

This Program is open to Worldwide Participants. This Program is also open to Couples and Individuals

Participants Travel to Australia Independently or in Groups

Typically Participants Work in Groups of 11

Application Process Involves:

• Online Application plus Application Assessment

Post-Program Services Include:

• Alumni Network
• Exit Debriefing Abroad

Pacific Discovery's Mission Statement: Through meaningful and challenging experiential travel, we aim to provide and assist participants in gaining the skills, confidence and insight to realize their potential in an increasingly global society; develop empathy for other cultures; further understanding of international issues; and heighten appreciation for the earth's wilderness and diversity.

Year Founded: 2001