Join a group of passionate educators on an incredible professional development trip to the Cape York Peninsular.
Cape York is one of Infuse Travel’s most beloved destinations. Our first 4WD programs in this special part of Australia first started 36 years ago, and since then we have expanded our immersive experiences all across the world. This program takes educators to the remote beaches near Weipa to help protect turtle habitats and work alongside the local Napranum Indigenous Rangers.
Connect with fellow educators through learning activities linked to curriculum and experience first-hand the benefits and learning potential of our Cultural Immersion and Service Learning Programs. Explore the potential of planning and implementing these journeys into your school community with a direct understanding of how students will experience and learn in this environment. Get ready for an amazing journey! Check out our blog for stories from Cape York.
why you’ll love this trip
- Support important conservation initiatives that aim to preserve turtle habitats.
- Connect with and learn from other educators passionate about expanding their learning
- Immerse yourself in the life of a Cape York Indigenous Ranger and learn about their connection to Country.
- Share in a truly unique and impactful teacher-identified Professional Development opportunity.
- Explore the coastline to access remote regions of Cape York Peninsula.
- Develop a deeper understanding of Anathangayth, Alngith, Peppan, Thanakwithi and Wathyn culture.
Welcome to the start of your adventure! Arrive into Cairns and settle into your hotel accommodation. Here we’ll do a welcome and orientation over dinner.
Optional: Cairns Aquarium Tour
Overnight: CairnsFly from Cairns up to Weipa! Touch down in Weipa and journey to the Achibum Cultural Centre for an enlightening tour delving into the town's Indigenous history. Then, embark on an eco-boat excursion, navigating tranquil waterways teeming with birdlife and, perhaps, catching sight of a basking crocodile.
As the day ends, settle into Weipa Caravan Park and take in the mesmerising sunset over the Gulf of Carpentaria, knowing tomorrow brings an exciting rugged adventure.
Overnight: Weipa, Cape YorkAfter breakfast, we'll meet the Napranum Rangers at our campsite and load into 4WDs for a 70km journey north of Weipa. Along the way, we'll cross rivers and hope to spot sunbathing saltwater crocs.
Our destination: pristine beaches near the Pennefather River, a crucial nesting grounds for Olive Ridley and Flatback Sea Turtles. At the ranger station, we'll receive a traditional Welcome to Country, immersing ourselves in Indigenous culture and storytelling. After setting up camp, we'll explore the rugged coastline, perhaps trying our hand at fishing with the locals before a cosy evening around the campfire.
Overnight: Camping, Pennefather RiverWake to the tranquil stillness of remote Northern Queensland, ready for another day of turtle conservation efforts.
Guided by local Elders and rangers, we'll comb the coastline, collecting rubbish that threatens these vital turtle nesting grounds. Ghost Nets, remnants of trawler nets, pose a significant threat to turtle populations, hindering their ability to nest. Together, we'll work to make a lasting impact on beach cleanliness. As the day progresses, we’ll seek shelter from the sun and dive into more Indigenous culture through weaving, painting, and spear making workshops, learning from Elders with millennia of wisdom.
Spend time connecting with your fellow educators this afternoon as you gather for a interactive workshop. This workshop is called ‘Sustainable Development Goals & Global Impact: Application in the Travel and Outdoor Classroom.’
As night falls, equipped with head torches, we'll patrol the beaches in our 4WDs, monitoring for nesting turtles. With luck, we may witness the marvel of a turtle laying her eggs, marking the spot for continued monitoring by the rangers.
Overnight: Camping, Pennefather RiverIt's time to pack up and head back to Weipa. Enjoy a final breakfast with the Traditional Owners, reflecting on the incredible memories.
Load up the 4WD and convoy to Weipa Campground, stopping to explore along the way. Settle in at camp, indulge in a shower and swim, then treat yourself to a well-deserved dinner at a local restaurant in Weipa.
As our time in Far North Queensland comes to a close take part in our unique Infuse Closing Ceremony; an opportunity to share highlights and memories, as you reflect on your unforgettable time here in Cape York
Overnight: Weipa, Cape YorkIt’s time to head back to Cairns, and catch your connecting flights/transport home!
