World School Camp - Australia
15 Days | Melbourne · Cairns · Uluru · Sydney
From reef to rainforest, desert to city—this unforgettable journey across Australia is the ultimate World School Camp for families ready to experience it all.
Give your family the gift of learning, connection, and unforgettable Australian moments.
Most parents want to travel more with their kids, but planning a multi-destination trip across Australia can feel overwhelming — especially when you’re trying to balance education, budgeting, logistics, and making sure the kids actually enjoy the experience.
You shouldn’t have to do all the hard work alone.
That’s where we come in.
At Dream Big Travels, we help families explore the world together without the stress. Our World School Camps are designed to take care of every detail so you can focus on what matters most: creating memories, deepening family bonds, and giving your kids an education that no classroom can replicate.
This 15-day experience brings families together to explore Australia from coast to rainforest to the Red Centre — through a mix of iconic landmarks, hands-on learning, and kid-paced adventure.
Your family will visit five major regions across Australia, all carefully planned to maximise learning, connection, and rest:
Melbourne – culture, history, architecture, and the arts
Cairns & Great Barrier Reef – nature, marine biology, and eco-learning
Gold Coast – fun, family downtime, and beach culture
Uluru – Indigenous culture, geography, and awe-inspiring landscapes
Sydney – Australia’s most iconic harbour city
Each region has been chosen intentionally, giving your children rich, immersive “real world” learning opportunities — the kind that spark curiosity and stick with them long after the trip ends.
✨ Educational Value:
Learn about Aboriginal culture, Dreamtime stories, and traditional land care.
Experience biodiversity and conservation through reef, rainforest, and desert ecosystems.
Explore Australian history, from colonial roots to multicultural modern cities.
Develop a deep understanding of geography through hands-on adventure.
👨👩👧👦 Perfect For:
Homeschooling & worldschooling families
Families wanting a “big picture” view of Australia
Those who want a trip where everything is planned, but still flexible
Parents who want connection, not chaos
🧭 What’s Included:
TRANSPORTATION
Airport Arrival Transfer by Chartered Coach – Ayers Rock, Gold Coast, Cairns,
Melbourne
Airport Departure Transfer by Chartered Coach – Sydney, Ayers Rock, Gold
Coast, Cairns
ACCOMMODATION
Accommodation for 14 nights at the below hotels
PARKROYAL Darling Harbour
Ayers Rock Resort – Desert Sands
Mantra Sun City
Cairns Harbourside Hotel
Batman’s Hill on Collins
Meals
Breakfast Daily
Lunch x 1
Dinner n/a
ACTIVITIES
Sydney Panaromic City Tour
Uluru Sunrise & Kata Tjuta Tour
Moore Reef Full Day Tour
Melbourne City Tour
DOMESTIC FLIGHTS
Sydney to Ayers Rock
Ayers Rock to Gold Coast via Sydney
Gold Coast to Cairns
Cairns to Melbourne
🌟 AUD $50 deposit per person.
To secure your family’s place, and to support the group booking process with our suppliers we have negotiated a failsafe solution for families who are keen to go, but uncertain about flights to Australia.
Here's how it works:
Your deposit secures your spot immediately
It is fully refundable for two weeks (14 days) while we help your family sort out domestic or international flights
If we haven't been able to help you secure your flights, or you're finding that the total cost is just outside your budget, we will return your deposit or credit it towards a future date
If we're good to go, the deposit amount is deducted from your final balance.
We want to give families time and breathing room to finalise flights without the pressure of rushing decisions.
Keep Scrolling to see the
Full Itinerary
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This 15-day experience brings families together to explore Australia from coast to rainforest to the Red Centre — through a mix of iconic landmarks, hands-on learning, and kid-paced adventure.
Your family will visit five major regions across Australia, all carefully planned to maximise learning, connection, and rest:
Melbourne – culture, history, architecture, and the arts
Cairns & Great Barrier Reef – nature, marine biology, and eco-learning
Gold Coast – fun, family downtime, and beach culture
Uluru – Indigenous culture, geography, and awe-inspiring landscapes
Sydney – Australia’s most iconic harbour city
Each region has been chosen intentionally, giving your children rich, immersive “real world” learning opportunities — the kind that spark curiosity and stick with them long after the trip ends.
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Settle into Melbourne with a comfortable stay at Batman's Hill on Collins, perfectly positioned in the heart of the city. This central base makes it easy for families to explore together without juggling complicated transport — you’re right where the action is.
The hotel offers well-appointed rooms and apartments with modern amenities, giving you a cosy place to unwind after a day of adventure. Some rooms also offer great vantage points over the city, helping you feel part of Melbourne’s energy from the moment you arrive
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You’ll be staying just a short stroll from Marvel Stadium, Crown Casino, the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, Federation Square, and Southern Cross Station. Collins Street Precinct, South Wharf DFO, and a huge choice of cafes, restaurants, and bars are all within easy reach — ideal for grabbing an easy family meal or a quick coffee while the kids recharge.
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Today is about getting your bearings and hearing the stories behind Melbourne’s most-loved sites.
You’ll begin by travelling along the elegant “Paris End” of Collins Street, known for its boutique shops and historic buildings such as St. Michael’s and Scots’ Church. It’s a beautiful introduction to Melbourne’s European-feeling side and its rich architectural history.
Your first main stop is Hosier Lane, the city’s iconic street art laneway. This is a fun one for kids and teens — a living gallery of ever-changing murals, colour, and creativity that really captures Melbourne’s artistic spirit.
From there, you’ll pass by some of the city’s most recognisable landmarks: the magnificent Flinders Street Station, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and Federation Square — each showcasing a blend of old and new Melbourne.
The tour continues through the Arts Precinct, where you’ll glimpse some of Melbourne’s key cultural institutions, before arriving at the Shrine of Remembrance. This moving memorial honours Australia’s service men and women and offers a beautiful lookout over the city skyline.
Next, you’ll travel through Melbourne’s famous Sports Precinct, home to Melbourne Park and Rod Laver Arena. A brief stop at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) forecourt gives you time to soak in the atmosphere of this legendary stadium — host to Olympic events, AFL matches, and world-class cricket.
You’ll then drive past the Old Treasury Building and Parliament House, before getting a feel for the energy and flavours of Chinatown.
A visit to the awe-inspiring St Patrick’s Cathedral allows you to take in its striking Gothic architecture, towering spires, and intricate stained glass. In nearby Fitzroy Gardens, you’ll see Cooks’ Cottage and the Conservatory — a peaceful green space where kids can stretch their legs. You’ll also catch a glimpse of Little Lon Distilling Co., a small but significant reminder of Melbourne’s more notorious 1850s past.
To finish, you’ll explore the Old Melbourne Precinct — a blend of historic sites and everyday city life. A stop at Old Melbourne Gaol (the site of 133 hangings, including bushranger Ned Kelly) adds a layer of real Australian history to the day. You’ll then pass “Little Italy” in Lygon Street, the Royal Exhibition Building, and Queen Victoria Market, getting a taste of the multicultural, food-loving culture that makes Melbourne so unique.
The tour concludes with a return to your meeting point, leaving you with a deeper appreciation for Melbourne’s history, art, and modern-day vibrancy.
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Today is a flexible day for your family. Rest, explore Melbourne at your own pace, or join an optional tour (additional cost) to dive a little deeper into something that interests you.
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Welcome to tropical North Queensland — gateway to the Great Barrier Reef.
Cairns Harbourside Hotel sits along The Esplanade, overlooking sparkling Trinity Bay. With relaxed holiday vibes year-round, it’s a great base for families wanting comfort at the end of big, adventure-filled days.
The hotel features 173 spacious rooms, each with a private balcony offering water, lush tropical garden, or mountain views — perfect for a quiet moment while the kids wind down. You can unwind with room service, relax by the outdoor pool, or wander the colourful grounds and picnic-ready lawns.
Cairns Harbourside also puts you within easy reach of the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest, giving your family simple access to some of Australia’s most iconic natural wonders.
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Today is a full day on the Great Barrier Reef — a bucket-list experience for many families.
Departing from Cairns, you’ll travel approximately 54 kilometres on an air-conditioned catamaran to the Moore Reef Pontoon on the Outer Great Barrier Reef. This floating platform is set up so guests of all ages and abilities can experience the reef safely and comfortably.
With 4 hours on the reef, there’s plenty of time to enjoy the included activities and go at your own pace. The reef here is home to colourful coral, fish, turtles, and a rich variety of marine life.
Inclusions:
Travel on air-conditioned catamaran
Complimentary tea & coffee on boarding and while moored at the reef
4 hours reef time
Buffet lunch
Full bar facilities (at own cost)
Freshwater showers and change rooms
Free Wi-Fi on board the vessel
Upper level sun deck
Full access to the Sunlover waterslide (the only waterslide on the Great Barrier Reef)
Snorkelling rest stations
Ocean enclosed pool for children
Glass bottom boat tours
Semi-submersible tours
Marine naturalist presentations
All snorkelling equipment & expert instruction, including Lycra suits & buoyancy vests
Marine life touch tank
Underwater observatory
Fish feeding presentations
Environmental Management Charge (EMC)
This day is designed so families can choose their own level of adventure — from confident swimmers to little ones who prefer to watch the fish from a glass-bottom boat.
Please note:
Fuel Surcharge – With fluctuations in world oil prices, it may be necessary to apply a fuel surcharge to the cruise price. If required, any fuel surcharge will be collected on departure. -
Option 1: (Highly Recommended): Daintree & Cape Tribulation Day Adventure
From our family to yours: even though this is an optional tour, if you can, we highly recommend it. It’s a longer day—but seeing the Daintree Rainforest, one of the oldest tropical rainforests on Earth, while you’re in Australia is a must.Your Itinerary
Mossman Gorge – Begin at the Gateway Centre with morning tea, then shuttle into the Gorge for a driver-guided rainforest walk. Learn how this ancient ecosystem works—and why it matters.
Daintree River Cruise (1 hr) – Glide through mangroves spotting birds, tree snakes, unique plants, and (with luck) estuarine crocodiles while learning about river and reef connections.
Private Rainforest Lunch – Short creekside stroll, then a tropical lunch: choose steak, fish, or vegetarian, with fresh salads and fruit platter; coffee or Daintree Tea to finish.
Cape Tribulation – Walk the world-renowned rainforest beach and take in the coast and fringing reef from Kulki Lookout.
Daintree Ice Cream Company – Enjoy a cup of exotic fruit ice cream made from the on-site orchard (gluten/dairy-free options available).
Alexandra Lookout – Panoramic views over the Daintree River estuary, Snapper Island, and the Coral Sea.
Return transfers to Cairns.
Why home-ed families love it
Ancient rainforest, living science: ecosystems, biodiversity, Indigenous perspectives
Gentle walks, guided talks, and plenty of “wow” moments for all ages
Inclusions
Morning tea, guided Gorge walk, Daintree River cruise, tropical lunch, ice cream stop, all transfers, expert driver/guide, park fees.
Good to know
It’s a full-day experience with some coach time. Wear enclosed shoes; bring a hat, water bottle, insect repellent, and sun protection. Ocean swimming at Cape Tribulation is not recommended due to marine stingers (seasonal) and crocodile safety—enjoy the beach via boardwalks and lookouts instead.
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Optional Day Trip (Option 2): Kuranda Scenic Rail, Rainforestation & Skyrail
A brilliant mix of engineering, ecology, and First Nations culture—perfect for home-educating families.Please call to reconfirm your tour times.
Times shown are your Kuranda Scenic Rail departure and Skyrail boarding slot only (hotel transfer times may be earlier).Your Day
Kuranda Scenic Rail
Board the famous heritage railway and wind through hand-cut tunnels and bridges above Barron Gorge—one of the world’s most scenic rail routes.Kuranda Village
Explore artisan shops and the Kuranda Markets at your own pace.Rainforestation Nature Park
Army Duck tour: amphibious vehicle through 40 ha of tropical gardens and rainforest—spot native plants, fruits, and wildlife.
Pamagirri experiences: Dreamtime Walk and cultural dance performance in the rainforest amphitheatre.
BBQ lunch included.
Koala & Wildlife Park: see crocs, hand-feed kangaroos and wallabies; koala cuddle available at own cost (subject to availability).
Skyrail Rainforest Cableway
Glide over World Heritage rainforest with stops at Red Peak (guided boardwalks) and Barron Falls (spectacular lookouts & Interpretation Centre).
Why home-ed families love it
Living curriculum: railway history & design, rainforest ecosystems, and Aboriginal culture in one seamless day.
Multi-modal learning: train, amphibious vehicle, on-country talks, and canopy cableway.
Good to know
Bring enclosed walking shoes, water, hat, sunscreen, light rain jacket. Activities and timings can be impacted by weather.
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It’s time for some classic Gold Coast fun.
At Mantra Sun City Surfers Paradise, you’ll stay in a hotel suite, apartment, or penthouse with views of the Pacific Ocean or the hinterland. Families can enjoy the resort-style facilities — from the lagoon-style pool and its two waterslides (always a hit with kids) to the indoor pool and spa for a more relaxed swim.
Coastal Kitchen serves breakfast, and the Pool Bar offers drinks and snacks throughout the day, making it easy to keep everyone fuelled without overthinking meals.
The hotel is only 100m from the beach, so you can stroll down Ocean Avenue to the sand and surf. Shopping promenades, beach walks, local dining, and nightlife are all close by, giving your family plenty of options, whether you want big days out or simple beach time together.
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Make these two days your own. Explore the Gold Coast at your family’s pace, or join one of our optional group experiences. See the full tour descriptions under Day 7 of the itinerary.
Optional Group Tours (pre-book recommended)
Lamington National Park: O’Reilly’s & Vineyard — canopy treetop walk, birdlife, Scenic Rim views.
Dolphins & Tangalooma Wrecks Cruise — eco-cruise, guided snorkel at the wrecks, beach time, buffet lunch.
Evening Rainforest & Glow-Worm Experience — night walk to Curtis Falls, glow-worms, stargazing.
Prefer to explore as a family?
Brad can tailor suggestions to your family’s interests. Here are easy, education-rich options:HOTA Gallery (Home of the Arts), Bundall — contemporary art + Children’s Gallery; Sunday markets.
Jellurgal Aboriginal Cultural Centre, Burleigh — small museum + guided cultural walk (Yugambeh Country).
Surf World Gold Coast, Currumbin — Australia’s largest surfboard collection; ocean culture & design.
Tweed Regional Gallery & Margaret Olley Art Centre (Murwillumbah, day trip) — world-class regional gallery; great kids’ activity sheets.
Beenleigh Historical Village & Museum — pioneer buildings, blacksmith demos; living history.
Minjungbal Aboriginal Cultural Centre (Tweed Heads South) — museum + bushland boardwalk; culture, ecology, archaeology.
Please note: These suggestions fall within your scheduled free-time. Any entry fees and transport are at your own cost. Brad is happy to help with planning, directions, and bookings as needed.
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Welcome to Australia’s Red Centre — a powerful place of culture, stories, and wide-open desert skies.
Desert Gardens Hotel is a comfortable 4½-star property within Voyages Ayers Rock Resort. Surrounded by ghost gums and native shrubs, it offers a calm, nature-filled base with a variety of room types, from shaded poolside options to deluxe rooms with views of Uluru (Ayers Rock).
The wider resort area is easy to explore, with numerous lookouts, the Red Ochre Spa, shops, cafés, and a tour and information centre all accessible on foot or via the free shuttle bus.
Once the sun sets, you can sample Australian native-inspired dishes at White Gums Restaurant or choose from one of the 13 different dining experiences available across the resort — great for families wanting variety over multiple nights.
Complimentary Airport/Resort Shuttle:
Complimentary return airport transfers meet all scheduled commercial flights. Coach transfers depart your hotel approximately 2 hours before scheduled flight times, in line with airline and airport regulations.
Check flight and coach transfer pickup schedules in your hotel lobby or ask at reception.
A free shuttle bus also circulates the resort daily, departing about every 20 minutes from 10.30am–12.30am. It stops at all hotels, the campgrounds, Resort Town Square, Visitors Centre, and the Uluru Camel Farm. Please note that the shuttle does not travel into Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park.
Please note:
From Tuesday 1 November 2022, Ayers Rock Resort no longer accepts cash as payment at hotels and retail outlets (excluding the IGA supermarket and Shell service station).Uluru–Kata Tjuta National Park Pass (not included in your accommodation):
The park pass helps maintain visitor facilities and supports the protection of World Heritage–listed cultural and environmental sites. Part of the fee goes back to Anangu Traditional Owners to support the local community. -
This is an early start, but it’s one of those “worth setting the alarm” moments for the whole family.
You’ll begin your morning at Talinguru Nyakunytjaku, the dedicated Uluru sunrise viewing area. Watching the colours shift across Uluru and the surrounding desert is a powerful experience for adults and children alike.
After sunrise, you’ll travel approximately 45 kilometres to Kata Tjuta (the Olgas). Along the way, your Driver Guide will share stories and background on Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, helping you understand more of the land you’re travelling through.
You’ll then walk into Walpa Gorge, where sheer rock walls and rare plant species create a cool, sheltered environment in the middle of the desert. This is a chance to slow down, look closely, and experience the raw beauty of this ancient landscape.
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Arrive in Sydney, one of the world’s most iconic harbour cities.
PARKROYAL Darling Harbour offers modern 4½-star accommodation with a bright, refreshing lobby that feels like a calm retreat from the city outside. Guestrooms are equipped with up-to-date technology and comfortable furnishings, designed to give you a restful base after days spent exploring.
The hotel is on the city side of Darling Harbour, a short walk to the waterfront, Town Hall, and major shopping and business districts. This makes it easy for families to explore on foot — whether that’s an evening stroll along the harbour, a visit to nearby attractions, or a simple dinner out together.
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Depart your hotel for a half-day panoramic tour of Sydney’s most iconic spots — a great way to see the city’s highlights without having to navigate it alone.
You’ll start in The Rocks, Sydney’s historic area, where you’ll hear stories from early convict times and see some of the oldest buildings in the city. From there, you’ll travel through the Central Business District (CBD) and along Macquarie Street, passing 18th-century sandstone landmarks such as NSW Parliament House, the Rum Hospital, Hyde Park Barracks, and St Mary’s Cathedral.
At Mrs Macquaries Point, you’ll enjoy classic postcard views of the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge — a perfect photo stop for the whole family.
The tour continues through Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs, home to some of the city’s most impressive harbourfront homes. You’ll travel along the shores of Sydney Harbour with plenty of chances for photos, including a panoramic view of the skyline. Areas such as Kings Cross, Double Bay, and Rose Bay will give you a glimpse of everyday life in these neighbourhoods.
You’ll then arrive at Watsons Bay, where you’ll have the option of a short coastal walk with South Pacific Ocean views and a look back toward the entrance to Sydney Harbour.
From there, you’ll head to famous Bondi Beach for a short stop of around 30 minutes. You can stroll the beachfront promenade, dip your toes in the sand, or grab a coffee or cool drink (at own cost) while watching surfers and lifesavers in action.
The return journey takes you past Tamarama and Bronte beaches, then back toward the city via Centennial Park and Paddington — known for its elegant terrace houses and boutique shops along Oxford Street.
The final stop is Darling Harbour. If you have a lunch cruise booked, you may board there or at Circular Quay, depending on the cruise provider.
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Your final full day in Australia is intentionally flexible. You can:
Revisit a favourite spot
Take a harbour cruise (optional, additional cost)
Visit museums or family attractions
Simply slow down and enjoy being together in one of the world’s most beautiful harbour cities
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All good adventures have a last day—but this doesn’t have to be goodbye. Chances are you’ve made friends for life. Swap numbers and emails so the kids (and you!) can keep in touch with new mates from around the world.
Not quite ready to head home?
Extend your stay in Australia for independent family travel. From reef to rainforest, red centre to city breaks—we can help you plan the next chapter.
From our family to yours: it’s been a joy travelling with you. If you’d like help with add-ons, flights, or extra nights, just say the word and we’ll sort the details.
This World School Camp is brought to you in partnership between Dream Big Travels & ANZCRO.
Click here to read ANZCRO’s General Terms & Conditions
