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Our History | 2009 Itinerary |  2007 & 2008 Expeditions | Our Supporters | Contact & Links

Introducing a new dimension to Australian desert knowledge

The 2007 launch of Australian Desert Expeditions represented a return to the golden days of desert exploration in Australia. Using a string of 18 packcamels, we were able to explore the continents great deserts in a way that the inland deserves to be experienced; on foot. Walking across our land is truly the best way to observe and appreciate the subtle changes in landscape, flora & fauna and travelling by camel is the least damaging way to explore these fragile environments.

In addition to the scientific benefits, our journeys also encompass an experience that reconnects the trekker to the land and leads to a greater appreciation and understanding of inland Australia. Trekking with the amiable and charismatic camels offers an intimacy with the soul of the country that is completely absent when travelling by vehicle and Expedition members discover that the pace of gentle nomadic life re-awakens their senses as they become more attuned to the life, beauty, diversity and moods of the surrounding desert.

All of our expeditions are organised exclusively for scientific and/or historical field research, exploring the desert in an environmentally responsible manner. The following disciplines and studies are incorporated into all our journeys;

  • Environmental studies & observations, including research in; archaeology, ecology, ornithology, anthropology, palaeoanthropology, palaeontology.
  • Preservation & awareness of; fragile desert environments, the 'Afghan' cameleer tradition, European explorer heritage,

In addition to;

  • Mapping & topographical data collection
  • Education of participants involving a disciplined team of working camels
  • Access to remote areas that would otherwise be inaccessible

All our desert journeys are walking treks - they are not "camel riding safaris." The most effective way to learn about the beautiful Australian deserts is to walk and live in them - and our journeys represent the most effective way to do this. Our camel string is totally self-sufficient – there are neither back-up vehicles nor wagons – which not only enables us to travel almost anywhere in the true style of the explorers of the 19th and early 20th centuries, but also provides an authentic, back-to-basics and comprehensive Australian 'bush experience'.

Your active participation is essential and you will be asked to contribute to the operation of your trek or expedition, assisting our cameleers with the daily tasks. The comprehensive pre-departure information will help to ensure that you are well prepared for the enriching experience of working with the camels. Duties would include shepherding them in the mornings & evenings whilst they feed and, under the supervision of the cameleers, helping to saddle the camels and load the equipment.

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2009 Itinerary Summary

Eyre Creek Ornithological Trek
- "in the 'footsteps' of Charles Sturt"
Charles Sturt

 Looking at you!

 

Simpson Desert
Palaeontology Expedition

genyornis and diprotodon

 Dr Mike Sexton examines a bone segment


Kalamurina Ecological
Survey Treks
- from White Dunes to the Warburton
AWC-logo_rect.gif (2098 bytes)


Kalamurina Reserve


Floods in the desert!

Eastern Simpson Desert floods

North Central Queensland has had very heavy rain in late December and January, and this water is currently moving south through the Channel Country and will eventually reach Lake Eyre. Much of the country that we trekked across in 2008 is now under water and these floods will make an enormous difference to our 2009 trekking season. All the waterholes on Eyre Creek will now be full and the accompanying extensive birdlife and rejuvenation to the country will be astounding. The Kalamurina Ecological Treks will visit the full waterholes of the Warburton River and the Palaeontology Expedition will face the challenge of crossing the flooded Kallakoopah Creek.

AIM camels carrying boat

Desert landcape by Jo Bertini

If you would like to know about the Outback Camel Company treks & expeditions in the Simpson Desert,
please visit www.camelexpeditions.com

Our History | 2009 Itinerary |  2007 & 2008 Expeditions | Our Supporters | Contact & Links

Site last updated on June 22nd 2009

Top banner photograph © Andrew Harper 2007
Australian Inland Mission Collection. Camels carrying a boat nla.pic-an24382397. Used by permission.