Sarah Stockton Senior Student Coordinator

Date

May 8, 2026

University of Technology Sydney; Macquarie University; The University of Sydney; University of New South Wales; University of Wollongong

(SYDNEY | WOLLONGONG)

Ready for Fall 2026? So are we! Whether you're keen to explore the city or get amongst the natural beauty of Australia, we have a bunch of events lined up for you to experience the best of both worlds. These events are the perfect way to explore Australia, our culture, and connect with new friends.

 

WELCOME MEAL

We’re sliding on into the semester with a classic Aussie feed. The food is on us, we just want to hear how you’re settling in, your first impressions of Australia, and what upcoming adventures you have on your bucket list!

CITY CATCH UP

Take a break and bring your game face for social Pickleball! This is a great way to unwind from all that study and swap travel tips while you skillfully (or less so) dart about the Pickleball court. 

Whether you're a stickler for the rules or just happy the paddle has made contact with the ball, you're in for a good time.

Not into Pickleball? Grab a coffee with us on campus instead! Just as fun, minus the sweat!

 

WEEKEND EXCURSION: DISCOVER THE BLUE MOUNTAINS

Leave the city smog behind and breathe in that 1017m altitude!

Come with us on our weekend adventure to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed national park, the Blue Mountains. Located just two hours west of Sydney, the Blue Mountains is in the Ngurra Country of the Gundungurra and Dharug Traditional Owners. This must-see national park boasts vast escarpments, valleys, waterfalls, and waterholes, with quaint and quirky townships of endless cafes, bakeries, and op shops sprinkled along the way.

Here’s what’s in store:

  • An introduction to Australian coffee - Australia is known for its coffee, so get acquainted and learn from a local roaster how he goes from bean to brew. We’ll tour his coffee roastery and taste various single origin coffees in their most pure form.
  • Three Sisters - Visit the world famous rock formation forefronting the dramatic Jamison Valley and learn of the Dreamtime of how the formation came to be.
  • Local quirk culture - Experience Katoomba & Leura through op shops, street art, fusion eateries, live music, bakeries, chocolate shops, and the Art Deco charm of the heritage-listed The Carrington.
  • Scenic World - Ride the steepest passenger railway in the world that plunges you into the rainforest canopy before you go from treetop to clifftop on the cable skyway.
  • Nature hikes - Get your steps in as we walk into and under cliff faces overlooking waterfalls that cascade down into the valley.

VOLUNTEERING: TAKE 3 FOR THE SEA

Are you eager to combat plastic pollution which is wreaking havoc on our planet and threatening wildlife? 

Join Take 3 For The Sea, a movement dedicated to the belief that simple actions do address complex issues. All you need to do is pick up three pieces of litter wherever you are when you leave the beach, bush, or any other location. 

For this event, we'll stride along Coogee Beach picking up waste on our way to do our bit for the environment. 

Last but not least, for all our efforts, it’s only right that we treat ourselves to a cheeky ice cream!

 

DAY TRIP: ADVENTURE DAY IN JERVIS BAY (APPROX. $90 USD)

Need an adventure for the day? Head south with us to Jervis Bay as we walk to view the winding whimsy of Sea Cliff Bridge before doubling down on the famous donuts of the charming township Berry. We’ll coast along to Jervis Bay known for its stretching white sand and crystal-clear turquoise water. Finally, we explore a local vineyard and taste test the mastery of Australian produce.

Includes transport, food, and all activities.

 

FAREWELL DINNER

Wait, before you go, we want to celebrate what you’ve achieved this semester before you pop your head down for the exam period. It’s the perfect way to reflect on your time abroad, share travel stories, and discover who amongst you has become a Vegemite convert or a Tim Tam Slammer. Again, the food is on us, just bring the vibes.

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