Caroline Marion, 2013 South Queensland student blogger, writes:

June 24

Carnarvon Gorge creek

The last destination that we embarked to during our time in the land down under was Carnarvon Gorge.  Carnarvon is known as the bush, which leads into the Outback. I have seen countless episodes of Animal Planet’s “I Shouldn’t Be Alive,” which usually feature the struggles individuals encounter while in this harsh environment, so I felt confident that I knew what I was getting myself into. Well, it seemed as though the Hollywood green screen had fooled me yet again, because the area was actually quite different than how it had been portrayed. It was a grand place. It’s the kind of location that you just have to take a step back and really take it all in. It’s full of huge mountainous structures, expansive canyons and creeks. The bush certainly was not what I expected. I was delightfully surprised.

Caroline hiking in Carnarvon

I must say that in regard to physical stamina, this portion of the study abroad experience required the most from us. On the first day, we hiked approximately four miles. The hike took us through the most exotic forest that I had been through, well ever. We saw wild kangaroos and enjoyed walking with one another and learning even more about our peers’ and leaders’ personal stories. Let’s face it, when you’re walking miles on end with each other, the conversation (along with the scenery) is the only thing keeping you going, so you really get into it!

NC State students at Carnarvon

The following day we hiked over nine miles. Nine miles, yes, you heard me correctly. And not only nine miles, but also up hundreds of steps. The hike challenged us, and we all joked that we had quite the quad workout!

Aside from the physical challenges, Carnarvon also provided the opportunity to learn more about the Aboriginal people. Upon the arrival of Western civilization, Aboriginal people in Australia were severely mistreated, similar to Native Americans in the States. Hearing their stories broke my heart, but at the same time, inspired me knowing all that they have overcome and achieved. We heard first-hand the story of a local Aboriginal man and saw a ceremonial site containing over two thousand ochre stencils, engravings and freehand paintings along a sandstone wall.

Stencils and engravings at the Art Gallery in Carnarvon

Carnarvon Gorge was undoubtedly one of my favorite places I visited during my time in Australia. Its history was vast, and I feel that really captures a lot of the essence of what is Australia.