Imagine traveling to Australia’s Gold Coast and Sydney Opera House while learning about international sport.
That’s exactly what students in the Australia Travel Study program do each year.
Experiencing the world of international sport
Hosted by TWU’s School of Human Kinetics, the Australia Travel Study takes students across the world to learn about the organizations and support structures behind international sport. They tour the Commonwealth Games facilities in Melbourne, visit the Australian Institute of Sport, and hear guest lectures by Australian sport experts—including athletes, a sport psychologist, and professors.
Additionally, students watch live sporting events—including two Australian Football League matches and a professional netball match—allowing them to compare and contrast Australian sport and culture with that of Canada and the U.S.
"My experience going to Australia was better than I could have imagined..."
Learning through travel and community
There were many more exciting adventures. Students played tennis at the Rod Laver Tennis Centre, on one of the courts used at the Australian Open tennis tournament. They biked along the Sydney Harbour and tasted unique foods that are culturally significant in Australia. Moreover, new to this year's travel study intinerary was a tour of the Blue Mountains, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
“My experience going to Australia was better than I could have imagined,” says Kelsie Kampman, who participated in this year’s trip. “I loved how many planned activities there were as we got to see so much of Australia in the short time we were there.”
Insightful and engaging
Kampman also noted that the friendships formed among the group made the trip even more enjoyable. Her top highlights include seeing the local wildlife and attending live sporting events:
“My favourite activity was going to the animal sanctuary and then seeing the penguins at night. I also really enjoyed all the sports games we attended as we got to experience a little part of their culture while being immersed in it. Overall, this trip was very insightful and a great experience.”
“I highly recommend this trip to anyone looking for an unforgettable adventure filled with education, culture, nature, and fun.”
Memorable and educational
Joining Kampman on the trip was student Chené Tregoning, who provides this recap from her experience:
“The TWU Australia trip is an incredible experience for anyone seeking a memorable, educational, and safe adventure. Our trip included exploring iconic sites like the Sydney Opera House and feeding kangaroos at the Sydney Zoo."
In addition to scenic locations, the students visited key political and cultural centres as well. As Tregoning adds, "We then visited Canberra to tour Parliament House, gaining insight into Australia’s political history. In Melbourne, we experienced the thrill of attending an Australian rules football game at the legendary Melbourne Cricket Ground stadium.”
Wildlife, sport, and culture
Most memorably, Tregoning recalls journeying to Phillip Island, where students witnessed the penguin parade—which she describes as “a truly breathtaking experience.”
The trip concluded in the Gold Coast, where students relaxed by the sea, tried surfing, and enjoyed Australia’s famous beaches.
As part of the Australia Travel Study, students complete university courses in sport psychology, in sport leadership and planning, and explore the sociological, cultural, and philosophical dynamics of sport. The program is led by TWU School of Human Kinetics Dean and Professor Dr. Blair Whitmarsh and Director of Operations Lana Higginbotham, along with Australian sport psychologist Dr. Daryl Marchant.
“I highly recommend this trip to anyone looking for an unforgettable adventure filled with education, culture, nature, and fun,” Tregoning says.
About TWU Travel Studies
Travel studies allow students to be immersed in a different culture. TWU professors lead the courses, joined by guest speakers who provide a local perspective. For many students, participating in a travel study is one of the most memorable adventures of their entire major, if not a life-changing one. Learn more about TWU travel studies.
About Trinity Western University
Founded in 1962, Trinity Western University is a global Christian liberal arts university dedicated to equipping students for life. Uniting faith and reason through Christian teaching and scholarship, TWU is a research institution offering undergraduate and graduate degrees in the humanities and sciences as well as in several professional schools. It has campuses in Canada in Langley, Richmond, and Ottawa. Learn more at www.twu.ca or follow us on Instagram @trinitywestern, Twitter @TrinityWestern, on Facebook and LinkedIn. For media inquiries, please contact: media@twu.ca.