Australia & South Pacific

Explore this region:

Australia: A Land of Contrasts and Untamed Beauty

Australia, the smallest continent in the world but one of the largest countries, stretches more than 4,000 km from west to east and over 3,500 km from north to south—not including the island state of Tasmania. Northern Australia is closer to Jakarta (Indonesia) and Port Moresby (Papua New Guinea) than to its own capital, Canberra.

For many arriving from Europe, the sheer scale and emptiness of Australia can be overwhelming. Vast, uninhabited land dominates the landscape—stunning and raw, painted in rich tones of red, yellow, green, blue, and brown. Dead trees dot the horizon, and the iconic red soil is everywhere.

For those who venture off-road into the desert, the thrill of driving for days or even weeks without seeing another soul is unmatched. With thousands of bush tracks and remote wheel ruts crisscrossing the country, Australia is arguably the ultimate off-road destination. It’s one of the few places in the world where you can travel from coast to coast—or top to bottom—without touching a major road.

However, this freedom comes with responsibility. Exploring the extremes requires a sturdy, reliable 4WD and dependable communication tools. CB radios work well for vehicle-to-vehicle contact, and UHF radios are useful in the bush where repeater stations exist. But for real peace of mind, a satellite phone or HF radio is highly recommended.

If you’re using a HF radio (which can be rented), consider joining VKS-737, a volunteer organisation providing emergency and radio communications support for those who live, work, or travel in remote areas of Australia. They’re also linked to the Royal Flying Doctor Service—a crucial lifeline in the outback. More info at https://vks737.radio

The South Pacific: Island Magic and Tropical Dreams

The Pacific Islands—divided into three major regions: Melanesia, Micronesia, and Polynesia—are a collection of stunning island nations scattered across the vast Pacific Ocean. This region includes New Zealand, Fiji, Vanuatu, Norfolk Island, the Cook Islands, Samoa, Kiribati, and Tahiti.

These islands are renowned for their pristine white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking coral reefs. Most enjoy a tropical climate, ideal for adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion. (New Zealand and Norfolk Island are the exceptions, offering a more temperate climate.)

The Indigenous peoples of the region are known collectively as Pacific Islanders, and their rich cultures, traditions, and warm hospitality are as much a draw as the islands themselves.