Emu Trekkers on track to help disadvantaged kids

By Jody Hammond, Media Officer.

Australian couple, Tristan Harley and Rutty Talati have launched Emu Trekkers, what they believe is Australia’s first 100 percent, not-for-profit tour operator run by volunteer guides in Australia.
 
Inspiration for the venture came from an experience they had during their honeymoon, trekking volcanoes in Nicaragua in 2016, with a group that raised money for local children. They returned to Australia with a desire to create a similar program here. So Emu Trekkers was born, a social enterprise offering guided walks with the goal to support children in need. 
 
Emu Trekkers’ mission is “Hike Australia. Help Kids”. The registered charity will donate funds from the walks to the Indigenous Literacy Foundation. In addition, Emu Trekkers will take disadvantaged children on walking tours.

Commenting on the concept, Tristan Harley, CEO and co-founder explained: “I think there is a growing community of travellers who are looking at how they can be more than just a tourist.
 
“They are looking for experiences where they can connect with locals and make a meaningful, positive impact in the community they are visiting. We are hoping that in a small, but memorable way, we can play a role in that.”
 
Emu Trekkers offers a variety of walks including the Manly Scenic Walk and Blue Mountains. The cost of a walk starts from $49.
 
Emu Trekkers’ volunteer guides come from all walks of life, sharing their love of the outdoors and Australia’s natural environment. Says Tristan: “What we love is that each volunteer is so different. We have doctors, engineers, retirees, musicians, business people, students, historians and lawyers. Each guide has a unique story to tell about this beautiful place we call home.”