Our Team

Our award-winning guides’ local knowledge, their enthusiasm with guests, and helpful insights along the way are the Auswalk difference. All have the training and qualifications to ensure you have the most fun on your walking holiday and return safely with a greater understanding and appreciation for the area. Our guides love what they do and are passionate about creating memorable walks to share with everyone.

MARIE

After 25 years as a teacher, I returned to study Eco-Tourism and have been guiding for Auswalk since 2009. I treat every trip like a family reunion with our repeat walkers. My favourite destination is Lord Howe Island for its endemic wildlife, crystal clear waters, and stunning views everywhere you look.

PAUL

With 38 years as a Risk Manager and Engineer, I ensure every walker feels safe and motivated on the track. I’ve guided with my wife, Marie, since 2016, sharing insights into the world around us. My favourite destination is Lord Howe Island, and I love capturing the journey through my passion for photography.

DAVID

Combining 30 years as a physiotherapist with a lifelong love of nature, I ensure our walkers are always happy and well taken care of. I guide across the Red Centre and Tasmania, but Flinders Island is my specialty. When I’m not leading groups, I’m busy developing and introducing new walking holidays.

KATHLEEN

I’ve lived and guided on Flinders Island since 2007, often leading trips in the Red Centre and Tasmania with my husband, David. My favourite walks are Mt Strzelecki and Mt Amos—where we were married! As a yoga instructor and music teacher, I love leading a good stretch or a sing-along on the trail.

GEORGIE

Growing up on the Great Ocean Road, I’ve spent 25 years in coastal management and education. Guiding is the culmination of my career, and I love giving walkers unique local insights into my favourite trail, the Great Ocean Walk. When I’m not on the coast, I enjoy family time and music festivals.

KATIE

As a head guide with over 19 years of experience, I know every twist and turn of the Flinders Ranges and Larapinta. I love sharing stories and quirky facts to make every hike unforgettable. Off the trails, you’ll find me on my Phillip Island farm with my horses, surfing, or cheering on Collingwood.

MICHELLE

Since completing my Outdoor Education degree in 2013, I’ve guided everywhere from Kangaroo Island to Uluru. Carnarvon Gorge stole my heart in 2016 and is now my ‘office’ and favourite walking destination. I love sharing its cultural sites and hidden platypus pools with walkers. When I’m not guiding, I’m walking my two kelpies.

CHRIS

After 30 years in education, I retrained in Outdoor Leadership to become a hiking and rafting guide. I love the Three Capes for its spectacular rock formations; it feels like being a pebble in a land of giants. When I’m not guiding, I rely on live music to distract me from my favourite soccer teams' struggles.

NAOMI

I swapped my laptop for landscapes and haven’t looked back. Based in Melbourne, I guide through Australia’s most remote gorges and hidden waterholes. I carry a deep respect for the Traditional Custodians of these lands and feel it’s a true privilege to share stories and walk these spectacular places with our guests.

SAM

As a wilderness first aid instructor and licensed interpreter, I’ve dedicated my career to the mountains. After training in the Canadian Rockies, I moved to Nagano, Japan, where I now guide the Nakasendo Way. I’m passionate about environmental conservation and love sharing the rich cultural and historical stories of the Japanese trails.

YANNICK

Born in the land of Mont Blanc, I grew up exploring the forests and mountains of the European Alps. I’ve been guiding travellers through this 'natural playground' since 2013, sharing my deep respect for the landscape. Today, I live at the crossroads of five major massifs and love leading our Mont Blanc walks.

NEIL

Originally from South Africa, I’m a retired teacher with over 30 years of experience leading tours globally. From the Grampians to the Himalayas, I’ve always found my home on the trail. As a guide, I believe every journey is about discovery and connection. When I’m not walking, I’m usually mountain biking or studying a map.

ROBYN

Living in the Blue Mountains, I’ve spent my life camping, cycling, and exploring the bush. As a guide, I love sharing the magic of the outdoors with others. I’m an energetic team player, and my goal is to ensure that every walk is a unique, memorable, and high-energy journey.

MARCUS

My 30-year career in supply chain management has taken me across every continent, allowing me to climb mountains and develop a deep appreciation for nature and health. It is a privilege to lead our walkers and help them realize their own dreams. I’m dedicated to ensuring every journey is both safe and inspiring.

ERIC

I’ve led walking and cycling tours globally, from South America to Japan. A white-water expert, I led the first commercial 12-day rafting trip down the Franklin River. I’ve guided the Great Ocean Walk for over a decade and am a topographic mapping specialist. My favorite challenge is the unique peaks of the Grampians Peaks Trail.

“The guides were knowledgeable, genuine, welcoming and very professional at managing a group of different personalities to ensure everyone has the best experience possible”.
Jenny Cook – Blue Mountains Traverse Walk

Meet the team

BRETT NEAGLE
CEO

I’ve always taken the path less travelled, from trekking the Himalayas and Andes in the 80s to living across Africa and Brazil. After years in youth counselling, I returned to tourism and expanded Auswalk’s range globally. My favourite walk is always my last—most recently Nepal and Japan.

TASH PORTER (THE REAL BOSS)
OPERATIONS MANAGER

As Operations Manager, I combine an eye for detail with a passion for healthy living to ensure every walk runs smoothly. I lead our consultants and manage the logistics for our global tracks. My favourite trek is Japan’s Nakasendo Way, where I love the simple beauty of the countryside and incredible cuisine.

PADDY SCOTT
HEAD OF MARKETING

My passion for walking began at age eight in Nepal—a country I’ve visited eleven times since. With 25 years in travel, I’ve guided trips across all seven continents and 75 countries. Now, as Head of Marketing, I use that first-hand experience to help others discover the magic of an unforgettable walking holiday.

ANNE BLOCKLEY
DELIVERY TEAM MANAGER

I support our consultants and business development, drawing on my experience as a business owner and a passion for customer care. A dedicated trail runner with 12 marathons completed, I’m happiest out in nature. I look forward to tackling the Mont Blanc and Japan walks next—likely at a record-breaking pace!

IAN LANDY
WALKING HOLIDAY SPECIALIST

With a background in outdoor education, I’ve spent my life encouraging others to explore. As a Walking Specialist, I thrive on helping people achieve their dreams. My favourite trek is Mont Blanc because of the breathtaking alpine vistas and the rewarding challenge of crossing three different countries on foot.

KAREN SCHARNBOCK
WALKING HOLIDAY SPECIALIST

I’ve spent 16 years in travel, exploring all seven continents from Antarctica to Europe. I love combining my passion for adventure with my love for live music by travelling the world to see concerts! Having lived in Canada and the UK, I’m an avid traveller who enjoys helping others discover the world on foot.

Dan Green guiding an Auswalk hike on the Cape to Cape

DAN GREEN
GROUP GUIDED MANAGER

Originally from England, I’ve spent 20 years exploring Australia. With a background as an arborist and ski patroller, I bring deep safety knowledge to my role as Groups Manager. I’ve guided for years and love combining my passion for the outdoors with expert logistics. When not walking, I’m usually outside or playing guitar.

JACKIE SEARS
GROUP-GUIDED COORDINATOR

I swapped a 15-year finance career for my role as a Group Guided Coordinator, managing the logistics behind our group trips. Having lived and travelled extensively overseas, I’m now exploring Australia by caravan with my family. My favourite trek so far is the Three Capes Walk in Tasmania.

MAE SALAZAR
DESTINATION CONSULTANT MANAGER

As the manager of our Destination Consultants, I bring four years of travel industry experience and a passion for hiking. My favourite adventure was Everest Base Camp; I loved the physical challenge and the profound spiritual connection to the Himalayas. I often travel solo, using nature to challenge myself and gain new perspectives.

BELLA NOLAN
DESTINATION CONSULTANT

With 11 years in customer service, I love the puzzle of piecing together a client’s perfect trip. Born and bred on the Mornington Peninsula, its coastal trails are close to my heart. As an expert on the Cape to Cape and Tasmania, I’m dedicated to crafting seamless walking adventures across Australia and the globe.

PIPER DIXON
DESTINATION CONSULTANT

Originally from New Zealand, I spent two years living in Japan before joining Auswalk as a Destination Consultant. My favourite hidden gem is Yamadera Temple, a serene mountainside site reached by climbing over 1,000 stairs! I love the contrast of quiet mountain paths and vibrant cities, and I’m passionate about sharing Japan’s unique culture.

MAIKA HARRIS
DESTINATION CONSULTANT

Growing up near Mt Fuji, I love sharing Japan’s rich culture as a Destination Consultant. My favourite trek is the Nakasendo, where the serenity of the trail meets the stunning architecture of historic post towns and shrines. I use my background in tourism to help walkers discover the hidden gems of my homeland.

MONICA BUSCH
DESTINATION CONSULTANT

Born in Scotland and raised in Canada, I’ve explored 33 countries and counting. My favourite experience so far was walking the stunning Dordogne region in France. Now an Aussie citizen and Auswalk Consultant, I stay fit with local walks while helping others plan their own unforgettable journeys and adventures.

JESSIE BURLEY
ACCOUNTS & DELIVERY TEAM

I joined Auswalk in 2022, working across our Accounts and Delivery teams. My favourite walking experience was completing New Zealand’s Queen Charlotte Track in 2025. Nothing beats the feeling of a post-hike swim! When I’m not supporting our operations, you’ll find me at hot pilates or cooking with friends.

JESSIE INGERSON
JUNIOR PRODUCT MANAGER & DESTINATION CONSULTANT

As a member of our Delivery team and a Nepal specialist, I love the sense of accomplishment that comes with mountain walking. My favourite trek is the Annapurna Circuit for its pristine landscapes and culture. Having recently completed my business degree, I’m now exploring the world to discover new summits.

BEC ALLEN
DELIVERY TEAM

As part of the Delivery team, I ensure our walkers have everything they need to navigate the trails. With six years in travel, I’m passionate about facilitating epic adventures. My favourite destination is Switzerland for its mountain views and food, though I also love exploring my family heritage in Hungary.

ASTRID WATT
MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS

With eight years in travel, I’ve guided everything from wine tours to wilderness adventures. As a history buff, I previously led walking tours of Melbourne’s CBD and the State Library. Now in Marketing Communications, I love sharing my passion for exploration—especially my favourite destination, the Scottish Highlands, for its mountains, castles, and highland cows.

ENQUIRE NOW

If you’re looking for further information on any of our walking holidays please fill out the enquiry form and we’ll be in touch.

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Google Review

Auswalk Walking Holidays

4.8

Based on 69 reviews

review us on

Michelle Gallant

01:33 28 Apr 25

New Zealand's Abel Tasman Self Guided walk was our second self guided experience with Auswalk.
We cannot fault the organisation and accommodation.
The tips and suggestions (eg. recommendations for treating drinking water and the reasons why, safety tips etc) add confidence and perspective.
The track notes are excellent, and the estimated walking times were accurate.
It's so nice to return to comfortable accommodation.
The provided trail food was of an excellent standard, and there was plenty of it.

Jenny Taaffe

02:59 25 Apr 25

Recently completed the self guided 6 day Queen Charlotte track in New Zealand. A fabulous walk with stunning scenery.
Our first time with Auswalk. All communications were easy and with prompt responses. All of the arrangements worked perfectly. Great support provided by Auswalks with detailed information in hard copy including a map and an excellent app containing all required information. Great accomodation and yummy food each night.
Thankyou for a memorable trip.
Highly recommend Auswalks.

Sandra Neate

21:48 23 Apr 25

We recently walked the Cape to Cape highlights walk in WA. The walk was beautiful and Auswalk were very organised. On the whole, the walks were long (20 to 25km) and reasonably difficult due to long stretches of sand, which the materials warned of, but the sand was extremely challenging! There were a few options for shortening walks offered. The accomodation was good and we enjoyed the meals offsite particularly breakfast at the White Elephant in Gnarabup overlooking the water and dinner at La Scarpetta in Margaret River. The food provided for the walks was good amd plentiful with the exception of the lunch provided by the Caves Hotel. We had some late changes of arrangements due to family issues and Auswalk were sympathetic and very helpful. Overall we had a great time. We would recommend Auswalk for sure.

Sandy Smythe

08:55 28 Mar 25

Fantastic 5 days self guided on the Great Ocean Walk. Col and Vanessa from Apollo taxi (daily transfers) were great and very accommodating. Apollo Bay accommodation very central and walking distance to variety of food establishments. The accommodation at Castle Cove on the sheep farm was much more than we expected. Very roomy, relaxing and peaceful with lovely views. The food provided for us there by Shane and Jodi from the Chi Medicinal farm was absolutely amazing and bountiful. We had lovely weather our entire stay and the walk was rewarding every time we had views of the stunning ocean, cliffs and coastline. We would class it as a moderate walk, no days over 6hrs, no walking poles needed and can easily do it in good trail runners if prefer as not carrying much in your day pack.
Highly recommend Auswalk.

Pat Macken

20:54 23 Mar 25

We just completed the 6 day Self Guided Abel Tasman. Really enjoyable and well organised by Auswalk. Both Abel Tasman Lodge and Awaroa Lodge (food really good) were excellent. We would highly recommend Auswalk and this walk.

Peter F.

04:21 12 Feb 25

By chance, like GWs review four months ago, I also had an unforgettable experience in the Katherine Clubs bistro.

I was on the Top End trip – was that my 6th trip with Auswalk? On the first day our guides Gavin and Denise shouted us to a terrific morning tea and lunch, with trainee guide Kathleen entertaining us on the piano. Later that night the flying foxes made such a racket from 12am to 5am- just as they stopped the magpie geese took over! – the kaleidoscopes of great experiences continued day after day.

As to the Katherine Club dinner…. As we lined up to order the PA announcer, who never stopped talking loudly, promoting meat raffles etc., advised that due to covid supply issues they had no food, and on top of that covid illness issues meant few kitchen staff could work. We were about the last to order what food was left and did other patrons a favour – the inedible twin rissole meal was one to remember! Still, it was a fascinating night not to be missed – Katherinites were obviously enjoying themselves, the Bundy Rum and Coke flowed, and an ex Territorian during ‘dinner’ told me a long, tall, fantasy tale of a FA18 crashing into the Katherine supermarket. Now who was that?

Trevor Jewell

03:14 11 Nov 24

We completed a three capes self guided walk with Aus Walks in the Tasman Penninsular. Exerything was first class from trip notes to accommodation, to meals, transfers and local representatives. Very happy with the service and would use the company again.

Wally Christie

02:21 28 Oct 24

My girlfriend and I recently walked on the Nakasendo Way with Auswalk, which was my first ever self-guided walk. I was surprised at how easy it was to walk the track without much effort to find your way with the aid of the superb walking notes, which we rarely used other than reading the interesting facts about the walk. We didn't have to refer to the notes because we mainly used the app; we were never flummoxed at all as we walked. The accommodation and the hosts were excellent and I really enjoyed the different onsens each night. We will be back again to do another walk as soon as my feet are rested up.
Thanks Auswalk and to Maika.

Carol Smith

22:42 04 Oct 24

Absolutely loved every moment of our five-day self-guided Gold Coast Hinterland Great Walk. The primordial richness of the rainforest was truly a feast for all the senses, enveloping us within it. We had some lovely, moody, broody weather with winds high up in the canopy, and it added tremendously to the experience. We really appreciated Auswalk's contextual notes that helped us learn more about our surroundings along the way. A shower, beer, lovely dinner, and comfy accommodations at the end of each day's walk was something to look forward to after each day's adventure. The view from the jetted tub at Binna Burra Sky Lodge was a fantastic treat!

Steve Yeoh

03:41 04 Oct 24

Pheaktra Eng

06:25 20 Sep 24

Desiree Meredith

05:06 20 Sep 24

My husband and I have just finished a 5 day hike with AUSWALK in Cappadocia Turkey! The most amazing experience with beautiful landscapes and adventurous walks! None of it possible without Auswalks incredible organisation and support! It’s like having someone hold your hand the whole way without being there! Thank you Auswalk …. Where to next is our only concern!

Maria Nethercott

08:55 17 Sep 24

Lord Howe Is. guided tour was a fantastic experience. Our guides Katie & Maria were very professional, knowledgeable, cared for each guests needs & abilities with great humour. Arajilla was fantastic, accommodation very comfortable & well appointed, the staff went out of their way to make our stay memorable the food was to die for truly some of the best cuisine we have tasted anywhere in the world & so fresh. Highlights the hiking and best of all the reef snorkelling. 110% recommend

Jenelle Seaward

05:59 20 May 24

A wonderful self-guided walk of the Three capes in Tasmania. Our Driver Damien was fantastic-prompt informative and very accommodating for our small group. Accommodation at Stewart Lodge was wonderful and food delicious and staff very lovely. And the walks spectacular and overall a great walking experience!! Thank you.

Melanie Neilson

23:05 21 Apr 24

A fabulous guided tour of the Tarkine and Cradle Mountain with the best guides in Kathleen and David. Would highly recommend and joined others in our group that had been on several walks with Aus Walk and in particular Kathleen and David's tours. So well organised, so much knowledge of the area to share and plenty of amazing walk options to keep the steps up! Great trip.

George Price

11:06 11 Apr 24

Completed 7 day self guided GOW. The support from Auswalk through Georgie and Jen was fantastic. Accommodation Bimbi park (Meals by Sophie) & Chi Medicinal (Meals by Jody) so great. Recommend to anyone looking for the chance to experience great coastline and Forrest whilst enjoying great hospitality.

Jodie Maloni

09:17 02 Apr 24

Just completed 3 Capes walking tour on the Tasmanian Peninsula and it didn't disappoint. All walks and their coatal views were spectacular Bec and Katie were amazing guides who went over and beyond to ensure every guest got the most out of the trip by offering a range of options to cover all hiking abilities. Food and accommodation was amazing. Highly recommend.

David and Corinne Smith

21:47 03 Feb 24

An amazing experience! Every detail from first contact up until the end of our journey with the AUSWALK team was flawless. The accommodation and restaurant were above expectations, and then having our own personal driver for transfers made the overall adventure outstanding. We will certainly be booking more walks with AUSWALK. Thanks very much AUSWALK for such a memorable experience. Corinne and David Smith

Hebe Thomas

09:21 30 Oct 23

Really enjoyed our guided tour of 3 Capes in Tasmania. The two guides were great & there were lots of options provided for other members of the group not wanting to do the challenging walks. Accommodation & food also amazing. Highly recommend

Karynne Courts

21:01 27 Oct 23

We just completed the Great Ocean Walk. Rain, hail, wind, and even an earthquake, didn't prevent this from being an absolutely wonderful experience. Our guides were outstanding (thanks Georgie and Eric), the accommodation and food exceeded our expectations, and we can't wait to book another walk with this fabulous company. 🥰

Tony Yu

11:18 21 Aug 23

Just finished our 13 days TMB tour with hotels arranged by Auswalk.
Extraordinary experience . Thanks to Auswalk, arranged everything smoothly. The route, the accommodations, the luggage transfer service, the GPX support, all excellent!!
Will recommend to everyone who wants a unforgettable walking holidays!

Lauren Harmer

11:27 02 May 23

Love the vibe... will not do a guided walk with anyone else! So fun, knowledgeable, professional and relaxed.

12:38 23 Apr 23

Flinders Ranges April 2023.

The best hiking experience I have ever had! And I think I speak on behalf of the 24 other people on our trip.
Cannot speak more highly of Katie and Brett who were fun, engaging and enthusiast throughout the whole 7 days.
From the bus ride to the food to the accommodation to the walks, your energy was always on.
Thank you so so much for getting the young and old(er) up the mountains and through the tracks.
Katie, special mention for what you got the young people to achieve. You are adored by many!
The kids haven't stopped talking about their experience and how they have come home different. Thank you for sharing a magical part of our country so passionately with us.
The team at Auswalk are fantastic and made our trip so memorable and are highly recommended!
Big big thanks 😊

Michael Schwager

08:53 10 Oct 22

Hard to know where to start when raving about Auswalk. We did the long weekend Great Ocean Walk (Oct 2022). Brett and Rebecca as our guides. The service was superb from start to finish. The accommodation and food was excellent and the walking was superb. What’s most impressive is that Auswalk has genuinely made this so easy because they really understand their customers. They have planned the best walks in the time available and have scouted really good food and accommodation options. Even when things don’t go to plan they improvise to make it a great experience anyway. Brett and Rebecca were great guides, highly professional and fun. We will book much more with Auswalk in Australia and Overseas.

peter spooner

01:18 05 Oct 22

You do not know what you don’t know. AusWalk took all the uncertainty and stress out of planning our walk. We have just completed the Portuguese Camino. AusWalk went out of their way to provide the itinerary we wanted for our self guided walk. Their service providers in Portugal and Spain exceeded our expectations. The accommodations were exceptional and provided the rest and rejuvenation required each night to complete each stage of the 14 day walk. The personalised walking notes were invaluable and certainly ensured the best experiences and hassle free days.

Darryl Crampton

05:16 27 Sep 22

This trip along the Camino Porto to Santiago was awesome. We met great people, drank too much, and ate heartily! Auswalk put together an awesome holiday! We immersed ourselves in the local cuisine and culture, and loved it. And I am now a fan of Estrella beer!

Daryl Appleton

21:59 27 Aug 22

The whole trek was well planned and our guides where excellent that look after you so well 👍 even with a group you felt that you had your own private guide. Nothing was too hard for them and they accommodate what ever you wanted to do.
The overall experience was excellent and rewarding as well 👍
Thanks so much to the team the Guides and all the staff at Auswalk you are doing an awesome job

Damon Leeder

21:43 06 Apr 22

Highly recommended! We have completed a few self-guided walks with Auswalk and have been very impressed. Great options for self-guided walks, well-organized itineraries, excellent accommodation, food, and transport options. They go out of their way to make sure you have a great experience. Thank you to the team!

Eileen Harder

16:14 16 Jan 19

This was my 1st overseas trip and it couldn't have been better! The Roof of Australia guided trip was fantastic. From the guides ( hi Katie and Dan!) to the accommodations, food, daily hikes and fabulous hiking companions, everything about this trip was first rate! Katie and Dan were a wealth of knowledge about each area we hiked in and they could not have been more accommodating, patient and fun to be around. Can't wait to book another hike with Auswalk...thanks for memories to last a lifetime!

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