Vision Australia - Trek For Vision Great Ocean Walk 2026
Join the next Trek for Vision in 2026 and embark on a stunning adventure along one of Australia’s most iconic hikes, the Great Ocean Walk. Trek with Vision Australia and help raise vital funds for the Seeing Eye Dogs Youth Programs.
8-10 May 2026
Travel Dates
$1,999
Trip Cost
Paid upfront or in instalments
2/5
Challenge Grade
$3,000
Fundraising Target
Per Person
The Difference You'll Make
By taking part in Trek for Vision - Vision Australia Great Ocean Walk 2026, you’ll help empower young people who are blind or have low vision. Every dollar you raise will support Vision Australia’s Seeing Eye Dogs Youth Program, giving young Australians greater independence, confidence, and connection through the life-changing support of a Seeing Eye Dog.
The Youth Program supports young people aged 12–18 in building the skills and confidence needed to become Seeing Eye Dog handlers in the future.
Now in its fourth year, Seeing Eye Dogs Youth Program Instructor Brooke Anderson said the program is a vital part in preparing the next generation of Seeing Eye Dog handlers and age should not be a barrier.
“There’s no doubt a Seeing Eye Dog can change the life of someone who is blind or has low vision, but being matched with one is a big responsibility,” Brooke said.
The Youth Program runs for 10 months, with participants receiving one-on-one support sessions, as well as attending a camp at Seeing Eye Dogs’ Melbourne headquarters, where they are given the opportunity to experience handling a Seeing Eye Dog and also meet the other participants.
Seeing Eye Dogs Mobility Instructor Brooke observes from behind as a Vision Australia client walks alongside their yellow Seeing Eye Dog in harness.
Vision Australia client Jasmine stands in a garden with her yellow Seeing Eye Dog Mikey.
Participants like 19-year-old student Jasmine Tevelein completed the Youth Program in 2023, giving her the knowledge of what life with a Seeing Eye Dog was like, she developed the skills essential for dog guide mobility and wasted no time in joining the Seeing Eye Dogs waitlist. She was matched with Seeing Eye Dog Mikey.
“The first time I held the harness of a Seeing Eye Dog at the youth program was an incredible feeling. I felt free to move around without relying on others. Now that I’ve been matched with Mikey, I feel this same confidence, every day,” Jasmine said. “Mikey has become such an important part of my life in such a short time. Through the Seeing Eye Dogs youth program and the matching process, I’ve also discovered a whole new community and support network, which has truly been life changing.”
“Having a Seeing Eye Dog has made my life 100 times better. With Mikey, I’m not afraid to go outside on my own. With Mikey, I know I can do this, I know I can do that. He follows me around like a shadow, it’s like having a best friend. They’re such an incredible mobility aid. Seeing Eye Dogs really are amazing.” – Jasmine, Seeing Eye Dog handler and Youth Program participant
Join Trek for Vision and be the reason someone who is blind or has low vision can live with greater independence. Your fundraising efforts will help remove barriers and create life-changing opportunities in mobility, employment, and community connection.
How it works
Flexible bookings
Make a difference
Commit to raising the minimum fundraising target and make a positive difference to worthwhile causes.
You'll be supported by our team of fundraising experts to reach and exceed your fundraising goals.
Be Part of a team
Join like-minded travellers, and representatives from the charity, all united in their adventurous spirit and commitment to making a positive impact in the world. Make lifelong friends during a shared challenge experience.
Trip notes
Low vision users can access a speech-tagged version of the trip notes here.
Note: As the trekking portion of this adventure begins early in the morning on Day 1, you will need to arrive in Melbourne the day before. Accommodation is NOT included on this night. Please do not book your flight home to depart before 7pm on the last day. You will meet at 7am in Melbourne’s CBD so pre purchase any breakfast supplies the day before.
Our adventure begins! Meet your guides early this morning at the National Gallery of Victoria, from where we will depart. On the way, we will drive a section of the Great Ocean Road, which overlies the traditional country of the Watha-wurrung(Watharong), Gadabanus and Girai-Wurrung language groups of the Kulin Nation.
We stop en-route at Anglesea for morning tea and a briefing of the first day of walking. We arrive in Krambuk / Apollo Bay late morning, prepare our lunch, and start our first walk. The trail begins in the beach-side suburb of Marengo. Marengo is home to a colony of Australia Fur Seals who hand out on rocks in the bay. Continueing onwards the countryside becomes more rural farmland. The trail continues up a small hill. There are good views along the coast looking south-west towards Bangurac / Cape Otway and north-east over the ranges surrounding Krambruk / Apollo Bay. There is a conveniently places rest bench, followed by a steep descent past The Blowhole. We descend down to a beach for a rest before heading into a small section of Otway rainforest.
The trail enters low forest initially, and then starts to climb into the higher forests of the Great Otway National Park just above Shelly Beach.
From here we'll head to Apollo Bay for our Dusk Discovery Wildlife Tour. As the sun sets over the hills of the Otways, potoroos, bandicoots, pademelons and more are waking up and starting their active nights of feeding and foraging. We'll get exclusive insights into the lives of some of the more elusive and rarely seen animals who call this area home. Afterwards, we'll head off to our accommodation to rest for the night.
Obstacles
Approximately 2km into the track, trekkers will encounter a grated plastic boardwalk about 50cm wide, which runs for several hundred meters. Seeing Eye Dogs can comfortably walk beside or just ahead of their handler, depending on the available space. The most significant challenge of the route appears at the 2km mark, a rocky section with variable terrain approximately 50 meters long. Some natural steps in this area range from 30-40cm high. For this section, the recommended approach is for handlers to work their dog on the harness while also using a hiking pole or all-terrain cane in the opposite hand for stability. Verbal guidance and assistance from guides and your support person will be required. At approximately 3km and again at 5km, trekkers will encounter narrow and uneven staircases consisting of about 30 steps each. When going up narrow staircases, the Seeing Eye Dog should walk in front of the handler. When going up narrow staircases, the Seeing Eye Dog should walk in front of the handler. When going down, the dog should be on lead, heeling behind the handler, while the handler uses a cane or hiking pole to safely navigate the steps.
Accommodation: 3-star cabins
Transfer time: approx. 3 hours
Trekking distance: 7 km (4 hours minimum. This is a guide only and may vary depending on an individual's pace).
Meals: L D
Our day begins with a 10-kilometre walk from the lighthouse to Aire River. The track winds through landscapes shaped by the wind, with sand dunes, coastal plants, and tall, rocky cliffs. At the Aire River Lookout, we will see wide views of the estuary, which is where the Aire River flows into the Southern Ocean at Glenaire Beach. The wetlands are also visible from here and are stunning. From the lookout, the path gently slopes downhill to the Aire River Bridge. The bridge takes you to a picnic area with toilets. This is also a pickup point if you wish to stop walking for the day. The next optional section is a 6-kilometre walk from Aire River to Castle Cove. The track goes inland at first and climbs through tea-tree forests. It then returns to the coast, where you can enjoy views of the cliffs and smell the sea air. There are some uphill and downhill sections before we reach Castle Cove. This beach sits on a wide bend of the Great Ocean Road near Glenaire. It is surrounded by high cliffs, where dinosaur fossils have been found. This makes it an important place for archaeology. If time allows, the day may finish with a visit to Maits Rest rainforest walk near Cape Otway. This is a short 800-metre walking loop. It takes you through cool, shady rainforest and is a nice break if the day has been warm.
Obstacles
Today's walk includes a few sections that require extra case. Approximately 500 meters into the trail, you'll encounter a downhill staircase with uneven steps. This section should be manageable with the support of a hiking pole or all-terrain cane, taken at a steady pace. Around the 3km mark, you'll come across a stretch of rocky terrain. While uneven in parts, this section is also manageable if taken slowly, with guidance from your support person and the use of a hiking pole or all-terrain cane.
Accommodation: 3-star cabins
Trekking distance: Choice of 10km or 16km (8 hours minimum. This is a guide only and may vary depending on an individual's pace).
Meals: B L D
It’s the last day of our adventure, and we’ve saved one of the most iconic sights in Australia for today. We set out today near Princetown, home to a wide variety of bird life in the surrounding wetlands. We reconnect with the Great Ocean Walk on the home stretch into Port Campbell National Park and the world-famous Twelve Apostles. Soon, the famous landmarks come into view with the last kilometre of the Great Ocean Walk taking us through to the Twelve Apostles Visitor Centre. We’ve done it! With the Apostles welcoming us, we celebrate the end of an incredible adventure. We’ll have our lunch here and then head back to Melbourne via Colac where we stop at a local café for a coffee or tea. We arrive back at the National Gallery of Victoria at approximately 5.30 pm.
Obstacles
At approximately 6.5km, you'll cross a wooden plank platform about 40cm wide and under 50 meters long. Seeing Eye Dogs will need to walk ahead of the handler for safe navigation. Shortly after, around the 7km mark, you'll encounter a very narrow and relatively steep staircase going up. Dogs should again lead in front of the handler. This section is manageable with care and a slower pace.
Trekking distance: 8.5 km (2.5-3 hours minimum. This is a guide only and may vary depending on an individual's pace).
Transfer time: approx. 3 hours
Meals: B L
Route Map
Package Inclusions: Transfers as per itinerary• Accommodation in 3-star holiday cabins based on twin-share, shared bathrooms • Meals as per itinerary • Local guide(s) • Entrance fees as per itinerary
Package Exclusions: Airfares • Airport transfers • Pre & post tour accommodation in Melbourne • Travel insurance (highly recommended) • Personal expenses such as laundry, soft drinks and alcoholic beverages • Tips and gratuities
Why you'll love this adventure
- Enjoy spectacular ocean scenery and escape to an oasis just a few hours away from the city of Melbourne.
- See and hear an abundance of koalas as you trek through a canopy of greenery.
- Feel the sea breeze and breathe in fresh air alongside breathtaking views.
- This trek is designed to be fully accessible. If you are blind or have low vision, we strongly recommend registering with a support person or bringing your Seeing Eye Dog to help navigate any challenges you may encounter along the track. Please discuss the suitability of the trek with your Seeing Eye Dogs instructor.
- You'll be joined by local expert guides, a qualified team doctor, and a Seeing Eye Dogs mobility instructor.
- Connect with passionate Vision Australia clients and supporters whilst raising vital funds for the Seeing Eye Dogs Youth Program.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can't find the answer to your question? Get in touch via email (info@inspiredadventures.com.au
Is this trek accessible?
Yes, this trek is thoughtfully designed to be fully accessible. If you are blind or have low vision, we encourage you to register with a support person, whether a support worker, friend, or family member, or to bring your Seeing Eye Dog to help you confidently navigate any challenges along the track.
Please check with your Seeing Eye Dogs contact about your Seeing Eye Dog’s suitability and training requirements before registering.
Each day’s terrain and potential obstacles are outlined in the trip notes to help you decide the level of support you may need. Our trained guides, along with a Seeing Eye Dogs mobility instructor, will be there to assist you in navigating these sections with confidence.
You may have the option of sourcing NDIS funding to request some of your core funds to be allocated to assist with a support person accompanying you in a working capacity on the trek. Please make inquiries with your NDIS fund contact if this is an option for you, or if you would like to discuss this further please contact Myra Woodley, myra.woodley@visionaustralia.org
How challenging is this adventure?
This adventure is ranked 2/5. While no extensive trekking experience is required prior to registering, our adventures are specifically designed for people who are relatively fit and willing to train. The Great Ocean Walk is a physical challenge, involving trekking approximately 27-31 kilometres (with various distance options on day 2) spread out over 3 days.
You will be well supported on the adventure, with the guides and your team all cheering you on. You are free to move at your own pace and we will take frequent breaks. All participants are required to complete a medical form, signed by a GP, before taking part in this adventure. There will also be a doctor accompanying the participants on the trek.
How many people will be on my adventure?
We believe small group travel is better for the planet, and better for you. Our adventures average between 10 - 20 participants, connected by their commitment to the greater good.
Can I join an Inspired Adventure on my own?
Of course, most people do! Throughout your adventure journey, we will connect you with your fellow adventurers so you can get to know each other before you hit the road.
What is the general age range of participants?
The minimum age for this adventure is 18, however younger ages are considered on application. We have had participants aged 16–84+ take part in our challenges, all united by their sense of philanthropy and adventure.
I have dietary requirements, will I be catered for?
Of course, we will happily arrange for any dietary requirements you’ve noted during booking to be catered for. Please advise your local guide on Day 1 as well. You will be fed very well while you’re on the adventure, but if you have a very specific dietary requirement or severe allergies, often it’s best to pack some extra things as back-up.
Do I have to carry my own bag?
On most adventures, you'll only need to carry a day bag with essentials for your day of activities. Your luggage/big backpacks will either stay at your accommodation, be transferred to your next accommodation, or will be carried by porters. Participants will need to carry their own water (at least 2 litres) as well as enough for their Seeing Eye Dog. To help lighten the load, the team is usually happy to share the extra water for the dogs among everyone.
Who is Inspired Adventures?
Vision Australia has partnered with Inspired Adventures to bring you this adventure of a lifetime. Over the last 20 years, Inspired Adventures has taken over 8,000 people, just like you, on adventures all around the world, raising over $49 million for important causes. When you choose to travel with Inspired Adventures and Vision Australia, you can be confident you’re in the best hands.
How do I train for this adventure?
We will provide you with information on how to prepare for your adventure when you register. In addition, we recommend that you consult your GP and a personal trainer to develop a training plan that will prepare you for the challenge.
As part of your training, we recommend completing several day hikes prior to the trek. You should aim to be able to walk in hilly terrain for 5+ hours comfortably and walk this distance again again the next day. There will also be beach walking, so we suggest training on sandy walks as well as other forms of terrain. If you are taking your Seeing Eye Dog on the trek, please chat to your Seeing Eye Dogs instructor to work together on a training plan that best suits you.
It is sensible to start training as early as possible before you go on your trek. If you plan to use a hiking pole or all-terrain cane, be sure to incorporate them into your training so you feel confident and comfortable using them on the trail.
What is the accommodation like?
On this trek, you’ll be staying in 3-star cabin style accommodation. We usually use two bedroom, one bathroom cabins on the Great Ocean Road, but sometimes we use three bedroom cabins and sometimes one bedroom cabins.
Each room is based on twin share. In the two bedroom cabins, there is a double bed in one room and a twin bunk in the second room along with a shared bathroom and lounge area. You will be sleeping on the bottom bunk only. In the three bedroom cabins there is a double bed in one room, two single beds in the second room and a bunk in the third room. You will be sharing your cabin with other team members.
Will I be sharing accommodation?
Yes, you will be sharing your cabin with other guests. You may be in a two or three bedroom cabin. Each has separate bedrooms, one bathroom and a lounge area.
With twin share arrangements, if you are travelling solo, you will be paired in a room with a teammate of the same gender. If you prefer to be in a room alone, you can ensure this for an additional cost of $350.
I’m travelling with a friend, can we stay together?
Absolutely! If you’re travelling with a friend, please make note of this and we will pair you in a room together. You will be in a two or three bedroom cabin, sharing the cabin with other guests on the adventure.
How is my luggage transported?
You will only need to carry a day-pack with you each day. Your main luggage will be transported between accommodation for you.
How do I fundraise?
Never fundraised before? Not sure where to start? No worries, we don’t expect you to do it alone. You will have regular support from the Inspired Adventures fundraising team, who will help you make a fundraising plan to meet your target. Alongside personalised coaching, we will also send you lots of ideas and resources on how to fundraise. From online fundraising to trivia nights, to bake sales and out-of-the-box ideas, we have years and years of tried and tested tips to make your fundraising a success.
What happens if I don’t meet my fundraising target?
It’s normal to worry you won’t meet your fundraising target, but we know you can do it. In fact, with the support of Inspired Adventures, almost everyone goes on to raise far more than they imagined.
By registering for the adventure, you agree to raise the minimum fundraising amount specified. Like you, we are looking to make a significant impact for our charity partners, so the goal is for each person to have met their fundraising target before departure. If you fail to raise the minimum fundraising target by this time, we will review the situation on a case-by-case basis.
I’m travelling with a friend, can we fundraise together?
Absolutely! Fundraising with a friend is a great idea. Just remember the fundraising target is per person, so you will each need to meet the minimum fundraising goal to participate. We know you can do it.
If you’re bringing a support person, you’ll each have your own individual and team fundraising page. While your support person isn’t required to raise the full $3,000 themselves, they’re encouraged to actively support your fundraising efforts to help reach your goal. They’re also welcome to fundraise independently if they’d like to make an even greater impact for people who are blind or have low vision.
Is my donation tax-deductible?
The funds raised for Vision Australia are tax-deductible (conditions apply).
How much does it cost to participate in this adventure?
The total cost to participate in this adventure is $1,999 which includes a $475 non-refundable travel deposit. There is no registration fee for this adventure.
In addition, you are also committing to raising $3,000 (per person) for Vision Australia to support the Seeing Eye Dogs Youth Program.
What happens if I need to cancel?
If you find yourself unable to attend, please notify us as soon as possible.
- Cancellation within 5 days of registration will receive a full refund (less card transaction fees).
- Cancellations more than 90 days prior to departure will receive a full refund minus the $475 deposit and card transaction fees.
- Cancellations within 90 days of departure will receive no refund. Where applicable, we can provide assistance in making a travel insurance claim.
Do I need to have insurance?
Travel insurance is highly recommended for domestic adventures to cover cancellation, hospital, emergency evacuation and lost luggage. We recommend purchasing your policy as soon as possible. It is up to you to ensure you have fully comprehensive travel insurance and you will need to share these details with our team before departure. For more information, please visit www.inspiredadventures.com.au/travel-insurance-information.
What happens if there is a medical emergency?
Providing the safest possible environment is our highest priority and we have an outstanding safety record. All Inspired Adventures guides are first aid trained and well-equipped to handle any medical emergencies.
Take this new and exciting corporate social responsibility initiative and see your staff and brand take on this adventure as a team.
An Inspired Adventure with Vision Australia offers the following benefits:
- Employee engagement opportunities to attract and retain staff
- Long-term partnership with Vision Australia and increased community engagement
- Improved employee wellness through the impact of paying it forward
- Increased brand value through unique PR opportunities
- Improved workplace mental and physical health with a focus on fitness and training for the challenge
- Increased visibility through an innovative approach to corporate social responsibility
- Team building opportunities across departments through the achievement of a common goal
- Great networking opportunities
Find out more by downloading our corporate sponsorship pack here. You can also find out more by ontacting Myra Woodley, Community Fundraising Coordinator Vision Australia, Myra.Woodley@visionaustralia.org.
All information is subject to change and will be confirmed upon your registration.
Testimonials
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Give us a call on
1300 905 188