Learn to be a Cameleer
"We are immensely grateful to our camels for their exceptional care towards people during treks. In return, we ensure that they have the freedom to browse and eat throughout the day. We strongly believe in treating them with kindness and avoid using any harmful control devices, such as nose pegs that can cause discomfort to their sensitive snout tissue or chain halters that can restrict their jaw movement.
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However, it's important to note that we are not naive or impractical. A loyal employee values their employer, and we strive to cultivate such a relationship with our camels. The only difficulties we encounter are when we take in camels with past traumas. Resolving their trauma requires time, dedication, and patience."
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Karen Jane Ellis, Director - Camel Treks Australia - Cameleer since 1996
Website Photography by Sophie Matterson | Karen-Jane Ellis | Jessica Clark | Gordon Best | Adelaide Film Works | Media Works paragraph.
Volunteer Learning
In 2024, Director and Owner Cameleers of Camel Treks Australia - Paul and Karen Ellis, accompanied by Head Cameleer Edward Buckingham, are once again offering mentoring options. This is the second year since the start of COVID-19 that they are actively providing such opportunities.
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Their approach to learning is old-fashioned and requires a commitment to attend three consecutive treks. The learning opportunities are provided in the context of trekking, and in exchange, trainee cameleers gain hands-on experience. There is no monetary exchange, but participants are expected to contribute on long days, with plenty of dirt, dust, hard work, and a willingness to follow instructions while working within a team.
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Many of today's successful cameleers can trace their beginnings back to being mentored by Paul and Karen Ellis within Camel Treks Australia. If you are seeking a job within the industry, then this is a safe and good place to start learning.
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Historically, new or prospective owners of camels in Australia who were eager to learn sought out the expertise of older, experienced camel operators. Learning traditionally took place on the job, at the site of working with the camels with an experienced operator, whether that be in busy public locations or outback trekking.
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Although the twentieth century witnessed a major shift in emphasis towards school and post-school-based training, recent years have been characterised by a revival of on-the-job training and close links with actual working enterprises.
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Today, there is increased recognition of the success that on-the-job training provides. Individuals are mentored for an extended duration with Camel Treks Australia's team, which offers structure within its successful business model incorporating camels and tourists. This real-life practical hands-on training can lead to greater learning outcomes for camel owners and camel handlers eager to delve deeper.
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Paul and Karen Ellis have been actively assisting camel seekers worldwide since 2013 and welcome interested persons to apply for learning opportunities annually between May and September.
If you're looking for a holiday, there are easier options than being with them. Although this is an exciting opportunity, it is also very demanding. It will be an advantage if you consider yourself emotionally strong, physically able, mentally competent, and have a high level of maturity. If you have a physical, emotional, or mental disadvantage, please understand that this will not be a suitable environment for you as they are very remote and do not have easy access to medical care of any kind that supports physical, emotional, or mental well-being.
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Learning days on camel treks are long. Prior to and following camel treks, participants are required to set up and pack away from the actual camel trek. It is essential to understand that camel treks and station life are amazing, but they do require a mindset that is enthusiastic and self-sufficient. Treks can vary from four days to two weeks. Ideally, to apply, you should consider yourself to be a healthy, energetic person who is able and willing to walk with the camels for 4-6 hours a day, in addition to assisting with meal cooking, dish washing, campfire, and camping with the camels overnight.
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If you are seeking to learn more about camels and would like a volunteer learning position, please email them below. Please note that a successful police check is compulsory, and a working with children check will be required if you are with them during a school camp trek.
