Introduction
I arrived in Sydney ready for my surf camp adventure at Seven Miles Beach. Everything was supposed to be perfectly planned — the “perfect moment” for spring, or so I thought. The camp was advertised through my organization, and I was excited, but as soon as I arrived, it became clear it wasn’t quite as flawless as promised. The weather was unpredictable, the first surf lessons were tough, and the chaos of new backpackers trying to figure out what to do kept things lively… and exhausting.
Even so, it was fun. There was laughter, games, and songs with the group. And I met Eva, who immediately became someone I wanted to see again. We made plans to meet later, which gave me something familiar to hold onto amidst the whirlwind of new faces.
Main Adventure
Sydney – Surf Camp
The days at the surf camp were a mix of trying not to wipe out, getting soaked in the rain, and meeting people from all over. The lessons were challenging, but there was a lot of laughter. We played games, sang, and shared small adventures that made the rain and tired muscles worth it.
Honestly, I wouldn’t recommend this camp for the time of year I went. Byron Bay in summer would be warmer, sunnier, and the vibe would likely feel much better. I went because it was promoted as “perfect,” but in reality, it was just a fun, messy experience. Still, it was a beautiful place, and the organization did what they could — mostly it just attracts new backpackers figuring out what to do after arriving.
Newcastle – YHA, Dogsitting & Tinder Date
After Sydney, I made my way to Newcastle. I stayed one night at the YHA to bridge the gap before my dogsitting started. The hostel was in a great location near the sea, and the facilities were nice, but the vibe wasn’t really my thing — mostly older women — and it was slightly pricier than other hostels.
Once the dogsitting started, everything fell into place. I had signed up for TrustedHousesitters, which I absolutely love. I paid $80 AUD for a year, and in return I could stay in houses or apartments for free while taking care of pets. The best part? You get your own room, your own bathroom, and free accommodation. Honestly, it’s such a great deal — I got my money’s worth many times over.
During my Newcastle stay, Luke, who was still in Sydney, texted me saying he was driving up to the Gold Coast with a rental car and could drop me anywhere I wanted between Newcastle and the Gold Coast. It felt so generous, and it made planning my next steps much easier.
Most of my days in Newcastle were pretty relaxed. I explored a little, applied for jobs, and settled into a slower pace after the busyness of Sydney. I also had a Tinder date, which turned out to be really fun and lighthearted. We went to Horseshoe Beach with his dog, played around in the sand, laughed, and just enjoyed the afternoon. Nothing serious, just a sweet, playful memory that made Newcastle feel extra special.
On my last day in Newcastle, Luke drove up to pick me up from the dogsit. He stayed a night at the host’s house because she was so kind, cooking for her in return, and then he drove me to Port Macquarie for my tennis job, which I had found via the backpacker job board. It was such a generous and helpful gesture, and it made the transition so much easier.
Fun Encounters / People
- Eva: Met at surf camp, instantly clicked, planned to see each other again.
- Luke: Helped with travel logistics, texted to offer a drop-off, picked me up from the dogsit, stayed with the host for a night, and drove me to Port Macquarie for my tennis job.
- Tinder date: A playful afternoon at Horseshoe Beach with his dog — lighthearted, fun, and memorable.
Tips & Tricks
- Surf Camp: Seven Miles Beach is organized but not ideal in spring. Byron Bay in summer is warmer, sunnier, and more fun.
- Dogsitting: TrustedHousesitters is amazing. $80 AUD for a year gives free stays in exchange for caring for pets. You get your own room, bathroom, and accommodation.
- Backpacker Job Board: A great resource for finding jobs while traveling around Australia — I found my tennis job in Port Macquarie through it.
- Newcastle YHA Hostel: Great location and facilities, but mostly older women and a bit pricier than other hostels. Perfect for one-night stays or bridging gaps.
- Newcastle city: Perfect for relaxing, job hunting, and low-key exploration.
Reflection / Closing
Sydney and Newcastle reminded me that even when things don’t go exactly as planned, there’s still room for fun, connection, and unexpected adventures. Some moments were exhausting, some rainy, and some peaceful — but all of them were memorable.
Wherever I am next, I’m learning that even chaos can feel like a beginning.
