This follow-up article checked in with Curtin Springs, a long-standing stop connected with AusCamp’s Central Australia journey programs.
Lyndee Severin described Curtin Springs as a family-owned pastoral and tourism business on the Lasseter Highway. Its history stretches back to 1956, when Peter and Dawn Severin arrived to manage the cattle station and began welcoming early travellers through the region.
By April 2020, travel restrictions had changed daily life dramatically. Visitor services were closed, traffic had nearly stopped and staff were working through the practical challenge of maintaining a remote business with very little income.
The contribution also showed the resilience of a diversified station. While tourism paused, pastoral work, maintenance, local support and family life continued. Curtin Springs remained connected to the landscape, its staff, nearby businesses and future travellers.
AusCamp retained this story because journey programs depend on real relationships with the people and places along the route. Those relationships help students see that outdoor education is not only about the destination, but also about the communities that make travel meaningful.
With thanks to Lyndee Severin and Curtin Springs.