The bushcraft expert and Alone Australia survival consultant Gordon Dedman also leads a secret life playing trumpet on cruise ships. This is how he travels:
I travel …
Mostly for business. For the hit TV series Alone, I travel for reconnaissance, boot camps and contestant selection.
So far, I’ve worked on seasons filmed in Tasmania and New Zealand. As a senior instructor with Bushcraft Survival Australia, I travel across Victoria, NSW, Queensland, the Northern Territory and Western Australia to run remote courses in bushcraft and survival. I’m also an army survival instructor in Norforce in Darwin and a Survive Evade Resist Escape instructor at the Combat Survival Training School in Townsville and I visit both locations several times a year.
And in my other life, I’m a professional trumpet player and musical director, touring internationally with Cunard cruise ships like the Queen Elizabeth and Queen Mary 2. Every now and then I do carve out time for a leisure holiday – I usually end up somewhere off-grid, surrounded by nature.
I mostly plan the trip…
Myself. My work-related trips are mostly booked for me, especially military or television assignments. But when it comes to Bushcraft Survival Australia courses, I handle everything myself.
Inside my carry-on you’ll always find…
My 10-piece survival kit (minus sharps for airline travel). It always includes essentials like a metal container for collecting water, cordage, compass, duct tape and key clothing and personal items. It’s second nature for me to carry this kit – you never know when it might come in handy.
As soon as I check in I…
Head straight to the Qantas lounge to catch up on admin. It’s a great time to get emails done and reset before the next mission.
My favourite type of travel companion is…
Honestly, I usually travel alone. It allows me to stay focused, efficient and flexible, especially when I’m working in demanding environments.
I like to get to the airport…
With minutes to spare. I’m not one for sitting around unless there’s a lounge involved.
The way I accumulate points is…
Linking Qantas Frequent Flyer points to my credit card. Over time, it’s helped me save significantly on flights.
I pack my suitcase…
Meticulously. I organise, pack and weigh my bag to ensure I have exactly what I need and nothing more. Efficiency is key, especially when heading into the bush. When flying, I pack strategically, ensuring I have everything I need for a night in my day bag in case my main luggage is delayed.
My one tip for cruising is…
Choose a cruise line that prioritises live music and entertainment, like Cunard or Princess Cruises. The presence of live musicians creates an unmatched atmosphere and a truly high-quality experience.
My favourite sort of travel is…
I thrive on outback adventures. Travelling to remote bush locations around Australia for my work with Bushcraft Survival Australia is my passion. The rugged landscapes, raw beauty and self-sufficiency required make every trip an unforgettable experience.
When I travel I dress…
For comfort and practicality. I always dress for the conditions I’ll be facing, whether it’s the harsh Australian outback or a long-haul flight.
My tip for keeping valuables safe is…
I always keep my valuables on my person and stay hyper-aware of my gear at all times. Situational awareness is key.
I save money when travelling by…
Only buying what I need, though I do allow myself the occasional splurge. Prioritising experiences over material things helps keep costs down.
The type of accommodation I prefer is…
Most of the time, I’m sleeping on the ground or in a hammock out in the bush for work. But when I do get the chance to stay in a hotel, I relish the chance to enjoy a hot shower and some downtime.
My preferred camping meal is…
Barramundi or mullet, cooked whole and unscaled on an open fire, Arnhem Land-style. Nothing beats fresh, fire-cooked fish in the great outdoors.
The hack saves me hundreds is…
Loyalty pays off! Get a frequent flyer number with a particular airline and stick with them. I’ve booked plenty of flights on points, and having access to lounges makes travel far more comfortable.
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