Modern Nomad Finds Adventure Training Dogs in Australian Outback

Karina Smith, originally from Austria, has carved out a unique life as a modern nomad in Australia's Grampians National Park. She lives among eucalyptus trees, emus, wombats, and the occasional venomous snake, a far cry from her childhood dreams of adventure inspired by characters like Indiana Jones and Tarzan.

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The Kelpie is the Australian herding dog; it copes better with the conditions there because it has shorter fur and tougher paws.

Smith, 43, embraces a flexible career, currently working as a sheepdog trainer and shepherd. She is responsible for the welfare of thousands of animals, aided by her skilled Border Collies and Kelpies. "The Kelpie is the Australian herding dog; it copes better with the conditions there because it has shorter fur and tougher paws," she explained during a visit to her hometown in Vienna, highlighting her deep connection with the animals.

Her nomadic lifestyle, spanning nearly two decades, has been driven by a desire to follow her passions. Unlike remote workers, Smith immerses herself in local opportunities. After a trial run in Cuba and a transformative six months in Australia and New Zealand, she found her work in a travel agency no longer fulfilling. "My work is always my hobby," she stated. "When the passion fades, I have to move on."

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My work is always my hobby. When the passion fades, I have to move on.

This led her to quit her job and embark on a Caribbean adventure, despite having no prior sailing experience. "As a woman traveling alone, I've had good experiences," she noted. To prepare, she honed her survival skills and first aid, even training as a firefighter in Miami, demonstrating her proactive approach to embracing new challenges.

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As a woman traveling alone, I've had good experiences.