Meet Karla Pound – Wilderness Guide, Survivor & Country Kid at Heart

Karla Pound grew up catching frogs and lizards in the local creek, exploring bush trails near her home in Sydney—and even as a kid, it was clear the wild was where she belonged. From the age of four, she was part of Girl Guides, learning how to camp, hike, build fires, paddle, tie knots, and survive off the land. Fast-forward a few decades, and not much has changed—except now, she’s doing it professionally.

Karla has worked as a Naturalist Guide and Expedition Leader with National Geographic, and most recently put her skills (and resilience) to the ultimate test on SBS’s ALONE Australia—a reality series that drops contestants into remote wilderness with limited gear and zero camera crew. It’s just you, your wits, and a bunch of GoPros. And Karla thrived.

She now lives a nomadic lifestyle based out of the Whitsundays, always chasing her next wild place. Whether she’s hiking Tassie’s Overland Track, catching crabs up north, or lighting up a campfire with her trusty flint/ferro rod, Karla is as tough as she is down to earth. She’s a strong advocate for connecting with nature, learning from it, and giving back to the land in return.

In Karla’s Backpack:

• Go-to kit: Ferro rod — fire is life!

• Footwear: Lowa waterproof hiking boots – tried and tested.

• Trail food: Campers Pantry Penne Bolognese + biltong for snacking.

• Post-hike meal: Steak or ribs – big protein energy!

• Morning drink: Black coffee – simple and hits the spot.

• Post-adventure drink: A cold beer.

• Road trip playlist: Country music, always.

Karla’s dream destinations include the Kokoda Track, Larapinta Trail, and Kilimanjaro, but she holds a special place in her heart for Tasmania—Mount Ossa on the Overland Track was a personal favourite for its raw, rugged beauty and wildlife. Her perfect adventure? Swapping stories around a fire with great mates, but she also deeply values solo time in nature to unwind and reconnect.

If she could adventure with anyone, past or present, it’d be David Attenborough—her dream guide to the world’s most magical wildlife and natural wonders.

Follow Karla’s Wild World:

📸 Instagram: @karla_pound
🚣🏼♂️ Worlds Toughest Row 4800km: Team Atlantic Waterbirds
📺 Watch: ALONE Australia on SBS On Demand