Outdoor Industry Connect & Share Forums

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When was the last time you really thought about helmet use and term of life? In a revealing discussion that might change how you look at helmets again, industry experts unpack critical issues around helmet design, usage, and selection that go far beyond the obvious "wear a helmet" advice.

The conversation takes an unexpected turn when a seasoned professional shares a harrowing story about a 1992 fatality where a participant was killed not by a fall, but by the helmet itself during a routine abseiling activity. This leads to a fascinating examination of how helmet standards developed, with early testing focusing almost exclusively on top impacts (falling rocks) while neglecting side impacts that are equally common in real-world scenarios.

What makes this discussion particularly valuable is the practical approach to helmet selection based on activity type. The industry's highest incident category isn't falling objects but slips, trips and falls. Mountain biking helmets, climbing helmets, and kayaking helmets all have different design considerations, yet many operators haven't updated their equipment choices to reflect these differences.

Modern manufacturers have responded with significant technological advancements, including "Top and Side Protection" standards that better reflect real-world accident scenarios. But helmet selection is just one piece of the safety puzzle. The discussion also explores how Australia's growing cultural diversity introduces new considerations, such as accommodating Sikh turbans while maintaining safety standards.

Whether you're a commercial operator, an outdoor educator, or simply someone who enjoys outdoor activities, this conversation will transform how you think about that critical piece of safety equipment. Join us as we explore the intersection of safety, technology, inclusion, and risk management in the outdoors.

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A goldmine of opportunities awaits outdoor businesses ready to expand into tourism markets, as revealed in this information-packed forum featuring Destination NSW's Sandy Wilkins. For operators seeking to diversify revenue streams or navigate seasonal fluctuations, the NSW First program offers a comprehensive framework of free support to develop, promote, and sell experiences to visitors.

The secret to success? It's about understanding where your business sits on the tourism journey. Whether you're just starting out or ready to tackle international markets, the program provides targeted workshops, resources, and one-on-one mentoring tailored to your specific stage. From the upcoming Experience Development Workshops being held across NSW to sustainability assessments through Ecotourism Australia partnerships, everything is designed to build your capability without financial barriers.

Most surprising is the revelation about wellness tourism opportunities. While many associate wellness with spas and retreats, a massive 86% of wellness travelers seek "secondary wellness" experiences – mainstream activities with wellness elements incorporated. For outdoor operators, this represents a significant market alignment with minimal adaptation required.

The discussion also highlights critical industry updates, including equipment recalls for specific Black Diamond and Petzl harnesses, consultation opportunities for the PASS elective curriculum (now mentioning outdoor education), and details about the upcoming Outdoor Summit in Canberra (July 8-11).

Ready to transform your outdoor business and tap into tourism markets? Start by exploring the NSW First resources at destinationnsw.com.au/nswfirst and ensure your business is listed on the Australian Tourism Data Warehouse for maximum visibility across thousands of websites nationwide.

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What drives people to participate in outdoor activities, and how can we reach those who aren't already engaged? The latest data reveals fascinating insights into motivation, with physical health (78%), fun, social connection, and mental wellbeing topping the list. This creates both challenges and opportunities for outdoor providers looking to expand their reach.

The digital landscape is shifting dramatically for outdoor organizations. Our exploration of current social media trends reveals a "digital detox" movement affecting engagement across platforms. While Instagram and YouTube show modest gains, Facebook, TikTok, and Twitter all face declining engagement. The data points to a clear strategy: prioritize visual storytelling through video content that requires minimal reading from your audience. Video reels generate substantially higher engagement than other content types, and posts with fewer than 10 words perform best. Let your imagery communicate your message rather than relying on lengthy captions that audiences increasingly skip.

Creating truly inclusive outdoor experiences represents both an opportunity and responsibility for our industry. With one in five Australians living with a disability, understanding the barriers they face is essential. Cost remains the primary obstacle, followed by lack of knowledge about available activities, feelings of self-consciousness, and accessibility challenges. Social and emotional disabilities—often less visible than physical limitations—represent the largest segment of this population. Outdoor providers can respond through co-design with people who have lived experience, diverse activity options, program flexibility, regular inclusive events, clear communication about accessibility, and subsidized pricing options.

The outdoor industry stands at an important crossroads, balancing digital transformation with human connection while striving to make nature accessible to all. By understanding what motivates participation, adapting to changing digital behaviors, and embracing inclusive design principles, we can expand our reach while deepening our impact on increasingly diverse communities.

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Keeping the outdoor community connected is vital as we navigate the latest changes and challenges in our industry. This week’s forum brought insights on workforce developments, safety regulations, and upcoming events that shape our outdoor experiences.

- Discussed updates on casual employment and rights to request permanent positions 
- Reviewed TAFE changes affecting roping courses and training 
- Outlined upcoming sessions with Destination New South Wales 
- Treated helmet safety discussions and policy impacts 
- Emphasized the importance of continuous professional development 
- Encouraged participation in a skills gaps survey 

Join us next week for more insights and collaboration with Destination NSW! 

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Ready to uncover how you can become a vital part of the outdoor industry's future? This episode promises to equip you with the knowledge and resources to make a significant impact. We pay homage to the traditional owners of the lands and express our commitment to respecting their rich history. As advocates for the outdoor community, we unravel the many benefits of joining Outdoors NSW ACT. From advocacy support to strategic guidance and promotional tools, membership is not just about belonging—it's about leading change. Plus, learn why your participation in TAFE and Jobs and Skills Australia surveys is crucial to address industry skill shortages.

An exciting opportunity is on the horizon with our upcoming outdoor event from July 8-11. Mark your calendars as tickets roll out in March, but hurry—limited stalls are available for showcasing your innovative products and ideas. We are the vanguard of the outdoor industry in New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory, and this event is your chance to be part of shaping its future. Don't miss out on securing your spot; reach out to our team today. Join us next week as we continue to share insights and collaboration prospects to foster growth and development in this vibrant industry.

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Unlock the secrets of the outdoor industry as we kick off 2025 with our first Connect and Share session. Explore how First Nations knowledge is being woven into the VET review and discover the wealth of resources available through Outdoors New South Wales and ACT membership. From exclusive job listings to promotional opportunities and illuminating forums, we provide a treasure trove of tools designed to elevate your outdoor endeavors. Plus, with our focus on advocacy, learn how you can play a pivotal role in securing subsidies for outdoor education transport.

Join us as we recount our board's Strategy Day in Sydney, where industry luminaries like Charlene Bordley from Parramatta Bike Hub shared her outdoor experience. With insights into Western Sydney Moving's upcoming plans and crucial water safety campaigns, we spotlight initiatives set to shape the future of outdoor activities. Be part of the conversation as we address pressing issues like employee shortages and preview the enriching sessions awaiting you at the Outdoor Industry Summit in Canberra. Caro Ryan also joins us to celebrate her sensational podcast "Rescue" reaching an impressive 50,000 downloads.

Our episode casts a spotlight on international safety outreach, drawing inspiration from Ashley's "The Sharp End" podcast. Through compelling stories and expert insights, such as those from Dr. Paul Luckin, we highlight the critical importance of preparation and training. As we champion safe adventuring, particularly for solo adventurers, we extend a warm welcome to our guest speakers and maritime partners, fostering dynamic discussions and community connections. This is your invitation to join a vibrant conversation and engage in shaping a safe and thriving outdoor sector.

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Discover the art of embracing change with a new perspective as we conclude Season 2 of the Outdoors NSW & ACT Connect and Share Forums. In this reflective episode, I'm joined by the insightful Liz and Hugh to unravel the lessons of 2024 and set our sights on the promises of 2025. Liz challenges us to rethink our pace in the face of transformation, suggesting that sometimes slowing down is the key to genuine engagement. Hugh shares his unique approach to simplifying complex problems, highlighting that while simplicity can be a powerful tool, it's often the road less travelled. Together, we explore these themes, drawing inspiration from our collective experiences and the ever-evolving outdoor industry.

Our journey takes us to the heart of the National Outdoor Education Conference, where I experienced firsthand the ambitious developments at the new Western Sydney Airport. Conversations with the SkillsIQ Tourism ITAB unveiled the emerging opportunities and challenges in skills priority lists. The conference also celebrated the achievements of our community, with special recognitions for Belinda from Queensland, Outdoor Education Practitioner of the Year, and Dani Fine, our emerging practitioner of the year. Insights from Ellie and Ben on NatCORR and Tatijana's sustainability initiatives added to the vibrant mosaic of forward-thinking ideas discussed at the event.

Looking ahead, the 2025 outdoor census is set to play a pivotal role in shaping our sector's future, and we delve into its significance. The discussions cover everything from the removal and anticipated return of the adventurous training in the Defence Tender to the importance of staying informed through National Parks and Wildlife notifications. As we prepare for the upcoming meeting on February 14th and other exciting events like the AAAS review announcement, there's a palpable sense of enthusiasm for the growth and innovation the new year promises. Join us as we reflect, celebrate, and plan for a future brimming with potential.

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Unlock the secrets of integrating nature play into preschool education with Lori Modde, CEO of Outdoors NSW and ACT, as she hosts a revealing conversation with Shyeena and Ava from Macquarie University. Our discussion uncovers the hurdles preschool educators face in New South Wales, such as high costs, staff shortages, and rigid regulations, while offering promising strategies to overcome them. We celebrate the inspiring achievements of Hugh and Bridie, who were honoured for their excellence in Accessible Tourism at the NSW Tourism Awards, highlighting the community's commitment to inclusive and innovative practices. 

Discover innovative recommendations from Nicole of Greater Sydney Parklands on making nature-based learning more accessible through cost-effective professional development. We share insights into the declining trend of outdoor engagement and the potential of drawing inspiration from Indigenous Australian practices to reconnect with nature. This episode provides a roadmap for educators and policymakers to embrace the benefits of nature play, aiming to create an educational framework that nurtures curiosity and environmental stewardship among children.

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What if taking a stroll through nature could not only boost your health but transform your career? Join us for a compelling conversation with Lori Modde from Outdoors NSW & ACT where Will Lockhead from Stoker Adventure and Recreation Marketplace shares an inspiring quote from Matthew McConaughey, urging us to give our every endeavour our all. Explore how Macquarie University's Nature Play Study presents groundbreaking research and learn about the exciting developments at the National Outdoor Education Conference. We also dive into the challenges in the outdoor industry, particularly the shortage of tour guides, with insights from Service and Creative Skills Australia. Plus, we had experts like Marcus from SES Victoria and Maggie from the National Parks and Wildlife Service at the Back Country Summit this week, as they tackle pressing issues in our Back Country Alpine regions.

Discover the crucial impacts of inactive lifestyles in Western Sydney and the dedicated efforts of Western Sydney Moving, a charity devoted to enhancing health through active recreation. We discuss the Office of Sport new strategy and Play Her Way strategy and its mission to increase women's participation in sports. Moreover, we highlight the significance of safety standards and public imagery on insurance implications within the outdoor industry. Anticipate the upcoming Outdoor Industry Summit in July, with its focus on climate change adaptation and rich discussions on outdoor readiness. Lastly, get updated on the National Parks and Wildlife account system, new job platforms, and the ACHPER conference's opportunity for advancing outdoor leadership education.

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Unlock the secrets of outdoor leadership as we explore the dynamic world of outdoor qualifications. Begin with a heartfelt acknowledgment of the traditional owners of the lands, inspired by Aunty Margaret's Welcome to Country, which beautifully brings Aboriginal art and culture to life. From the exciting announcement of outdoor leaders on immigration lists to the vibrant highlights of the mountain biking symposium, we promise an engaging journey through the multifaceted motivations, community spirit, and challenges faced in this vibrant sector.

Join us as we transition into a project-focused discussion on the review process of outdoor recreation qualifications, where our guest speaker emphasises the importance of aligning certificates and diplomas with the industry's current needs. With a technical committee and subject matter experts at the helm, we ensure that engaging industry feedback and enhancing career pathways remains a priority. Stay informed through project updates and consultations, and seize the opportunity to contribute your insights during this pivotal 12-month review period.

Delve into the evolving nature of Good Practice Guides and Adventure Activity Standards as we address the challenges of limited Registered Training Organisations and economic barriers to training. We'll shine a light on the role of SkillsIQ in advocating for inclusion in funding programs and stress the importance of collaboration and open dialogue. By equipping individuals with necessary skills and experiences, we aim to create a brighter future for outdoor education qualifications. Join the conversation and be part of shaping the industry's journey forward.

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