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What if you could transform your understanding of Indigenous collaboration and safety in the outdoor industry all in one episode? This week, we promise to take you on a journey through the diverse opportunities and pressing topics impacting our field today. We honour the traditional custodians of the land while exploring Aboriginal data sovereignty and the rich tapestry of First Nations experiences. Meanwhile, the Blue Mountains unit of the SES Bush Search and Rescue is calling for outdoor enthusiasts with a passion for volunteerism. We also celebrate the Blue Mountains Climbing School, which has climbed its way to the finals of the New South Wales Tourism Awards. 

For those seeking growth and fresh opportunities, our new job portal serves as a free gateway to your next adventure in the outdoors industry. We'll update you on recent incidents and safety management, delve into the latest research from Macquarie University, and share vital insights on qualifications and environmental challenges. From delays in defence tenders to the rescheduled Backcountry Summit, there's a lot to cover. Finally, we highlight the importance of participating in the annual census to keep our industry thriving and informed. Join us as we navigate these currents and look forward to continuing the conversation next Friday.

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Get ready to uncover the vibrant world of outdoor careers with Bridie from Blue Mountains Climbing School. Our exploration brings into focus the essential role of acknowledging traditional landowners and the shared stewardship of the natural environments we adore. Bridie shares her unique perspective on how engaging with diverse organisations can revolutionise industry standards, highlighted by the Merimbula Mountain Bike Symposium's innovative Merimbula Manifesto. Discover how collaboration can redefine outdoor industry practices and create a more inclusive future.

We're bringing you the latest buzz in the outdoor industry. The Outdoor Council of Australia is gearing up for a groundbreaking project that will set new industry standards and guidelines, starting early next year. We delve into the critical importance of updating operational plans, particularly as we face unpredictable weather conditions. By harnessing the power of citizen science, we can significantly enhance our predictions and responses to environmental challenges, creating a more resilient industry. Stay informed with resources from the Outdoors New South Wales and ACT members portal, a vital tool for staying ahead in these ever-evolving times.

Mark your calendars for an exhilarating lineup of events that promise networking and professional growth. From a not-to-miss conference in Parramatta to the National Outdoor Education Conference in December 2024 with global speakers, there's something for everyone. As we wrap up, we reflect on the technical hurdles of podcasting, embracing the continuous journey of learning and sharing.

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Discover the key to thriving in Australia's outdoor industry while facing challenges like instructor shortages and climate risks. In this episode, we promise to equip you with insights on how the industry is navigating these obstacles and embracing sustainability. Hear from Zac, who sheds light on the intricacies of weather-related risk assessments and the implications of increasingly frequent park closures. We also introduce our new job listing website for members, addressing the urgent need for outdoor adventure instructors across the country. Plus, learn about the innovative research projects from Macquarie University and RMIT that are pushing the boundaries of environmental education.

Get ready to immerse yourself in the vibrant outdoor event landscape with updates on upcoming gatherings like the Mountain Bike Symposium in Merimbula, where pivotal conversations on sustainable biking practices will take place. We discuss a range of other exciting events, from the PDHPE conference to the National Outdoor Education Conference in 2024, all aimed at bringing the community together to promote outdoor learning and sustainability. We wrap up by inviting your suggestions for future events and reminding you that our next update will resume in early November. Don't miss the chance to stay informed and engaged with the opportunities and challenges shaping the outdoor industry today!

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Curious about the future of outdoor education and adventure tourism? Join our latest episode where we promise to unpack the transformative initiatives reshaping these sectors. From Lori's pivotal role at the Australian Regional Tourism Convention, tackling crucial issues like insurance and national park access, we dive into the launch of a new job portal on the Outdoors NSW ACT website. This episode is brimming with excitement as we unveil digital badges recognising outdoor skills, and a groundbreaking step for high school students in New South Wales: the Certificate III in Outdoor Leadership. Whether you're an industry pro or just passionate about outdoor education, there's something here to spark your interest.

Stay informed with our overview of upcoming events that are set to redefine outdoor and adventure activities. We bring attention to the Backcountry Summit for Alpine Operators and the Mountain Biking Symposium in Merimbula, urging you to engage with the snow activities event discussion paper that's crucial for Alpine region operators. Don't miss insights from the Grant Tender Workshop focused on Defence Force training. We also offer a sneak peek into major conferences like the Australian Health and Physical Education conference and this year's National Outdoor Education Conference. Mark your calendars for the Outdoor Industry Summit and Outdoor Learning Mini Conference in Canberra, ensuring you stay at the forefront of this evolving field.

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What if you could unlock the secrets to successful collaboration in the great outdoors? Get ready to explore valuable insights and updates from Outdoors NSW and ACT with our special guest host, Helen, stepping in for Lori. We begin by honouring the traditional custodians of the land before diving into significant news, including a groundbreaking opportunity for year 11 and 12 students with a new certificate three program in government schools. Celebrate with us the achievement of reaching 500 downloads of our Connect and Share episodes and gain a deeper understanding of the Australian Fire Danger Rating System as we approach the festive season.

Discover the practical implications of the updated land and water management rating system for managers, particularly in Queensland, as well as the exciting advancements in outdoor leadership. Helen provides an inside look at the Pinnacle Leadership Program, designed to empower women in the outdoor industry, and offers a rundown of key events like the Backcountry Summit and Mountain Bike Symposium. Our conversation also extends to the Department of Defence's adventurous training tender papers, offering clarity on timelines and training specifics, ensuring our listeners are well-informed.

Explore the challenges and solutions for school camps in Victoria, as we tackle financial hurdles and the end of the Positive Start program. We discuss strategies for diversifying revenue streams and emphasize the importance of stakeholder collaboration for sustaining school camps. As we wrap up, we highlight the importance of inclusivity in snow activities and extend our well wishes for the long weekend in New South Wales. Join us for a Q&A session where we address ongoing topics and share experiences to keep our community engaged.

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Ever wondered how the wisdom of First Nations people can shape our business strategies? Join us as we honor their cultural heritage and explore the art of adaptability, both in nature and in the corporate world. We also dive into the crucial discussions from the recent Land Managers Forum, where Water NSW teamed up with National Parks and Wildlife, Crown Lands, and Forestry to discuss working with the Outdoor Industry. Celebrate with us the remarkable turnout for the Women in Leadership program and get insights on how the upcoming federal election and key policy changes could impact our industry. Plus, with summer on the horizon, we break down the fire danger rating system to keep you informed and prepared.

Get ready for a packed calendar of industry events! We’re excited to announce our collaboration with Natcorr for a full day of content on July 9th 2025, which will focus on risk and readiness in the outdoor industry, followed by diverse sessions on the 10th and 11th July. And we’re not stopping there—our Outdoor Learning Mini Conference has expanded to two days, set for September 27th-28th in Canberra. This episode is bursting with important dates and details, so make sure to tune in and mark your calendars. We can’t wait to hear your thoughts and share this exciting journey with you!

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What if the challenges faced by the outdoor industry in the U.S. are strikingly similar to those in Australia? That’s one of the fascinating insights you'll gain from this engaging episode of Friday Connect and Share, featuring Lori Modde, and our special guest, Neil. Broadcasting from the serene outdoors of Dharug country, this 32nd session of Season 2 is filled with heartwarming stories, industry updates, and thoughtful exchanges. We honour the traditional owners of the land before diving into the week's highlights, including an eye-opening American Trails webinar and the inspiring First Hike Project that Neil has passionately developed.

Listeners will be thrilled to discover some exciting developments in the outdoor and educational sectors. From the insightful podcast "Advancing the Outdoor Professional" to the groundbreaking introduction of Certificate III in Years 11 and 12 in New South Wales government schools, there’s plenty to be optimistic about. We also discuss the upcoming review of the SIS package and the Australian Adventurous Activity Standard (AAAS), both pivotal for setting industry benchmarks. Moreover, the newly launched Pinnacle Leadership Program aims to empower women in outdoor leadership, supported by the New South Wales and ACT governments.

Neil’s journey with the First Hike Project is nothing short of inspirational. Since its inception in Perth in 2016, the project has expanded to major cities across Australia, offering hiking and camping adventures for newly arrived youth from refugee backgrounds. Neil shares the diverse programs available, including female-only events and day hikes, all facilitated by a committed volunteer-driven model. Learn how recent support from Paddy Palin has helped ease financial strains and about an innovative participant-to-guide training course developed. This episode wraps up with a heartfelt conversation about managing publicity, exploring potential collaborations, and extending our gratitude to our dedicated audience. Join us for a session that promises to enrich your understanding and appreciation of the outdoor industry!

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Ever wondered how to balance the thrill of outdoor adventures with the importance of mental well-being? This episode promises to provide invaluable insights into self-care practices for outdoor enthusiasts. We explore the significance of "R U Ok? Day" and stress the necessity of regular check-ins with oneself and others. Don't miss Dave's powerful reflections on self-care and how prioritising it helps us better support our community. We also celebrate recent achievements, including Huskisson's gold award for top tourism town and a notable visit to Canberra.

Adventure tourism is booming, and there's no better time to dive into its potential for businesses in New South Wales. Learn how Penrith Whitewater Stadium is paving the way to becoming export-ready and what this means for local economies with an impressive $11.8 billion contribution from inbound tourism. We examine key markets like the USA and China, dissecting their spending habits and how businesses can strategically position themselves to attract youth travellers and education-driven visitors. Practical steps to become export-ready and the importance of leveraging online resources are also on our radar.

Stay updated with the latest industry opportunities and crucial events. From an important Defence Tender for adventurous Army training to the AAAS review project role and Tidbinbilla National Park management plan review, there's a lot to engage with. We also reflect on our community's growth and successes, such as the Active Outdoor Kids program. Mark your calendars for our upcoming AGM, and don't miss the announcement of significant events like the extended outdoor learning mini-conference and the highly-anticipated industry summit in Canberra. Connect with us to stay ahead in the outdoor adventure industry.

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Curious about how the outdoor industry can partner with the Department of Defence or what it takes to roller ski from Brisbane to Sydney? Join us on the 30th episode, of season 2, of Connect and Share as we discuss these intriguing topics and more with Lori Modde, CEO of Outdoors NSW and ACT. We'll explore the latest opportunities for outdoor providers, delve into the AAAS review project, and get the inside scoop on the upcoming Backcountry Summit. You'll also hear about the recent Victorian Backcountry Festival, which, despite challenging weather, managed to impress attendees with its impactful presentations and thoughtful discussions on snow guidance.

We have an inspiring segment featuring ultra-endurance athlete Rochelle, who shares her remarkable journey and the launch of the Sisters on Skates project. This ambitious 1,000-kilometre roller skiing expedition aims to raise $100,000 for three women's charities. Rochelle talks about the logistics, the motivation behind skiking, and how resilience and community engagement drive her mission. Tune in to uncover how personal challenges can fuel social change and learn about the vital events shaping the future of outdoor education.

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Ever wondered how honouring a legacy can transform lives? Join us as we broadcast live from the stunning AON offices in Parramatta, where we begin with a profound acknowledgment of the traditional landowners. This episode brings you the touching story of Jersey Day and Nathan Gremmo's incredible legacy of organ donation. We then delve into the significance of the Australian Adventure Activity Standards (AAAS), underscoring their vital role in ensuring safety during outdoor activities. Listen to why these guidelines are essential for effective risk management and how prioritising participant and staff well-being over business profitability is crucial in our industry.

Stay tuned for the latest buzz in the outdoor education and mountain biking sectors! We'll guide you through the perks of attending the Mountain Bike Symposium, with extended early bird rates until September 10th, and the opportunities awaiting at the National Outdoor Education Conference. Mark your calendars for next year's key events, including the Outdoor Industry Summit in July and the Outdoor Learning Mini Conference in September. Plus, don’t miss out on the free Destination NSW Visitor Economy Forum on October 3rd. This episode is packed with essential updates and opportunities you won't want to miss!

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Our members get access to a whole range of additional information and support - you can join here and start receiving the benefits today.