Outdoor Industry Connect & Share Forums
Outdoor Industry Connect & Share Forums
Outdoor Industry Updates: Leadership Changes and New Opportunities
The outdoor education landscape in Australia is undergoing a significant transformation. The Outdoor Education Group has sold their New South Wales property, Wombaroo, to the Great Aussie Bush Camp, while Belgravia Outdoor Education has acquired OEG's journey business with its 40-year legacy of operations. These changes signal new directions for established outdoor education providers and fresh opportunities for program development across the sector.
Leadership shifts continue with Adam Berry's appointment as Deputy Secretary of the Office of Sport in NSW, bringing valuable industry knowledge to this influential government position. This advancement, coupled with ongoing advocacy around e-microbial product requirements affecting e-bike operations, demonstrates the growing recognition of outdoor recreation's importance at policy levels.
Professional development remains central to industry growth, with the Pinnacle Leadership Program's new networking sessions creating valuable peer mentoring opportunities. Meanwhile, technological innovation is opening doors for outdoor businesses, as AI agents offer solutions to streamline customer service and operational efficiency. These digital tools, specifically designed for tourism and outdoor recreation providers, allow staff to focus on creating exceptional experiences rather than administrative tasks.
The Outdoor Learning Mini Conference in Canberra exemplifies the industry's commitment to knowledge sharing and practical skill development. Beginning with a cultural burn experience, the conference brings together approximately 70 educators seeking to take learning beyond classroom walls. The practitioner-focused approach addresses critical barriers teachers face when attempting to incorporate outdoor experiences into educational programs, from policy navigation to safety considerations and cultural context.
For outdoor businesses looking to expand, numerous opportunities are emerging through partnerships with Destination NSW, funding for safety equipment, and tenders with National Parks NSW to support inexperienced campers. The Western Sydney Moving initiative further highlights the industry's potential to address physical activity challenges in diverse communities.
Join us next week as we welcome Linda from National Parks NSW to discuss their innovative camping services tender in detail. Want to stay connected? Access all our professional development resources through our centralized portal and mark your calendar for our upcoming AGM on October 27th.
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