New directors for peak outdoor industry body

Marking 49 years of representing the outdoor industry, Outdoors NSW & ACT Limited has announced Dylan Jones, Peter Kent and Catherine Shaw as its new directors.

Added to the Outdoors NSW & ACT board at its Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Parramatta this week the appointments followed a successful industry workshop focused on future challenges and strategic planning for the outdoor industry.

Held in partnership with Small Business Month, the workshop assisted participants with their small business health, brand and teams as they navigate the next few years challenges.

Held at the AON Insurance offices, AON and Affinity Insurance Brokers supported the event through providing a great venue for the workshop and then the AGM following.

Outdoors NSW & ACT Limited is looking at ways communities understand the benefits that the connection to nature can provide in today’s society, including the current challenge of embedding the outdoor classroom into the classroom - mindful of the many benefits it can deliver for youth. Including improving their mental health.

The industry workshop served as a platform to discuss the evolving landscape of outdoor activities and sustainability. It played a pivotal role in shaping the organisation's strategic plan for the years ahead, as well as give considerations for the organisations in the industry to help build their own resilience and emphasising adaptability and innovation in response to emerging industry trends and environmental challenges.

During the AGM, the annual report for the 49th year of operation was presented, showcasing outstanding results for Outdoors NSW & ACT Limited and the impacts for the broader outdoor industry as they recover from the challenges of 2020-2022. The organisation's commitment to excellence in advocacy and its tireless efforts in promoting the outdoor industry in economic and social networks were evident in the report's remarkable achievements.

Dr Phil Hamdorf, President of Outdoors NSW & ACT Limited, commented “I am very proud of what we have achieved in 2022-2023, and it was great to stop and recognise what that looked like. I was even more excited listening to the industry’s input on the future and what they see needs changing to maximise our industry’s opportunities.

“This has given us so much insight into ensuring we can continue to lead and provide the industry with more tools and resources so that they can realise their own potential.”

Outdoors NSW & ACT Limited Chief Executive, Lori Modde emphasised that the work continues with the same momentum, adding “as we start to see significant results of our work it is inspiring our team to do more … having the strategic session was a great way to help inform industry of what they need to know as well as gain feedback on what’s important to them”.

Catherine Shaw is currently serving as the Head of The Nature School in Port Macquarie.

She Shaw brings a wealth of experience in outdoor education and a deep commitment to fostering a connection between people and nature.

Commenting on her role, Shaw stated “I feel incredibly privileged to influence the connection of nature and education in Port Macquarie and I hope to be able to influence that connection across NSW and the ACT as a newly appointed Director.

“Thank you to the members who have faith in me to help drive the organisation and industry forward.”

Peter Kent, the Principal of the Birrigai Outdoor School in the ACT, joins the board with a strong passion for outdoor learning and connection to Country.

He noted “it is a privilege to be elected to the board.

“I look forward to working together with other very capable representatives of the outdoor sector to ensure that all young people have the opportunity to play, learn and thrive in the outdoors.”

Dylan Jones, representing Valley Outdoors in Kangaroo Valley, has had a 20-year career in the outdoors and adds valuable insights from the adventure tourism sector with experience in sustainable outdoor activities aligns closely with the organisation's core values.

He explains "I have long advocated for the role and work of Outdoors NSW & ACT, and I am honoured to be supported by the members in becoming a Director of their peak body.

“Amongst our future opportunities I will be advocating for diversity and inclusion across our industry and leadership. I hope for Outdoors NSW & ACT Limited to show that practically by seeking to ensure all people are included physically, socially, culturally and economically in the mission of the organisation - so no one misses out on opportunities to be outdoors."

As Outdoors NSW & ACT Limited enters its 40th year of operation in 2024, the organisation remains dedicated to its mission of promoting outdoor activities, education, and sustainability.

It supports the organisations and individuals involved in the $7 billion outdoor recreation, outdoor education, adventure tourism and nature therapy sectors and that ensures communities have consistent opportunities in connecting with nature for health, wellbeing and resilience.

Images (from top): Outdoors NSW & ACT, Catherine Shaw, Peter Kent and Dyland Jones.