From Convention Highlights to Epic Coastal Walks

What if change is just a new beginning in disguise? Join us on Connect and Share as we explore this profound idea with Helen Cooper, who opens our episode by paying respect to the traditional custodians of the land. We then dive into crucial updates from the Outdoor Leaders Forum, such as helmet use and second-hand equipment, and share insights from a significant meeting between the incident response committee and the Department of Defence. Helen recounts Lori's experience at the National Sports and Physical Activity Convention, shedding light on the importance of fun, friendships, freedom, and fitness to foster youth engagement. We also confront the alarming decline in physical education hours across Australia and stress the urgent need to boost physical activity among children.

Embark on an awe-inspiring journey with our guest, David Briese, as he recounts his life-changing three-month trek that inspired the 660-kilometre Great South Coast Walk from Sydney to Mallacoota. David's stories paint a vivid picture of diverse landscapes, from coastal cliffs to scenic pastures, and innovative ways to navigate through urban areas like Wollongong. Each stage of the walk presents unique challenges, promising a memorable experience for long-distance walkers. Additionally, David shares the developmental journey of the walk, detailing the feedback from bushwalking clubs and the significant strategic support from Destination New South Wales. Despite setbacks from bushfires and COVID-19, the project has now flourished into a premier walking destination.

Celebrate the success of the Great South Coast Walk project with us as we express our heartfelt gratitude to everyone involved. David shares his personal experiences and his aspirations for future extensive walks, embodying the spirit of adventure and community. We also applaud the winners of the Program of the Year Award and remind our listeners about TAFE’s open applications for outdoor leadership courses. Engage with us further as we wrap up this episode, reflecting on the positive impact that this monumental project has had on the wider community. Tune in for an inspiring discussion, and stay connected for more updates and exciting stories from the outdoor industry.

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Chapters

• 0:12 Outdoor Industry Updates and Events
• 16:46 Great South Coast Walk Overview
• 34:13 Great South Coast Walk Development Progress
• 48:37 South Coast Walk Success and Thanks