Outdoors NSW & ACT awards Life Membership to Professor Tonia Gray

Outdoors NSW & ACT (ONSWACT) is proud to announce the awarding of Life Membership to Professor Tonia Gray, recognising her outstanding, decades-long contribution to outdoor learning, nature-based education, and the health and wellbeing of communities across NSW and the ACT.

Professor Gray has been a tireless advocate, educator and researcher whose work has strengthened the evidence base for outdoor and experiential learning, advanced inclusive practice and leadership, and inspired countless educators, practitioners and students to connect people with nature.

Peter Kent, Chair of ONSWACT, said:

“Professor Tonia Gray’s leadership has elevated the outdoor sector in every way—through rigorous research, committed advocacy and genuine collaboration. Her impact is felt in classrooms, on country and in policy conversations across our state and territory. On behalf of the Board, I’m delighted to confer Life Membership in recognition of her remarkable service and enduring legacy.”

Professor Gray welcomed the honour, noting:

“This recognition reflects a collective effort by educators, land managers, community leaders and industry partners who believe in the power of the outdoors to transform lives. I’m deeply grateful to ONSWACT and look forward to continuing our shared work to make nature-based learning accessible, inclusive and sustainable.”

About Professor Tonia Gray

A pioneering scholar and educator in outdoor and experiential learning, Professor Gray’s career spans more than three decades. Her transdisciplinary work has focused on human–nature relationships, health and wellbeing, gender equity in leadership, and environmental stewardship, shaping practice and policy across schools, higher education and the outdoor industry.

Tonia presenting at the Outdoor Learning Mini Conference, Birrigai Outdoor School, September 2025.