Outdoors NSW & ACT Celebrates Growth, Leadership, and Legacy at 2025 AGM

Outdoors NSW & ACT has marked another milestone year at its Annual General Meeting held on 27 October 2025, celebrating sector achievements, welcoming new leaders, and honouring one of its most respected champions with life membership.

The event featured Adam Berry, Deputy Secretary of the NSW Office of Sport, who addressed attendees on the continued importance of collaboration between government and the outdoor sector in shaping healthy, resilient communities. His remarks reinforced the vital role that recreation plays in government, and the benefits to community and updated members on the governments policies to drive activity, workforce development, and participation outcomes across the state.

A highlight of the afternoon was the presentation of Life Membership to Professor Tonia Gray, recognising her exceptional lifetime contribution to outdoor education and research. Professor Gray’s decades-long advocacy has elevated the profile of outdoor learning nationally and inspired countless practitioners, educators, and policymakers to champion the value of connecting people with nature.

“Professor Gray’s impact on outdoor education and wellbeing in Australia is immeasurable. Her dedication to evidence-based practice and mentoring future leaders embodies the spirit and purpose of Outdoors NSW & ACT,” said Peter Kent, Chairman of Outdoors NSW & ACT.

The AGM also welcomed two new Directors to the Board — Emma Williams and James (Jimmy) Collins — bringing fresh perspectives and deep expertise to guide the organisation’s strategic direction.

Emma Williams, from Paddy Pallin and Jervis Bay Kayaks, joins the Board with a wealth of experience in outdoor retail, destination management, and small business leadership. Her focus on sustainable tourism, community engagement, and collaborative partnerships will be instrumental as the organisation continues to strengthen connections between industry and consumers.

James Collins, an outdoor leader and program coordinator with extensive experience in education and adventure facilitation, brings governance experience and a youthful perspective. Currently serving as an Instructor at Barker College’s Outdoor Education Centre and Secretary of the Australian Slacklining Association, James’ insight into risk management and training pathways adds valuable depth to the Board’s future focus areas.

The AGM also reflected on a year of significant achievement, as highlighted in the 2024–2025 Annual Report. Outdoors NSW & ACT recorded a fourth consecutive financial surplus and delivered landmark initiatives including:

• The inaugural Outdoor Learning Mini Conference and Mountain Bike Symposium,

• Provision of the Pinnacle Leadership Program empowering women in outdoor leadership,

• The Outdoor Industry Census, revealing critical workforce and growth data, and

• Strengthened partnerships with the NSW Office of Sport and industry stakeholders.

These achievements underpin the organisation’s commitment to a thriving, sustainable outdoor sector across NSW and the ACT.

“This year’s results demonstrate the strength of our community and the growing recognition of the outdoors as essential to health, education, and wellbeing,” said Lori Modde, CEO of Outdoors NSW & ACT.“We look forward to working with our new Directors, members, and partners to keep building momentum for the sector in 2026 and beyond.”

For more information or to download the full 2024–2025 Annual Report, visit👉 www.outdoorsnswact.org/governance