Perth Voice Interactive

WA is well-placed to cash in on a renewed interest in getting outdoors, but needs more qualified leaders to help the sector reach its potential, says the peak organisation representing educators, adventure tourism and recreation operators.

Crawley-based Outdoors WA released a report this week that pulled together decades of research into the benefits of getting people into nature, from making locals happier and healthier through to cashing in on international demand for adventure tourism.

Outdoors WA CEO Neil Le Febvre said WA’s natural landscape and plentiful parks were the perfect location for people of all ages and abilities to get outdoors and boost their wellbeing.

“The outdoors helps reduce the risk of chronic disease and plays an important role in positive physical wellbeing and mental health, no matter your age. Spending just two hours a week in nature is the optimum time to significantly improve your mental health and reduce the likelihood of developing chronic disease. 

“So many people are struggling with their mental health – getting outdoors is a positive, relatively easy and cost-free way to spend time in nature and get a shot of positive.”

The Outdoors WA report found that the outdoor industry in WA generated almost the same benefits to the state’s economy as fishing, but employed almost three times as many people.

Following Covid there’d been a big boost in people getting involved in outdoor participation, and with more older Australians keen to improve their wellbeing (and time on the planet), nature-based recreation was actually growing at a faster rate than organised sport.

There could also be major tourism benefits.

“Travellers are ready to live life to the fullest once again after having been left feeling frustrated, socially isolated and disconnected from nature during the pandemic,” the report found.

“Forecasted megatrends include ocean swimming, bushwalking and adventure racing.

“We’ve already seen it happen with world-wide explosion in mountain biking and the massive jump in bike sales. 

“Our trails, waters, forests, skies and lands are perfect for outdoor adventures and offer an opportunity to connect with an ancient culture.”

But Outdoor WA warns WA is lagging behind other states in providing opportunities to study outdoor education and called on the state and federal governments to work with the sector to develop ATAR and VET options through high schools and Tafe.

by STEVE GRANT