Our Crew

My story so far:

Hi I am Aisha,
I have always been passionate about the outdoors and inspiring others to love the outdoors as well. Earlier this year I spent some time studying outdoor education in New Zealand focusing mainly on tramping and rock climbing.

My favourite activity:

Rock climbing

Words of wisdom for new hikers:

You don’t need to buy expensive new gear to get started. Second hand or hand-me-downs are just as good.

My story so far:

I grew up canoeing on rivers in the southeast United States but it wasn’t until I stumbled into a summer job as a raft guide that I saw myself as “outdoorsy.” Since then, I’ve spent my past few summers living, working, and playing on rivers and lakes in Minnesota.

My favourite activity:

Hiking and Boating! and camping.

Words of wisdom for new hikers:

I like to think of hiking as a long walk with snacks. Mindset is everything. Keep putting one foot in front of the other, no matter how small the steps.

My story so far:

As a traveller, I’ve had many opportunities to explore the outdoors and experience the amazing diversity, awe and enjoyment that our world has to offer. As an educator I have seen, and continue to see, the profound impacts that outdoor programs have on those that have the opportunity to be part of them.

My favourite activity:

I just LOVE being in the outdoors. Whether it’s hiking, trail running, paddling, or climbing, being outside allows me to explore incredible places, have unforgettable experiences, and grow in ways that many people never get the chance to.

Words of wisdom for new hikers:

Stepping into an unfamiliar environment can be challenging for anyone. However, by approaching these situations with an open mind and seeing challenges as an opportunity for fun and growth, it is very likely that you’ll discover that you can do more than you thought you could… and you’ll have fun doing it!

My story so far:

I really like rock climbing and that’s outdoors. I wanted to see what else was in the outdoors so now I’m here.

My favourite activity:

I really like rock climbing I think it’s a whole lotta fun.

Words of wisdom for new hikers:

Pack light but pack enough it’s a fine line but one that must be walked.

My story so far:

I first discovered Outdoor Education through a gap year in Victoria, where I was not only able to witness incredible growth in myself but also in others, while sharing memorable experiences in extraordinary places. Soon after, I knew the career I wanted to pursue, which led me to study in New Zealand.

My favourite activity:

I love hiking expeditions, as there is something about walking with a pack full of things you need for days or weeks, and seeing where your own two feet can take you.

Words of wisdom for new hikers:

Embrace discomfort or new environments with an open mind. You’ll be amazed that there is more in you than you think!

My story so far:

Being a Kiwi I was lucky enough to grow up surrounded by mountains and coastline. When I was in High School I was given the opportunity to participate in an adventure therapy program where I found out how awesome the outdoors is.

My favourite activity:

I love hiking expeditions because you learn so much about yourself and others on such trips.

Words of wisdom for new hikers:

Expect to be uncomfortable, but just know that it’s a good thing because you’ll find out that you are capable learn of alot more than you think you are.

My story so far:

Growing up in Canberra I always enjoyed being in the outdoors but properly fell in love with the more adventurous activities it offers when I started with Outward Bound.

My favourite activity:

Swimming anywhere anytime, almost.

Words of wisdom for new hikers:

Sunscreen the back of your hands

My story so far:

I worked at a summer camp in the US in 2019 and never wanted the summer to end. So, when I came to Australia and realized that I could turn this into a full-time career that I could be passionate about it was a no brainer.

My favourite activity:

My favorite outdoor pursuit would have to be hiking because that is what got me outside in the first place. It’s the most accessible activity for people exploring their relationship with the natural world.

Words of wisdom for new hikers:

You will need less than you realize, and your pack weight will benefit from that.

My story so far:

I came from a non camping family, who encouraged me to do scouts as a good way to make friends. Years later I have made friends from around the world and seen some amazing places.

My favourite activity:

I enjoy flowing down rivers in canoes. It’s good to see people who may not be natural walkers thrive.

Words of wisdom for new hikers:

Give it your best shot, it may not be enjoyable in that moment, but type 2 fun creates the best memories.

My story so far:

I moved to the highlands of Scotland in 2019 where I found my passion for the outdoors. From there I went on to study Adventure Education and Outdoor Learning so I could work in the landscapes I love.

My favourite activity:

Hiking, especially if there’s a chance for a wild swim somewhere along the route or afterwards!

Words of wisdom for new hikers:

If you’re on a multi-day hike, pack clean dry socks for every day. It’s a small luxury but so worth it!

My story so far:

I grew up in the outer suburbs of Melbourne – surrounded by nature, mountain bike trails and mountain ash forests. We spent most school holidays camping and exploring. My happy place is leaning against a eucalypt in the sunshine!

My favourite activity:

Words of wisdom for new hikers:

Bring a resilient mindset – you will be surprised with what you can achieve!

My story so far:

Growing up in Melbourne I always enjoyed getting out of town and heading into the outdoors, a couple years ago I went on a 10 day hiking trip to Tasmania and ever since then I’ve been hooked.

My favourite activity:

Words of wisdom for new hikers:

embrace wet feet

My story so far:

I have an inability to sit still unless I have a book in my hand. Nature and outdoor spaces are where I feel the most settled and inspired so I studied Outdoor Adventure at college and went straight into the industry at 17.

My favourite activity:

Hiking or paddling long distances. Extended periods of time in the outdoors make you appreciate the little things you take for granted in regular life (like ice cream and showers).

Words of wisdom for new hikers:

Pack the extra chocolate. You deserve it.

My story so far:

Growing up in the beautiful Blue Mountains it was hard not to want to explore whenever I got the chance. The endless cool facts you can learn about nature has kept me out there!

My favourite activity:

My favourite activity would have to be rock climbing! Every time I start a climb I find myself not thinking about anything else. To me it’s the perfect blend of overcoming fear and achieving something epic!

Words of wisdom for new hikers:

If at any point you feel unsure or are curious please talk to ‘us’. This is ultimately your trip, ‘our’ job is to facilitate the best experience ‘we’ can so I invite you to connect with us and the journey that awaits. Also, make sure your clothes are in a dry bag or plastic bag

My story so far:

Always grew up playing sport and being outside whether it was in the ocean or out in the bush. Been in the industry since I was 17 working out in the Colo valley west of Sydney and a little bit on the south coast until moving to OBA in 2025

My favourite activity:

I love going on expeditions that involve lots of hiking and doing things like abseiling. Personally love to mountain bike, being out in the boat and anything outside as long as the vibes are good.

Words of wisdom for new hikers:

Come to camp with an open mindset about everything and give it a chance.

My story so far:

I love the outdoors. I grew up in Canada spending my summers camping and playing in the forest and mountains. When I discovered I could do that for work I was ecstatic. I went to school for outdoor education in the Canadain Rockies and have been working as an outdoor educator and guide ever since.

My favourite activity:

It’s hard to pick just one favourite activity. If I had to choose I’d say canoeing or hiking, although I’m also very passionate about bushcraft

Words of wisdom for new hikers:

My story so far:

I was originally studying teaching and took a break during covid. Bought a van and took a job working in far North Queensland with no experience and 4 years later I still live in the van, travel and work outdoor education. I love that every day I spend outdoors I learn something in some way shape or form.

My favourite activity:

Any kind of paddle journey.

Words of wisdom for new hikers:

My story so far:

I’ve always been most myself when surrounded by the outdoors – be it crawling in caves, rock climbing on crags, sitting around the campfire, or sleeping under the stars. The more environments I see, the more I recognize I have left to learn about life and that’s been the moving force in my life to adventure all over the United States, to Malaysia, New Zealand, and now Australia.

My favourite activity:

My favorite outdoor activity (for now!) is outdoor climbing. It’s physically and mentally challenging, but such a special space for listening to your body and connecting with friends and the land around you.

Words of wisdom for new hikers:

While I’m hiking, I remind myself constantly to look around. Not only will your posture improve, which helps you hike longer and breathe easier, but it’s easier to notice the trees and the sights than to focus on the slogging away of your feet.

My story so far:

I did outdoor ed through school and loved being outside and having the ability to work with others.

My favourite activity:

Being on the water and hiking. In personal time, riding bikes and running,

Words of wisdom for new hikers:

Everything should have two uses and think hard about what you take as all items add weight.

My story so far:

I’ve always enjoyed being outdoors, but truly found my love for it delivering bush craft camps at home in the UK during my summer breaks from university. Since then I’ve thrown myself into hiking, climbing and mountain biking, which has taken to me to some awesome locations around Europe. I’m super excited to bring my love of the outdoors to Australia and see the beautiful landscapes it has on offer!

My favourite activity:

Hiking! It’s so cool some of the places that you can explore, that only your feet can take you to! I also love the vertical adventure that is climbing, whether that’s indoors, outdoors, lead, sport or trad!!

Words of wisdom for new hikers:

My story so far:

While studying my secondary teaching degree and love for nature photography I became interested in hiking and outdoor education which led me to working at Outward Bound.

My favourite activity:

Some of my favourite outdoor activities at OBA include hiking and roping activities. Other outdoor activities I enjoy are backcountry skiing, long distance hiking and four-wheel driving.

Words of wisdom for new hikers:

If you are coming on an OBA program I recommend you bring the correct gear that’s on the packing list and be willing to try new things even if it something you think you may not like.

My story so far:

I’ve been interested in the outdoors since childhood. After university, I traveled, tried a few things and found out that this was the right industry/setting for me.

My favourite activity:

Running

Words of wisdom for new hikers:

Good coffee is key on program – get ahold of a reusable drip coffee filter, you won’t regret it.

My story so far:

I grew up in Sydney, hiking and canoeing on Duke of Ed trips. I moved to Melbourne to study music before rediscovering my love for the outdoors and choosing to study outdoor leadership.

My favourite activity:

Anything that lets me bring my banjo along.

Words of wisdom for new hikers:

A singalong makes a hike much better.

My story so far:

I fell in love with the outdoors after participating in an Outward Bound course in Northern Minnesota back in 2022. Since then, I’ve spent my summers leading canoe trips in Algonquin Park, in Ontario, Canada, and have loved every moment since!

My favourite activity:

I love any water sports, especially canoeing.

Words of wisdom for new hikers:

You can do a lot more than you think. Pushing through mental blocks when you hit a low point on trip is one of the most rewarding things you can do for yourself.

My story so far:

I am a local from the bush capital. I am an animal lover at heart who loves traveling, abseiling, high ropes and playing sport. Studying outdoor education throughout high school and college opened my eyes to the endless adventures to be found in the great outdoors.

My favourite activity:

Words of wisdom for new hikers:

My story so far:

I started my outdoor journey with Outward Bound in Vietnam 10 years ago as a trainee. Since then, I have built up my skills and knowledge as an outdoor educator. I am passionate about helping others and strive to create the best learning experience possible for my participants whenever I lead groups in the field. In my current role, I focus on coordinating Duke of Ed journeys, supporting the group leaders in the field, and assisting with operational activities.

My favourite activity:

I love climbing, especially sport climbing, and sea kayaking.

Words of wisdom for new hikers:

The beauty of hiking is the journey. Enjoy the journey rather than focusing on the destination.

My story so far:

I was born and raised in Japan until 16, then went to NZ as an exchange student and started outdoor activities.

My favourite activity:

Tramping and climbing for work and huge passion for bouldering outside of work

Words of wisdom for new hikers:

Enjoy the beautiful wild environment and make sure you’ve got your head torch

My story so far:

Senior white water Guide in Canada, looking to explore new opportunities on my front door step.

My favourite activity:

White water rafting will be the 1st but I love to sea kayak and surf.

Words of wisdom for new hikers:

Enjoy the hike.

My story so far:

I had the chance to complete outdoor education throughout my schooling, and found that it really helped me thrive and grow as an individual. I wanted to work in the outdoors to provide others with the same opportunities.

My favourite activity:

I thoroughly enjoy water based activities as it gives me such a thrill. I also love bushwalking as it allows you the freedom to explore places that you couldn’t otherwise

Words of wisdom for new hikers:

I think that you definitely need to dive in and try to make the most of all the opportunities thrown at you. Even when they feel hard or fear inducing, you can really get a lot out of them.

My story so far:

I studied Outdoor Education in New Zealand and it changed my world, so here I am in Aus exploring all it has to offer!

My favourite activity:

My favorite activity is anything to do with water!

Words of wisdom for new hikers:

To come in with an open mind set, you never know what you could learn or experience!

My story so far:

I love things that seem impossible! I became interested in the outdoors as a place for personal challenge through the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award when I was in high school, now I am passionate about making that sense of elation from achievement possible for others to experience.

My favourite activity:

My favourite activity offered with OBA is caving; I enjoy the challenge of working out how to maneuver through small spaces, and the morphology of caves is fascinating. Outside of OBA, I enjoy Stand Up Paddleboarding and both downhill and back-country skiing.

Words of wisdom for new hikers:

If you are going on a journey-based program (hiking every day), do get some lightweight hiking shoes or boots (and hiking socks) at the start of your preparation time. Hiking shoes provide better traction and ankle stability while carrying the backpack but must be properly worn in to reduce the chance of blisters.

My story so far:

My love for camping and hiking started when I was 10, and my family went on a three-month camping trip around Australia. Almost 15 years later, I spent a year travelling through South America, hiking my way along the Andes which was incredible. I’m loving being home now and exploring more of Australia, working in the outdoor sector and hoping to inspire other young Australians to get outside.

My favourite activity:

All the activities are great, but if I had to choose a favourite it would be the rock climbing and abseiling – it’s such a different way to experience the outdoors.

Words of wisdom for new hikers:

There’s no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothes!

My story so far:

My first high school Duke of Edinburgh expedition ignited my love for the outdoors. Decades later, I have forged a fifteen-year career in business development, communications, and marketing, drawing on the skills developed during those trips to help promote the benefits of outdoor education.

My favourite activity:

The high ropes course—of course! Equal parts fun and nerve-tingling, it’s a great way to build teamwork. When I’m not at OBA’s epic Tharwa base, you’ll find me hiking, camping, mountaineering, or chasing snow sports—I’m happiest (and most exhilarated) in the mountains.

Words of wisdom for new hikers:

Tap into the knowledge base of OBA’s highly qualified and experienced guides. Ask questions, get involved, and don’t be afraid to fail (in my case, over and over at first). Big growth starts here.

My story so far:

The outdoors has always felt like home, shaped by growing up on a farm and exploring the bush around Morton National Park in Bundanoon. My love of nature was fostered by my family and strengthened through my high school Duke of Edinburgh experience. I now carry that passion into my work, supporting people of all abilities to build confidence, connection and belonging in nature.

My favourite activity:

Any activity in the mountains with good company, whether hiking, skiing, or trail running with friends or my dog, Tilly, is time well spent. As Piglet once said to Pooh, it’s not just about the journey or the destination, but who you share it with.

Words of wisdom for new hikers:

Bring extra snacks and a raincoat wherever you go. Full bellies and dry clothes make everything better.

My story so far:

I was lucky enough to spend a lot of time in the outdoors as a young person, including an Outward Bound program with my high school. Looking back on the positive impact OBA had on me and my peers—and now being part of providing that same opportunity to others—is incredibly rewarding.

My favourite activity:

Absolutely anything, as long as there are good people around—and at OBA, there always are.

Words of wisdom for new hikers:

Break in your boots.

My story so far:

Joined the OBA Finance Team in 2016 and have remained a committed member through significant events, including the bushfires and the COVID-19 pandemic.

My favourite activity:

Travelling

Words of wisdom for new hikers:

Come with an open mind, leave your phone behind, and be ready to fully disconnect—this is your chance to immerse yourself in nature, community, and personal growth. A little pre-program fitness, like regular walks or hikes, will go a long way in helping you enjoy every moment out there.

My story so far:

After 24 years running an adventure learning company, I joined Outward Bound as the Project Manager of the National Centre for Outdoor Risk and Readiness (NatCORR). And I still love being outdoors having my own adventures!

My favourite activity:

Bushwalking has been an enduring passion. Ian Stapleton called it “meaningful plodding” and that still resonates for me.

Words of wisdom for new hikers:

Put on a pack and prepare to open your mind – the best form of active meditation you’ll find!

My story so far:

My journey with Outward Bound started a long time ago, as a participant and then Group Leader in the 1980s. My love of the outdoors came from family camping holidays at places like the Grampians, Wilson’s Prom, Flinders Ranges and Kangaroo Island. I worked in the outdoors sector for the first 10 years of my career, before heading into corporate roles.

As Executive Director and Co-Chair Chair, Loren is leading this time of change. Loren appreciates the spirit of Outward Bound, having worked as an instructor in the 1980s. She knows outdoor education well from working with OEG and Sport and Recreation Victoria. Her career has extended to management consulting with the Boston Consulting Group and senior executive strategy and finance roles with Monash, RMIT and Melbourne Universities. With CPA. AICD, MBA and Doctorate of Education qualifications, she brings an exemplary skill set to steward OBA through this pivotal period. full circle, back to lead Outward Bound over the last 5 years.

My favourite activity:

I love a mountain view. I love how the mountains change with the light of the day. I particularly love them snow covered – skiing with family and friends.

Words of wisdom for new hikers:

I like to think of getting puffed or tired as not a bad thing, but as an opportunity to pause and take in the moment, the view, the detail in plants and insects, or a time for a bit more of a chat. It’s never a race. One step at a time will always get you there.

My story so far:

I have worked in the education sector for almost 25 years, predominantly in the field of outdoor education. With a career spanning work as a field guide, a classroom teacher and a senior executive, I know how outdoor education experiences can be transformative and how vital they are for young people to be able to thrive throughout life. My main area of focus is in forming long-term, strategic partnerships with schools, so that they may achieve the desired student outcomes from their outdoor education program.

My favourite activity:

Having ‘retired’ all my skill-sets many years ago now (!), I still enjoy going on multi-day bushwalks, paddling adventures and rock climbing with my family and friends.

Words of wisdom for new hikers:

“It’s good to have an end to journey towards, but it is the journey that matters in the end” Ursula Le Guin

My story so far:

Thrown into a 12-day OBA program at 14, I discovered a deep love for hiking and the outdoors. After completing a Bachelor of International Politics and a Certificate IV in Outdoor Leadership, I immersed myself in the field—working across the country with OBA and freelancing for international hiking companies. Following several years in Operations, I now lead our risk management work, where I enjoy applying a systems-based approach to support safe, purposeful, and transformative outdoor programs.

My favourite activity:

I am a lover of all things ocean- surfing, scuba diving, snorkelling and swimming. My favourite OBA activity is off-track navigating and abseiling- seeing participants overcome their fears and having those ah-ha moments.

Words of wisdom for new hikers:

Pack light, have a Hydralite each morning and drink 3L per day

My story so far:

Growing up camping and exploring wild places sparked a lifelong passion for adventure and learning in the outdoors. Since beginning my outdoor career in 2003, I’ve delivered transformative programs across the UK, Europe, New Zealand, and Australia, supporting people to grow through challenge and connection to nature. Over the past decade, I’ve progressed into senior leadership roles, focusing on building capable, values-led teams and strengthening safety and operational systems. Today, I am driven by a commitment to creating people centric, purposeful experiences that enable growth and stewardship.

My favourite activity:

Hiking is one of my favorite outdoor activity offered by OBA because it creates space for challenge, reflection, and deep connection to nature. I also love climbing, which combines problem-solving, focus, and the joy of the sense of space from high above the ground!

Words of wisdom for new hikers:

Start with curiosity and an open mind, every challenge is an opportunity to learn. Trust yourself, trust the team, and remember that growth often happens when you engage with uncertainty and adapt to what the environment gives you.

My story so far:

I got interested in the outdoors as result of my family’s passion for being in nature. I have 16 years of experience in the outdoor education sector having worked across India, USA and Australia, and have an MSc in Outdoor Education from University of Edinburgh.

My favourite activity:

I love facilitating educational outcomes using the outdoors and adventure activities as a medium. My choice of adventure medium to lead groups on is canoeing and mountain biking.

Words of wisdom for new hikers:

Be curios and go with the flow!

My story so far:

After many successful years as Head of Operations for Outward Bound Australia, Helene has taken on the role of Head of NatCORR. Bringing a wealth of international experience, she has built a reputation as one of OBA’s most respected and dedicated leaders, inspiring and mentoring generations of outdoor educators. Passionate about emergency management, organisational resilience and practical risk management, Helene is committed to developing field-ready tools, resources and workshops that help the outdoor sector navigate an increasingly complex and changing environment.

My favourite activity:

White-water paddling and mountain biking

Words of wisdom for new hikers:

Stay Hydrated