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Drs. Loren Miller and Clare Dallat attended the USA Wilderness Risk Management Conference (WRMC) in Portland, Oregon, by invitation. Their presentation focused on climate change risk in the Australian outdoors and highlighted the initiatives of NatCORR. The impact of wildfire smoke on air quality emerged as a key theme at the conference, particularly given the devastating 2023 Canada and California fire season. Clare and Loren were able to connect with Luc Mehl, an expert in the use of technology for weather forecasting and terrain condition analysis for outdoor programs. Jeff Jackson’s work on building an organisation’s safety culture was also pivotal, highlighting the need for flexibility during times of change and uncertainty.
Outward Bound’s International World Conference in Brazil followed the WRMC. The conference brought to life the rich diversity of Outward Bound across more than 30 countries. In showcasing the work of NatCORR and engaging with others about the challenges of climate change, it was fascinating to hear who is similarly already being dramatically impacted (Florida USA with hurricanes, Canada with Wildfires, and the Middle East with extreme heat), and other Outward Bound schools who are noticing climatic and environmental changes, but not yet at an extreme level of disruption.
Wishing you all a safe and happy festive season!
