Agenda Schedule

Noongar boodja refers to the traditional land and country of the Whadjuk Noongar people, covering the greater Perth metropolitan area in Western Australia. It signifies more than just geography, representing a profound spiritual, physical, and cultural connection to the land, including its waterways, seasons, and Dreamtime stories.

Jayden Boundry is a proud Wadjak, Balardong, Yued, Wilman Noongar and Badimaya Yamatji man with strong family connections to much of the Southwest of WA. Jayden will enrich your conference experience and First Nation cultural knowledge as he takes you on a journey across Noongar Boodja.

Crossing the Ice is a highly inspiring and stimulating talk, packed with practical insights on the power of collaboration and teamwork and the mindset needed for succeeding when navigating highly volatile environments.

In 100 years of polar exploration, no one had ever walked from the edge of Antarctica to the South Pole and back without any support. Many had tried. None had succeeded—not until Cas and his partner made history by completing the longest unsupported polar journey. They defied the odds, turning an audacious goal into reality through grit and teamwork.

Embark on an extraordinary journey with James Castrission. As a record-breaking explorer and former Deloitte management consultant, he understands what it takes to succeed in both worlds—offering unique insights and proven strategies.

This session is a fast-paced, inspiring look at the incredible work of the World Trails Network and its Task Teams. Discover how our Task Teams and Chapters collaborate around the globe to make a real impact—this is a quick overview you won’t want to miss!

We’re in uncharted territory marked by a range of global conflicts, regime changes, policy reversals and funding cuts. How are trail organisations adapting? What challenges and opportunities lie ahead? What do trail organisations need to navigate, and succeed, in this ever-changing landscape? Join us for a hearty discussion as our panellists discuss the impact of geopolitics on trails.

Learn more about Canada’s oldest and longest continuous footpath and one of Ontario’s largest land trusts. Hear how the Bruce Trail Conservancy continues to build on its success from funding to land securement to effective communication strategies. Discover how the BTC has become a multi-million-dollar organisation through use of its dual mandate of preserving land and providing access to the iconic Niagara Escarpment.

• Michael McDonald, CEO, Bruce Trail Conservancy
• Jackie Randle, Vice President Operations, Bruce Trail Conservancy
• Marsha Russell, Vice President Fund Development, Bruce Trail Conservancy
• Brooke Henry, Development Coordinator, Bruce Trail Conservancy

Moderator: Katie Brown, CEO, Outdoors WA

Heyscape has expanded its off-grid accommodation in Denmark, Western Australia with an additional 15 cabins, and will soon add a stand-alone trail lodge with sauna and wellness studio. Complimentary e-bikes allow guests greater access to explore the area including the Munda Biddi Trail, which runs through the property.

This Q&A style session explores a variety of topics including land access, nature-based accommodation, regenerative tourism, access to National Parks, trail building, and maintenance planning and engaging community organisations as it tells the story of how private business, government departments, not-for-profits and philanthropic landowners worked together on this first of its kind ecotourism solution in the South West.

Be part of a milestone moment as the World Trails Network presents the first-ever World Trails Awards. This inspiring session celebrates trail organizations and projects from around the world demonstrating excellence in sustainability, community engagement, tourism, cultural heritage, and accessibility. Meet the finalists, hear their stories, and join us in honouring the leaders shaping the future of trails worldwide.