ClimbingQTs is an LGBTQ+ rock climbing club and advocacy group based in Naarm (Melbourne, Australia) where climbers have the opportunity to mix and socialise. As a collective, ClimbingQTs came together after identifying the value of fostering and expanding self-respect of non-normative gender and sexual identities. This initiative aims to promote understanding by advocating for and creating trans and queer friendly climbing spaces and events.

We aim to address the struggle and complexities of sport for people of diverse genders, sexes and sexualities and re-conceptualize the relationship between sport, gender identity and body image. Queer sport spaces can be a welcome refuge from heterosexuality and cissexism as well as place of comfort. Given the heteronormativity of athletics and sport culture, ClimbingQTs aims to create a space for this community to grow and diversify.

All levels are welcome from beginner to advanced and events range from monthly meet-ups, inclusive indoor climbing sessions and multi-day outdoor adventures. At the heart of ClimbingQTs values is creating an inclusive, diverse and empowering environment where LGBTQ+ folk can be their true selves, learn new skills, participate in active social sport and connect with the outdoors.

• No experience, insurance or equipment is necessary to participate and although membership is encouraged, it is not essential to come along and take part. We host events across so-called Australia in Victoria, New South Wales, Canberra and Queensland. All indoor events are delivered in partnership with the climbing facility and outdoor events delivered by certified and licensed climbing instructors.
• ClimbingQTs is an ally inclusive club, a strategic model that invites anyone questioning or not ‘out’ to participate in all activities.

Sponsored by The Queensland Government

This award is for individuals who have demonstrated professionalism, high achievement in a particular field and exemplary role modelling.

They should meet all or some of the Essential Criteria, and in addition they may have demonstrated excellence through:

• Consistent high quality service delivery
• Innovative instructional or educational programs
• Providing opportunities for people of all abilities

Sponsored by the Brisbane City Council

This award  is open to clubs, organisations, education providers and other enterprises that have made a valuable contribution to the outdoor community and operate with professionalism and to high standards.

They should meet all or some of the Essential Criteria, and in addition they may have demonstrated excellence through:

• Consistent high quality service delivery
• Innovative instructional or educational programs
• Development opportunities for individuals
• Providing opportunities for people of all abilities
• Innovative environmental sustainability programs
• Sustainable land management practices
• Active involvement in community environmental projects
• Creating opportunities for people to experience the outdoors

Sponsored by the Active Queenslanders Industry Alliance (AQIA)

This award is open to any organisation that supports workforce development by taking on trainee employees/volunteers, provides in-house training or supports workers to undertake external training. 

They should meet all or some of the Essential Criteria, and in addition, they may have demonstrated excellence through one or more: 

• Commitment to personal and career development of workers 
• Consistent high quality in-house training delivery 
• Provision of support for workers to undertake education and/or training with Registered Training Organisations or universities
• Trainee positions offered to a diverse range of people and abilities 
• Incorporating a commitment to the Australian Adventure Activity Standard (AAAS) within worker training

Sponsored by The Queensland Government

The recipient of this award will have achieved significant success in encouraging participation in outdoor activities through innovative program development and/or marketing.

They should meet all or some of the Essential Criteria. In addition, nominees (organisations or individuals) may have facilitated increased participation in outdoor recreation for either the general population or specific client groups through:

• Innovative programs designed to attract a broader client group
• Program modification to target a select client group
• Inclusive programs designed to engage:
  • People of all abilities and/or CALD backgrounds
  • People of all ages & gender

• Effective marketing and promotion
• Outstanding program delivery

Sponsored by K2 Basecamp

This award recognises the efforts and achievements of an individual new to the outdoor sector; a student, young person or other making a change into the field. They maybe enrolled in a structured course (eg School, TAFE, University), volunteering or working as a trainee for an outdoor activity provider.

They should meet all or some of the Essential Criteria, and in addition they may have demonstrated excellence through:

• Achievement of personal goals or marked improvement
• Exemplary leadership, role modelling and initiative
• Professional behaviour and ethical outdoor practice
• Effort over and above what is expected
• Contribution which has helped achieve significant outcomes

Sponsored by Outdoors Queensland

This award recognises the achievements of local or state government departments and/or agencies that have produced positive outcomes for the outdoor sector.

They should meet all or some of the Essential Criteria, and in addition they may have demonstrated excellence through:

• Development of supportive policies, strategies and/or actions
• Active engagement with advisory groups or committees to address community needs and values
• The provision of a diverse range of outdoor activity opportunities

Sponsored by the Brisbane City Council

This award is for individuals, organisations or committees that have developed and managed a significant* outdoor recreation event, that might include one-off or annual events such as Come-and Try days, Adventure Races, Expos or Festivals, major state / national / international championships, jamborees …

*number of competitors, entrants or attendees, the turnover or funds raised and/or the number of individuals involved in organising / running the event.

They should meet all or some of the Essential Criteria, and in addition they may have demonstrated excellence through:

• Environmental, economic and social sustainability
• Significant increase in opportunities for participation in outdoor recreation
• Consideration of appropriate risk management and safety strategies
• Coordination of significant numbers of volunteers
• Extensive involvement and support from local business / community
• Innovative promotion, event planning, marketing, sponsorship, risk management or facility design

Sponsored by Nature Play QLD

This award is for educational services or institutions, such as schools or early childhood centres, that have increased the time kids spend in unstructured outdoor play.

They should meet all or some of the Essential Criteria, and in addition they may have demonstrated excellence through one or more:

• A commitment to the nature pedagogy; nature play and outdoor learning ethos, philosophy, and practice.
• Regular, authentic, and engaging outdoor learning and nature play opportunities are valued and embedded in program practice.
• Innovative or creative approaches to curriculum interpretation in outdoor learning.
• Development of the educational grounds to maximise nature play opportunities and outdoor learning experiences.
• Outdoor learning opportunities extend beyond school/service fence into community including Bush and Beach Kindy and Forest School programs.
• Outdoor environment is suitably challenging and supports risky/adventurous play that develops risk intelligence.
• Program initiatives that support deeper connection to nature and environmental sustainability.
• Partnerships and links with the local community, including Indigenous organisations.
• Use of Nature Play QLD resources within an educational setting.

Sponsored by The Queensland Government

This award is for communities (individuals or organisations*) that have developed initiatives to increase the time kids spend in unstructured play outdoors and in nature.

They should meet all or some of the Essential Criteria, and in addition they may have demonstrated excellence through:

• Innovative programs, events or activities for children 12 years or under
• Exciting nature play spaces
• Creative resources for nature play
• Awareness raising events, publications or services

* Not educational institutions – educational organisations are encouraged to nominate for the Nature Play Education Award

Sponsored by The Queensland Government

This award recognises that outdoor recreation activities require access to places and spaces. Nominees for this award will have developed one or more outstanding outdoor recreation facilities or venues.

They should meet all or some of the Essential Criteria, and in addition, the facilities may:

• Create or substantially increase opportunities for outdoor recreation activities.
• Utilise innovative design and/or construction features
• Address the specific needs of the target user group or community.
• Follow or develop best practice methods in environmental techniques.
• Use appropriate risk management and safety strategies

Resources to help you plan and run an amazing event: Event Management