NATURE PLAY QLD ANNUAL REPORT MAY 2015 - MAY 2016 Play Q… · Advocate the importance of nature play to Government and private bodies and agencies who work with children % V & organisational

NATURE PLAY QLD ANNUAL REPORT MAY 2015 - MAY 2016

An outdoor playrich future

Getting more

Queensland kids playing

outdoors, more often

NATURE PLAY QLD ANNUAL REPORT 2015 | 2016 www.natureplayqld.org.au2 3

About Us ................................................................................................................4Our Programs ........................................................................................................5

Passport to an Amazing Childhood program ...................................................5Family Nature Clubs ........................................................................................5Licence to Play Outdoors .................................................................................5

Case Study: Mud Lark in the Park 2! .....................................................................6Performance Highlights 2015 - 2016 ..................................................................7,8Leading Important Community Nature Play Conversations...................................9Report from Chair of Advisory Committee, Norm Hunter ....................................10Report from Program Manager, Hyahno Moser .................................................. 11Queensland Passports ........................................................................................12Resource for Researchers...................................................................................13Case Study: Leading Professional Development ................................................14Our Partners ........................................................................................................15Case Study: Nature Play in Education ................................................................16Our Staff ..............................................................................................................17Our Advisory Committee.................................................................................18,19

contents

RAIN, RAIN, GO AWAY“I played in the dirt after I got wet. I had my

thongs off. It was fun. I was shouting and

singing. I played with my sister. We both ended

up dirty. Grandad made us shower downstairs

in the shed shower. I like my grandma and

grandad because they let us play outside. It

was fun in the rain.” - Nature Play QLD Kid

“We got to run around in the rain

and we were singing and playing on

the rocks. It was fun. It was the

best time ever because we are not

usually allowed to play in the rain.”

- Nature Play QLD Kid

QORF (Queensland Outdoor Recreation Federation) is SOHDVHG�WR�FHOHEUDWH�1DWXUH�3OD\�4/'·V�VHFRQG�\HDU�RI�operation.It makes sense for QORF to administer the Nature 3OD\�SURJUDP�LQ�4XHHQVODQG��425)·V�PLVVLRQ�LV�WR�UDLVH�WKH�SURÀOH��GHYHORS�WKH�FDSDFLW\�DQG�LQFUHDVH�opportunities for outdoor activities in Queensland. 1DWXUH�3OD\�4/'·V�PLVVLRQ�LV�WR�PDNH�QDWXUH�SOD\�D�normal part of childhood again. Nature Play QLD is an opportunity to help develop resilient, healthy and creative members of our society, who are more likely to grow up with a sense of awe for the joy and wonders (and fun) of the outdoors.The Queensland State Government provides funding for Nature Play QLD, which allows the program to operate from day to day. This annual report provides statistics around the actions of the Nature Play QLD program. I would like to acknowledge the hard work behind the scenes that JRHV�LQWR�WKHVH�DFKLHYHPHQWV��,W�LV�WHUULÀF�WKDW�1DWXUH�Play QLD can harness the passion of the volunteer advisory committee, our dedicated staff, and the wonderful (and ever-growing) community of Nature Players in Queensland.I thank everyone who has engaged with Nature Play 4/'�GXULQJ�WKH�ÀUVW�WZR�\HDUV�RI�RSHUDWLRQ��DQG�,�ORRN�forward to seeing its further positive impact on society.Keep playing outside Dom Courtney ([HFXWLYH�2IÀFHU��425)


Family Nature Clubs are groups of families who gather together to share outdoor adventures and re-connect with nature. All Family Nature Clubs share the basic goals to get RXW�LQ�QDWXUH�UHJXODUO\�DQG�EHQHÀW�IURP�WLPH�VSHQW�RXWVLGH��

Each Club is unique, in where they meet, how often they meet and what they do when they get together. Nature Play QLD offers a free Family Nature Club Toolkit with a Quick-start Guide detailing how to start a club, tips for healthy kids, links to online resources, schedules and calendars, an activity checklist and safety tips. Nature Play QLD also provides information and advice on activities to do. 7KH�EHQHÀWV�RI�)DPLO\�1DWXUH�&OXEV�LQFOXGH��

• Reconnecting children to nature • Reconnecting family as a team • Making new family friends• Sharing collective knowledge and outdoor equipment • Motivation to regularly get outdoors • )RVWHULQJ�D�¶VHQVH�RI�SODFH·�IRU�FKLOGUHQ�LQ�WKHLU�ORFDO�DUHD�• Increasing social connectedness within neighbourhoods • Nourishing a sense of community

Licence to Play progresses outdoor play from the backyard to the front yard and then into the QHLJKERXUKRRG�¶ZKHUH�WKH�PDJLF�UHDOO\�KDSSHQV·�

An extension of the Passport to an Amazing Childhood program, the Licence to Play (Outdoors) program further inspires children on their Nature Play journey. The purpose of the Licence to Play (Outdoors) program is to sequentially move kids towards an intrinsic interest in outdoor play and build their core competencies, skills and knowledge with outdoor play. This is achieved by incrementally increasing the challenges of activities. 7KH�¶/LFHQFHV·�SURYLGH�D�VPDOO�H[WULQVLF�LQFHQWLYH��6LPLODU�to adult driver licences, children work their way through WKUHH�OHYHOV��/·V��/RYLQJ�LW��3·V��3DVVLRQDWH��2·V��2UJDQLF��by completing challenging outdoor activities to prove their intuitive ability to be a Nature Player.By working their way up through the Licences, children build and communicate to their parents their ability to play independently outdoors. This in turn also helps reduce a number of aspects of parental fear and gives children more freedom to play.

$V�1DWXUH�3OD\�4/'·V�VLJQDWXUH�SURJUDP��WKH�3DVVSRUW�to an Amazing Childhood combines an online portal and physical passport to help children and families get outdoors and connect with nature. The core of the program has over ��QDWXUH�SOD\�¶PLVVLRQV·�RU�RXWGRRU�DFWLYLWLHV�WKDW�HYHU\�FKLOG�VKRXOG�H[SHULHQFH�EHIRUH�WKH\·UH��7KH�PLVVLRQV�are fun and adventurous; they range from visiting national parks and camping to simple activities like climbing a tree or visiting a beach. &KLOGUHQ�XVH�WKH�RQOLQH�LQWHUIDFH�WR�ÀQG�PLVVLRQV�WR�complete and then leave the computer behind to go and do it. They can also build digital avatars to represent their SURÀOH��WKLV�KDV�SURYHQ�WR�EH�DQ�DGGHG�LQFHQWLYH�WR�SOD\�outdoors for some children. Physical Nature Play Passports are used to document the missions achieved and to celebrate and remember their adventures. The Passports contain mission pages to make notes on, stickers for completed activities, suggestions on activities to undertake, and ideas on places to go. The Passport program and online interface celebrate activities FKLOGUHQ�DFKLHYH��DVN�WKHP�WR�UHÁHFW�RQ�WKHLU�H[SHULHQFHV��supporting children to build an intrinsic love of outdoor play. Key to the program is providing kids with opportunities for SK\VLFDO�DQG�PHQWDO�PDVWHU\�DQG�GHYHORSLQJ�FRQÀGHQFH�and competence via outdoor play. Families, schools and community groups have been ordering these passports, which are free for every Queensland child. This program has proven to be highly popular. Over 167,000 passports have been ordered since launching 2 years ago. Our long-term aim is to have a Passport in the hands of every child in Queensland.

Our Programsabout us

“My family now spends even more time outside enjoying the fresh air and freedom.” - Parent

At Nature Play QLD we believe that unstructured

RXWGRRU�SOD\��¶QDWXUH�SOD\·��LV�IXQGDPHQWDO�WR�

a full and healthy childhood. We advocate the nature play message and increase access to nature play resources, events and programs for Queenslanders.

• Our Vision is for unstructured outdoor play to

become a normal part of every child’s life, so that they can develop into resilient, healthy

and creative members of the community.

• Our Mission is to work innovatively and collaboratively to make nature play a normal part of childhood again.

Strategic Priorities:

Increase awareness amongst all Queensland parents of the EHQHÀWV�RI�QDWXUH�SOD\1Increase opportunities for families to participate in nature play activities2Create new resources and promote existing resources that make taking part in nature play easy3

Establish a broad communication network with partner groups and Queensland families4Advocate the importance of nature play to Government and private bodies and agencies who work with children

5

'HYHORS�1DWXUH�3OD\�4/'·V�organisational capacity6%H�ÀQDQFLDOO\�LQGHSHQGHQW�RI�Government within three years7

Nature Play QLD is proud of its many successes and looks forward to many more to come.

Nature Play QLD is administered in Queensland by QORF, the Queensland Outdoor Recreation Federation. Nature Play QLD is made possible through the support of the Queensland Department of National Parks, Sport & Racing.

Nature Play QLD is inspired by the ideas of American social commentator Richard Louv, Chairman and founder of the Children and Nature Network.

Passport to an Amazing Childhood program

Licence to Play (Outdoors)

Family Nature Clubs

THE BRAVERY AWARD

“I jumped really high on the

trampoline and fell of and

scraped my knee and I didn’t

cry. And I balanced on a ball for

45 seconds.”



The second Mud Lark in the Park event was held on the 19th of September 2015, which again was in partnership with Ipswich City Council. 600 Ipswich Free-Range Kids descended on Booval. The mud pits were bigger, the mud slides longer, mud-stacle courses twice the size and an even bigger mud pie bakery. We also added muddy treasure hunts, target shoots, muddy soccer and, of course, muddy tug of war. Again, the day was a huge success with lots a muddy smiles on the faces of children of all ages. Not a single screen was seen the entire day! Mayor of Ipswich, Councilor Paul Pissale, is a great fan of Nature Play QLD and getting the children of Ipswich outdoors; he made sure he was part of the fun by again launching the Mud Lark event and unleashing the children into muddy mayhem.While launching the event, Mayor Paul Pissale commented onhow overjoyed he was to see so many parents and childrenoutdoors enjoying Ipswich parks, getting muddy andmessy and that, with his support of Nature Play QLD, themessage is getting out there that outdoor play needs to be aSDUW�RI�HYHU\�NLG·V�FKLOGKRRG�

Ipswich City Council continues to embrace the Nature Play QLD message and looks for further ways to increase outdoor play in the region.

Performance Highlights2015 - 2016

participation

5.5 millionreaching a potential audience of over

presentations to schools, kindergartens, conferences, forums, community, preschool and child care facilities across Queensland and interstate

171

PeGLD PenWLRnV

Additional passports were ordered for Queensland kids during this second reporting year

>86,000additional children registered to the Passport to an Amazing Childhood Program mission control interface, taking the total to 11,902 children registered online

awareness

5,730

96

with a total of 42 clubs formed across Queensland

767group users have

ordered passports

for children across

Queensland

family events attended by 19,278 people across Queensland

13 additional Family Nature Clubs 25

1,500

2,444passport missions

were completed

online

passports are

ordered every

week

An average of

1,654

www.natureplayqld.org.au 7

SLIP & SLIDE

“Slipping along and playing in the water was

lots of fun. And mummy joined in too. And my

little sister splashed around in it and she

had fun. Can’t wait to do it again!”


MUD WRAP“Today we went on a bear hunt, we stomped through the mud searching for the bear. It was slimy and squishy between our toes.”- Nature Play QLD Kid

passport missions were

printed out by 582 schools,

outside school hour care providers, community

groups and parents

Mud Lark in the Park 2!

Case Study


<RX�FDQ�UHDG�RXU�IXOO�UHSRUW�RQ�¶:KDW�GR�4XHHQVODQG�NLGV�WKLQN�RI�WKH�1DWXUH�3OD\�4/'�2QOLQH�3DVVSRUW�3URJUDP·�DW�ZZZ�QDWXUHSOD\TOG�RUJ�DX�DERXW�QDWXUH�SOD\�TOG�UHSRUWV

Performance Highlights2015 - 2016

partnerships

Leading Important

Community Nature Play

Conversations

“The neighbourhood is the most important outdoor play resource we can give our children to ensure their long and short term health and wellbeing” - +\DKQR�0RVHU��3URJUDP�0DQDJHU�

The Issue:Childhood is in crisis. While their horizons are shrinking there is a growing trend of childhood shifting completely indoors. Children are losing interest in outdoor play. Simply put, outdoor play has no meaning for the modern child because of the many barriers they face going outdoors WR�SOD\��1HLJKERXU�LVRODWLRQ�DQG�D�VLJQLÀFDQWO\�reduced degree of freedom mean no access to an immediate group of neighbourhood friends to play with. For most Queensland kids their experience with their neighbourhoods comes from viewing it from within a car. If we are going to turn around this trend, children will need their neighbourhoods back. Children need to be able to walk outdoors and know fun is waiting for them, along with a neighbourhood full of children.

Neighbourhood Nature Play Campaign:

of all Queensland children received a Nature Play Passport over the past 12 months. Accumulatively, 18.9% of all Queensland children now have a Nature Play Passport and are swapping screen time for green time.Orders totaling 86,178 Nature Play QLD Passports during our second year of operation takes the total to over 167,000 Nature Play QLD Passports ordered for children in 4XHHQVODQG�RYHU�WKH�ÀUVW��\HDUV�RI�RSHUDWLRQ�

11.65 %

engagement

Nature Play Passports have been ordered from

community resources

resources for researchers such as articles

236 ‘things to do’

guides for parents

103amazing Nature Play Places to Go in Queensland have EHHQ�LGHQWLÀHG�

5

NATURE PLAY QLD ANNUAL REPORT 2015 | 20168

on a variety of relevant Nature Play topics

added for Families and Educators

Nature Play Program Partners

1045postcodes

82 Community

contributed

Blogs

1221

6

The Reviving Neighbourhood Nature Play Strategy:During 2015 - 2016, Nature Play QLD launched the Reviving Neighbourhood Nature Play campaign by holding 7 Reviving Neighbourhood Nature Play Community Forums and creating 4 free resources to assist communities to reclaim their neighbourhood areas for outdoor play.

Location Attendance Thoughts from the audience&DLUQV� Morning

65 ´(YHU\RQH�LV�WHUULÀHG�RI�WKH�QHLJKERXUV��The stranger danger issue is out of control.” - Grandmother

&DLUQV� Evening

61 “I take my kids to the park and there is no other kids to play with.” - Father

*ROG�&RDVW� Morning

110 “I just want to make sure my child has choices and that I not suffocating them with kindness.” - Mother

*ROG�&RDVW� Evening

110 “When organising play sessions in our community, the neighbours came and they all commented on how fantastic it was to connect and get our kids to know each other.” - Landscape Designer

,SVZLFK� Morning

71 “I am not letting my kid wander the streets, it is too dangerous.” - Mother

,SVZLFK� Evening

65 “We have thriving neighbourhood of children. Everyone knows everyone. Kids are out playing in the streets, having fun and they know that they safe.” - Grandfather and Community Leader

%ULVEDQH� Morning

81 “Early childhood centres can lead the ZD\�LQ�VKRZLQJ�SDUHQWV�WKH�EHQHÀWV�RI�outdoor play.” - Early Childhood Industry Professional

Nature Play Activity Providers

Education Nature Play Providers

Mission Partners8

36Outdoor play tools

An additional

“The neighbourhood is the most important childhood outdoor play resource. Children need to be able to walk outdoors and know fun is waiting for them, along with a neighbourhood full of children.” - Hyahno Moser, Nature Play QLD


One year down the track, Nature Play QLD has much to celebrate. The response from the public, particularly parents and educators, makes clear that this is an idea whose time has come. Our message - that unstructured play for young children has a vital role to play in their health, their education and in their personal and social development - has been HPEUDFHG�ZLGHO\�LQ�WKH�FRPPXQLW\��ɑDQG�LV�FOHDUO\�UHVRQDWLQJ��especially with the main target audience: the parents of young children.The role of the Advisory Committee is to support and advise the Program Manager in his deliberations, advocacy and LPSOHPHQWDWLRQ�RI�1DWXUH�3OD\�4/'·V�YLVLRQ��:H�KDYH�EHHQ�particularly aware of the need to have a clear message that is essentially positive, focusing on the need to restore EDODQFH�LQ�\RXQJ�SHRSOH·V�OLYHV��1DWXUH�3OD\�4/'�GRHV�QRW�seek to prevent young people from using the technology of the day, or spending time in front of screens. It is the lack of balance in their lives, with research showing that the majority RI�WRGD\·V�\RXQJ�SHRSOH�DUH�JURZLQJ�XS�LQGRRUV��ZLWK�minimal links with nature and outdoor play. The health and education implications of this are troubling, and that is where Nature Play QLD works to make a difference. The results GRFXPHQWHG�LQ�WKH�3URJUDP�0DQDJHU·V�UHSRUW�LQGLFDWH�WKDW�at the end of its second year, Nature Play QLD has begun to make that difference.It has been uplifting to see the increasing numbers of young children involved this year in the various activities offered by Nature Play QLD: requests across the state for just over 86,000 additional Nature Play Passports, from over a thousand suburbs, towns or cities; thirteen new Family Nature Clubs established and engaging children; and WZHQW\�ÀYH�HYHQWV�DLPHG�DW�IDPLOLHV�ZKLFK�DWWUDFWHG�FORVH�to 20,000 participants. We are also encouraged by the increase in partners who have opted to support Nature Play in Queensland, with thirty-seven new partners joining us this year.The development of resources for parents and educators KDV�EHHQ�D�SDUWLFXODU�IRFXV�WKLV�\HDU��DQG�IHHGEDFNɑ�IURP�WHDFKHUV��DIWHU�VFKRRO�FDUHUV�DQG�SDUHQWV�DERXWɑ�WKHLU�usefulness has been very encouraging. Resources designed DQG�GLVWULEXWHG�E\�1DWXUH�3OD\�4/'�LQFOXGH�RYHU��¶7KLQJV�WR�'R·�IRU�FKLOGUHQ�RI�DOO�DJHV��UHFRPPHQGHG�DUWLFOHV�DQG�book reviews for parents.(YDOXDWLQJ�WKH�OHYHO�RI�VXFFHVV�RI�WKH�\HDU·V�DFWLYLWLHV�involves both qualitative and quantitative data. We take particular notice of anecdotal information. One Outside School Hours Care group, for example, reported that teachers have noted positive changes in behavior in classrooms, to which they attribute the OSHC team applying Nature Play principles in working with the children in their care.We also compile quantitative data. While being FRPSOLPHQWDU\�DERXW�1DWXUH�3OD\�4/'·V�DFKLHYHPHQWV��the KPMG report conducted this year has pointed out that

WKLV�GDWD�LV�PRVWO\�UHÁHFWLYH�RI�RXWSXWV�UDWKHU�WKDQ�RXWFRPHV��For example, just over 86 000 passports were requested and issued during the year. This is a valid comment and illustrates the limitations that Nature Play QLD faces in documenting its accountability responsibilities. We can inform, advocate and support parents and community groups, but the outcomes ultimately depend on how the initiatives are taken up by parents, schools and community groups. Our best information from these sources is that the take-up is strong. At the same time, the process from distributing WKH�UHVRXUFH��WKH�RXWSXW��WR�DFWXDOO\�XVLQJ�LW��WKH�RXWFRPH��LV�GLIÀFXOW�to document. That is a challenge for the coming year, though it will take considerable resourcing if it is to happen.While much has been achieved in advocacy and engagement ��RI�4XHHQVODQG·V�FKLOGUHQ�ZHUH�HQJDJHG�WKLV�\HDU��WKH�majority of families in the state are as yet not connected with Nature Play QLD. The regional nature of Queensland, with different geographical, cultural and sociological groupings throughout the state, presents a challenge which the Advisory Committee and the Program Manager see as an important focus for the coming \HDU��,W�LV�FOHDU�WKDW�¶RQH�VL]H�ÀWV�DOO·�DGYLFH�DQG�DGYRFDF\�ZLOO�QRW�necessarily be helpful to all parents and communities in all areas of the state.The Advisory Committee commends the Program Manager Hyahno Moser and the Nature Play QLD Team on their commitment, expertise and insights as Nature Play QLD enters its third year. As the outreach has grown, so has the enormity of the task the Nature Play QLD Team faces and it may well need additional support if Nature Play QLD is to continue to reach those who most need its expertise.My thanks to the talented and committed members of the Advisory Committee: Toni Peters, Kylie Brannelly, Peta Pitcher, Andrew Resetti, Robyn Mercer and Ngaire Stirling. The committee looks forward to continuing its work in support of Nature Play QLD, and IXUWKHULQJ�WKH�VLJQLÀFDQW�JDLQV�WKDW�KDYH�DOUHDG\�EHHQ�PDGH�LQ�WKLV�most important contribution to the quality of life of our young people.

Norm Hunter Chair, Nature Play QLD Advisory Committee

Report from Chair of Advisory

Committee, Norm Hunter

Nature Play QLD has now completed its second year DQG�RSHUDWLRQDO�SODQV�IRU�WKH�WKLUG�DUH�ÀQDOLVHG�DQG�EHLQJ�implemented. This has been a year for not only championing our existing strategies for increasing the amount of time our kids spend outdoors, it has been about starting new conversations that DGGUHVV�WKH�PRVW�VLJQLÀFDQW�EDUULHUV�IRU�RXWGRRU�SOD\��,PSRUWDQW�conversations such as reclaiming the neighbourhood and recognising the local community as the most important outdoor play resource we can give our children. Other conversations include the role of education in promoting and increasing RXWGRRU�SOD\�DQG�WKH�GHYHORSPHQWDO�EHQHÀWV�RI�VWDUWLQJ�WKH�outdoor play journey from a new born.Starting or increasing the volume on the importance of these FRQYHUVDWLRQV�SHUWDLQLQJ�WR�RXWGRRU�SOD\�ZLOO�VLJQLÀFDQWO\�increase the health and wellbeing outcomes for our children immediately and into the future. We feel at Nature Play QLD we have a duty to be leading these conversations in the community. We have done this through forums, symposiums, creating new and relevant outdoor play resources, forming new partnerships and growing the urgency. What has become abundantly clear during this year of operation, is that the families, carers and professionals, who have responsibilities to the Queensland children they support, are recognising outdoor play as a fundamental aspect of a full and healthy childhood.However, what is also becoming abundantly clear is that while the level of widespread community concern is extremely high, the ability to act is fraught with issues, barriers, and complexities. While it seems simple, just send your child outdoors to play, for the adult and most importantly for the child, this simple activity has become anything but simple. Children are now faced with the most important question if deciding to go outside and play: WHY? For children their leisure activities are centred on the need WR�FRQQHFW�ZLWK�RWKHU�FKLOGUHQ��WR�PDNH�VHQVH�RI�WKHLU�ZRUOGV�FRPPXQLWLHV�OLYHV��WR�EXLOG�WKHLU�VNLOOV�DQG�FRPSHWHQFLHV�DV�WKH\�see important, to progress, but most importantly to have fun. What fun waits for the child who goes outside to play today? What will this child see and experience, and for this child what will these experiences ultimately result in, in relation to their forming values, attitudes and opinions towards outdoor play, for their community and neighbourhoods? Most neighbourhoods are devoid of children, devoid of activity, GHYRLG�RI�SOD\�VSDFHV��ÀOOHG�ZLWK�UDFLQJ�YHKLFOHV�DQG�SDUDQRLG�parents and other adults. Fear spilling out of the homes onto footpaths, into the street. Fear based mostly on the unknown, not knowing those who we live amongst, a fear that perpetuates isolation and more fear. The safest and easiest action of parents and carers is to put up fences both literally and metaphorically. Fences as barriers, fences as values and attitudes in the hearts of our children. This is the view for the child, of their outdoor play areas, from within their house, out of their car windows, from indoors. No direct experience. The obvious but unintended result, as we are now discovering, is that there is now a growing trend, an alarming trend, that FKLOGUHQ�DUH�QRW�LQWHUHVWHG�DQG�GRQ·W�ZDQW�WR�JR�RXWGRRUV�WR�play. Outdoors has little to no value to them as a play resource.

While talking to many parents, carers and childhood professionals ZKR�KDYH�WKHLU�RZQ�FKLOGUHQ��ZKR�WRWDOO\�XQGHUVWDQG�WKH�EHQHÀWV�and necessity of outdoor play, but they cannot get their children interested in this activity. These adults are frustrated, fearful and ZRUULHG�IRU�WKHLU�FKLOGUHQ·V�ZHOOEHLQJ��:KLOH�WKHLU�FKLOGUHQ�EHFRPH�further immersed in sedentary lifestyles, their health-risk factors increase. Parents and carers feel helpless, left with this poignant and pivotal question:How do I get my child interested in outdoor play, because their health and wellbeing depends on it, their lives depend on it? 6WUXFWXUHG�DFWLYLWLHV�GHÀQLWHO\�SURYLGH�DQ�LPPHGLDWH�VROXWLRQ��EXW�the cost and time requirements associated with these activities are not available to all. Furthermore, as research is showing, the long-term effects of over VWUXFWXULQJ�FKLOGKRRG�UHVXOWV�LQ�DGXOWV�ZKR�KDYH�D�VLJQLÀFDQWO\�reduced ability to independently govern themselves in many areas of their lives. $QG�IRU�WKRVH�DGXOWV��SDUHQWV��FDUHUV�ZKR�GRQ·W�KDYH�WKH�FDSDFLW\�to provide the structured activities to support the immediate physical activity needs of a healthy childhood, what options are left? Screens, internet, gaming, social media, online forums? There are still communities who manage to maintain outdoor play FRPPXQLWLHV��:KHUH�FKLOGUHQ·V�GHJUHH�RI�IUHHGRP�LV�PXFK�KLJKHU��where laughter, fun, adventure, imaginations are exercised as PXFK�DV�WKH�FKLOGUHQ·V�SK\VLFDO�ERGLHV��We have learnt that these communities are formed only when a champion takes the initiative and is willing to make an effort to break down barriers, open communication lines, and connect their children. Taking an active role in their neighbourhoods. We have also learnt that outdoor play communities mostly arise when the external barriers are fewer, when the neighbourhoods lend themselves to easy supervision, when communities feel safe, ZKHUH�QR�VLJQLÀFDQW�LQFLGHQWV�KDYH�RFFXUUHG��ZKHUH�WKH�FULPH�LV�ORZ��ZKHUH�WKH�WUDIÀF�LV�ORZ��ZKHQ�WKHUH�DUH�OHVV�QHXURWLF�SHRSOH�making decisions, where populations are small and the unknown factors are reduced to an acceptable risk. For these children, within these outdoor play communities, as the research shows, this high degree of unstructured freedom and activity will result in higher levels of planning, initiative, passion, resilience, care, concern, social skills, community mindedness, organisation, creativity, problem solving, lateral thinking, risk assessment, risk management, self-assuredness, positive self-concept, independence, healthier relationships and healthier eating choices.1DWXUH�SOD\�PD\�ZHOO�ZLOO�EH�WKH�HGJH�IRU�WRPRUURZ·V�OHDGHUV��

Hyahno MoserProgram Manager

Report from Program Manager,

Hyahno Moser


Queensland Passports Resources for Researchers

“They are more aware of their outdoor

activities. More conscious of talking about

what they have done outdoors. Valuing the

outdoor time more. Telling their parents about

their outdoor time.”

- Childcare Educator

607 individual comments made by Queensland children about the online Nature Play QLD Passport Missions were analysed, highlighting the following:

98% of the comments made by Queensland about the Passport Missions were positive. Passport missions contribute to the healthy development of Queensland kids across many DUHDV��$UHDV�RI�GHYHORSPHQW�LGHQWLÀHG�LQFOXGH��

• Building intrinsic fun and engagement for outdoor play • Environmental connection• Positive relationship development• Creativity• Resilience• Positive risk taking• Sensory awareness• Healthy activity• Sense of achievement • Sense of belonging• Initiative• Community identity• Physical mastery• Sense of awe and wonder

We asked a group of Queensland educators who ordered and used the Nature Play Passports in their settings, why they ordered the Nature Play Passports and if they think they have made a difference for the children who received them. Here are the results:

86%of educators said the Passports LQFUHDVHG�WKHLU�FKLOGUHQ·V�RXWGRRU�SOD\�SK\VLFDO�DFWLYLW\�RXWVLGH

86%of educators said the Passport program improved the FKLOGUHQ·V�IRFXV�DQG�DWWHQWLRQ

85%of educators said the Passport program helped to improve the FKLOGUHQ·V�UHODWLRQVKLSV�ZLWK�each other

Increasing Queensland children’s participation in outdoor play

86,178 Nature Play Passports to an Amazing Childhood were ordered during this reporting period for Queensland children. This is an increase of over 5,000 passports for this reporting period compared to last reporting period.

This takes the total number of Passports ordered for Queensland children to over 167,000.

��\HDUV�RQ��WKLV�SURJUDP�FRQWLQXHV�WR�JURZ�VLJQLÀFDQWO\�� still proving popular across all regions of Queensland.

“We have used the passports extensively in Kindy and the children love them! They are full of fantastic ideas.”- Childcare Eductator

Overall Queensland kids give the Nature Play online Passport Missions

4.35 out 5 stars

60% of Queensland kids gave the online

Passport Missions 5 out of 5 stars

SOuth East

66,188

SOuth West & Darling Downs

447

Wide Bay Burnett

8,264

North Queensland

1,058Mackay, Isaac & Whitsunday

5,012Central

2.625

FarNOrthQueensland

5,956

Central west

North west

605

835


our partners

Our network of community partners grew to 69 with an additional 37 new partners joining the Nature Play QLD mission during the 2015-16 reporting period. The Community Partner Network helps spread our message about the value of unstructured outdoor play, and encourages and supports families to SULRULWLVH�QDWXUH�SOD\�LQ�FKLOGUHQ·V�OLYHV��:H�ZRUN�FORVHO\�ZLWK�RXU�SDUWQHUV�WR�create innovative strategies to get kids outdoors playing and join together to run family events across Queensland.

Due to the growing community interest in Nature Play QLD we have VHJPHQWHG�RXU�SDUWQHUVKLSV�WR�UHÁHFW�WKH�PDLQ�DUHDV�RI�GHPDQG�LQFOXGLQJ�

• Program Partners• Nature Play Activity Providers• Nature Play Educational Providers

The Queensland Department of National Parks, Sport and Racing continues to fully support Nature Play QLD, SURPRWLQJ�RXU�PHVVDJHV�YLD�UHJLRQDO�'1365�RIÀFHV��Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service integrates Nature Play into their visitor centres including Walk About Creek, David Fleays and Mon Repo and has contributed over 60 new conservation missions to our passport program. They are represented on our Advisory Board and offer us continual guidance.

&UqFKH�DQG�.LQGHUJDUWHQ��&.��SURPRWH�1DWXUH�3OD\�4/'·V�resources and ethos to the hundreds of services throughout Queensland. C&K have been great champions of outdoor SOD\�DQG�LWV�LQKHUHQW�EHQHÀWV�IRU�FKLOGUHQ��1DWXUH�3OD\�4/'�supports them in continuing this endeavor.

Workforce Council supports the professional development of early childhood employees especially across regional Queensland, ensuring quality early childhood education for all Queensland kids. Workforce Council has been instrumental in promoting Nature Play QLD resources and workshops regionally to early childhood professionals as outdoor practical tools.

Case Study

City of Gold Coast is the second Local Government to join our network. Nature Play QLD resources and workshops have been promoted to all Gold Coast residents. Nature Play QLD ran Nature Play sessions for 200 Gold Coast kids at the recent Celebrating Gold Coast Festival. City of Gold Coast was a major sponsor for the Reviving Neighbourhood Nature Play Community Forums.

Parents and Citizens Association of Queensland (P&C QLD) and Early Childhood teachers Association (ECTA) promote Nature Play QLD resources, workshops and services to their large networks across Queensland, inspiring outdoor play through schools, kindergartens, day care and early learning centres.

We are very grateful to these organisations and all our Partners for their shared concern and support of the Nature Play QLD mission.

To learn more about Nature Play QLD Community Partner Network partners visit: www.natureplayqld.org.au/about/partners

New Program Partners

“We received great ideas on how we could use our QDWXUDO�VSDFHV��QDWXUDO�SURGXFWV��:H�KDYH�EHHQ�inspired by the day and have already put things in SODFH�µ��,QGXVWU\�3URIHVVLRQDO�� Symposium attendee

Leading Professional Development Nature Play Symposium, Kids Outdoors 2030 l 26 June 2015

Our partners are Crucial to our success

¶.LGV�2XWGRRUV��·�ZDV�$XVWUDOLD·V�LQDXJXUDO�Nature Play Symposium; its focus was on enhancing outdoor play so that the positive changes will echo through the children of 2030.A range of talented Queensland guest speakers covered topics such as: • Risk-taking and resilience• Healthy brain development for children

through outdoor play • Creating nature play spaces• Nature play in early childhood settings• Enchanting children through outdoor play• Nature play in primary school The event brought together and networked over 140 professionals in attendance, learning and conversation.The Nature Play QLD community grew in strength of skills, knowledge, awareness and urgency of the need for change. Our community grew as a collective network, which is vital for recognising and encouraging the positive nature play change within our state as a movement, and connecting many hard-working individuals.

“This sort of gathering is rather rare but such a great RSSRUWXQLW\�WR�PDNH�FRQQHFWLRQV��EXLOG�RQ�LGHDV�HWF��7KH�LQIRUPDWLRQ�ZDV�IDQWDVWLF��JUHDW�DQG�LQVSLULQJ�µ� ��,QGXVWU\�SURIHVVLRQDO��6\PSRVLXP�DWWHQGHH

Discussions and workshops surrounded the urgent QHHG�IRU�FKDQJH�DQG�WKH�GLDORJXH�ZDV�UHÁHFWLYH�of the modern issues within childhood, parenting, education and government leadership. Our aim for the day was, to more importantly, inspire action towards creating changes to strike a healthy and well-balanced outdoor future for our children, and we certainly reached that goal.

“This was the most valuable PD I have ever been to - enjoyed and learnt a lot from every part of the day. I have been fortunate to be able to use information gained to make some big changes and plans at VFKRRO�µ��(GXFDWRU��6\PSRVLXP�DWWHQGHH

The Symposium “motivated me to do something about what I believe to be necessary and stop the downward WUHQG�LQ�RXU�VFKRRO�WRZDUGV�SOD\��HVSHFLDOO\�RXWVLGH�play. Our focus is on literacy and numeracy but [since the Symposium] I have been able to argue that they need to have this play to enhance academic growth as ZHOO�DV�SK\VLFDO�µ��(GXFDWRU��6\PSRVLXP�DWWHQGHH

The Symposium “allowed me to reset my previous fear of risks around children playing in nature.” - Parent

´,·P�QRZ�VHWWLQJ�XS�D�QHLJKERXUKRRG�QHWZRUN�DQG�area that allows my child and those in the street to play and connect like I grew up.” - Parent


our staff

Imogene Whittle, Marketing Coordinator

´$V�NLGV�ZH�IRUPHG�D�OLWWOH�QHLJKERXUKRRG�JDQJ�RI�NLGV��DQG�ZH�WKRXJKW�WKDW�ZH�UXOHG�WKH�QHLJKERXUKRRG��:H�ZHUH�JLYHQ�WKH�IUHHGRP�WR�H[SORUH�RXU�ORFDO�VWUHHWV��WKH�ORFDO�JDUGHQV�DQG�WKH�]RR��:H�FOLPEHG�WUHHV�DQG�IHQFHV��FUHDWHG�VS\�GHQV�LQ�WKH�EXVKHV�DQG�SOD\HG�FULFNHW�RQ�WKH�URDG��:H�ZRRVKHG�GRZQ�WKH�KLOOV�RQ�RXU�ELNHV��VNDWHERDUGV�DQG�UROOHU�skates and we created eyes for the back of our helmets to keep the magpies at bay. :H�EXLOW�LQGHSHQGHQFH�DQG�FRPUDGHU\��ZH�VWUHQJWKHQHG�RXU�VHOI�FRQÀGHQFH�DQG�RXU�ERGLHV��DQG�ZH�OHDUQW�WR�GHSHQG�RQ�RXU�RZQ�FUHDWLYH�LPDJLQDWLRQV�IRU�SOD\�µ

Inspired by speakers from Nature Play QLD following the ¶6XVWDLQDELOLW\�LQ�$FWLRQ�2XWEDFN�%XV�7RXU·��VWDII�DW�&DOYDU\�&KULVWLDQ�&ROODJH�HQJDJHG�LQ�WKHLU�FHQWUH·V�ÀUVW�HYHU�%XVK�Kindy week.Nature Play QLD supported staff with a variety of the policy, procedure, planning and activity resources for the school.Anya Perkins from Nature Play QLD was a great encouragement to us throughout the process.Over the course of the week, children chose to engage in a wide range of nature play activities including: moulding clay to form tree people and other objects, natural collage, mud painting, searching for dinosaur bones, leaf threading,

Hyahno Moser, Program Manager

“My fondest childhood memories come from a local secluded green space we kids called ¶7KH�+LOOV·�ZKHUH�ZH�ZHQW�WR�HVFDSH�ZDWFKIXO�SDUHQWV��+HUH�ZH�FUHDWHG�JDPHV�WKDW�ZRXOG�ODVW�IRU�ZHHNV�RQ�HQG��DQG�EXLOW�VR�PDQ\�FXEELHV�DQG�IRUWUHVVHV��+HUH�,�OHDUQW�DERXW�IULHQGVKLS��VRFLDO�VNLOOV��FRQÁLFW�UHVROXWLRQ��SUREOHP�VROYLQJ��FRQVWUXFWLRQ��FUHDWLYLW\�DQG�many many more skills that permeate all areas of my life today.”

Anya Perkins, Community Engagement and Resource Coordinator

“My happiest and most prominent childhood memories were all outdoors. Throughout every 6SULQJ�DQG�6XPPHU�DOO�RI�WKH�FKLOGUHQ�LQ�P\�YLOODJH�ZRXOG�FRQJUHJDWH�DW�WKH�ORFDO�¶5HF·��ZKHUH�ZH�ZRXOG�FUHDWH�FKDOOHQJHV��FOLPE�WUHHV��EXLOG�GHQV�DQG�PXFK�PRUH��,�ZDV�DOVR�IRUWXQDWH�enough to spend 6 weeks every Summer holiday camping with my sister and parents in the South of France. I recall being blissfully unaware of language barriers and making many friends from a variety nationalities through hours of playing outdoors in the pine forests and at the beaches. My outdoor childhood taught me how to grow friendships and challenge myself. It QXUWXUHG�P\�FUHDWLYLW\��VHQVH�RI�DGYHQWXUH�DQG�HPEHGGHG�DQG�SRVLWLYH�DQG�UHVLOLHQW�RXWORRN�µ

Tess Freund, Assistant Marketing and Event Coordinator

´,�JUHZ�XS�RQ�D�IDUP��DQG�VSHQW�P\�GD\V�FOLPELQJ�WUHHV��H[SORULQJ�FUHHNV��DQG�ULGLQJ�P\�bike down the dirt road with the other neighbourhood kids. My childhood took place in wild JUHHQ�VSDFHV��DQG�IHOW�IUHH�DQG�IXOO�RI�PDJLF��$V�DQ�DGXOW�DOO�,�QHHG�WR�GR�LV�VWDQG�EHQHDWK�WKH�FDQRS\�RI�D�WUHH�RU�IHHO�WKH�JUDVV�EHQHDWK�P\�WRHV��DQG�,�DP�LQVWDQWO\�WDNHQ�EDFN�WR�WKDW�place within.”

Hubertien Wichers, 2τFH�0DQDJHU

“I have always been an outdoorsy person. I spent two years of my childhood in Tanzania SOD\LQJ�ZLWK�WKH�QHLJKERXULQJ�NLGV��PL[LQJ�XS�'XWFK��6ZDKLOL�DQG�(QJOLVK��WR�ÀQG�D�ZD\�to communicate and play together - always outside. Otherwise I grew up in The Nether-lands where we would ride our bicycles everywhere. My friends and I would have our QHLJKERXUKRRG�DV�RXU�SOD\JURXQG�DQG�ZH�ORYHG�SOD\LQJ�RXU�LPDJLQDU\�JDPHV�RXWVLGH��RIWHQ�UHYROYLQJ�DURXQG�KRUVHV��ZKLFK�OHDG�WR�ULGLQJ�UHDO�SRQLHV�DQG�KRUVHV�ODWHU�RQ��5LGLQJ�KRUVHV�RQ�D�GDLO\�EDVLV�ZDV�an endless source of fun and helped me through some GLIÀFXOW�WLPHV�GXULQJ�P\�WHHQDJH�\HDUV�,�DP�VWLOO�WKDW�FKLOG�ZDQWLQJ�WR�EH�RXWVLGH��PRXQWDLQ�UXQQLQJ��WUDLO�running and organising runs and competitions for others is my passion. I feel I help bring happiness to other SHRSOH·V�OLYHV�DQG�FRQWULEXWH�WR�WKH�FRKHVLYHQHVV�RI�WKH�community in general.”

weaving with sticks, cooking with natural ingredients, physical challenges including balancing, climbing and hanging. $IWHU�D�IHZ�GD\V��WKH�FKLOGUHQ·V�LPDJLQDWLRQV�ZHQW�ZLOG�DQG�ZH�ZLWQHVVHG�SOD\�WKDW�ZH�KDGQ·W�H[SHFWHG�DV�FKLOGUHQ�PDGH�different friends and dreamed up new play scenarios. Children overcame physical challenges and gained great satisfaction at their successes with new experiences. Bush Kindy was a huge success and something we will look forward to in the years to come as it becomes a regular part of our program.

By Tracey SchmidtCalvary Christian College

Feedback and OUtcomesThe feedback the college received from parents was overwhelmingly positive. Parents were in support of Nature 3OD\�4/'·V�PHVVDJH�DQG�KLJKO\�UDWHG�WKH�1DWXUH�3OD\�4/'�resources provided.

Case Study

Quotes from Parents:“I beamed with happiness as my daughter excitedly UHFRXQWHG�KHU�ÀUVW�GD\�DW�¶%XVK�.LQG\·��,�FRXOG�VHH�D�GHÀQLWH�FKDQJH�LQ�P\�GDXJKWHU�WKH�ZHHN�WKH�¶%XVK�.LQG\·�SURJUDP�ZDV�UXQ�E\�KHU�3UH�3UHS�FODVV�DW�&DOYDU\�&KULVWLDQ�&ROOHJH��6KH�ZDV�PRUH�FRQÀGHQW��SDVVLRQDWH��LQGHSHQGHQW��DQG�GLVSOD\HG�DQ�RYHUDOO�exuberance and positivity to everything.” - Parent

“I love that this gave the children the opportunity to enjoy a side of Australian culture and environment that is often lost or not experienced in the hustle and

bustle of everyday life. A truly magical opportunity for our lucky little nature lovers!” - Parent

“I am extremely grateful as a busy working SDUHQW�WKDW�RXU�VFKRRO�LPSOHPHQWHG�WKH�¶%XVK�.LQG\·�SURJUDP�LQ�FRRSHUDWLRQ�ZLWK�1DWXUH�3OD\�4/'��DQG�,�KLJKO\�UHFRPPHQG�RWKHU�VFKRROV�RU�

kindergartens become involved. The supporting PDWHULDO�1DWXUH�3OD\�4/'�SURYLGHG�WR�SDUHQWV�ZDV�

excellent. This experience has encouraged me to SURYLGH�PRUH�RSSRUWXQLWLHV�IRU�P\�GDXJKWHU�WR�SOD\��LQWHUDFW��DQG�PRVW�LPSRUWDQWO\�OHDUQ�LQ�DQ�RXWGRRU�environment.” - Parent

“It reminds me to let kids be kids, knowing the benefits of

these outdoor activities for their own development (plus they sleep

better at night!)”- Parent

Nature Play in Education Nature Play QLD supports nature play in education, this is one such case

study from Calvary Christian College in Springwood.


Norm Hunter, Chair

Norm was a founding Co-Principal, then Principal, of Hillbrook Anglican School, serving for a period of 21 years. He is a Fellow of the Australian College of Educators and the Australian Council for Educational Leaders, received the 2006 Australian College of (GXFDWRUV·�%LHQQLDO�4XHHQVODQG�0HGDO��DQG�WKH�0HGDO�RI�WKH�2UGHU�RI�$XVWUDOLD�LQ�2007 for his services to educational leadership. In 2010 Norm was awarded the ACEL Queensland Excellence in Educational Leadership Award, and in 2013 the ACEL national Nganakarrawa award for educational leadership.Norm continues to work with the Queensland and Australian education community with a focus on creating inclusive school cultures with a shared vision of outdoor education. He leads strategic retreats, conducting professional learning seminars for school leaders

and outdoor educators, and mentors principals, school leadership teams, and aspiring leaders.“My happiest memories are of adventures in the bushland close to where we lived. When I was about 11 my brother and I decided

bird watching was for us. We picked a big gum tree with a branch high up where we could perch and see lots of birds. We built a ODGGHU�ZLWK�D�URSH�DQG�VWLFNV�DQG�FOLPEHG�XS��,�WKLQN�ZH�ZHUH�JRQH�DERXW�WKUHH�KRXUV��1R�DGXOW�VXSHUYLVLRQ��QR�KHOPHWV��QR�VKRHV��2Q�WKH�ZD\�GRZQ�RQH�RI�WKH�VWLFNV�ZH·G�XVHG�IRU�UXQJV�RQ�RXU�URSH�ODGGHU�EURNH�DQG�P\�EURWKHU�SOXPPHWHG�D�PHWUH�WR�WKH�JURXQG�DQG�ZH�ERWK�IHOO�DERXW�ODXJKLQJ��:H�JRW�KRPH��H[FLWHGO\�WROG�RXU�SDUHQWV�DERXW�RXU�DGYHQWXUHV��,V�LW�WRR�PXFK�WR�KRSH�WKDW�NLGV�WRGD\�PLJKW�H[SHULHQFH�VRPHWKLQJ�OLNH�WKDW"·µ

our advisory committeeour advisory committee

Robyn Mercer Robyn Mercer is a C&K Principal Advisor for Curriculum and Pedagogy. Robyn has worked as an Early Childhood Advisor with a different services types – kindergartens, long day care, family day care and OSHC. She has supported centres in Brisbane, Logan, Townsville, and Central and South west Queensland. This has given her the opportunity to see the diverse communities and landscapes across Queensland. Prior to this, she worked for over 30 years in the Logan community in a C&K Community Kindergarten program. 7KURXJKRXW�KHU�WHDFKLQJ�FDUHHU��5RE\Q�KDV�KDG�D�SDVVLRQ�IRU�FKLOGUHQ·V�DFWLYH�SOD\�and learning in nature and the outdoor learning environment. Since 2012, Robyn has

had opportunities to participate in Nature pedagogy training and is now working to support and deliver training on nature play pedagogy in C&K services across Queensland. ´$V�D�FKLOG��,�VSHQW�P\�WLPH�RXWVLGH�DQG�XS�WUHHV�HLWKHU�DW�KRPH�LQ�D�3RLQFLDQD�WUHH�RU�LQ�D�PXOEHUU\�WUHH�DW�P\�IULHQG·V�KRXVH��This was always a place of sanctuary and escape especially from older siblings when jobs had to be done. I remember climbing high enough that my sister would poke me with a broom to make me come down and do my share of the jobs. I OHDUQW�KRZ�WR�JHW�PXOEHUU\�VWDLQV�RXW�RI�FORWKHV�ZLWK�JUHHQ�PXOEHUULHV�DQG�WKDW�LW�ZDVQ·W�JRRG�LGHD�WR�WDNH�EXWWHU\�V\UXS�WRDVW�XS�D�WUHH�DQG�WKHQ�VZLQJ�GRZQ��)RUWXQDWHO\��QR�EURNHQ�ERQHV�MXVW�D�IHZ�VFUDSHV��)URP�P\�RZQ�FKLOGKRRG�H[SHULHQFHV��DV�D�WHDFKHU��,�QRZ�HQFRXUDJH�FKLOGUHQ�WR�KDYH�WKH�VDPH�IUHHGRP�WR�VHH�WKH�ZRUOG�IURP�D�ELUG·V�H\H�YLHZ�µ

Andrew Resetti $QGUHZ�LV�D�6HQLRU�1XWULWLRQLVW�ZLWK�WKH�&HQWUH�IRU�&KLOGUHQ·V�+HDOWK�DQG�:HOOEHLQJ��&KLOGUHQ·V�+HDOWK�4XHHQVODQG��)RU�WKH�ODVW�10 years his work has focused on community capacity building to support children in the early years. As a Dad to three active kids, he has a personal and professional interest in seeing all children grow up happy and healthy. He has a double degree in Human Movement Studies and Nutrition and Dietetics with post graduate studies in Health Promotion.´$V�D�NLG��,�UHPHPEHU�EHLQJ�RXWVLGH�D�ORW��,�UHPHPEHU�P\�ELNH�ZDV�P\�ZD\�RI�JHWWLQJ�DURXQG��,�URGH�WR�IULHQGV·�KRXVHV��WR�WKH�VKRSV��RYHU�GLUW�MXPSV�LQ�WKH�EXVK�EHKLQG�RXU�KRXVH��WR�WKH�EHDFK��WR�VFKRRO�DQG�HYHU\ZKHUH�HOVH�LQ�EHWZHHQ��,�UHPHPEHU�FOLPELQJ�WUHHV�DW�WKH�ZDWHUIURQW�LQ�5HGFOLIIH�DQG�SOD\LQJ�RQ�WKH�UHG�FOLIIV�DW�4XHHQV�%HDFK��,�UHPHPEHU�D�VHQVH�RI�IUHHGRP� to roam.”

Peta Pitcher3HWD�LV�WKH�([HFXWLYH�0DQDJHU�RI�)DPLO\��0HPEHU�6XSSRUW�IRU�3OD\JURXS�4XHHQVODQG��6KH�RYHUVHHV�WKH�GHOLYHU\�RI�3*4·V�funded programs nationally. Peta is also a non-executive Director of The Lady Musgrave Trust and has a long-held passion IRU�VXSSRUWLQJ�WKRVH�LQ�WKH�FRPPXQLW\�ZKR�FRXOG�EHQHÀW�IURP�D�VLPSOH�KDQG�XS��6KH�KDV�RYHU��\HDUV�RI�SKLODQWKURSLF�service, primarily aimed at improving and enhancing the lives of children in our community. Peta holds a Master of Business $GPLQLVWUDWLRQ��D�0DVWHU�RI�3URMHFW�0DQDJHPHQW��DQG�D�*UDGXDWH�&HUWLÀFDWH�LQ�%XVLQHVV��6KH�LV�DOVR�D�JUDGXDWH�RI�WKH�Australian Institute of Company Directors and a Fellow of the Australian Institute of Management. ´0\�HDUOLHVW�PHPRULHV�WDNH�PH�EDFN�WR�WKH�KLOOV�DURXQG�QRUWK�4XHHQVODQG�DQG�OHDUQLQJ�IURP�WKH�$ERULJLQDO�(OGHUV�DERXW�WKH�DQLPDOV�WDNLQJ�UHIXJH�IURP�WKH�FDQH�ÀUHV��,�OHDUQHG�WR�VZLP�LQ�WKH�VXUI�LQ�1RUWKHUQ�16:�DQG�SOD\HG�LQ�WKH�FRZ�SDGGRFNV�ZLWK�P\�VLEOLQJV��/LIH�DV�D�NLG�ZDV�DOZD\V�VSHQW�RXWGRRUV��DOZD\V�LQ�EDUH�IHHW�DQG�RIWHQ�XQWLO�WKH�VWUHHW�OLJKWV�FDPH�RQ�µ�

Ngaire Stirling1JDLUH�LV�2ZQHU�DQG�(GLWRU�RI�%ULVEDQH�.LGV�DQG�D�TXDOLÀHG�HDUO\�FKLOGKRRG�WHDFKHU��6KH�believes that nature and childhood belong together. Ngaire believes encouragement and inspiration are the best ways to increase unstructured outdoor play. She thinks that the memories made in nature are so RYHUZKHOPLQJO\�IXOÀOOLQJ�WKDW�VXSSRUWLQJ�DQ\�LQYROYHPHQW�E\�IDPLOLHV�LQ�QDWXUH�SOD\�activities is key to changing behaviours and ultimately building better childhoods.´:KHQ�,�ZDV�D�OLWWOH�JLUO�,�UHPHPEHU�HQMR\LQJ�DQ�DOPRVW�ZHHNO\�6XQGD\�%%4�EUHDNIDVW�on a wood stove at Mt Glorious. Then my family and I would take long walks through the rainforest and have a picnic at the waterfall. I would wear a pink tracksuit that would come back brown from dirt. Leeches and mud were all part of the fun!”

Get in touch!1DWXUH�3OD\�4/'�F�R�425) Sports House, 150 Caxton St Milton QLD 4064(�PDLO� [email protected] 3KRQH�� 07 3367 1989 )DFVLPLOH� 07 3369 9355

Kylie Brannelly .\OLH�LV�&KLHI�([HFXWLYH�2IÀFHU�RI�4XHHQVODQG�&KLOGUHQ·V�$FWLYLWLHV�1HWZRUN��4&$1��DQG�KDV�been involved in the Education and Care Services sector in various support, advocacy and leadership roles for more than 20 years. She helped oversee the development of the Learning Framework for School Age Care - My Time, Our Place - and has advised the Queensland and Australian Governments on Outside School Hours Care policy. Kylie holds a Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood), Master of Education (Special Education) and has an ongoing commitment to professional learning and development evident in her current PhD studies exploring change leadership within the OSHC sector.

´0\�IDYRXULWH�FKLOGKRRG�PHPRULHV�DUH�DOZD\V�DVVRFLDWHG�ZLWK�SOD\LQJ�ZLWK�P\�FRXVLQV��%HLQJ�DQ�RQO\�FKLOG��,�WUHDVXUHG�WKH�WLPHV��XVXDOO\�RYHU�WKH�VFKRRO�KROLGD\V��ZKHQ�,�ZRXOG�VSHQG�WLPH�ZLWK�WKHP��7KHLU�KRXVH�EDFNHG�RQWR�FDQH�ÀHOGV�DQG�ZH�ZRXOG�VSHQG�RXU�GD\V�UXQQLQJ�WKURXJK�WKH�ÀHOGV�ZLWK�WKHLU�PLVFKLHYRXV�/DEUDGRU��:H�DOVR�VSHQW�PXFK�RI�RXU�WLPH�RXWVLGH��MXPSLQJ�RQ�WKH�WUDPSROLQH�DQG�PDNLQJ�JR�FDUWV�WR�ULGH�GRZQ�WKH�VWHHS�KLOO��2IWHQ�ZH�ZRXOG�JR�WR�WKH�EHDFK��VZLPPLQJ�RXW�WR�WKH�VDQG�EDU�DQG�EXU\LQJ�HDFK�RWKHU�LQ�WKH�VDQG��:KHQ�ZH�JHW�WRJHWKHU�QRZ��ZH�KDYH�ORWV�RI�ODXJKV�DERXW�RXU�DGYHQWXUHV�·”

PROGRAM PARTNERS:

Get in touch!

1DWXUH�3OD\�4/'�F�R�425) Sports House, 150 Caxton St Milton QLD 4064E-mail: [email protected] Phone: 07 3367 1989 Facsimile: 07 3369 9355ZZZ�QDWXUHSOD\TOG�RUJ�DX

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NATURE PLAY QLD ANNUAL REPORT MAY 2015 - MAY 2016 Play Q… · Advocate the importance of nature play to Government and private bodies and agencies who work with children % V & organisational