QORF eNews July 2020 No images? Click here Leap into Life by Andy Hamilton Hi there, Lots of news and updates in this month's eNewsletter but first we'd like to acknowledge the outdoor sector in Queensland in the face of the ongoing and ever changing COVID-19 crisis. We are very pleased to see more and more outdoor operators returning to providing valuable services to their clients and for our communities. It has been truly heartening to see the way outdoor operators have sought to understand the public health directions set out by the CHO - to make sense of the changes and how best to implement them, rather than trying to find loopholes to avoid compliance. The collective approach taken by outdoor operators, large and small, non-profit, and commercial has been largely responsible for the efficient development of the two approved COVID Safe industry plans for outdoor providers (Outdoor Recreation Activity Providers and Outdoor Education Providers). Outdoor operators have considered health, comfort levels and needs of their workers and customers when making decisions on how best to manage their operations and to deliver effective, safe programs. Some changes to operations will be temporary, but some may be long-lasting or even permanent. It must be acknowledged that some outdoor operators are struggling, both financially and mentally, which will take a toll. There has been a strong spirit of cooperation and collaboration as we have looked for answers to the uncertainty together, and hopefully, that will continue. We need to look out for each other, people need to be able to put up their hands when they are in need, and, as a sector, we need to work together to ensure our future. Read on for more news, events and outdoor info ... We were greatly saddened to hear of the recent accidental death of Rhonda Kay from Wide Bay Laser Skirmish. Rhonda has been a great advocate for all types of outdoor activities for all people. She understood the joy and value that outdoor activities could bring to people’s lives. Rhonda’s passing is a loss for the Queensland outdoor sector. Our thoughts are with Rhonda’s family and friends during this difficult time. Rest in peace Rhonda. COVID Safe Plans UpdatedThe COVID Safe Plan for Outdoor Recreation Activity Providers and the COVID Safe Plan for Outdoor Education Providers have been UPDATED! (July 23) Both plans are accessible through our COVID Safe Plans web page and downloadable from the Queensland Government's Approved COVID Industry Plans page and accessible for all organisations in the Queensland outdoor sector (regardless of membership of an industry peak body such as QORF). Note: You may have to refresh the page (Ctrl F5) or clear your cache to view the latest versions of the updated plans.
See Implementation for information on how best to implement your new COVID Safe Plan for your organisation We are hosting a regular online chat session for the outdoor sector on Friday mornings at 11:00 am. A chance to talk and to get together with others in the outdoors. We'll share with you what we know and what we are doing - and you can share your concerns, ideas and solutions. REGISTER Nominations for the 2020 Outdoors Queensland Awards are now OPEN. Did you know that we have a page dedicated to member (and significant others) eNewsletters? Recent additions include: Queensland Ecotourism Wonders, We are ready to go! (Nature Freedom), Cooeeads and Free Training Course 2020 NAIDOC Local GrantsAIDOC Local Grants offer an opportunity for community groups to organise activities that celebrate our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories, cultures, achievements, and our continuing contributions to our country and society. BioBlitz 2020Nature Play QLD has partnered with the Australian Citizen Science Association and the Atlas of Living Australia to create a Nature Play QLD BioBlitz project on iNaturalist. Nature Deficit Disorder really a ThingThe 2020 coronavirus pandemic, as tragic as it is, has dramatically increased public awareness of the deep human need for nature connection, and is adding a greater sense of urgency to the movement to connect children, families and communities to nature (Louv) Public open space is no magic pudding!With the increased number of people now working from home on a more regular basis, demand has increased for locally
accessible outdoor activity and exercise. The shortcomings of our existing urban infrastructure are becoming evident.. Quad Bike Safety StandardThe new safety standard was introduced by the ACCC to reduce the risk of injury to consumers that operate a quad bike for work or recreation (applies from October 11). Read More No Card, No StartNo Card, No Start laws starting soon! Trail Building TipsNew MTBA video featuring trail building tips at the Sanford Conservation Park from the North Brisbane MTB Club “Dirt Dogs” - in co-operation with the land manager and key stakeholders. What's OnThe online calendar of What's On Activities, Events, Training & Workshops
Coming EventsEvents coming up this month include: Coffee & Conversation, August 7, 21 & 28 (not on August 14, Ekka Holiday); National Tree Day, 2/8; Run the Rim, 2/8; Inclusive Paddling at Shorncliffe, 29/8, and Queensland’s Biggest Ride Day, 30/8. Need to update your first aid quals?
Pedal QueenslandNeed extra motivation to keep moving this winter? Whether you are a regular cyclist or, like the thousands of people across the country who have hopped back on their bikes for the first time in years, Pedal Queensland is a challenge event like no other ... learn more For Hire: New Online Resources Go to the Membership section to become a QORF Green Circle Member today. New members will be acknowledged here, on the QORF home page and on our social media platforms. As a new member you will have a choice to make – sit back and hope things work out, or – much better – get involved! Learn more about Getting Involved and Making Connections Please note that QORF is currently transitioning to Outdoors Queensland. Over the coming months, you will see more and more of the new logo and other changes as we move into our new look and new structure. Watch this space! Back Issues - click to access back issues of the QORF eNewsletter You have received this email because you are subscribed to the QORF eNews or, as a member of the outdoor recreation community, we would like to keep in touch with you. You may unsubscribe at any time. |