Home - QORF Outdoors Queensland  
 


QORF Newsletter - March 2010

CEO's Message
New QORF Life Member - Rob Simson
QORF Membership has benefits!
Low Carbon Living Starts at Home
17 Days to GACO!
Land for Public Recreation Survey!
Active Outdoors Expo 2010
National Youth Week
Coming to Grips with the New IR Regime
Real Adventure Women - New Season Program
Grants & Funding
Lord Mayor of Brisbane: Sustainability Grants
Ropes Course Owners or Team Building Day
Urban MAX Adventure Race
NEW School Business Community Partnership Brokers Program
Survey on Volunteers
Child and Youth Risk Management Strategy Toolkit
Important Date Claimers
In this Issue

March's eNews contains a report from our CEO, Donna Little, and updates on: New QORF Life Member - Rob Simson, GACO (Only 17 days to go!), QORF membership, Low Carbon Living, the Land for Public Recreation Survey, Active Outdoors Expo 2010, National Youth Week, Coming to Grips with the New IR Regime, New RAW program, Grants & Funding, Lord Mayor of Brisbane's Sustainability Grants, Ropes Course Owners or Team Building Day, a new Urban MAX Adventure Race for Brisbane, a NEW School Business Community Partnership Brokers Program, a new survey on Volunteers, the Child and Youth Risk Management Strategy Toolkit and Important Date Claimers

CEO's Message
Back to top

Welcome to the March e-news. There is so much information we need to share with you this month, that I will try and keep my message very much on task!

First thank you to those who attended and/or presented at the Industry Information Evening and QORF AGM on March 11. It was lovely to see you, and as always we recieved some valuable information from the Department of Communities, Seqwater, the Department of Infrastructure and Planning and the Department of Envrionment and Resource Management. We had good representation from a range of sectors in the outdoor industry and it was wonderful to have you involved.

To let you all know, Rebecca Fox has stepped down from the QORF board and is focusing her energies on two young children, the oldest of whom started school this year. Our thanks to Bec for her support and contributions over the years. In her place, the board is joined by Eric Newmann from 4WD Qld who is a welcome addition to the governance of our organisation. In addition to Eric, Ben Rothwell from Kindilan OECC has been co-opted onto the board. We look forward to working with both of these new volunteers and thank them for their willingness to be involved.

March 11 also saw Rob Simson be conferred with Life Membership to QORF. You can read more about Rob's contribution to the industry in the story below. On the 11th, we also learned a little more about the funding arrangements with Sport and Recreation Services, and would encourage all of you to investigate how you might be able to secure funding for outdoor recreation in the coming funding rounds. DO NOTE: the Local Sport and Recreation Jobs Plan and State Sport and Recreation Organisation Development Program guidelines will be released on April 1, closing July 2. As you keep reading through the newsletter you will also find information on other funding opportunities that might be able to assist you and your organisations.

Importantly, a Draft Greenspace Strategy has just been released by the State Government and is available for public comment (see DIP website). We will be making contact with you in the coming weeks to seek your input/ opinions/ insights into this document & invite you to some information sessions. QORF will be preparing a submission and will be calling on your support to ensure that we are capturing and reinforcing the outdoor industries feedback on this document. As you will note, much of the focus of this strategy is tied to the commitment from government for 50% more land for public recreation by 2020. Again, more reasons why we need you to help us find out what land is ALREADY available, by completing the Land for Public Recreatio Survey attached below.

We wish you all a wonderful Easter. If you are camping early to practice for GACO - then please make sure you find some dry, high ground. Enjoy time with family and friends, be safe on the roads and remember the spirit of the holiday.

Regards
Donna





New QORF Life Member - Rob Simson
Back to top

We are very pleased to announce that Rob Simson was made a Life Member of the Queensland Outdoor Recreation Federation on March 11 at the AGM.

Rob has selflessly dedicated himself to the outdoor community through orienteering, outdoor education and environmental protection. Since Orienteerings inception in the 1970's he played a major role in locating and mapping suitable locations and developed the first colour maps ever produced in Queensland.

He was instrumental in establishing Schools Orienteering; as a geography and outdoor education teacher he was committed to the environment and outdoor recreation; he was the foundation member of the Toohey Forest Protection Society; as a freelance journalist he has contributed to geographical, educational and bushwalking magazines and, in 2007, as an author he wrote the environmental novel, "Banksia - a Kangaroo's Tale"

Congratulations Rob

READ MORE: Rob Simson - a personal history




QORF Membership has benefits!
Back to top

QORF Logo 230

Membership is currently OPEN!

If you are an individual with an passion for outdoor activity; if you are a club, association or commercial operation that provides outdoor activities; if you are the peak body for your activity; or if you are a not for profit organisation committed to helping others through outdoor learning or development; QORF membership is the place for you:
  • to connect with others in the industry
  • to be seen, to promote yourself - every member can have a full webpage listing
  • to get information on the latest industry trends and issues
  • to receive discounts on outdoor books and DVD's
  • to access discounts on professional development workshops and conferences
  • to advertise your events, trips and workshops in our online calendar


  • Membership rates are very reasonable (from $70.00 - $150.00 pa) and come with the certain knowledge that you are helping to develop and promote outdoor recreation in Queensland.

    For more information and application forms go to the Membership page





    Low Carbon Living Starts at Home
    Back to top


    This simple new guide looks at efficient water and energy use options throughout your home that will save you money as well as help reduce your impact on the environment.
    Produced by HOPE Australia with assistance from the Queensland Government’s Low Carbon Diet initiative.

    Click Low Carbon Living Starts at Home to Download





    17 Days to GACO!
    Back to top

    The Great Aussie Camp Out is almost here.

    Are you ready?
    Is your group ready?
    Is your campsite booked/ identified?
    Have you registered?
    Does everybody know where to go, what to bring and what to expect?

    If not, now's the time to make it happen:
    Get hold a few mates, choose a campsite, work out transport, organise the food (don't forget the barbie!), check the gear ... and don't forget to register!

    Now you are part of GACO!

    More than just interested? Getting Excited? Enthusiastic?

    Click here to Register NOW





    Land for Public Recreation Survey!
    Back to top


  • Q2 Agenda: State Gov't has committed to 50% MORE land for public recreation.

  • YOU can help us to establish a strong baseline of what already exists, so 50% MORE means something!


  • QORF are working with the Queensland Department of Infrastructure and Planning (DIP) to identify freehold (private) land that is used for public recreation purposes. If you have land, use land in your activities, or know of privately owned land used for this purpose - we want to hear from you! no later than April 16 please!

    READ MORE: Land for Public Recreation Survey!





    Active Outdoors Expo 2010
    Back to top


    The only event designed to showcase the diversity of Queensland’s Outdoor Recreation industry – the ‘Active Outdoors’ Expo 2010.

    There’s something for everyone at the Active Outdoors Expo2010 with an action packed, fun filled day of activities, demonstrations and exhibitions.

    To find out more, check out the information on the website, click Active Outdoors Expo 2010.





    National Youth Week
    Back to top

    LIVE IT NOW!

    When: Saturday 10 to Sunday 18 April.

    National Youth Week is the largest annual celebration for young people in Australia. It is supported by Australian, State, Territory and Local Governments to promote a positive profile of young people in their communities. Check out www.youthweek.com to see what's happening around Australia, and in Queensland go to: Youth Week QLD

    Contact email nyw@communities.qld.gov.au





    Coming to Grips with the New IR Regime
    Back to top

    It is now over three months since the last elements of the new industrial/workplace relations system, the network of over 130 ‘Modern Awards’ came into effect.

    Read More:
    Coming to Grips with the New IR Regime

    Michael Taylor
    Principal Consultant




    Real Adventure Women - New Season Program
    Back to top

    The BCC’s Real Adventure Women (RAW) new season program available from April 1. If you are keen to sign up for the Circus for Women ( 6 week course from 24 April, the Island Bike Ride (18th April), or Learn to Surf (4th April) please email or call for more information.

    The Moreton Bay Regional Council’s ADVENTURE WOMEN commenced in March and there are loads of activities still on offer. Visit www.moretonbay.qld.gov.au.

    See the attached flyer for what’s on in APRIL for RAW and Adventure Women.

    For more information, please:
    Email: recreation@communify.org.au
    or call: 07 3510 2722
    Website: www.communify.org.au





    Grants & Funding
    Back to top

    Gambling Community Benefit Fund – Queensland Government. Provides one-off grants of up to $30,000 to Queensland based not-for-profit community groups.
    Applications close 31 May. Go to Gambling Community Benefit Fund


    Jupiter’s Casino Community Benefit Fund – Queensland Government. Provides grants of up to $150,000 for capital expenditure / fixed assets, pilot projects, community education/training, and community workshops.
    Applications close 31 May. Go to Jupiter’s Casino Community Benefit Fund


    Children in Care Initiative – Queensland Government. The Department of Communities has allocated $1 million in funding to help children in care participate in sport and recreation activities during 2010. This funding initiative recognises the true costs of caring and can be used for:
  • club registration fees
  • physical activity
  • sporting event participation

  • Applications close 31 December. Go to Children in Care Initiative


    Volunteer Grants 2010 recognises the valuable work of Australia’s volunteers and is part of the Government’s ongoing commitment to supporting volunteers, assisting disadvantaged communities and encouraging social inclusion to assist vulnerable people within our society. Small grant lots ($1000 - $5000) are available to eligible non-profit organisations to:
  • contribute towards the costs of training courses and/or background screening checks
  • purchase portable, tangible, small equipment items
  • contribute towards fuel reimbursement .

  • Applications close on Friday 16 April 201. Go to Volunteer Grants 2010


    Funding Opportunities from Sport and Recreation Services, Department of Communities - first round of Infrastructure and Active Inclusion programs close April 16.
    Read More >> Funding News Update

    Go to Sport and Recreation Services, Department of Communities New Funding Programs for information, guidelines and application forms.





    Lord Mayor of Brisbane: Sustainability Grants
    Back to top

    Brisbane City Council is committed to Brisbane being Australia's most sustainable city.

    This program provides funding for local non-profit community groups to increase their environmental sustainability. Eligible projects include:
  • solar hot water systems
  • heat pumps or heat exchanges for hot water systems
  • insulation purchase and installation
  • solar photovoltaic panels


  • NOTE: Applications close April 6 - so get in soon!

    Go to Sustainability Grants for more information on how to apply.





    Ropes Course Owners or Team Building Day
    Back to top

    Mike Anderson from Challenge Works is planning to attend the annual VOEA Conference in early June, and, while it is unlikely he will be coming to Queensland, there may be the possibility of a workshop in Sydney around 26th or 27th May.

    Consequently ORIC is seeking 'Expressions of Interest" from anyone who may wish to go down to Sydney to attend a workshop, and to determine if there is sufficient demand.

    Click for more information: ORIC Newsletter





    Urban MAX Adventure Race
    Back to top


    Ever wanted to participate in the ‘Amazing Race’?

    The Urban Max is Australia’s very own Amazing Race where teams of two race through Brisbane’s urban landmarks in a 3-6 hour adventure. With only a map, clue sheet and your wits, your team will navigate around the city to locate and complete a variety of physical and mental challenges. Speed is not always the deciding factor with a strong emphasis on route selection and problem solving skills. Teams can only travel by foot or public transport and all ages and fitness levels are welcome. The race will conclude with a BBQ and short presentation with over $5,000 in prizes!

    If you can think outside the box and know your way around the city, get your entry in today.

    WHEN
    Brisbane 19 June 2010
    WHERE
    In the heart of each city, the exact location will be announced two weeks prior to the event.
    WHO
    Teams of two (male, female, mixed teams in racing or social categories).
    ENTRY
    To enter now or for more info, CLICK HERE: www.maxadventure.com.au/urbanmax

    Email: info@maxadventure.com.au





    NEW School Business Community Partnership Brokers Program
    Back to top

    Chamber of Commerce & Industry Queensland (CCIQ) have been chosen to deliver the School Business Community Partnership Brokers Program, designed to improve education and transition outcomes for young people in Queensland.

    The intent of the program is to foster a whole of community approach to support young people to make a successful transition through school to further education, training or work. CCIQ is calling on key stakeholder groups across Queensland to nominate to provide
    input into the program.

    Read More: CCIQ Media Release

    Go to the CCIQ Website for further info and stakeholder registration





    Survey on Volunteers
    Back to top


    An invitation to you and your members/associates to participate in a short survey to gather some data about volunteers, including the spread and amount of their volunteering activities and their motivation
    (Run by Volunteering Queensland and The Sport, Fitness and Recreation Workforce Development Collaborative)

    Read More:Invitation or go directly to the Survey





    Child and Youth Risk Management Strategy Toolkit
    Back to top

    Safe environments require ongoing planning, commitment and maintenance. The Commission for Children and Young People has produced a toolkit designed to provide information and guidance to assist you to develop and implement a child and youth risk management strategy that meets the eight minimum requirements outlined in the Commission’s Act.

    For further information please go to the Commission of Children website.





    Important Date Claimers
    Back to top

    Calendar

    1. Full Day Risk Management Workshop - Presenters, Clare Dallat & Deb Ajango - April 9th, 2010. Location: Brisbane Girls Grammar School, Gregory Terrace. Cost: $275 for QORF and OEAQ members; $385 for non-members.
      09:30 - 17:00

      Further details can be found at: Risk Management

    2. IMBA Australia, Trail Sustainability Workshop - Presenters Joey Klein & Nick Bowman.
      Cairns
      April 7/8
      “The Boathouse”
      James Cook Uni
      14 MacGregor Rd, Smithfield
      Cairns Booking Form

      Brisbane
      April 12/13
      The Hut
      89 Fleming Road
      Chapel Hill
      Brisbane Booking Form

      Fee: $130.00 der day ($70.00 discount rate)

    3. Richard Louv, author of ‘Nature Deficit Disorder: Reconnecting Children and Nature’ will be presenting at a public forum at the State Library of Queensland.
      April 19th.
      Tickets and Info: QTIX

    4. Keeping People Outdoors
      2010 Outdoor Recreation Industry Council Conference
      21 – 22 August 2010
      Novotel, Sydney Olympic Park, Homebush
      For more information visit Keeping People Outdoors









     

     
     

     
     
    footer