Intro
Held for the first time in the Southern Hemisphere and delivered by Outdoors WA, the conference brings together trail managers, tourism operators, researchers, First Nations representatives and volunteers to share knowledge and explore the future of trails.
Supported with $380,000 in WA Government funding, the event offers an opportunity to showcase the State’s diverse landscapes and trail experiences to an international audience.
The conference has attracted over 260 delegates, with 54% of attendees being international, representing 25 different countries.
Across three days of conference sessions, delegates are taking part in keynote presentations, practical workshops and panel discussions covering trail planning, management, conservation, tourism and community participation.
Pre and post tours showcasing some of Western Australia’s extraordinary trails and tourism operators have attracted strong attendance, further expanding the reach and impact of the conference.
The program will help WA’s outdoor recreation sector build international connections and bring new ideas to local projects, while highlighting the role trails play in connecting people with Country and culture.
The conference coincides with spring in WA, between winter and summer sport seasons, signalling the perfect time to encourage Western Australians to get active and explore the State’s great outdoors.
Outdoors WA Chief Executive Officer Katie Brown said that bringing the international trails community to Perth is a fantastic opportunity to showcase WA’s remarkable trails and the people whose work makes them possible.
“The conference will help our local sector share knowledge, learn from international experience and build connections that will benefit trails and communities across the State.”
The WA Government supports outdoor recreation through its $165 million Outdoor Adventure Tourism Package, investing in trails, campgrounds, facilities and attractions across the State.
Find out more about the World Trails Conference