A celebration of excellence across Australia’s outdoor sector will take place next month, with the 2026 Outdoor Industry Awards recognising outstanding contributions to outdoor education, recreation, tourism and therapy.
Hosted by Outdoors NSW & ACT, the awards will be held in Jervis Bay on 16 July as part of the organisation’s 2026 Outdoor Industry events program.
This year’s awards attracted 42 entries across 11 categories, with 29 finalists selected for demonstrating excellence across the outdoor industry. Fifteen winners will be announced on the night, recognising programs, organisations and individuals contributing to communities, schools, tourism, recreation and health settings.
According to Outdoors NSW & ACT, the awards aim to acknowledge the leadership, professionalism and innovation that support safe and meaningful experiences in outdoor environments.
Outdoors NSW & ACT CEO Lori Modde said the awards provide an opportunity to showcase the breadth and impact of the sector.
“The outdoor industry plays a vital role in building healthier communities, supporting young people, strengthening regional economies and creating safe, meaningful experiences in nature,” Ms Modde said.
“These Awards give us the opportunity to recognise the people and organisations who are leading the way — whether that is through exceptional programming, innovation, inclusion, environmental stewardship, education, tourism or service to the sector.”
In addition to recognising award finalists and winners, the event will celebrate 26 members for their contribution to the outdoor industry through their engagement with Outdoors NSW & ACT.
The evening will also mark the graduation of 19 participants from the second cohort of the Pinnacle Leadership Program, a professional development initiative designed to strengthen leadership capability across the outdoor sector.
Ms Modde said the program plays an important role in developing future leaders for outdoor education, recreation and tourism.
“To see 19 leaders graduate as part of this celebration reinforces the depth of talent, commitment and passion that exists across our sector,” she said.
The Outdoor Industry Awards bring together industry representatives, government stakeholders, partners and supporters to recognise achievements across the sector and celebrate the role outdoor experiences play in education, wellbeing and community connection.
The awards will be held in Jervis Bay on Thursday, 16 July.
Further information is available via Outdoors NSW & ACT’s Outdoor Industry Awards page.