2025 Conference

NBONSA 2025 State Outdoor Conference Nov 21-23, Melrose, South Australia

Get excited!

The latest program is here! Click on this link: State Outdoor Conference Program v.7 19.11.25

Conference Registration Link is here.

For the most up-to-date information on the 2025 conference, click here for the Outdoor Educators' Association of South Australia event information.

Join us in the iconic Flinders Ranges town of Melrose for the South Australian Outdoor Conference 2025, a gathering of outdoor educators, practitioners, recreation leaders, adventure therapists, and enthusiasts passionate about the power of the outdoors.

The conference will feature an engaging mix of presentations, workshops, and practical sessions exploring themes of outdoor education, recreation, adventure therapy, leadership, sustainability, and well-being.

The regional setting of Melrose, with its trails, mountains, and rich cultural history provides the perfect backdrop for both learning and adventure. Sessions will take place in unique venues around town, including the Melrose Institute, Jacka Brothers Brewery, Showgrounds, CFS Complex, and of course out on the trails.

Program highlights include:

Mountain biking leadership workshops and trail advocacy sessions.
Practical skills sessions on sustainable hiking foods, paragliding, camp cooking, and versatile outdoor shelters.
Insights into outdoor education curriculum, assessment, and research.
Adventure therapy approaches linking the outdoors with belonging and well-being.
Evening talks from inspiring adventurers and educators
Evening social events including a gear auction, stargazing, and community dinners.
A dedicated children’s program with nature-based activities.

The SA Outdoor Conference is not just about professional development, it’s about connecting with community, sharing stories, and celebrating the role of the outdoors in education, recreation, and well-being.

Whether you are an outdoor educator, guide, therapist, student, or simply passionate about nature and adventure, this is a weekend not to be missed.

Where to stay …

Melrose Showgrounds: https://www.facebook.com/melroseshowgrounds/
Melrose Showground welcomes campers anytime and offer low-cost camping. Travel north out of Melrose for approximately 2km The showground is on your left, follow the signs.

Melrose Caravan Park: www.melrosecaravanpark.com.au
Melrose Caravan & Tourist Park provides a quiet, scenic & clean park with easy access to National Parks & Gorges. Melrose Caravan & Tourist Park is a unique camping experience with powered & unpowered sites. If camping is not your style, they have ensuite, air-conditioned cabins. Sleeping up to 5 persons, you can enjoy the wonderful surroundings with all the comfort of home.

Under the Mount: www.underthemount.com.au
This beautiful accommodation located in the heart of the town can sleep up to 26 people with communal areas for gathering before a wedding or event

Melrose Holiday Units: www.melroseholidayunits.com.au
In a quiet, tranquil setting with all the modem amenities, Melrose Holiday Units offer privacy and freedom, with ample car parking and a peaceful location off the main highway

Jacka Brothers Brewery: www.jackabrothersbrewery.com.au
Nestled at the foothills of Mount Remarkable (Wangyarra) National Park in the Flinders Ranges, accommodation at Jacka Brothers Brewery is your luxury base camp. The Remarkable Mountain Lodges and Brewery Guesthouse offer a unique accommodation experience.

Kookaburra Creek Retreat www.kookaburracreekretreat.com.au
Set on 80 acres of privately owned bushland, on the foothills of Mt Remarkable in the Southern Flinders Ranges. Offering affordable, comfortable accommodation with the option of Bush Camping.

North Star Hotel: www.northstarhotel.com.au
Lovely accommodation located in the centre of town. With a cottage, hotel rooms and insanely cool trucks done up for accommodation, it's a perfect place for friends and family to stay!

Other Accommodation
Please check out airbnb.com.au, wotif.com.au, booking.com.au and expedia.com.au

Food is supplied for Saturday and Sunday up to Lunch for Conference Attendees.

Family can also be catered for on request. Alternative options include the following....

Where to eat …

Over the Edge Café: Located in the main street - Open 9.00am – 5.00pm

Jacka Brothers Brewery: Wood oven pizza is their specialty - bookings via www.jackabrothersbrewery.com.au

North Star Hotel: Classic Pub meals – bookings via 08 8666 2110

Store 54: Located in the main street – Open 8.00am – 7.00pm