Alex Gaut (SA)
I am the first Certified Forest Bathing Guide in South Australia, a co-founder of Nature & Wellbeing Australia, and am a Fellow of the Governor's Leadership Foundation. I have qualifications in marine science, education, project management, mindfulness and I am undertaking a Masters Research project in Environmental Psychology at UniSA. I have experience in environmental conservation and advocacy including managing award-winning conservation programs, ecotourism, citizen science, research, science communication, community development and teaching. I bring a collaborative, compassionate, evidence-based approach to nature connection for everyone.
Bronwyn Paynter (SA)
I am an occupational therapist with 25 years experience supporting people to participate in the things they need, want and have to do in their everyday lives. I have a passion for the evidence about how nature supports our health and wellbeing, particularly for people in an urban environment. I recently completed a Graduate Certificate in Permaculture Design and have qualifications in project management, work health and safety and auditing. My occupational therapy business is Flourish, nature based OT.
Jana Norman (SA)
My professional background is in community development, and I have degrees in psychology, theology and law. I’m a university researcher with an interest in the human-earth relationship in law and the humanities.
I'm the convener of the Community of the Cosmic Person, a resource network for CoFlourishing of people, place, and planet, with an emphasis on Ecozoic Living: learning to be present to the planet in a mutually beneficial manner.
Lucy Van Sambeek (NSW)
Now living at Yintarini Farm in Seaspray Victoria, I bring more than 15 years' experience as a mental health social worker in rural NSW and remote First Nations communities of the Northern Territory. My passion is bringing opportunities for healing to people through nature, art and storytelling. My therapeutic work brings together the best of Western science and knowledge, whilst respecting and engaging with Indigenous perspectives and world views. Find out more about my work, life and Nature Therapy walks in the West Gippsland region at '...metaphorically speaking'
Natalie & Carmel Herington (NSW)
Reconnect to the earth, ourselves and each other with us at Foresters Nature & Forest Therapy. We offer small groups the opportunity to relax, reconnect & revive. Situated in the Ballina/Byron hinterland of NSW, we will guide you on our private 350 Acre property for a 2 1/2-3 hour journey that will awaken your senses so you may experience nature with more childlike wonder, and benefit from all she has to offer. Connect with us at Forest Farm
Kara Spence (TAS)
I understand our dual demands on nature to sustain our souls and support our economy. The trick is achieving both, in harmony and balance. The sum of my work as a Park Ranger, expert environmental educator and teacher, combined with 15 years training in mindfulness, inspired the creation of Nature. Be in it. Unique outdoor sensory experiences in Tasmania, for all ages: from school holiday programs to forest bathing adults-only time-out with a gourmet picnic, there is no better way to recharge and fill up. Find out more at www.naturebeinit.com
Louise Kiddell (NSW)
My passion is to help people reconnect to themselves, their communities and nature. I believe mindful nature connection practice promotes integrative health and wellbeing and environmental stewardship. I created Barefoot Wellbeing to support people to intentionally explore and rewild their inner and outer landscapes. Find more information at www.barefootwellbeing.com
I am also a Bush School and Wild Play educator at Centennial Park and the Australian Botanic Gardens, and a Yoga Teacher. I have qualifications and experience in medical science, environmental conservation and international and community development.
Erica Gurner (SA)
I am a passionate facilitator and educator with expertise in nature and wellbeing developed over 16 years working in the context of adventure therapy, nature play, health promotion and community led change. Through HumaNature Connect I offer masterclasses, nature experience and facilitation to help corporate, community, not-for-profit and government groups to address human wellbeing and environmental health in integrated ways. My experience is underpinned by postgraduate qualifications in wilderness therapy, science, education, and sustainability leadership.
Michelle Brenner (NSW)
I have a particular interest in healing. I studied and worked as a Natural Health Therapist, then a 30 year career as a Conflict Resolution Consultant, working in local government as a mediator and facilitator as well as consultancy in both the Government and Private sector. I have lived in Japan and Hawaii amongst other cultures and feel that Nature Forest Therapy embodies the practice of participatory experience. I have led walks for Waverley Council as well as offering individual, group and children walks.
Claudia Grati (NSW & QLD)
My background is interdisciplinary – I have worked in environmental conservation and advocacy, creative and ecotherapies, community development, and social justice. My mission is to deeply connect beings of all ages with the ‘more than human’ world; fostering infinite inspiration and a desire for true environmental stewardship. My post graduate studies focus on the link between ecology and psychology; and how maintaining an intimate relationship with nature can be the balm both for our souls, and our planet. I am located in Byron Bay’s beautiful Hinterland, and you can find out more and connect with me at Wildforest Folk.
Rachel DeSumma (VIC)
My mission is to create opportunities that invite us to become more deeply connected with nature, ourselves and each other. In 2019 I founded Forest Immersion Walks, in the Dandenong Ranges, Victoria. Partnering with nature, I offer opportunities to explore the natural world using all of our senses. As a community connector, I have worked across youth, disability, and volunteer management sectors, with a background in psychology and community development. I am currently training with the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy.