NSW Forestry Corp, Dorset Council, Redland City Council and NPWS Take Top Honours at Sea Otter’s Wild Ideas Awards
The first-ever Land Managers Awards for Excellence in Recreation wrapped up the Sea Otter Australia Summit on Thursday 23 October 2025.
It was a fitting celebration of the people and organisations shaping the future of Australia’s outdoor recreation landscape.
More than 900 votes were cast by riders, clubs, local enterprises, charities, collaborators, and operators across the country. The awards highlighted the dedication and innovation of land managers working to make outdoor recreation more accessible, sustainable, and community-focused.
“We celebrated the people behind the trails, the parks, and the places that make adventure possible,” said Joe Mullan, CEO of Sea Otter Summit.
“It’s about recognising not just the destinations, but the collaboration and care that go into managing them.”
The 2025 awards recognised four key categories:
- Excellence in Recreation Accessibility
- Excellence in Community Engagement for Recreation Asset Use
- Excellence in Recreation Infrastructure
- Excellence in Recreation Destination Management (Promotion and Maintenance)
Excellence in Recreation Accessibility
- Winner: Forestry Corporation, New South Wales
- Finalists: ACT Parks, Brisbane City Council
Forestry Corporation NSW was recognised for their great work making sure outdoor spaces are accessible for all abilities through inclusive trail design and upgraded facilities. ACT Parks and Brisbane City Council were commended for improving community access and inclusive recreation programs.
Excellence in Community Engagement for Recreation Asset Use
- Winner: Redland Council, Queensland
- Finalists: City of Wollongong, Shire of Murray, WA
Redland Council impressed with its strong partnerships and community stewardship programs, empowering locals to help shape and maintain recreation spaces. Wollongong and Murray were noted for their collaborative work with user groups and volunteers.
Excellence in Recreation Infrastructure
- Winner: NSW National Parks & Wildlife Service
- Finalists: Thredbo MTB Park, Tasmania Parks and Wildlife (PWS)
NSW NPWS took the award for delivering high-quality supporting infrastructure – like upgraded trailheads, parking, and amenities – that enhance both safety and sustainability. Thredbo and Tasmania PWS were recognised for integrating smart infrastructure with natural environments.
Excellence in Recreation Destination Management (Promotion and Maintenance)
- Winner: Dorset Council, Tasmania
- Finalists: City of Gold Coast, Shire of Murray, WA
Dorset Council was celebrated for turning Derby into a world-class recreation destination through consistent maintenance, community engagement, and clever promotion. Gold Coast and Murray were recognised for managing popular destinations that boost local economies and visitor satisfaction.
The inaugural Land Managers Awards for Excellence in Recreation achieved its goal of placing a vital spotlight on the dedicated people and progressive organisations who are truly shaping Australia’s outdoor future.
The Land Managers Awards confirm that the future of Australian outdoor recreation rests on this foundation of dedication, sustainability, and collaboration, ensuring that adventure remains possible and accessible for all.
