News - Office Update
Update from the People Outdoors Head Office: May 2023

At People Outdoors, we’re proud of the wonderful team off staff we have both in the office and on our programs in both Melbourne and Ballarat. These individuals work hard to ensure our camps run smoothly and most importantly, our campers are well supported whilst at camp.

Over the past couple of months there have been a few developments we’d like to share with you:

It is with great regret that we inform you that after 5 years with the Australian Camps Association (ACA) in the People Outdoors Team, Melissa Puccio tendered her resignation.

Melissa had been studying Human Resources and she was been successful in obtaining a position in this field. Melissa has been a valuable contributor the People Outdoors team and she will be sadly missed by everyone at the Australian Camps Association.  We all wish Mel every success in her new role.

Athena Warren, our People Outdoors Camp Coordinator, has returned to her previous teaching role and we thank her for her contribution to People Outdoors over her time at the office and we wish her the very best with her future endeavours.

With this change, we’re pleased to announce the following staff appointments for the People Outdoors Team.

Sandra Murphy has been appointed to the People Outdoors Manager position replacing Melissa Puccio who finished up with ACA late March.  As part of her role, Sandra is looking after the Great Getaway programs - camps for over 55s.

This appointment took effect in late March 2023 and we congratulate Sandra on her new appointment.

These changes created a vacancy in the People Outdoors Assistant Camp Coordinator role and we’re pleased to announce the appointment of Nidheesh Sinha to the role. Nidheesh joined the team mid-April 2023 and he is enjoying working with the team to provide People Outdoors programs for our campers. You can find out more about Nidheesh here.

Earlier this year we also welcomed a new CEO, Peter McDougall - find out more here.

 
 
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Improving Wellbeing, Confidence and Connectedness One Camp at a Time!

For 35 years, the Australian Camps Association (ACA), has provided supported camps and outdoor experiences for kids, teens, and adults living with disability through its People Outdoors program...

 
 
Upcoming Programs
 
 
VIC: Lady Northcote Weekend Away
Lady Northcote Discovery Camp
Kids & Teens (6-17yrs)
05-06-2026 - 07-06-2026
weekend

Get ready for a two-night nature escape at Lady Northcote Discovery Camp. An adventure weekend designed especially for kids and teens living with disability! Set in beautiful bushland near Bacchus Marsh, you’ll enjoy activities like archery, low ropes & challenge courses, team games, and great campfire fun.

Unplug, connect, and make new friends in the great outdoors!

Departs from Thornbury, Melbourne

New to People Outdoors? Complete our referral form to begin the intake process before camp.

Spaces are limited — book your place today! 03 9863 6824

ENQUIRE (New Camper) ENQUIRE (Returning Camper)
VIC: Great Ocean Road Weekend Adventure
Anglesea Discovery Camp
Adults (18yrs+)
12-06-2026 - 14-06-2026
weekend

Ready for a breath of fresh coastal air?
Join us for a two-night camp at the scenic Anglesea Discovery Camp — a fun and supportive getaway designed for adults (18+) living with disability.

Just a short trip from Melbourne, this coastal camp is the perfect chance to:

- Take part in exciting outdoor adventures like archery, coastal walks, and more
- Explore the beauty of the Great Ocean Road’s natural surroundings
- Enjoy games, group activities, and plenty of time to relax and connect with others

Departs from Thornbury, Melbourne

New to People Outdoors?
Getting started is easy — complete our referral form and intake process to join the adventure.

ENQUIRE (New Camper) ENQUIRE (Returning Camper)
Adventure by the Bay – A Four-Day Escape
Bayview Adventure Camp
Kids & Teens (6-17yrs)
30-06-2026 - 03-07-2026
holiday

Ready for your next supported adventure?
Join us for a four-day, three-night camp at the beautiful Bayview Adventure Camp.

This program is for Kids & Teens (6-17yrs) living with disability who are ready for fun, connection, and outdoor adventure.

Nestled by the coast, this camp offers the perfect mix of relaxation and excitement:

- Try activities like archery, team games, and outdoor challenges
- Enjoy the fresh sea breeze and explore Bayview’s stunning natural surrounds
- Connect with new friends during fun social time and group experiences

Departs from Thornbury, Melbourne

New to People Outdoors?
No worries! Just complete our referral form and intake process to get started.

More adventure. More laughs. More memories by the bay.
Spaces are limited — book your place today! 03 9863 6824

ENQUIRE (New Camper) ENQUIRE (Returning Camper)