Nature belongs to all of us
A volunteer-run charity creating safe, joyful and inclusive outdoor experiences for LGBTQIA+ adults and our allies.
Nature heals. Nature teaches.
For too many LGBTQIA+ Victorians, the outdoors feels out of reach.
Not because of a lack of interest — but because of barriers that quietly add up. The cost of gear. Access to transport. Not knowing where to start. Not having people to go with. Feeling like outdoor spaces weren't really made for them.
At Oot & Aboot Outdoors, we believe nature belongs to everyone. We are a not-for-profit community organisation creating inclusive, low-pressure outdoor experiences designed to reduce social isolation and support mental wellbeing.
We know from research that community connectedness acts as a protective factor for LGBTQIA+ people — reducing anxiety, building resilience, and creating a genuine sense of belonging. Yet safe, affirming spaces to experience nature together remain limited. We're here to change that.
Oot is more than an event — it's a space where people form friendships, discover confidence, support regional communities, and build a sense of belonging that lasts long after the campfire goes out.
Nature belongs to everyone. Our job is to remove the things standing between our community and a night under the stars.Oot & Aboot Outdoors
The barriers are real, and they are specific
Small trips, run properly
We run camps and bushwalks roughly monthly, capped at 10–12 people so nobody gets lost in a crowd. Every trip is designed for people who have never done this before.
Borrow what you need
Tents, sleeping mats and cooking equipment, free of charge, no deposit and no means test. The cost of equipment is the most common reason people tell us they can't come.
You don't need a car
Transport support is available on some trips, and we're working on making it standard. Not driving should not rule you out of the outdoors.
We tell you what's there
Every event listing states the toilet and shower facilities, walking distance and terrain before you book — not on request. See ouraccessibility commitments.
Volunteer-run, and accountable
Oot & Aboot Outdoors Ltd is an Australian public company registered with the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission since November 2025, ABN 72 692 989 601.
We are endorsed for GST concession and income tax exemption. We are not currently DGR endorsed, which means donations to us are not tax deductible. We would rather say that plainly than let anyone assume otherwise.
Almost everything here is done by volunteers in their own time. If you'd like to be one of them, we'd love to hear from you.
Come on a trip
No experience needed, gear available, and roughly half the group will be on their first camp too.
See upcoming events