1. Our relationship with nature is based heavily on the experiences we have there.

2. The type and quantity of our experiences are based heavily on you safe we and others think they are.

3. Our perceptions about safety are based on the way that incidents are handled, reported and responded to.

Typically, there is a process our society will go through when there is a major incident in the outdoors.

Watch the news report about the kayakers on Port Phillip Bay and see if you can spot the events on the next slide occuring.

1. An incident occurs

2. Media reports the incident – perhaps sensationalises or over or under emphasises particular aspects.

3. Public responds to the event – newspaper letters, radio talkback, social media.

4. Incident is investigated by authorities. If there is a fatality the coroner investigates and makes recommendations to governments.

5. Government enacts new or modified legislation based on coroner’s findings.

Media – outrage, sadness Legal responses – court action, coroner

investigation. Increase in insurance costs for the activity. Development of infrastructure to increase

safety – fences, roads, signs. Changes to/increase in rules and regulations. Changes to accreditation/training of

instructors. New technology, new safety equipment. Idolisation of adventurers.

Increased safety for an activity or location.

More participation in outdoor activities.

Higher impacts on areas.

Higher connection/appreciation of areas.

Legal restrictions – reduce number of participants and reduce local impacts.

Idolisation of adventurers can encourage others to copy – may be unprepared.

Fear – increased perceived risk of an activity if people see negative incidents.