Join us for FREE, FUN and FULLY GUIDED local nature walks - Made for Connection:

  • Explore beautiful local nature spots

  • Get active in a relaxed, welcoming way

  • Make new friends and feel part of something

  • Share stories, support each other, and bridge generations

  • Young women and older women walking side-by-side — for wellbeing, friendship, and fun.

SIDE-BY-SIDE NATURE WALKS is a new intergenerational pilot program to engage young women (18-25 years old) and older women (55+ years old) together, for improved social connection and physical activity, leading to better health & wellbeing.

The pilot program trials a FREE fully facilitated 8-week program with each program involving up to 8 young women and up to 8 older women, who meet on a weekly basis for 90 mins, and engage in physical activity (with nature walks being a primary focus) inclusive of social connection opportunities.

This pilot is being trialed in Surf Coast Shire & City of Greater Geelong throughout 2025.

“Spending time in nature together enhances mutual understanding and respect between generations, while also supporting physical health and emotional wellbeing”

Who are our Young Women?

  • You might have just finished school or are navigating your early 20s — figuring out what’s next, where you belong, and how to balance it all.

  • You might be looking for something grounding, something meaningful, or just a reason to get outside and move.

  • You’re curious, open-hearted, and ready to connect — not just with nature, but with the kind of wisdom and support that only comes from women who’ve walked a few more paths.

  • You want to stay active, build habits that support your mental and physical health, and maybe even make a difference for someone else along the way.

Who are our Older Women?

  • You might be stepping into retirement, or already there — reimagining what this next chapter looks like.

  • You’re seeking connection, a way to stay active, and to spend time in nature in good company — not just for your body, but for your soul.

  • You have life experience to share, and you know the value of a good chat, a shared story, or simply walking side-by-side with someone who’s just starting out.

  • You’re looking for more than just a walk — you’re looking for purpose, community, and a chance to give back in a gentle, joyful way.

Meet your guide, Richelle from “Escaping your Comfort Zone”.

“Hello, I’m Richelle, an everyday woman, I’m not overly fit, but I love the outdoors, and I want to inspire and support other people to get moving, without limits. You don’t need to be fit, you don’t need to “look the part”, it doesn’t matter what size, speed or fitness you are, all you need is a sense of adventure, and a willingness to step outside your comfort zone.”

Supported by:

Outdoors Victoria, Latrobe University Centre for Sport and Social Impact, Surf Coast Shire, City of Greater Geelong.

SIDE BY SIDE NATURE WALKS involves both physical and social activities with a primary focus on facilitating nature walks in local communities, catering for a diverse range of abilities and speeds. The program aims to be as inclusive as possible, however the nature of outdoor walks means that accessibility can vary depending on the location. Detailed walk descriptions will be provided to help you decide if a walk is right for you.

We are searching for “Community Connectors” who can help us connect with local women who may be interested in participating in SIDE-BY-SIDE NATURE WALKS. Please read the Overview for Community Groups for more information.

FAQ’s

  • Who’s funding the program?

    SIDE-BY-SIDE NATURE WALKS is a new pilot initiative being funded by Office for Sport (within the Australian Department of Health and Ageing) in support of the Play Our Way program.  The Play Our Way program aims to provide greater opportunities for women and girls to access, participate and remain involved in sport and physical activity.  The walks are FREE for participants.

  • Where do the walks take place?

    Walk locations vary but are based in the Surf Coast Shire and Greater Geelong areas. They are chosen for their accessibility, safety, and natural beauty.  Locations may include the Surf Coast Walk, Buckley Falls – Fyansford, You Yangs, Ocean Grove Nature Reserve, Distillery Creek – Aireys Inlet and Otway National Park waterfalls near Lorne.

  • What should I bring?

    Comfortable walking shoes, weather appropriate clothing (hat, raincoat, sunscreen), water bottle, personal items you may need (medications, including preventative medications as required, e.g. asthma puffer, epipen, antihistamine), snacks or lunch if stated on the individual walk.

  • When do the walks take place?

    Programs are expected to be scheduled for mid-2025. Through the Expression of Interest form (button above), you can tell us the days and times that suit you the best, to get involved. We will then do our best to cater for the majority of responses.


  • How long is each session?

    Each session will go for 1.5 – 2hrs, but please refer to individual walks for timing details. 

    The first half of the session will involve walking and being active, with the remaining half for social time (e.g. sharing a water, coffee or a tea).


  • What fitness level do I need to be?

    The walks are designed to be gentle and inclusive, with no one left behind. If you can comfortably walk around your neighbourhood for around 30 minutes (with breaks), you’ll be fine. It’s more about connection than speed!

  • Do you cater for people with disabilities?

    We understand that disabilities are diverse and everyone’s access needs are unique. While SIDE-BY-SIDE NATURE WALKS aims to be as inclusive as possible, the nature of outdoor walks means that accessibility can vary depending on the location.

    For each walk, we provide detailed information about the track surface, distance, gradient, facilities (like toilets and seating), and any potential barriers. This way, participants can make informed decisions about whether a particular walk suits their individual needs. If you have specific access requirements or questions, we encourage you to contact us directly. We’re more than happy to talk through the details and explore how we can support you to participate.


  • Is transport provided?

    Participants are responsible for their own transport to and from the walk locations. Some walks may have mini-bus transport available from a central location, it will be listed in the walk description.  If transport is a barrier, let us know—we may be able to help connect participants for carpooling.

  • What happens during a session?

    You’ll join a guided nature walk and have opportunities for casual conversation and social connection. Some sessions may also include reflective activities or discussions facilitated by the program leader.

  • Can I bring a friend?

    This program is designed specifically for the registered participants to engage with each other in an intergenerational setting. If you know a woman who fits the age criteria, encourage them to register too!

  • Can I bring my dog?

    Each specific walk will outline whether dogs are appropriate for that location.  Where dogs are welcome, they must be well behaved (with people and other dogs), on a short lead (to avoid trip hazards), and must be picked up after.

  • What if I can’t make every session?

    Come to one session or come to all, its up to you.  We encourage participants to commit to the full 8 weeks, but we understand life can be busy!

  • Will there be toilets?

    Where possible, scheduled walks will start and finish with toilets, check each walk description for details.

  • Will there be future sessions after the first 8 weeks?

    We hope so! The pilot will inform whether we expand or offer more programs in the future.

  • What happens in bad weather?

    We are firm believers in creating fun in rain, hail or shine.  But safety comes first! Walks will be adjusted or moved to an indoor space if the weather is unsafe (extreme heat, storms, etc.). We’ll keep you updated via text/email.

  • Can you organise these walks for my community group?

    We are searching for “Community Connectors” who can help us connect with local women who may be interested in participating in SIDE-BY-SIDE NATURE WALKS.

    Please read the Overview for Community Groups for more information.