Selective hearing : recognising the contribution of women to the outdoor profession

![CDATA[The role, place and often invisible contribution of women in the outdoor learning profession has recently come under the researcher’s microscope. Alarmingly, there is an under representation of women cited in research and practice, yet they represent half the OE population. A male dominated narrative prevails in the outdoor profession; the intention of this paper is to serve as a starting point for critical analysis and discourse about the status of women in outdoor learning environments (OLEs). Women have chosen to participate actively in outdoors careers, believing the profession was a level playing field and it offered alternatives to traditional sporting activities. We entered careers based on a passion for leading and teaching in natural environments; however, we naively assumed the field was inclusive, rewarding excellence regardless of age, gender, socio-economic status, disability or ethnicity. Collective experiences of many women in OLEs suggest they feel relegated, marginalized and undervalued. This paper will investigate the historical contribution of women in OLEs within Australia and place this within the global context. Parallels with other professions and sectors will be examined where tests such as the Bechdel, Finkbeiner or Surfette Principle have been applied to examine the gender inequities and typecasting. The workshop will conclude by exploring how our professional body may move forward positively in this space: How do we value women in Outdoor Learning Environments? How do we address existing blind spots to recognition and barriers, which females may currently experience in the field? How do we celebrate the role, place and contribution of women in our profession?]]