Our Story

From a seed of an idea to a South Australian nature movement

Our vision is to inspire the South Australian community to strengthen their wellbeing and connection with nature through outdoor learning, play and conservation.

Established in 2014, Nature Play SA is a not-for-profit organisation that inspires the South Australian community to engage with nature in creative, sustainable, and meaningful ways. Our core belief is that spending time in nature supports wellbeing and fosters deeper connections with the environment and ourselves. And as curiosity and wonder transform into a desire to learn, a new world of understanding, appreciation, and respect can unfold.

Our work sees us develop strong partnerships to broaden our collective impact in schools, communities and regions. Each year our team mentor’s educators and works with thousands of students, families, and other learning providers. Perhaps one of our most significant achievements is the countless people engaged through events and experiences underpinned by nature awareness, immersion, and education.

Through our collaborations we are growing community understanding of ecological concepts, Aboriginal cultures, sustainability, nature’s intrinsic values, and respect for all living things.

Meet our team

Inclusion and accessibility

At Nature Play SA, we believe in creating experiences where everyone feels welcome, safe, valued, and seen. We celebrate each person’s unique qualities, embracing diversity across cultural backgrounds, abilities, ages, faiths, gender identities, orientations, and life experiences. Respect, kindness, and integrity shape our interactions, and we are committed to fostering environments where everyone can thrive and belong. We warmly invite people from all walks of life to experience the joy and wonder of nature with us.

Our commitment to inclusivity means we work closely with participants to support their experience, and we continually seek feedback to evolve our approach to meet the unique needs of our community. While some outdoor locations may present natural obstacles, we strive to choose accessible locations with suitable paths for mobility needs, including wheelchair accessibility, and to provide activities that can be enjoyed individually. Whenever possible, we provide options such as adjustable tables and seating, sensory-friendly zones, and a quiet space for rest and retreat.

To aid communication and comfort, we offer social scripts that preview activities to ease transitions, along with a Communication Board to support non-verbal communication at major events. Assistance animals are welcome, and we are committed to equal opportunity and nondiscrimination. Please reach out with any specific needs or suggestions in advance—together, we can create a meaningful and accessible nature experience for everyone.

Wittunga House access

If you are visiting us or joining a program at Wittunga House, we have carparking available in front of the house with wheelchair accessible ramps to enter the building at the main and rear entrances. The front door bell is at an accessible height and wheelchair toilet access is available inside the building. If you have any questions prior to visiting please contact us so we can assist you.

 

Our Partners

Green Adelaide

Green Adelaide is a South Australian Government supported organisation that is working towards a vision of a cooler, greener, wilder and climate-resilient metropolitan South Australia. The Green Adelaide area spans from the hills to the sea, encompassing 17 metropolitan council areas and about 1.3 million South Australians. Nature Play SA is funded by Green Adelaide and contributes to Adelaide National Park City.

Our Partners

Department for Education

The Department for Education aims to ensure South Australia’s public education system can unlock every child’s potential now and in the future. Educators and staff work in partnership with families and communities to empower all children and young people with the knowledge, skills, and capabilities they need to become fulfilled individuals, active, compassionate citizens, and lifelong learners.

Our Partners

The Department for Environment and Water

The Department for Environment and Water aims to help South Australians conserve, sustain and prosper. Their work in managing, conserving, and sustaining our environment and cultural resources is vital for the wellbeing of all South Australians.

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