Walkabout Training offers bespoke outdoor education programs for those in need of outdoor therapeutic intervention. The business is founded by an experienced youth worker with a background as a Detective with extensive experience in child protection. Mark is also a fully qualified outdoor education instructor (Cert IV Outdoor Leadership, Cert IV Training and Assessment). Walkabout Training’s programs are tailored to meet the unique needs of each group or individual participant, and are designed to provide a safe and supportive environment for young people to learn and grow.

Our programs are based on the principles of outdoor therapy, which emphasize experiential learning, personal growth, and caring for country. Participants in Walkabout Training’s programs have the opportunity to engage in a wide range of activities, including hiking, camping, canoeing, stand up paddleboarding, fishing and more. These activities are designed to develop important life skills such as teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving.

Walkabout Training’s programs are also designed to be culturally sensitive and inclusive. The business is indigenous-owned, and its programs are grounded in indigenous knowledge and practices. Walkabout Training’s instructors are trained to work with young people from diverse backgrounds, and to create a positive environment for all participants.

In addition to its core programs, Walkabout Training also offers a range of other services. These include vocational training in partnership with a registered training organisation, group facilitation or one on one care, NDIS support, training and consulting services for other outdoor education providers, as well as custom program design and development services for organizations looking to create their own outdoor education programs.

Overall, Walkabout Training is a unique and innovative business that is dedicated to providing high-quality outdoor education programs for youth at risk. With its experienced staff, culturally sensitive approach, and commitment to personalized programming, Walkabout Training is well-positioned to make a positive impact on the lives of young people in need.

Mark Cartner

Mark Cartner is the founder and director of Walkabout Training, an indigenous-owned business that offers bespoke outdoor education programs for youth at risk. Mark has spent 25 years as a police officer, working in the child protection unit for from 2003 to 2024. This has given him extensive experience in child protection, working with government and non-government agencies, and ensuring children are safe and are assisted in recovering from traumatic experiences. Mark has also volunteered running youth groups and is kept busy at home with his wife raising their 4 children. This means for his entire adult life, Mark has worked for the protection and betterment of young people.

Mark spent a decade working as a child abuse detective in indigenous communities around Cape York. This also allowed him to indulge in his passion for bush tucker and indigenous knowledge, meeting with traditional owners who were generous with their time sharing knowledge of country. It also allowed him to develop his skills running expeditions safely into remote areas.

Mark is also a qualified outdoor instructor, with a Certificate IV in Outdoor Leadership and a Certificate IV in Training and Assessing.  

Mark is proud of his ancestry which is reflective of Australia’s multicultural make up, with German, Anglo Celtic and Indigenous (Bundjalung and Iman) heritage. He is passionate about sharing his knowledge of the outdoors and helping young people develop important life skills.

Mark’s extensive experience in child protection and his passion for the outdoors led him to establish Walkabout Training. The business is grounded in indigenous knowledge and practices combined with the latest research into trauma informed care, with evidence based feedback informed treatment ensuring all involvement is safe, fun and useful.  All programs are designed to provide a safe and supportive environment for young people to learn and grow. Mark’s commitment to personalized programming, cultural sensitivity, and inclusivity makes Walkabout Training a unique and innovative business that is dedicated to providing high-quality outdoor education programs.

Paige Parker

Meet Paige!  Paige is the newest member of the Walkabout team.  Paige completed her Certificate II in Outdoor Recreation in 2022, and is now progressing onto her Certificate III in Outdoor Leadership while completing her year 12 studies as part of a School Based Traineeship.  Walkabout has always believed that vocational pathways from high school are a great start in life, and are grateful that candidates like Paige are walking with us on this journey.  .