Connected Paths is a free, fun and relaxed nature walk for LGBTQIA+ people of colour and people from multicultural, migrant, refugee and First Nations backgrounds.
Walk. Connect. Reflect.
Connected Paths was created in response to the mental health disparities experienced by LGBTQIA+ people from racialised and multicultural communities, including those associated with stigma, discrimination, social isolation and barriers to culturally safe and inclusive support.
The idea is simple: spend a morning outdoors, move at a comfortable pace, meet new people and enjoy some time away from the pressures of everyday life.
There is no therapy, no forced sharing and no expectation that you talk about your mental health. You can chat, reflect, enjoy the surroundings or simply walk.
The walk will be led by Julian, an experienced and qualified outdoor leadership facilitator, and facilitated by Bernard Saliba, Founder of Plain Insight, with a focus on creating a welcoming, respectful and low-pressure experience.
What to expect
– Saturday 17 October 2026
– Meet at 6:00am at Central Station
– Exact meeting point will be provided to registered participants
– We will travel together by train to a stop along the Lane Cove National Park to begin our walk.
– The walk will finish around Macquarie before heading back to Central
– Approximately 3 hours of walking, at a relaxed pace
– The walk is classified at Grade 3 (moderate), and suits people with reasonable fitness. The walk is mostly easy and flat with some uneven bush tracks
– Opportunities for conversation, connection and quiet reflection
– Snacks, fruit and hydration provided
– A small participant gift/resource pack will also be provided
– Alcohol-free environment
– Privacy, personal boundaries and consent will be respected throughout
Please ensure to arrive at 6am to the meeting point (which will be shared upon registration) to allow additional time for the train journey.
You do not need to be an experienced bushwalker. We do ask that participants are comfortable walking outdoors for approximately three hours. More information about the route, what to bring and how to prepare will be sent before the event.
Who is this for?
Connected Paths has been created specifically for LGBTQIA+ people of colour and LGBTQIA+ people from multicultural, migrant, refugee and First Nations backgrounds.
Places are intentionally limited so we can keep the group relaxed and connected.
Cost
Free. Registration is essential.
Please only register if you intend to attend. If your plans change, cancel your ticket so someone on the waitlist can take your place.
Connected Paths is organised by Plain Insight and supported by WayAhead’s A Little Connection Goes a Long Way initiative as part of Mental Health Month 2026.