About us
This is a 100% volunteer run event, by the backcountry community for the backcountry community.
The Festival aims to not only provide an introduction to the ever-growing suite of backcountry activities, but to also make it more accessible to the general public whilst educating them about mountain safety. It will be a family friendly, welcoming and inclusive event.
The Festival celebrates the growing movement of ‘all things backcountry’, comprising human powered winter activities such as cross-country skiing, snow shoeing, telemarking, alpine ski touring, splitboarding and snow camping.
More than 300 people attend the Backcountry Festival each year.
Acknowledgment of country.
We acknowledge that the festival at Mt Hotham happens on Aboriginal land that was never ceded.
We recognise the continuing connection to land, water and community by a number of Nations.
We pay respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
The Gunaikurnai people have been recognised by the Federal Court as the native title holders over certain lands within the Resort.
Mt Hotham sits at the boundary of at least two Nations. The majority of the boundary between Gunaikurnai and Taungurung country is the Great Dividing Range.
Dalka Warra Mittung’, meaning in Dhudhuroa language “the people of the mountains and waters” also have connection to these mountains.
Gunaikurnai and Taungurung people have “agreed that waters flowing south are Gunaikurnai and waters flowing north are Taungurung, but that we could also share Country.”
Source: Right People for Country
It is known that the principal language groups in the Mt Hotham region included the Gunaikurnai, Dhudhuroa and the Jaitmathang.
Source: History of Hotham
Values and principles.
1. Community, Inclusivity & Respect
The festival was never just about gear or skills—it was about fostering a deeper connection to wild places and each other. -Cam Walker, Founder
The festival is built on shared experiences, volunteer leadership, and a welcoming environment. Whether beginner or expert, all are invited to participate.
People matter more than profits or prestige. Toxic sponsors or unkind volunteers are not worth the cost.
Respect and enjoyment come first; the festival is a place to learn, connect and grow
2. Diversity, Empowerment & Accessibility
You can’t be what you can’t see -Cam Walker, Founder
Backcountry adventure should be for everyone, not just those with premium gear or elite experience. The festival commits to:
Welcoming disadvantaged groups to collaborate on event planning
Ensuring at least 50% of leadership roles are filled by women or POC.
Lowering financial, technical, skills or gear barriers. Offering affordable entry points for those new to the backcountry.
3. Sustainability & Environmental Responsibility
Ski/ ride hard. Do good.
The best adventures are the ones that leave no trace but a lasting impression on the soul -Cam Walker, Founder
The festival embraces low-impact exploration, aligning with conservation-focused organisations such as Protect Our Winters.
Backcountry adventure comes with responsibility—we champion preserving alpine ecosystems and promoting responsible outdoor recreation.
4. Resilience, Adaptability & Growth
No two festivals are the same.
We didn’t just share trails; we shared stories, and in doing so, we built something bigger than ourselves. -Cam Walker, Founder
We embrace innovation and flexibility, adapting to low snow years, logistical challenges, and shifting seasonal patterns.
Convenors and volunteers are never pressured to surpass previous years, growth should serve community needs, not forced expansion or profits.
5. Self-Sufficiency
The festival is designed to function independently, ensuring long-term sustainability without reliance on sponsorships.
Sponsorship is a bonus, not a necessity.
Mission statement.
The Backcountry Festival exists to foster a grassroots, community-driven gathering that welcomes skiers, riders, and outdoor explorers of all levels. It champions low-impact recreation, environmental stewardship, and education, ensuring that the backcountry remains safe, thriving, and accessible for future generations.
At its core, the festival prioritises:
Volunteer Culture – A strong, values-driven community that prioritises respect, enjoyment, and shared learning.
Beyond Skiing – The festival is not just about skiing—it’s about preserving alpine environments and expanding backcountry adventure to include new formats.
Resilience & Adaptability – Recognising climate change’s impact on snow seasons, we embrace change to keep the backcountry spirit alive.
More than 300 people attend the Backcountry Festival each year.
6. Ethical Partnerships
We actively engage with organisations and brands that align with our values.
We encourage partners who will enhance the experience of volunteers and festival participants without creating financial dependence.
7. Education, Safety & Leadership
The backcountry isn’t just a playground; it’s a classroom, a sanctuary, and a reminder of humility. -Cam Walker, Founder
The festival fosters responsible backcountry engagement, offering guided tours, survival training, and navigation workshops.
Low-snow conditions have expanded programming to include food/drink experiences and arts (Coffee in the BC, Snow Photography).
Long-term sustainability means mentoring future leaders, ensuring succession planning for committee, event organisers and tour guide roles.
