Intrepid Travel is taking action to support First Nations communities by committing to raising $100,000 for Indigenous ranger programs through The Intrepid Foundation’s local charity partner, Country Needs People. Ready to get involved?
Backed by a $25K donation commitment from Flight Centre Travel Group, which has been dollar-matched by Intrepid, the campaign opens with a $50K starting point and aims to raise the full $100K target by the end of July.
Importantly, 100 per cent of funds are going directly to Country Needs People, a leading charity supporting over 50 Indigenous land management groups across Australia.
Country Needs People plays a critical role in growing and supporting the Indigenous ranger network—teams that manage land and sea Country through traditional knowledge and scientific methods.
Their work includes controlled burns, biodiversity conservation, mentoring younger generations, and safeguarding cultural heritage.
CEO Patrick O’Leary welcomed the industry’s support: “Every dollar raised helps Indigenous Rangers protect endangered species, support young people on Country, and strengthen local land and sea management groups… It’s particularly encouraging to see travel leaders walking alongside us in this work.”
The organisation’s model reflects a long-term vision of self-determined, community-led conservation efforts, essential in a warming climate and an increasingly volatile ecological landscape.
What is NAIDOC Week?
NAIDOC Week is a national celebration held annually in July that recognises and honours the history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. In 2025, NAIDOC Week marks its 50th anniversary and is observed from 6 to 13 July.
The theme for this milestone year is “The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy,” which celebrates communities’ resilience, the vision of young leaders, and the enduring legacy of Elders and ancestors.
For more information, head to naidoc.org.au
Why is Intrepid focusing on NAIDOC Week?
Intrepid Travel’s Managing Director ANZ, Brett Mitchell, said the initiative aligns with the 2025 NAIDOC Week theme, “The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy,” by offering the travel industry a way to show meaningful solidarity beyond social posts.
“Tourism doesn’t exist without Country,” Mitchell said. “We’re proud to partner with Flight Centre again and continue backing Country Needs People and the rangers whose work protects biodiversity, supports cultural knowledge, and strengthens communities.”
How can the travel industry support?
While many travel companies acknowledge the importance of Indigenous tourism, few directly support the people maintaining the landscapes tourism relies on. This campaign offers a pathway for agencies, operators and travellers to contribute meaningfully to land management and First Nations empowerment.
Flight Centre’s early pledge signals corporate recognition of this responsibility, following a broader industry trend toward purpose-driven partnerships. Supporters are encouraged to share the campaign, engage with Indigenous-led tourism operators, and donate directly.
The fundraising campaign runs throughout July via The Intrepid Foundation. Intrepid Travel will match donations dollar-for-dollar until the target is met.
To donate, head to www.theintrepidfoundation.org/t/cnp-naidoc-week
Karryon is also incredibly proud to have donated $5,000 to the campaign and $10,000 in media value to Country Needs People as part of the NAIDOC campaign, adding to our ongoing commitment and support for this standout and much-needed initiative.
Will you join us?
KARRYON UNPACKS: Indigenous ranger programs have historically been underfunded despite their proven effectiveness. Intrepid Travel and Flight Centre’s campaign offers a blueprint for how the travel industry can step up. By supporting organisations like Country Needs People, the sector can help protect biodiversity, elevate cultural knowledge, and build reciprocal relationships with the Country, key elements of regenerative tourism in action.
