Dear Members,
As we turn the page on another chapter for the Australian Recreational Therapy Association (ARTA), I am filled with both gratitude and excitement. With a new board now in place, we find ourselves at a moment of renewal. A time to pause, reflect, and realign our strategic direction to ensure that our work continues to strengthen and advance the profession of recreational therapy across Australia.
Change brings opportunity,. This transition provides us the chance to look closely at how we serve our members, facilitate education, and promote the vital role recreational therapists play. Particularly in enhancing wellbeing and community connection. Over the coming months, we’ll be revisiting our strategic plan. Ensuring that our goals are bold yet achievable, and that they reflect the evolving needs of our workforce, our clients, and our communities.
We will also be re-examining how we support learning and professional development. We will be looking for fresh ways to make education more accessible and relevant across all stages of practice. Equally important is how we market and promote our profession. Telling our story with clarity, confidence, and pride so that the value of recreational therapy is recognised not only within health and community services, but by the wider public.
Our network groups and communities of practice will also be key to this next chapter. These spaces connect us — providing opportunities for collaboration, mentorship, and shared learning. Strengthening these connections will be a major focus moving forward.
There is much to do — and we will be calling on you. You may find a friendly tap on your shoulder as we seek voices, ideas, and hands to help shape this next phase of growth. There’s no pressure, just an open invitation to be part of something meaningful.
Together, we can continue to build a strong, visible, and respected profession. One that stands at the heart of holistic wellbeing and inclusion.
Thank you for your ongoing support, passion, and commitment. Here’s to a season of renewal, collaboration, and progress for ARTA and the field of recreational therapy.
All the best,
Charlise Bennett
ARTA President