OSPREY AMBASSADOR

KATE DONALD

Hi, I’m Kate, and I am currently based in the Snowy Mountains of NSW, with Kosciuszko National Park right at my doorstep. I’ve built my life around spending as much time outdoors as possible, working FIFO as a radiographer so I can make the most of my time off hiking, biking and snowboarding. I’ve thru-hiked the Australian Alps Walking Track (VIC/NSW/ACT), Te Araroa (NZ), and the Heysen Trail (SA), and I’ve just booked flights for the Bibbulmun Track (WA) to finish off my Australian Triple Crown this year! 

What has been your most memorable adventure so far?

My most memorable adventure so far is hiking the length of New Zealand on Te Araroa. There’s something pretty special about walking the entire length of a country and watching the landscape slowly change, kilometre by kilometre. 

What adventure pushed you the most mentally or physically?

The Australian Alps Walking Track was my toughest, both mentally and physically. It was my first thru-hike and, honestly, I had no idea what I was doing. I was so far out of my depth at times, but finishing it is something I’m ridiculously proud of. It gave me a level of self belief I didn’t know I had, and I’ve carried that with me ever since.

If you could go back to when you first started exploring the outdoors, what advice would you give yourself?

The advice I’d give myself is simple: don’t hold back. The outdoors can feel a bit intimidating, especially as a woman, and it’s easy to get caught up in the what ifs or the fear of being completely alone. I wish I hadn’t let that fear lead me for so long. You’ve got this!

We are super excited to follow along all of Kate's adventures over the year, make sure you follow her on Instagram/TikTok/Youtube to stay up to date with her epic trips! @katealiice ⛰️