In this powerful episode of Trail Tales WA, we sit down with Fran — a legally blind hiker with an incredible story of courage, resilience, and connection to nature. Together, we open up an important conversation around hidden disabilities and what it means to navigate the world, and the trails, in ways many of us might never consider.

Fran shares how hiking became both a challenge and a gift — a place where obstacles are real but so too are the rewards of determination, independence, and the support of community. She reflects on the ways nature provides freedom, grounding, and a sense of equality that can sometimes be missing in everyday life.

This episode is about shifting perspectives, uncovering the strength in vulnerability, and recognising the invisible barriers people face — while celebrating the boundless spirit that pushes through them.

Make sure you're following Trail Tales WA on Instagram for the latest updates on episodes - instagram.com/trailtaleswa/

To find out more about Trail Tales WA podcast, visit offthebeatentrackwa.com.au/trail-tales-podcast

To look into OTBT's Hike Ability, check out - offthebeatentrackwa.com.au/hike-ability-ndis/

To check out OTBT's range of hikes, go to - offthebeatentrackwa.com.au

Find yourself a trail to hike in WA - TrailsWA.com.au

Hosted by Tracy Jones.

Produced by Cindy Jones.

Music by Andrii Poradovskyi from Pixabay.

In this deeply personal episode of Trail Tales WA, we sit down with Stasia — a parent, advocate, and hiker — to hear her story of navigating life with two transgender children.

Stasia opens up about the emotional challenges, the strength she found in unconditional love, and the impact that walking on country had in helping her process, reflect, and reconnect with herself. The trails became more than just a place to walk — they became a space to breathe, heal, and find direction again.

Through vulnerability and resilience, Stasia shares what it means to show up, to support your children without condition, and to rediscover your own identity along the way.

This episode is about love, nature, growth, and the power of walking through life’s toughest transitions — one step at a time.

Check out the following useful links for more information or support:

Minus 18

Transfolk WA

Wear It Purple

Transcend Australia

Living Proud WA

Freedom Centre

PFLAG Australia

Headspace - Trans & Gender Diverse Youth

Make sure you're following Trail Tales WA on Instagram for the latest updates on episodes - instagram.com/trailtaleswa/

To find out more about Trail Tales WA podcast, visit offthebeatentrackwa.com.au/trail-tales-podcast

To check out OTBT's range of hikes, go to - offthebeatentrackwa.com.au

Find yourself a trail to hike in WA - TrailsWA.com.au

Hosted by Tracy Jones.

Produced by Cindy Jones.

Music by Andrii Poradovskyi from Pixabay.

In this episode of Trail Tales WA, we chat with two passionate volunteers — Sarah and Lou — from the incredible not-for-profit, First Hike Project.

First Hike Project helps newly arrived refugees and asylum seekers explore their new home through the simple, powerful act of hiking. By connecting people with nature, culture, and community, their programs help ease the transition to life in Australia and build a deep sense of belonging.

The idea began over a decade ago when founder Neil McCulloch, an immigrant from South Africa, was hiking WA’s iconic Bibbulmun Track and wondered how he could share the experience with young people from refugee backgrounds. Today, First Hike Project operates across WA, NSW, VIC, QLD, and the ACT.

Sarah and Lou share the heart behind the project, what it’s like to guide someone on their first ever bushwalk, and the life-changing impact these shared experiences can have — not just for participants, but for volunteers too.

It’s a conversation about welcome, inclusion, and the way walking together can break down barriers and build new beginnings.

This episode is full of warmth, perspective, and unforgettable trail moments.

To find out more about First Hike Project, signing up to become a volunteer or to make a donation visit firsthikeproject.org.au

Check out First Hike Project on Instagram -https://www.instagram.com/first_hike_project_in_perth

Make sure you are following Trail Tales WA on Instagram for the latest updates on episodes - https://www.instagram.com/trailtaleswa/

To find out more about Trail Tales WA podcast, visit offthebeatentrackwa.com.au/trail-tales-podcast

Hosted by Tracy Jones.

Produced by Cindy Jones.

Music by Andrii Poradovskyi from Pixabay.