Meet Pat, Camplify's resident copywriter, and Melbourne-based expedition guide

In light of Earth Day, we thought we’d shine a light on one of Camplify’s very own, Pat Boxall. Writer and editor by day, expedition guide…also by day… Pat spoke with us about all things outdoor education, environmental protection, and some of the unexpected objects he’s found while running tours.

So, you're a professional writer and editor, and also an expedition guide. How long have you been doing expeditions for?

I first worked in outdoor education the year after leaving school, so 14 years ago now. I started out in residential centres with local schools then worked up to month-long expeditions overseas.

What drew you to outdoor education initially?

A combination of things, I guess. I wasn't particularly confident as a kid, so I think discovering the outdoors and spending time by myself outside in nature really helped with that.

Where do you do your expeditions?

I've worked in outdoor education around the UK, China, and Australia, and led expeditions to Peru, the Indian Himalaya, Cambodia and Vanuatu. I bopped around a bit before studying writing and editing when I was 26. These days, along with writing, I take hiking tours out from Melbourne - mainly overseas visitors to national parks – and occasionally get out on a longer trip.

Do you take people out one or one, or just groups? What's it like meeting new people all the time?

Generally it's groups. Meeting people during this type of work is definitely rewarding, whether it's a school group in Australia, or a group of adults from overseas. I love hearing about their lives and taking them somewhere beautiful they've never been before.

After travelling so much and doing outdoor education and expeditions in so many different countries, would you say you have a favourite place?

It's hard to choose, but generally, I just love the mountains. They're such pristine environments. Mountains overseas are so different to Australian mountains, and the people who live in these places are some of the most hardy, caring folk you'll ever meet.

So you've been doing outdoor education for 14 years, and have been writing for 8 years, including currently writing about all things van life for Camplify. Any connection there?

I think there's a connection in the sense that both are all about being immersed in the natural world, right? Exploring places that are different and beautiful, and seeing how it affects you.

As an outdoor guide, I'm guessing it's safe to assume you're on team environmental protection?

I'm definitely team environmental protection. I come back from every hike with plastic bottles and bits of wrappers I’ve picked up along the way, though I can’t bring myself to touch the used condoms. That’s not the kind of protection we’re talking about. I won’t tell you how to enjoy nature, but I beg you to pick up after yourselves and leave no trace. Especially if you’re having sex in a national park.

What are your thoughts on environmental protection?

I'd say environmental protection starts with environmental appreciation. I think people protect what they know and care about, which is why it’s important to go and experience these places and forge a personal connection with them.

Lastly, and most importantly, do you have a favourite tree?

I do love a good pine tree. But my favourite would be a redwood tree.