Katie Thompson has been part of Bluearth for a few years now, but we’d like to formally introduce her to you so you can see why she’s such a valuable member on our team.
We asked her about her role, background, and passions outside of helping kids move well.
Check out her answers below.
What is your role and what does it involve?
Werte, I’m Katie Thompson, Bluearth Superhero, also known as Bluearth Foundation Regional Coordinator Aboriginal Program and Participation, RAP Champion. Superhero is much quicker to say!
My role has many facets—I work closely with our Executive Team to create new programs and partnerships, I deliver our Active Schools Program and others into nearly every school within Mparntwe (Alice Springs) and I work closely with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to create and honour our Reconciliation Action Plan. Using community reference groups we seek input from the community around what our community needs and then create a strategy/program to meet that need.
What do you love about your role and working for Bluearth?
I love my role, working with over 300 kids in a week. I am incredibly blessed to be able to work in this space, creating joy and making a difference in young people’s lives. When I walk into schools I am hailed like a superhero and there is no place I would rather be.
Can you tell us a bit about your background/training and how you started your journey at Bluearth?
A few years ago, working as a hiking guide on the Larapinta Trail, I was fortunate to lead the Bluearth Foundation Trek. Over the five days I learned all about Bluearth from then-CEO Wendy Gillett, Founder Malcom Freake and his daughter Bettina. At the time Josh Mapstone, my predecessor was completing his teaching qualifications and was finishing up in the role at the end of the year. Long story short, I submitted my application and waited with bated breath, had interviews and was finally awarded the position two weeks before Josh finished up. It’s been a journey of self discovery since.
What are some of your other passions?
The other passion in my life is motorsport. I am a mad keen racer girl! Over the last 8 years I have competed in Rally, Burnouts, Drags and Quadbike events. After taking a couple of years off racing Bombers at speedway, I have debuted this season in my sprintcar! But my favourite car of them all is MISSKT, my 1955 Buick Super.