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A DECADE spent working in green tourism has inspired Christopher Audley’s new business venture, Second Nature Asia Pacific.
Audley (pictured) has spent 12 years in the tourism and conservation industries, travelling to more than 60 countries in the process.
His wife, Maggie Audley, came on as a director of the business last month and also brings a wealth of experience in the international wildlife conservation industry.
A three-pronged push into environmental education and travel is the foundation of the business model.
Audley is offering outsourced, fully assessable, science and cultural excursions for South East Queensland schools, cultural education and international travel. The couple also provides consulting services.
“They are three very different business types but they are certainly quite interrelated,” says Audley.
He spent four years perfecting the idea, before taking it to market in 2010.
“It was a monumental task writing the programs and curriculum which goes along with the school programs,” says Audley.
The business is still in its early growth phase and turned over about $220,000 last year. Audley says demand is strong and is expecting 250 per cent growth in the two years.
While school excursions don’t bring in large amounts of cash, with students paying about $20 each to attend, Audley says it is his passion.
“My passion has always been in teaching kids about the importance of balancing development and the environment,” he says.
The Audleys have developed a range of contacts through their years of experience in the tourism and conservation industries, which enables the company to take clients to unique locations.
“We are set up in 31 different countries and we have staff on call across the world,” says Audley.
Second Nature employs four full time staff and 14 casual. Another 16 casual staff are based overseas. Steve Noakes came on as an equity holder, director and chairman of the company in October.
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