Danny Foster

APSI Board Member - Snow Resorts Australia (SRA) Representative

Are you currently a snowsports instructor, or have you been one in the past? If yes, how long have you been instructing, over what time period and where?
I started off my career instructing while I was still in high school and have been at it ever since. Over the years I've worked instructing, coaching, as a trainer, supervisor and in later years, a Director. Back-to-back
winters has been the norm for me since leaving high school, with 30+ working winters under my belt (I've lost track on the exact number). My southern winters have largely been at Hotham, though I've been loving my new location at Falls Creek where I've been based for the last four years. The northern winters have largely been based in Whitewater, Canada. Though I've also done a few seasons in Austria (St. Anton) and Japan (Myoko). Whilst I haven't got back to instructing in the northern winters since covid, it is something I'm always looking at!

What is your favourite part about being involved in the snowsports industry?
Skiing has always been one of my main passions in life. Through it I've travelled the world, met some amazing people, had unforgettable experiences and needless to say, some pretty epic moments of pure joy. I love the fact that I've been able to share this passion and grow it in others. Each day of work my mission is to create another lifelong skier or boarder that can experience the same joy that I get being on two planks

How long have you been involved with the APSI and what inspired you to join the Board?
I've been a member of the APSI since starting my instructor pathway back in 2007. It's been an amazing journey progressing through the levels and now representing the industry on the Board. It was a privilege to be asked to do so by members of SRA and a responsibility I have enjoyed. The board is full of passionate members who care a great deal for the organisation and working with them has been a great experience.

What is your professional background outside of snowsports (if any)?
The Snowsports background is definitely my bread and butter! I have done stints as an outdoor recreation guide (whitewater, hiking, biking, climbing) in between seasons, whilst during covid I worked summers as a Ranger. I have degrees in Outdoor Recreation & Ecotourism, Parks Recreation & Heritage and completing a Masters in Business Administration. Winter work definitely out ways the summer roles by a good margin though.

What is one thing you think members might not know about what the Board or APSI does?
The solid amount of time donated by board members for all the side projects that are undertaken each year. It's a credit to the rest of the board all the work they undertake to help grow and support our organisation.

What is one thing you hope to contribute or achieve during your time on the Board?
Over the last few months, we've been working on an investment strategy on how the APSI can best utilize funds to better member outcomes and strengthen the organization for the future. If I can get to the end of my time on the Board having made some solid progress in this space, I'll be a very happy guy.