Craig "Hassie" Haslam
Untamed Escapes, under the leadership of the passionate Craig "Hassie" Haslam, is pioneering a new era of responsible tourism on Kangaroo Island. Hassie's personal journey towards regenerative tourism has been the driving force behind the company's commitment to sustainability and conservation. His deep connection to nature and his desire to make a positive impact on the environment led him to create Untamed Escapes. His vision was to offer immersive travel experiences that not only showcased the beauty of South Australia but also actively contributed to its preservation.
Hassie's regenerative roots began in 1999, long before the term was coined. Back then, he owned a property on the Eyre Peninsula where his wife, Jo, proposed they start planting trees. Over the next 20 years, they revegetated over 1,000 acres of bushland and were also the first tour operator in Australia to offset 100% of their carbon footprint internally. While they are no longer carbon neutral, through their Regenerative Action Plan, they are working towards being net positive in the years to come.
In July 2024, Hassie and his team launched their "Roadmap Towards Regeneration" framework. This comprehensive guide outlines actionable steps for businesses to adopt regenerative practices. Hassie's personal passion for sustainability is evident in every aspect of this framework, which is freely available for download on the Untamed Escapes website.
Hassie's commitment to providing personalised experiences and fostering a connection with the natural world is at the heart of Untamed Escapes. Their tours take travellers to some of Kangaroo Island's most breathtaking landscapes, including Flinders Chase National Park, Lathami Conservation Park, and more. Beyond the scenic beauty, Hassie's team of experienced Storyteller Guides shares their expert knowledge on the flora, fauna, history, and culture of the island. From pre-departure packs to on-tour discussions, Hassie ensures that travellers are equipped with the knowledge and inspiration to become responsible travellers.
Hassie's personal passion for conservation is evident in Untamed Escapes' partnerships with numerous environmental organisations. Their tours include meaningful conservation volunteering activities, such as beach clean-ups, tree planting, and assisting wildlife rescue organisations. His commitment to sustainability extends to every aspect of Untamed Escapes' operations. They recycle on tour, discourage single-use plastic, and actively participate in community clean-ups. Additionally, they prioritise purchasing locally, supporting the local businesses and economies of the regions they travel to.
Hassie's Untamed Escapes is a testament to the power of individual passion and dedication. Through his leadership, the company has become a pioneer in regenerative tourism, setting a new standard for responsible travel. Hassie's personal journey has inspired countless travellers to explore Kangaroo Island in a more sustainable and meaningful way.