What Actually Happens Out There? Lessons from Providing Medical Support to Southeast Asia’s Outdoor Programs
Damien Santer
What really happens when young people and their teachers head into the outdoors? Over the past five years, we’ve supported dozens of expeditions, camps, and journeys across Southeast Asia — and the medical realities don’t always match the scenarios we train for.
This session shares nine key lessons drawn from real cases in the field: the most common presentations, the rise of mental health incidents, and the unexpected challenges of evacuation. We’ll also explore the responsibilities of teachers and outdoor providers, the importance of simple systems, and the ripple effect that even minor incidents can have on group safety and wellbeing.
Whether you’re leading your first school trip or managing complex expeditions, you’ll come away with practical insights to strengthen your preparation, response, and confidence in caring for students outdoors.
About Damien
Damien is the Curriculum Director at Austere & Emergency Medicine International (AEMED), overseeing the development of educational programs across domains including medicine, paramedicine, first aid, disaster management, and the social sciences. With over 20 years of experience, Damien is a seasoned expert in wilderness and austere medicine, disaster management, and leadership. He has contributed significantly to the creation of most of AEMED’s current courses and is dedicated to ensuring that the education provided is culturally relevant and economically accessible worldwide.
Damien holds a Diploma in Paramedical Science and is a Critical Care Austere Medic. He holds a professional certificate in Public Safety and was a NSW State Rescue Board Accredited Operator. Damien also holds also a Certified IV in Assessment & Workplace Training, reflecting his commitment to quality education and training.
In addition to his medical and rescue qualifications, Damien has extensive outdoor experience, including hiking, camping, abseiling, climbing, canyoning, caving, canoeing, kayaking, and white water rafting. He is also an experienced powerboat operator. Damien’s outdoor skills complement his expertise in austere and wilderness medicine, making him a well-rounded professional in emergency and remote environments.
Damien has a strong commitment to volunteer work, having served with the NSW Volunteer Rescue Association, the NSW State Emergency Service, The Scout Association (UK), and 4×4 Relief Malaysia. His volunteer experience has given him valuable hands-on experience in emergency response and community service, further enhancing his capabilities as an educator and consultant in emergency and disaster preparedness.
