Why The Fly Program Is Changing Lives Outdoors
There are some partnerships that go beyond products.
The Fly Program is one of them.
This year marks 10 years since Matt Tripet founded The Fly Program – a charity built from tragedy, purpose and a belief that getting outdoors can help save lives.
Ten years on, countless men have stepped into rivers, onto trails and around campfires through The Fly Program, finding support, perspective and community along the way.
The philosophy is simple:
-
Get outside.
-
Slow down.
-
Build connection.
Whether standing shoulder-to-shoulder in a river with a fly rod, riding bikes through the bush or sitting around a campfire, barriers begin to drop. Conversations happen naturally. The outdoors becomes the classroom.
After spending time alongside The Fly Program team and participants ourselves, one thing became clear quickly – this isn’t about fishing.
It’s about people.
It’s about creating environments where vulnerability feels safe, where mateship grows stronger and where asking for help becomes easier.
“We created The Fly Program because too many men were suffering in silence. The outdoors has a unique way of removing barriers and creating genuine connection.”
Matt Tripet, Founder & CEO, The Fly Program
For Yakima, supporting organisations like The Fly Program aligns closely with why we do what we do.
Yes, we make roof racks, fishing rod carriers and bike racks. But ultimately, our gear exists to help people get somewhere – whether that’s a worksite, campsite, fishing spot or, in this case, a place where meaningful conversations happen.
The Fly Program vehicles are often loaded with bikes, fishing equipment, outdoor gear and supplies needed to deliver experiences across Australia. Yakima supports those journeys with roof racks, platforms and bike carrying solutions that help transport the equipment required to make these programs possible.
Because getting outdoors should be easier.
And sometimes, getting outdoors can change a life.
Having attended one of The Fly Program experiences ourselves, we’ve seen firsthand the impact these programs have. The conversations, the support networks formed and the sense of community built over a few days in the outdoors is powerful.
You walk away understanding this is bigger than adventure.
It’s preventative mental health support wrapped in fresh air, challenge and connection.
“The outdoors creates environments where men can find reprieve from the difficulties they may be facing.”
Matt Tripet
Programs like The Fly Program are proof that community matters.
That sometimes a fishing rod, bike ride or campfire conversation can become the start of something much bigger.
And that support doesn’t always begin in a clinic or office – sometimes it begins outdoors, surrounded by people willing to listen.
A Decade of Impact
Ten years is a milestone worth recognising.
Not just for the kilometres travelled, programs delivered or gear packed onto vehicles, but for the conversations started, friendships built and lives impacted along the way.
At Yakima, we’re proud to play a small part in helping The Fly Program continue that journey.
Because the biggest adventures aren’t always measured by distance travelled – but by the impact left behind.
To learn more about The Fly Program or support their work, visit The Fly Program.
