The Courier & Advertiser (Angus and Dundee)
GETTING TO KNOW YOU
As Aberfeldy-based outdoor activity provider Beyond Adventure marks its 25th anniversary, managing director Ross Dempster gives Gayle Ritchie an insight into his life
Q
Tell us about Beyond Adventure?
A
We’re an outdoor activity provider, based in Aberfeldy, specialising in paddleboarding, canoeing, kayaking, biking and hiking. We’re passionate about the outdoors and the benefits people can get from spending time in wild areas of Scotland and feel that everyone should have the opportunity to explore these places. We go out of our way to be seen as a responsible and sustainable company that not only leaves no trace where we go but works hard to improve the local environment.
Q
What are you doing to mark 25 years?
A
What a milestone! We’re planning our biggest and best year yet. We’re expanding our offering on a daily basis so we can take more people out while keeping the same high standards. Just a few weekends ago we had an amazing gathering of past team members. We went for a paddle, had a party and shared stories from the previous quarter century – there were plenty! We also launched the River Tay Way Hub – a changing and toilet facility that’s open to the public to help encourage people to access the outdoors.
Q
How has the company evolved over the years?
A
Beyond Adventure started as a wee company that took people on journeys through the outdoors, camping in the wilderness of Scotland and giving people the chance to explore. We also ran lots of qualification courses. Both of these remain a cornerstone of the company but we’ve expanded to offer more activities, day and half-day trips from our riverside base that opened in 2017.
Q
When did you join?
A
I joined in 2018 and haven’t looked back since.
Q
What is your role?
A
As managing director, I have several different responsibilities. I might be on the water or guiding ebikes one minute, or taking part in a marketing or accountancy meeting the next. I’m very lucky to have a fantastic, experienced team that creates a fun and inspiring atmosphere. My main role is to make sure that, operationally, we are ready to go, helping train our team while marketing and expanding our customer base. Q
Your favourite outdoors activity?
A
I’m caught between two. I love paddleboarding – it’s such an accessible, fun activity. Anyone can give it a go, either on a loch or a river, but I’ve never been on a trip that hasn’t made me smile. Our ebikes are fantastic fun too. Even in a half day, you can get up into the hills and explore some amazing places.
Q
Where in the world are you happiest?
A
I have a deep love of the hills in Scotland. I don’t think you can beat a summit view on a nice day with good people. The space and peace are good for the soul.
Q
What would you have done if you hadn’t done this job?
A
Besides family life, my other main pastime is as a member of Tayside Mountain Rescue. Helping people and working in a team have always made me tick – I would have loved to be a paramedic. I’m also a massive rugby fan and played a lot when I was younger. I’m still waiting for my Scotland call-up!
Q
Favourite part of Scotland to explore?
A
With a young family, my time for exploring isn’t as much as it used to be but I love Perthshire as it offers so much. But if I had more time, I would spend as much of it as I could in Torridon and the northwest of Scotland – the landscape is extraordinary.
Q
If you could rule for a day, what would be the first thing you would do?
A
I would get some action on the climate crisis going.
Q
Favourite holiday destination?
A
I’m a bit of a ski bum. I love the French Alps.
Q
What makes you happy?
A
Outdoor time with good people.
Q
What makes you sad?
A
Whenever my friends or family are going through a hard time.
Q
How do you unwind?
A
I am generally pretty high energy but I enjoy a beer with friends around a barbecue or fire pit after a day of activity.
Q
Who makes you proud?
A
My kids. Seeing them both grow up is so cool.
Q
What advice would you give your younger self?
A
Don’t worry. I’ve always been guilty of that. I would love to be able to relax more about the things you can’t control.