The Chumpy Project: Honouring a Legacy, Inspiring the Next Generation

Published on 05 June 2026

Alex ‘Chumpy’ Pullin grew up in Mansfield, learning to ride the slopes of Mount Buller before going on to become one of Australia's most accomplished snowboard cross athletes — competing at the Winter Olympics in 2010, 2014 and 2018 and achieving podium finishes at the Winter X Games and World Championships. Later in his career, he developed a deep passion for mentoring young people in sport.

This October, his legacy will live on through the next generation of young Mansfield Shire people.

The Chumpy Project will officially launch this October with its first ever youth camp at Mount Buller. Founded by Alex's father, Chris Pullin, in partnership with Mansfield Shire Youth, the camp will bring together twelve local young people aged 15 to 17 for a transformative three-night, two-day experience built around three key pillars: character, courage and composure.

The framework has been developed by renowned high-performance coach Nam Baldwin, who has worked with Olympians and world champions including Stephanie Gilmore and Mick Fanning as well as elite sporting organisations including the Gold Coast Suns, the Rabbitohs and Richmond Football Club. The camp will also feature special involvement from Cam Bolton, snowboard cross Olympian and close friend of Alex Pullin.

Alex himself once reflected on his work with Nam: "When I am heading into a training session with Nam, I never fully know what I am in for. What I do know is I need to be ready."

For Chris Pullin, the project is a deeply personal one. "I wish he were here to see this project as he would love it. I am honoured to be working with Mansfield Shire Youth to deliver such a great mentorship program so close to Chumpy's heart," he said.

Mansfield Shire Council's Mayor Cr Steve Rabie said Council was proud to support the initiative. "We are excited to work with Chris on this project and to continue celebrating the positive impact that Chumpy has left on our community and its young people," he said.

The camp is supported through the Engage Grant and the Olympic Winter Institute of Australia using Chumpy's Lodge on Mount Buller. Applications are now open for Mansfield residents aged 15 to 17 years via the link Registration Form or the QR code.