SECTION 2 YOUTH INVOLVEMENT 2.15 ADVENTUROUS ACTIVITIES

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1 SECTION 2 YOUTH INVOLVEMENT 2.15 ADVENTUROUS ACTIVITIES OVERVIEW In helping young people to develop Scouts Australia has traditionally been involved in adventurous outdoor activities that are interesting, challenging and ideal for the physical, intellectual, emotional, social, spiritual and character development of our Youth Members. These Instructions have been prepared to alert adults in Scouting to the need for vigilance, particularly where there is a potential hazard that may lead to injuries during Adventurous Activities. At all times adults in Scouting must act with due care and take reasonable steps to reduce risks and avoid accidents. Activities undertaken by Members fall within the following categories: DAY-TO-DAY ACTIVITIES undertaken within the normal youth program by the various Sections and Formations. Leaders who hold a Certificate of Appointment can supervise these Activities. ADVENTUROUS ACTIVITIES that are based on appropriate community and Scouting standards, and require leadership by persons with the prescribed training or experience identified below, in addition to a Certificate of Appointment. RESTRICTED ACTIVITIES as determined by the Chief Commissioner of Queensland (refer to QBSI of this document). Safety procedures are provided for activities that involve varying degrees of risk. No set of Guidelines can cover all circumstances nor can they cover all the alternative procedures that may be followed in particular instances to ensure safety. Often seemingly innocent circumstances may become hazardous through changing events or through the actions, or omission of an action, of a person who is involved. It is the responsibility of the person who is supervising the activity to take appropriate action at all times to reduce the risk of injury to participants. Required supervision qualifications have been included in these Instructions to assist activity leaders and those granting approval for an activity to consider the arrangements for supervision and instruction of specific activities. These instructions have been developed in accordance with Policy and Rules (P7 Duty of Care and R11 Adult Training and Development) to meet Queensland Branch requirements. The minimum standards identified in the Queensland Adventurous Activities Standards, developed by the Queensland Outdoor Recreation Federation, have also been incorporated in these Instructions SAFETY PRINCIPLES Safety is a combination of safe attitudes, imagination and common sense. For any activity one must develop the habit of visualising what can occur in any location, in any set of circumstances, and what can be done to reduce risks. Obviously risks cannot be removed entirely, to do so would remove all the adventure from the activities and the training value would be minimal. There are two main principles of safety: (a) Eliminate unnecessary hazards. (b) Minimise the effect of any mishaps by: (i) Planning to overcome dangerous or unsafe conditions or situations; (ii) Ensuring that suitable equipment is provided and used properly; Page 1 of 15

2 (iii) Ensuring that all participants are trained in the relevant techniques, and rules SCOUT SECTION AWARD SCHEME For most aspects of the Scout Section Award Scheme, a Leader who has completed Basic and Advanced Training can examine the requirements of the Scout Award Scheme at the Pioneer and Explorer level (in accord with the operational principles associated with the Section). For some aspects of the Explorer and Adventurer level (such as Water Activities Badge), a specialist who has competencies at the necessary level may be required to examine the young person in a specific test activity ADVENTUROUS ACTIVITIES Adventurous Activities Adventurous Activities discussed in these Instructions include abseiling, bushwalking, canoeing, climbing, kayaking, sea kayaking, and sailing. In some circumstances the Chief Commissioner may vary the Adventurous Activities Instructions for a particular activity. In cases such as this, the Chief Commissioner s written permission must be obtained. Adventurous Activities criteria Some day-to-day activities may cross the demarcation line to become Adventurous Activities. An example is bushwalking. Adults in Scouting must check whether the activities they are planning to run fall within: (a) Day-to-day activities; or, (b) Adventurous Activities (requiring prescribed qualifications). In addition to Scouting personnel with the required qualifications to n activity, accredited supervisors from elsewhere may also be used. Recognition of accredited supervisors for Adventurous Activities is the responsibility of the Chief Commissioner or his or her nominee. Some Adventurous Activities may only be undertaken through registered external providers, for example, hang gliding, parachuting. Before activities that are operated by non-scouting personnel are undertaken, sufficient documented evidence must be provided to ascertain the competency, experience and registration of the organisation and its instructors. The extent of these enquiries will obviously depend upon the circumstances. They might include whether the organisation and or supervisor holds a required Government licence, Outdoor Recreation Leader Registration, relevant VET units and a current log book, whether any regulating authority checks the equipment and or whether they hold adequate liability insurance RESTRICTED ACTIVITIES Restricted activities are those for which adequate safety arrangements cannot be guaranteed. In determining restricted activities, consideration should be given to the Section participating and the level of supervision to be provided. A restricted activity may need to be determined in consultation with the Branch s insurance provider. The Chief Commissioner of Queensland will make the final determination. These are detailed in QBSI 7.4 Restricted Activities. The practice of Scouting formations participating in restricted or Adventurous Activities which are not run in accordance with these guidelines, under the guise of doing so as individuals and not as members of Scouting, carries with it potential liabilities for both the Association and those organising the event, and is in no way sanctioned by the Association. The Association has no control over the private activities of its members and if various Members, of their own volition, elect to participate in restricted activities this is totally the Page 2 of 15

3 responsibility of the individuals concerned. However, to ensure the event is not wrongfully considered to be a Scout sanctioned event it is forbidden for Scout meetings and or gatherings, premises, equipment, newsletters, notice boards, etc. to be used in the organisation and or staging of any restricted or Adventurous Activity not run in accordance with these guidelines, and Scout uniform must not be worn either wholly or in part AUTHORITY TO CONDUCT ADVENTUROUS ACTIVITIES Written approval for the conduct of an Adventurous Activity must be obtained from the activity leader s Group Leader or Team Leader. For some Sections the approval of the Chief Commissioner is required. The following general guidelines must be observed when such activities are undertaken. They may be incorporated into the activity and risk management plan submitted with the C5 Activity Advice and Approval Form. The guidelines are not restricted to Adventurous Activities. The Group Leader or Team Leader and activity leader or supervisor must be assured that: (a) Written permission has been gained from the parents/carers of each Member to participate in the event and associated activities and that each Member is appropriately registered and financial (i.e. a Youth Enrolment Form A5, with indemnity, has been completed). The parents/carers must be fully aware of the hazards that their young person may face by attending the activity. (b) Permission for the use of any activity site has been gained from the landowners/ managers. (c) The activity leader for the event and any persons in charge of specific activities are personally and technically competent to conduct the activity and where necessary are registered to do so with Scouts Australia, Queensland Branch Inc. and or an external agency which meets community and Scouting standards. (d) The equipment available meets all safety requirements, including safe working life and that adequate instruction will be given in its usage. (e) The party members have been trained and prepared for the activity/event. (f) The activity leader or supervisor has a sound working knowledge of the locality of the activity. (g) The activity leader is aware of, and will make allowance for, medical conditions that may affect any participant in the activity. (h) The activity leader or supervisor has an emergency plan, which includes one participant holding a relevant first aid qualification and appropriate first aid kit, details of medical and hospital contacts and participant medical details, and sufficient personnel to cope with an emergency. (i) The transport arrangements will meet legal, insurance, comfort and safety criteria. (j) The activity leader or supervisor displays acceptance of his/her responsibilities and willingness to exercise reasonable duty of care and has undertaken a risk assessment of the activity. Where considered necessary by the Group Leader and/or activity leader, the risk assessment and management which is completed should be formally documented. (k) The activity leader has a complete listing of all participants, including the parents, guardians or next of kin s whereabouts during the period of the activity/event. (l) Both as a matter of procedure and as a courtesy, the relevant District Commissioner, or equivalent position, is advised of the event through the use of a C5 Activity Advice and Approval Form. (m) Any incidents/accidents will be reported promptly to the Group Leader/Team Leader or Branch (depending on the circumstances) and appropriate documentation completed TRAINING The scope of this Training section covers Level 1, Level 2, Guides and Instructors SKILL LEVEL APPOINTMENTS Page 3 of 15

4 For appointments at various levels refer to the following Adventurous Activities qualifications flow chart. For Instructors and Assessors refer also to Policy and Rules R11.1. Level 1, Level 2, Guide and Instructor appointments can be in abseiling, bushwalking, canoeing, climbing, kayaking, sea kayaking, and sailing, and any other approved Adventurous Activities. The appointment will be issued by Queensland Branch on the recommendation of the Instructor upon the successful completion of the below requirements. Records in relation to appointments are held at the Branch Support Office and are maintained under the supervision of the Branch Commissioner responsible for adventurous activities training. Appointees will be endorsed for a particular level or area of activity, depending on the VET units successfully completed as part of their training. ADVENTUROUS ACTIVITIES APPOINTMENTS FLOW CHART Transition through Adventurous Activities Appointments Novice AA Skill Level 1 AA Skill Level 2 Guide Instructor Novice No qualifications AA Skill Level 1 Association Membership AA Common Units PUA OPE 002B, SISO OPS 202A, SISO NAV 201A AA Level 1 skill specific units Commence Log Book AA Skill Level 2 AA Skill Level 1 AA Level 2 skill specific units Current Log Book Guide Certificate of Appointment or Invested Rover with Leadership Training 1, 2 and 3 AA Skill Level 2 Provide First Aid and Provide CPR - HLTAID003, HLTAID001 Common Core Part A - SISO ODR 302A, SISO ODR 303A, SISO OPS 201A, SISO OPS 304A, SISO OPS 306A, SISX CAI 306A Common Core Part B1 - SISX EMR 201A, SISX OHS 101A, SISX RSK 301A Training of Trainers Module 1 TAEDEL301A, BSB CMM 401A AA Guide Unit for skill Current Log Book Guide Appointment by DCC Adult Training and Development Instructor Wood Badge Guide appointment Common Core Part B2 - SISO ODR 404A, SISX EMR 402A, SISX OHS 402AAssessor Units TAEASS401A, TAE ASS 402A, TAE ASS 403A AA Instructor Unit for skill Current Log Book Instructor appointment by DCC Adult Training and Development LEVEL 1 Page 4 of 15

5 A Level 1 appointee is any participant who: (a) Is a Member of the Association, an invested Venturer Scout or older, who has the physical stature, strength and stamina to undertake the tasks required. (b) Has attended a training course or skills recognition process conducted by an accredited Instructor. (c) Has commenced a logbook of personal experiences in the skill area. (d) Has been assessed as being competent in the Level 1 requirements as set out in the SAIT adventurous activities training matrix LEVEL 2 A Level 2 appointee is any participant who: (a) Is a Member of the Association, an invested Venturer Scout or older who has the physical stature, strength and stamina to undertake the tasks required. (b) Meets Level 1 appointment requirements. (c) Has attended a training course or skills recognition process conducted by an accredited Instructor. (d) Holds a current first aid qualification (HLTAID003 or equivalent unit). (e) Holds a current resuscitation qualification (HLTAID001 or equivalent unit). (f) Has maintained a logbook of personal experiences in the skill area. (g) Has been assessed as being competent in the Level 2 requirements as set out in the SAIT adventurous activities training matrix GUIDE A Guide is a participant who: (a) Has completed Basic Training including Leadership Training 1, 2 and 3. (b) Meets Level 2 requirements. (c) Has completed a Training of Trainers (Module 1). (d) Is competent in Adventurous Activities Common Core Level 1, Part A and Part B (as set out in Scouts Australia Institute of Training adventurous activities training matrix) or equivalent units of accredited training. (e) Has been assessed as being competent in guiding and practical techniques for the adventurous activity skill in accordance with the SAIT adventurous activities training matrix. (f) Holds a current first aid qualification (HLTAID003 or equivalent or higher level, as required). (g) Holds a current resuscitation qualification (HLTAID001 or equivalent unit). (h) Has held the Level 2 appointment (where practicable) for a minimum of 12 months. (i) Has maintained a logbook of personal experiences showing the minimum annual practical experience required for currency. (j) Has maintained personal skills assessment standard INSTRUCTOR AS PER POLICY AND RULES R11 An Instructor is a participant who: (a) Has held a Guide appointment (where practicable) for a minimum of 12 months. (b) Holds a Wood Badge. (c) Has completed the VET Assessors Course. (d) Has been assessed as being competent in instructional and practical techniques for the adventurous activity skill in accordance with the SAIT adventurous activities training matrix. (e) Holds a current first aid qualification (HLTAID003 or equivalent or higher level, as required). (f) Holds a current resuscitation qualification (HLTAID001 or equivalent unit). (g) Has maintained a logbook of personal experiences showing the minimum annual practical experience required for currency. (h) Has maintained personal skills to assessment standard APPOINTMENTS A certificate will be issued by Queensland Branch for Level 1 and Level 2 appointments Page 5 of 15

6 A Certificate of Appointment will be issued by the Chief Commissioner of Queensland Branch on the recommendation of the Branch Commissioner responsible for adventurous activities and DCC Adult Training and Development for Guide and Instructor appointments. The Branch Support Office Training Department will keep a register of all current Guides and Instructor appointments in liaison with the Branch Commissioner responsible for adventurous activities training. All appointments are valid for 3 years from the date of issue. Re-appointment as a Guide or Instructor may be made by the Chief Commissioner of Queensland Branch, on the recommendation of the Branch Commissioner responsible for adventurous activities training and DCC Adult Training and Development, subject to the individual meeting currency requirements ROVER SCOUT SECTION - CONDUCT OF ADVENTUROUS ACTIVITIES This section covers the organisation, approval and safety aspects of Rover Scout adventurous activities such as abseiling, bushwalking, canoeing and climbing. Rovers shall abide by the adventurous activities guidelines as covered in Policy and Rules and Queensland Branch Scouting Instructions (as do all Members of Scouts Australia). For all Rover Scout Adventurous Activities a C5 Form must be submitted and the approval of the Group Leader/Formation Leader obtained RESPONSIBILITY FOR AN ADVENTUROUS ACTIVITY On each Rover Scout Adventurous Activity one participant shall be selected as the Activity Leader. The Activity Leader is responsible for the conduct of the Rover Scout Adventurous Activity and for the safety of the participants AUTHORISED ACTIVITY A Rover Scout Adventurous Activity becomes an authorised activity when a Rover has been appointed as an Activity Leader, and the Group Leader or Leader in Charge of the Group has been notified of appropriate supervision by way of a C5 Activity Advice and Approval Form With associated activity plan and risk management documentation. The Activity Leader bears the responsibility for ensuring that an authorised activity is conducted in accordance with Policy and Rules and these Instructions including the appointment of a Guide, Instructor or other approved appointee for supervision of the skill part of the activity PARTICIPATION WITH OTHER SECTIONS When participating in adventurous activities with Joey Scouts, Cub Scouts, Scouts or Venturer Scouts, Rover Scouts shall comply with the rules pertaining to those Sections PARENT S CONSENT Persons under the age of 18 years participating in Rover Scout Adventurous Activities must give the Activity Leader a completed Parent s Consent form (C4) before commencing an authorised activity ABSEILING Scope Abseiling is an Adventurous Activity. The following Instructions will apply to all persons attending any abseiling activity run by Scouts Australia, Queensland Branch Inc. for its members. For the purpose of these Instructions abseiling shall mean the commonly accepted methods of descending and ascending artificial surfaces or natural rock faces, steep or sheer drops or overhangs, efficiently and safely by rope. Page 6 of 15

7 Methods and devices used will be approved by the Chief Commissioner on the recommendation of the Branch Commissioner (Adventurous Activities). Under no circumstances will stunt methods be used. Helmets must be worn. The helmets must be CE, or AS/NZS (or equivalent US standards) approved for Abseiling & Rock Climbing. The use of gloves, while providing protection for hands during abseiling, is at the discretion of the Abseiling Guide or Abseiling Instructor supervising the activity, subject to activity context. All abseiling activities (subject to these Instructions) shall be supervised by appointed Abseiling Guides and/or Abseiling Instructors. A list of appointed Guides and Instructors is available from the Members Only section of the Queensland Branch website. Participants Abseiling is an activity available to all Members of the Movement. Joey Scouts may participate in abseiling (including mobile climbing walls and indoor rock climbing) only where special permission in writing has been granted by the Chief Commissioner of Queensland prior to the event. Participants shall be classified as one of the following: (a) Novice (b) Abseiler Badge (Scouts) (c) Abseiler Level 1 (d) Abseiler Level 2 (e) Abseiling Guide (f) Abseiling Instructor. For appointment qualifications see QBSI Training. The chart below shows the participation, supervision and training role of the above classifications of participants. ABSEILING SUPERVISION AND TRAINING CHART 1 CLASSIFICATION 2 ABSEILING WHICH CAN BE PARTICIPATED IN/SUPERVISED/ INSTRUCTED Novice Abseiler Badge Abseiler Level 1 Abseiler Level 2 Guide Instructor Abseiling Activity Large Event Training Training District/Region/ Branch/National VET Abseiling Courses Scout Abseiler Badge Abseil under Abseil under supervision supervision Abseil under Abseil under supervision supervision Support abseiling Support abseiling Support abseiling Support abseiling activity activity training training Support abseiling Assist with abseiling Assist with abseiling Assist with abseiling activity event training training Supervise Guide or Instructor abseiling activity should supervise Assist with abseiling Conduct training to to appointment abseiling event to training appointment level level appointment level Supervise abseiling activity to appointment level Guide or Instructor should supervise abseiling event to appointment level Course leader for abseiling training to appointment level Conduct training to appointment level Notes (1) Applies to Supervising or Training a youth or adult party. Page 7 of 15

8 (2) Appointment may be for artificial surfaces, natural surfaces, single pitch or multi pitch abseils. Definitions (a) Novice - holds no formal abseiling competency, or insufficient recognised competency for Abseiler Level 1 appointment. (b) Abseiler Badge - a member of the Scout section who holds an Abseiler Badge. (c) Abseiler Level 1 - holds the units of competency for an Abseiling Level 1 appointment (refer to SAIT AA training matrix). (d) Abseiler Level 2 - holds the units of competency and a current appointment for Abseiling Level 2. (e) Guide - holds the units of competency and a current appointment as a Guide Abseiling. (f) Instructor - holds the units of competency and a current appointment as a Instructor Abseiling. (g) Supervising (Guiding or Instructing) - supervising the safety of participants while abseiling. (h) Instructing - conducting a VET Abseiling Course on behalf of Scouts Australia Institute of Training ABSEILER BADGE (SCOUTS) An Abseiler Badge (Scouts) is any participant who: (a) Is an Invested Scout, who has the physical stature, strength and stamina to undertake the tasks required. (b) Has attended a Scout Abseiler Badge training course conducted by an Abseiling Guide or Instructor. (c) Has commenced a logbook of personal experiences in abseiling. (d) Has been assessed as being competent in the Scout Abseiler Badge ABSEILING ACTIVITIES All activities involving novices, Abseiler Badge (Scouts) or Abseiler Level 1, shall be under the control of a person appointed as an Abseiling Guide or Abseiling Instructor. An Activity Advice and Approval form (C5) must be completed for each abseiling activity involving Members of the Association. Joey Scout Section Joey Scouts may participate in abseiling only where special permission in writing has been granted by the Chief Commissioner of Queensland. The following Guidelines apply: (a) Participants may be required to wear a full body harness, at the discretion of the Guide or Instructor. This harness may be a manufactured full body harness or consist of both waist and chest harness connected to form a full body harness. (b) A Guide or Instructor may supervise up to 4 active ropes at any time. (c) A person trained in abseiling and belay techniques will operate and/or belay each individual rope. The Guide or Instructor is to confirm competency prior to operation, abseiling, and/or belaying taking place. (d) Joey Scouts may undertake descents up to 10 metres. (e) The Section or Group Leader must be present with the Mob. Cub Scout Section For Abseiling activities involving Cub Scouts the following guidelines apply: (a) Participants may be required to wear a full body harness, at the discretion of the Activity Leader. This harness may be a manufactured full body harness or consist of both waist and chest harness connected to form a full body harness. (b) A Guide or Instructor may supervise up to 4 active ropes at any time. Page 8 of 15

9 (c) A person trained in abseiling and belay techniques will operate and/or belay each individual rope. The Guide or Instructor is to confirm competency prior to operation, abseiling, and/or belaying taking place. (d) Cub Scouts may undertake descents up to 10 metres. (e) The Section or Group Leader must be present with the Pack. Scout Section For Abseiling activities involving Scouts the following guidelines apply: (a) A Guide or Instructor may supervise up to 4 active ropes at any time. (b) A person trained in abseiling and belay techniques will operate and/or belay each individual rope. Guide or Instructor is to confirm competency prior to operation, abseiling, and/or belaying taking place. (c) Scouts shall not engage in a descent greater than 50 metres, nor in multiple pitch descents (i.e. where there is a need to change from one rope to another). (d) The Section or Group Leader must be present with the Troop. Venturer Scout/Rover Scout Sections and Leaders For Abseiling activities involving Venturer Scouts and Rover Scouts the following guidelines apply: (a) On any activity involving Venturer Scout, Rover Scouts and Leader novices, a person appointed as a Guide or Instructor shall be in control. (b) A Guide or Instructor may supervise up to 4 active ropes at any time. (c) A person trained in abseiling and belay techniques will operate and/or belay each individual rope. The Guide or Instructor is to confirm competency prior to operation, abseiling, and/or belaying taking place. (d) Abseiler, Level 1 and Abseiler, Level 2 must be under the supervision of a person appointed as a Guide or Instructor for all descents, except where the Group Leader, after receiving a recommendation from an Abseiling Guide or Instructor, may grant permission to a party of not less than five Abseiler Level 2 Members to engage in single pitch descents (i.e. where there is no need to change from one rope to another) of not more than 50 metres in an area familiar to all members of the party. The party must consist of only Abseiler - Level 2 members. Note: A familiar area is an area where all members of the party have previously abseiled under supervision of a Guide or Instructor ABSEILING EQUIPMENT All equipment, including helmets must meet CE, or AS/NZS (or equivalent US) standards approved for Abseiling/Rock Climbing. Abseiling equipment used during Scouts Australia sponsored activities will be inspected for wear and damage prior to and after each activity by a Guide or an Instructor. This includes all personal gear. A thorough inspection of all equipment must take place every 12 months, and should be conducted by a currently appointed Guide or Instructor. The recommendation of manufacturers regarding the service life of their products will be adhered to. The use of all abseiling equipment must be logged. The log must identify each individual item, together with a record of use. Once an item of equipment has reached the end of its life, it must be removed from service and tagged or otherwise marked to prevent it being used for abseiling and or climbing BUSHWALKING Scope Bushwalking may be a day-to-day or adventurous activity. Activity Leaders will need to carefully consider the activity to ensure the activity is adequately supervised. Bushwalking includes all outdoor walking activities regardless of how it may be known, e.g. tramping, trekking, hiking, undertaking a journey, expedition or ramble. Page 9 of 15

10 Participants Participants shall be classified as one of the following: (a) Novice (b) Bushwalking Level 1 (c) Bushwalking Level 2 (d) Bushwalking Guide (e) Bushwalking Instructor For appointment qualifications see QBSI Training. The chart below shows the participation, supervision and training role of the above classifications of participants. BUSHWALKING LEADERSHIP AND SUPERVISION CHART 1 APPOINTMENT WALKS WHICH CAN BE LEAD/SUPERVISED/INSTRUCTED Certificate of Appointment (Joey Scout/Cub Scout/ Group Leader) Certificate of Appointment (Scout/Venturer Scout/ Rover Scouts) Bushwalking Level 1 Bushwalking Level 2 Guide Instructor Environment Activity Training Controlled Intermediate Uncontrolled Specialist - Larger event - VET Bushwalking alpine, arid, District/Region/ Courses tropical Branch/National Day -to-day lead day walk for Section/ Group Day-to-Day supervise walk for Section to maximum 2 nights & 35 km lead a walk, Member s Section Section Section Section, Section (if appointed to this level) Section (if appointed to this level) Section (if appointed to this level) Section, (if appointed to this level) Section (if appointed to this level) Section (if appointed to this level) Section (if appointed to this level) Bushwalking Level 2 can assist walk, any Section (if appointed to this level) walk, any Section (if appointed to this level) Bushwalking Level 2 can assist Guide Bushwalking can assist Instructor to be Course Leader, to level of appointment Notes (1) Applies to Leading a youth or adult party and Supervising a youth-led party. Definitions (a) Controlled environment - tracked and easy untracked, up to and including Australian Standard Class 4 walking tracks. (b) Intermediate environment - difficult tracked and trackless, Australian Standard Class 5 walking tracks. (c) Uncontrolled environment - unmodified landscapes, Australian Standard Class 6 walking tracks, duration 2+ nights. Page 10 of 15

11 (d) Specialist environments - alpine, frost and snow, duration 2+ nights; arid, excessive dry heat, duration 2+ nights; tropical, hot and humid with rain, duration 2+ nights. (e) Leading (Guiding) - walking with the party to overview bushwalking safety. (f) Supervising (Guiding or Instructing) - supervising the bushwalking safety of participants on the walk, but not walking with them (i.e. ensuring that the party is trained and prepared to deal with situations which would reasonably arise and checking, possibly by site visits, communications devices, that they are safe during the hike). (g) Instructing - conducting a VET Bushwalking Course on behalf of Scouts Australia Institute of Training WATER ACTIVITIES Scope Water activities are Adventurous Activities. Water activities include canoeing, kayaking, sea kayaking, and sailing. Participants Participants shall be classified as one of the following: (a) Novice (b) Water Activities Badge (Scout Explorer or Adventurer Level) (canoeing/kayaking/ sea kayaking/sailing) (c) Canoeing or Kayaking or Sea Kayaking or Sailing Level 1 (d) Canoeing or Kayaking or Sea Kayaking or Sailing Level 2 (e) Canoeing or Kayaking or Sea Kayaking or Sailing Guide (f) Canoeing or Kayaking or Sea Kayaking or Sailing Instructor For appointment qualifications see QBSI Training. The chart below shows the participation, supervision and training role of the above classifications of participants. All participants must be able to swim at least 50 metres dressed in shirt, shorts, shoes and a properly fitting PFD (Personal Floatation Device) and thereafter remain afloat for three minutes. Participation in power boating activities must be in accordance with the relevant State legislation, including the holding of appropriate marine licences. It is recommended that power boat operators who support water activities such as canoeing, kayaking, sea kayaking and sailing have received safety or rescue boat training. Joey Scout Section Joey Scouts may participate in Adventurous Water Activities only where permission in writing has been granted by the Chief Commissioner of Queensland after approving the activity and risk management plan. The following Guidelines apply: (a) The activity is to be led by a Guide or Instructor with relevant skills qualification. (b) A Level 2 appointee in the relevant skill must be in each craft. (c) Where practical, power boat support should be considered. Cub Scout Section Cub Scouts may participate in Adventurous Water Activities only where approval in writing of the activity and risk management plan has been granted by a Guide or Instructor with relevant skills qualifications. The following Guidelines apply: (a) The activity is to be led by a Level 2 appointee or higher with relevant skills qualification. Page 11 of 15

12 (b) Only five craft (including the craft occupied by the activity leader) or one craft for sailing can be led by a Level 2 appointee at any time. (c) Where practical, power boat support should be considered. Scout, Venturer Scouts, Rover Scouts and Leaders Scout, Venturer Scouts, Rover Scouts, Leaders and Adult Members may participate in Adventurous Water Activities subject to the following Guidelines: (a) The activity is to be led by a Level 2 appointee with relevant skills qualification. (b) Only five craft for paddling and one craft for sailing (including the craft occupied by the activity leader) can be led by a Level 2 appointee at any time. A Scout Water Activities Badge holder (Explorer or Adventurer Level) can take control of the craft they occupy. (c) For paddling expeditions each craft must be under the control of a Level 1 or 2 appointee or Scout Water Activities Badge holder. The Leader of the expedition must hold a Level 2 appointment or be a Scout Water Activities Badge holder (Explorer or Adventurer Level) in the relevant skill. Any participants completing an expedition award must take control of a craft. There must be a minimum of three craft and five persons for any paddling expedition, unless specific arrangements, with the same or lower risk are approved by the Group Leader/Team Leader. (d) For sailing a Level 2 appointee or a Scout Water Activities Badge holder (Explorer or Adventurer Level) in the relevant skill must be in each craft. A support boat is desirable for sailing activities and mandatory where there are a number of craft and the area of activity is large. WATER ACTIVITIES LEADERSHIP AND SUPERVISION CHART 1 APPOINTMENT ACTIVITIES WHICH CAN BE LEAD / SUPERVISED/ ASSESSED Adventurous Activity Larger event (District/Region/Branch) VET Courses Canoeing or Kayaking or Sea kayaking or Sailing Level 1 or Scout Water Activities Badge (Explorer or Adventurer Level) Canoeing or Kayaking or Sea kayaking or Sailing Level 2 Canoeing or Kayaking or Sea kayaking or Sailing Guide Canoeing or Kayaking or Sea kayaking or Sailing Instructor can be in charge of the craft they occupy and assist with water activities in appointed skill lead, nd examine water activities, in appointed skill lead, nd examine water activities, in appointed skill lead, supervise, examine water activities, in appointed skill lead, nd examine water activities, in appointed skill lead, supervise, examine water activities, in appointed skill assist with water activities training in appointed skill assist with water activities training in appointed skill assist with water activities training in appointed skill Course Leader/Assessor for water activities training, in appointed skill Notes (1) Applies to Leading a youth or adult party and Supervising a youth-led party. Definitions (a) Adventurous activity - water activities which include, canoeing, kayaking, sea kayaking, and sailing. (b) Leading - participating with the party to overview water activity safety. (c) Supervising - supervising the water activity safety of participants on the activity, but not participating with them (i.e. ensuring that the party is trained and prepared to deal with situations which would reasonably arise and checking, possibly by communications devices, that they are safe during the activity). (d) Examining - assessing award work CRAFT AND EQUIPMENT Page 12 of 15

13 Craft and equipment used during Scouts Australia sponsored activities will be inspected for wear and damage prior to and after each activity by the activity leader (Level 2, Guide or Instructor appointee). This includes all personal gear, (e.g. personal floatation devices). A thorough inspection of all equipment must take place every 12 months, and should be conducted by a currently appointed Guide or Instructor. The recommendation of manufacturers regarding the service life of their products will be adhered to. Craft and equipment that does not meet industry standards is to be removed from service until repairs can occur if possible, and tagged or otherwise marked to prevent it being used. Items that are unable to be repaired should be disposed of promptly PIONEERING SCOPE Scout pioneering may be a day-to-day or an adventurous activity. Activity leaders will need to carefully consider the activity to ensure that it is adequately supervised. Scout pioneering is defined as the construction of structures and camp gadgets using timber spars and may include natural or artificial rope. Pioneering must be undertaken in accordance with R12.7 of The Scout Association of Australia, National Policy and Rules. This section does not address the construction of permanent structures of whatever material or flying foxes made from steel cable or metal supporting structures. Structures of this type require licenced persons for their construction. This section is primarily intended to apply to Adults who are instructing, supervising and examining or assessing a group participating in a pioneering activity APPOINTMENT DEFINITIONS Pioneering Level 1 (Scout and Venturer Scout Leader basic training), Pioneering Level 2 (Scout Leader advanced training), Pioneering Level 3 (including flying fox training where relevant), Guide Pioneering and Instructor Pioneering are appointments based on attaining competency as set out in the Adventurous Activities training matrix maintained by National Office of The Scout Association of Australia. For appointment qualifications see QBSI Training. Appointment as a Guide is made by the Deputy Chief Commissioner (Adults in Scouting) and as an Instructor by the National Commissioner for Adult Training and Development on the recommendation of the Branch Commissioner (Adventurous Activities) PIONEERING LEADERSHIP Table A below sets out the training requirements for Adults instructing, supervising or examining/assessing a Youth and/or Adult Member activity party undertaking pioneering. Youth Members undertaking pioneering, whether for an award or not, must be supervised by a Leader with a level of training as set out in the table below. Supervision does not always mean participating in the activity with the Youth Members. It should include ensuring that the Youth Members are trained to the standard of the construction they are undertaking and prepared to deal with situations which would reasonably arise and checking, where necessary, by site visits or communications devices, that they are safe during the activity. Page 13 of 15

14 TABLE A - PIONEERING LEADERSHIP AND SUPERVISION CHART APPOINTMENT ACTIVITIES WHICH CAN BE SUPERVISED Pioneering Level 1 Basic Course (Scout/ Venturer Scout) Pioneering Level 2 Advanced Course (Scout) Pioneering Level 1 and 2 Course (All sections other than Scout) Pioneering Level 3 Supplementary Course (prerequisite - Pioneering Level 1 & 2) Pioneering Level 3 1 Supplementary Course (incl. flying foxes for transporting persons) Guide Pioneering Instructor Pioneering Scout Pioneer standard skills, supervise, and assess Adults Scout Explorer and Adventurer standard skills, supervise, and assess Adults Activity Pioneering higher than Scout Adventurer standard skills, supervise skills, supervise skills, supervise skills, supervise, and assess Adults Flying fox for transport of persons 1 skills, supervise skills, supervise skills, supervise, and assess Adults Notes - 1 may be able to combine with Level 3 Supplementary following National review of course content (including flying foxes) SOME REFERENCE MATERIAL FOR SCOUT PIONEERING (a) Fieldbook for Australian Scouts, 2012, The Scout Association of Australia (b) Thurman J., 1956, Fun with Ropes and Spars, London, C. Arthur Pearson Limited (c) Thurman J., 1961, Pioneering Projects, London, C. Arthur Pearson Limited (d) Thurman J., 1962, Pioneering Principles, London, C. Arthur Pearson Limited (e) Thurman J., 1964, Progressive Pioneering, London, C. Arthur Pearson Limited (f) Pioneering for the Patrol, 1958, London, The Boy Scouts Association (g) Sweet J., 1974, Scout Pioneering, London, The Scout Association (h) Sweet J., 1978, Pioneering in Town and Country, London, The Scout Association (i) Miller AJ., Pioneering Projects Big and Small. (j) (k) (l) FIRST AID Any activity party in the field must have at least one member who holds current first aid qualifications. Members over 15 years of age must hold current Apply First Aid training (or equivalent) with Resuscitation endorsement and Members younger than 15 years must have received appropriate first aid training through Scouting or an external agency. For intermediate environments (see bushwalking definition) or remote locations it is recommended that one member of the party holds a Remote Area First Aid qualification ADVENTUROUS ACTIVITIES COMMITTEE Page 14 of 15

15 A District/Region Commissioner may convene an Adventurous Activities Committee for the District/Region if appropriate for the purpose of: (a) Coordinating resources and activities across the District/Region to support safe and effective Adventurous Activities. (b) Providing advice to Leaders on Adventurous Activities requirements. (c) Maintaining a list of qualifies adventurous activity leaders within the District/Region. (d) Registering and maintaining Adventurous Activity equipment within the District/Region. Whilst the composition and terms of reference of the Adventurous Activities Committee are a matter for the District/Region Commissioner, in order to be effective the majority of members should hold an adventurous activities qualification. Page 15 of 15