Overnight Bushwalk OAS3-5+, Scouts and up

Location: Starting at Engadine Train station, hiking to Heathcote Scout Camp, Heathcote Scout Camp to Uloola Falls via Kingfisher Pools, Uloola Falls to Loftus Soccer Field Carpark via Honeymoon Stairs.

Suitable for youth members who are learning to carry a loaded pack + develop hiking endurance and utilise navigational skills.

This route is likely to include fire trail, walking track, and footpaths. Track grades are medium with some extended ascent/decent sections. This hike will involve extended physical activity and endurance. Suitable for OAS3+ youth members.

The hike is self-catered so please bring whatever suits your liking. It is important to bring sufficient food for the duration. Choose hearty and nutritious foods that will provide sufficient energy. A recommend food menu is attached.

Heathcote Scout Camp will be a formal clearing; however, Uloola Falls Campground may be an informal clearing (True bush camping)

1. Leaders on Site:
   1. Campbell Wilson (Bushwalking Safe Participant – Tracked Environments)
   2. Lachlan Todd (Bushwalking Guide)
2. Objective of Activity:

Develop essential hiking skills, including carrying a loaded pack, building physical endurance, and utilising navigational techniques. Aims to prepare participants for more challenging hikes whilst fostering self-reliance and resilience in an outdoor setting.

OAS/VET Areas Covered:

Bushwalking OAS 3:

• I can be responsible for my safety and aware of my surroundings
• I can use different types of maps to help me throughout different activities
• I have attended a day bushwalk at this stage of at least six hours duration
• I know how to avoid becoming lost, and I know what to do if I get lost
• I can identify features of a topographical map

Bushwalking OAS 4:

• I can apply ascending techniques and descending techniques on slopes
• I know how to adopt appropriate posture when lifting and carrying a backpack
• I can demonstrate the approach to hazards safely and minimise risks to self and group where possible
• I have taken part in and logged a two-day bushwalk at this Stage

Bushwalking OAS 5:

• I can find directions without a compass
• I can use a map and compass to find my position on the ground.
• I can be an active member of my team while bushwalking

What do Participants need to bring. What you need to know

• How to Pack a hiking pack
• Sample Food Menu

• Risk Assessment:

Route Description:

Day 1: Engadine Train Station (Corner of Station St/Princes Hwy) to Heathcote Scout Camp (Freeman Rd).

Day 2: Heathcote Scout Camp (Freeman Rd) to Uloola Falls Campground via Kingfisher Pools.

Day 3: Uloola Falls Campground to Loftus Oval Carpark (Princes Hwy)

• Relatively easy terrain with sections of extended ascent/descent. Track has multiple sections with intersections which participants will be required to work out the correct path forward.

Proposed Campsites:

Heathcote Scout Camp

Uloola Falls Campground

Prerequisites:

• Purchase of OWN food/gear
• Packing of OWN gear (20% of participants body weight)
• Completion & Submission of E1/EMS Registration