Paddling OAS Stage 3 & 4 course & Camping on Cockatoo Island

To register for this event, you must have:

• OAS stage 2 in Paddling; &
• OAS stage 1 in Camping

Over this two day Canoe workshop course, you will be completing both practical and theory for OAS stage 3 & 4 in paddling a Canoe and camp on Cockatoo Island. 

The canoeing will take place on Lane Cove River around SWASH, Woolwich Baths, Tambourine Bay, Woodford Bay etc. We will catch the ferry to and from Cockatoo Island.

Over the weekend, we will:

• Learn and practice paddling strokes, rafting up, trading places with canoe buddy while on the water, capsizing, canoe over canoe rescues, drag in rescues, swimming 50m with PFD, safety and other considerations in planning a canoe/paddling trip.
• Discuss risks you might encounter on both the Habour and in rivers, preparing for an activity including what scout paperwork is required and navigation markers.

The activity plan is continually reviewed during the weekend to take into account the weather and any other identified risks, but as a rough guide. 

Day 1: Opening cerermony, basic theory and prep for canoeing, paddle #1, lunch, paddle #2 catch the 4.09 ferry to Cockatoo Island (500m walk to ferry), set up camp, theory and then a planned fun activity e.g. wide game. The paddles will involve learning/practicing canoe strokes and capsizing. 

Day 2: Catch 9.19am ferry back to SWASH, loading all gear in canoes and paddle #3 with practice capsize with gear in canoes (make sure gear is dry bags or reach out to activity leader well in advance if you would like to borrow barrel), 50m swim, lunch, pack canoes away and closing ceremony. 

logbook.

During the activity, you will get wet. You will need to wear/bring the following - here is a checklist that you may also find useful

• OPAL card with more than $20 balance on it for the ferry trip from Woolwich to Cockatoo Island
• This is an overnight camp - Packing should be similar to if you were doing an overnight hike - however, you need to consider that you will practice capsizing with your gear so dry bags or small barrels are a MUST (You need to supply all your own camping equipment e.g. tent, sleeping mat and sleeping bag (liteweight preferred) etc)
• Food - you are self catering except for lunch on both days. 2 x morning tea, 1 x afternoon tea, 1 x dinner (think Hiking style camp dinner), 1 x breakfast (and method to cook if required
• any medication you require
• sunscreen
• hat
• water bottle
• sunsafe clothing (long sleeves recommended)
• wear fully enclosed shoes that will get wet (no crocs, thongs etc)
• dry clothes and shoes to change into for on Cockatoo Island, sleeping and travelling home in
• up to date logbook
• whistle

The Water Activities Centre will provide you with a PFD to wear on the day and a sausage sizzle and can of soft drink for lunch both days.

• Water activities Leaders will be present overnight on Cockatoo Island
• The evening will be a mix of camp cooking time, free time exploring the island and review time with suitable games and activities.
• We will be catching the ferry across from Woolwich to Cockatoo Island, so remember to bring your OPAL card (or purchase a single use ticket) with at least $20 balance

Activities are subject to suitable weather conditions. If for any reason the event is cancelled you will be able to rebook or obtain a refund. If you are unable to attend after registering, you will not be entitled to a refund.