Leadership Through Adventure Fund
During July 2024, a team of six Rover Scouts from Western Australia embarked a week-long Alpine Adventure at Mt Baw Baw in Victoria, challenging themselves physically and mentally while building alpine and outdoor survival skills.
The week-long adventure involved skiing, snow hiking, and simulated emergency responses, placing the Patrol in unfamiliar environments that encouraged responsible risk-taking. It also provided valuable leadership opportunities, with experienced members guiding newcomers in skiing and snowboarding while every participant took turns leading tasks and activities.
Skills and Achievements
Throughout the expedition, the Patrol significantly enhanced their Alpine Outdoor Adventure Skills. Those new to skiing quickly adapted under the guidance of experienced Patrol members and instructors. Stepping into teaching and coaching roles for the first time gave the Patrol invaluable hands-on leadership experience.
A major highlight was the Patrol’s collective progression in Alpine Outdoor Adventure Skills. Four members achieved Stage 5, one other achieved Stage 4, and another advanced to Stage 7 – clear evidence of their technical growth. Over the six days, the Patrol advanced from complete beginners to confident intermediate skiers. Starting with the basics by controlling speed, turning, and stopping the Patrol progressed to navigating steeper slopes and varying snow conditions. By the end of the trip, all members of the Patrol were comfortable on intermediate runs, having developed not only skiing ability but also a stronger understanding of alpine safety and terrain management.
The simulated emergency scenarios further strengthened the Patrol’s incident response skills. These exercises was a great learning opportunity to assess risks in real time and adapt to dynamic environments and valuable lessons given that snowy alpine conditions are vastly different from those the Patrol have encounted in Western Australia.
Leadership Development
Leadership was woven throughout the expedition. Experienced members guided morning skiing sessions, while others coached, supported, and coordinated tasks such as meal planning and lesson scheduling. Every Patrol member had the opportunity to lead in some capacity, building decision-making, communication, and teamwork skills. The ability to guide, teach, and motivate peers in a high-risk environment accelerated through their leadership growth and confidence.
Responsible Risk-Taking
Responsible risk-taking was a central theme of the adventure. Using a detailed risk matrix, the Patrol ensured safety while still pushing boundaries. For instance, the Patrol had not experienced snow hiking prior the expedition and with guidance from resources and the Alpine representative, the Patrol successfully faced the challenge through careful preparation and proper equipment.
Skiing itself also presented both physical and mental challenges. For most Patrol members, it was entirely new. By following a structured daily lesson plan – mornings with instructors or experienced Patrol members, and afternoons for practice – members were able to built confidence and competence. The Patrol embraced the principle of “challenge by choice,” encouraging each person to push their limits when ready, without pressure but with strong support. This approach allowed the Patrol to progress at their own pace, safely managing risk while achieving personal growth.
Emergency response simulations also demanded quick, informed decision-making under stress. Throughout the expedition, the Patrol consistently evaluated conditions – weather, fatigue, and skill levels – balancing personal challenge with Patrol safety.
Are you planning your next adventure?
Applications for the next round of the Leadership Through Adventure Fund (LTAF) are now open! If you’re looking for financial assistance to support a transformative Scouting expedition, click the link below or reach out to LTAF@scouts.com.au for more information.
