Leadership Through Adventure Fund
Victorian Rover Scouts Tackle a Five-Day Wilderness Expedition in Tasmania.
Nine Victorian Rover Scouts embarked on an unforgettable five-day trek through the Walls of Jerusalem and the Central Plateau Conservation Area in Tasmania. This challenging expedition aimed to push unit members beyond their comfort zones while fostering leadership, navigation, and teamwork skills.
The Journey
The adventure began with a flight from Melbourne to Launceston, followed by travel to the start of the Higgs Track. Over the next five days, the group traversed the rugged landscape of the national park, ultimately finishing at Lake Ada. After completing the hike, the Patrol spent two days exploring Hobart’s local attractions before returning home to Melbourne.
Lessons in Leadership and Planning
Patrol Leader Lucy shared that organizing this expedition proved to be just as challenging as the hike itself. As the trip leader, she quickly realized the importance of meticulous planning, including following up with emails and phone calls to ensure all logistics were in place. Lucy also emphasized that speaking with experienced hikers provided invaluable insights, making the planning process smoother. Rather than attempting to accommodate everyone’s preferences, she learned that making decisive choices was sometimes necessary for the efficiency and success of the trip.
Throughout the hike, Lucy gained hands-on experience in group management. From scheduling breaks at strategic intervals to delegating campsite duties and ensuring accurate navigation, every aspect of leadership was tested.
Skills Developed
This journey was a learning experience for the whole Patrol. Some members started with little navigation experience, but by the end, everyone had enhanced their map-reading and GPS navigation skills using tools like Avenza and GPS devices. Teamwork and communication flourished as the Patrol worked together to navigate the remote terrain.
Each group member took turns leading different sections of the hike, building confidence in navigation and decision-making. Critical moments included determining the safest way to cross streams—whether by jumping or wading through—and ensuring all members safely navigated boulder crossings while carrying heavy packs.
Challenges and Risk Management
Hiking in a remote area came with its share of challenges. The Patrol did not encounter another person for three days, meaning they had to be fully self-sufficient. Preparation was key, and ensuring every participant understood the demands of the hike before setting out. The expedition risk management strategies included:
- Financial Planning:Budgeted extra funds for unexpected contingencies.
- Navigation Through Unmarked Terrain: Reducing the risk of getting lost by training extensively and equipping ourselves with essential navigation tools like GPS devices, PLBs, and Avenza maps.
- Crossing Streams and Boulder Hopping: Hiking presented constant physical challenges, particularly when navigating fast-flowing streams and unstable boulders while carrying heavy packs. By carefully evaluating each crossing, the patrol effectively minimized risks. Although some minor injuries occurred, their first-aid training enabled them to handle situations efficiently and ensure everyone’s safety.
A Thank You to Dick and Pip Smith
The Patrol is immensely grateful to the Dick and Pip Smith – Leadership Through for making this expedition a reality. Their generous support enabled Scouts across Australia to embark on this transformative journey. The encouragement and admiration the Patrol has received for their adventure have been truly inspiring, and, motivated by this success, they are already planning their next challenge.
This expedition was more than just an outdoor adventure; it fostered resilience, leadership, and camaraderie—qualities that will remain with the Scouts for years to come.
The next round of applications closes is Now Open.
If you are planning your adventure and you would like to find out more how Dick and Pip Smith – Leadership Through Adventure Fund (LTAF) can assist financially to your adventure, click the links below to find out more or contact LTAF@scouts.com.au.
