Leadership Through Adventure Fund 

A Patrol of four Venturer Scouts, Rover Scouts, and including an adult supporter from Scouts Australia completed a ten-day snowy adventure during winter 2024 in the Snowy Mountains, New South Wales.

The adventure began with a road trip from Esperance to Perth Airport, before transiting via Melbourne to Canberra and travelling onwards to Jindabyne. From there, the Patrol kicked off their alpine experience at Thredbo, undertaking both skiing and snowboarding lessons.

Over the first few days, the Patrol gained confidence, steadily progressing to slightly steeper slopes while also mastering the skills of riding and safely dismounting chairlifts. The following day, they swapped skis for snowshoes and completed a 4km round trip to Mt Kosciuszko, rewarded with breathtaking views from the lookout.

Patrol Leader Megan reflected, “The trip not only provided an opportunity for the Patrol to improve our alpine knowledge – learning the basics of skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing – but also how to dress appropriately and stay safe in an alpine environment. We learnt how to time-manage, plan a balanced menu suited to our activities, cook meals for everyone, and problem-solve along the way.”

The adventure wrapped up with more fun – tobogganing, exploring Jindabyne and Kosciuszko National Park, and a detour to Canberra. Highlights included visiting Yarrangobilly Caves, the thermal pool, the National War Memorial, Parliament House, and finishing with a challenge at the Tree Top Adventure high ropes course. 

Megan also shared, “Throughout the trip, we learnt so much about planning. From researching ski resorts suitable for beginners, to designing an itinerary, budgeting, doing risk assessments, fundraising, making bookings, travelling, and sourcing the right equipment – all of it made this trip an incredible experience.”