Leadership Through Adventure Fund
Trek to Everest Base Camp – A Journey of Challenge and Growth
From April 26th to May 12th, 2025, NSW Rover Scout Tamara, embarked on a bucket-list adventure, supported by the Dick and Pip Smith – Leadership Through Adventure Fund (LTAF). This journey took Tamara to Nepal for an eleven-day hike to Everest Base Camp, covering over 120 kilometres and reaching 5,644 metres above sea level at Kala Patthar.
The expedition involved eight days of trekking to the base camp, with acclimatisation days built in to help the body adjust to altitude and prevent illness, followed by three days of descent back to Lukla. Travelling in a small group of six trekkers, supported by two guides and three porters, Tamara shared every step of this remarkable journey – encouraging and supporting one another along the way.
Preparing for the Trek
Before the beginning of the journey, Tamara hadn’t completed an overnight hike for the past five years. To prepare herself for the journey ahead, she tackled several Grade 5 day hikes with friends and Rover Scouts, as well as an overnight hike with 700m of elevation gain that pushed her limits, physically and mentally. She also trained at a local gym four times a week, focusing on endurance, strength, and high-intensity workouts to build physical strength for the journey ahead.
These efforts not only boosted Tamara fitness but also inspired her in pursing qualification in Bushwalking Trained Participant certification and advance towards Level 6 Outdoor Adventure Skills.
The Trek Itself
The trek began with flights and bus rides from Kathmandu to Lukla before the group set off on the trail. Tamara shared, the climb from Phakding to Namche Bazaar was one of the toughest sections – a 12 km trek over eight hours, finishing with a steep 400m ascent. The reward was spectacular views and the lively atmosphere of Namche’s tea houses and markets.
Each day Tamara will face new challenges, from rocky trails and long hours on foot to cold conditions and high altitude. While she experienced some dizziness and fatigue, she was fortunate not to suffer major altitude sickness.
After eight days, the group reached Everest Base Camp (5,364m). Walking into the “city of tents” was surreal, and while the camp was busier than expected, the sense of achievement was incredible. – expressed Tamara.
The following day, Tamara approached another climb to Kala Patthar (5,644m) for breathtaking views of Everest itself – the highlight of the journey.
On the way back to Lukla, our group helped with conservation efforts by collecting 1 kg of rubbish each, supporting waste management in Sagarmatha National Park.
“This expedition pushed me beyond my comfort zone — physically, mentally, and emotionally. Before leaving Australia, I doubted whether I was ready. But throughout the trek, I discovered a resilience I didn’t know I had. ” – Tamara said.
Tamara also shared, there were days where the challenges tested her limits, but she continued by focusing on her goal and pushes through the obstacles that comes her way. The expedition have showed her that success on a challenge like this require more than physical strength – with positive mindset, healthy habits and determination.
Reflecting on the journey, Tamara expressed teamwork was an important factor cannot be dismissed in this expedition. The support and camaraderie from other fellow trekkers and guides had made this journey possible and rewarding for her.
A Note of Thanks
Finally, Tamara would like to expressed her gratitude to Dick and Pip Smith and the Leadership Through Adventure Fund Committee for supporting this once-in-a-lifetime experience.
The trek gave her far more than memories – it strengthened her confidence, resilience, and leadership skills. It also helped her realise that when she sets a goal and pushes beyond self-doubt, she is capable of achieving remarkable things.
If you are planning for an adventure and would like to learn more about how Leadership Through Adventure Fund (LTAF) can support your plan into reality, contact the LTAF team to submit your enquiry to LTAF@scouts.com.au, or click below link to find out more.
Photos from the trip below
