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Adventurous Activities

Spotlight on “Adventurous” Activity Notification Processes & Approvals

Over the past few months, we have been seeing more and more activities taking place without following the correct activity notification approvals process.

All activities require the appropriate approvals to make sure that we are doing the right thing for our members – are we conducting safe activities that protect our youth. 

The key information about anything to do with activities is through the State Adventurous Activities Hub (https://nsw.scouts.com.au/adventurous-activities). It contains all the information about how to get qualified, what we can and can not do, activity logging and much more.

What is an “Adventurous” Activity?

The following is a comprehensive, but not exhaustive list of what is considered to be an adventurous activity, Pioneering, Survival, Bushwalking, Skiing, Snowboarding, Snow Shoeing, Cycling, Indoor Rock Climbing, Outdoor Rock Climbing, Portable Climbing Walls, Vertical Games such as Sock Wrestling, Crate Stacking, Abseiling, Canyoning, Caving, Bouldering, Swimming, Snorkelling, Surfing, Scuba Diving, Wind Surfing, Sailing, Power Boating, Personal Water Craft, Canoeing, Kayaking, Paddle Boarding, Archery, 4WDing,  Flying Fox, Light weight Camping and Rafting. 

While fixed camping is not an adventurous activity, the same process should be used.

What is not an “Adventurous” Activity?

Activities that are not in the above list and that occur within 2kms or your hall are not considered to be “Adventurous”. This includes any pioneering activity that is less than 2m from the ground. Activities that occur such as bowling or going to the moves are also not adventurous and only require a parent consent.

How to Plan my Activity?

The first thing to do is to have a look at the “What Activities I Can Run?” sheet for details. This sheet lists who can attend or supervise an activity (directly or indirectly) and the approvals and qualifications needed. 

Once you have done that, develop your activity plan (There is a great template on the Activity Hub website or your can use the one within Terrain). You will also need to complete a Risk Assessment.

Prepare your Operoo or E1 form and distribute it to parents. Please note that sending it out 2 days before is not considered Informed Consent. A good guide is to send out the notification 4 weeks before with a due date of 2 weeks before. Remember that an Operoo or informed consent is required for every person (regardless of age) attending or running an activity and that Scouts NSW Child Protection Procedures must be followed at all times.

Submit your activity via the Activity Notification and Approval System (even if it only needs Formation Leader approval) and once approved you are good to go!

I’m not sure or I need help?