Notes for leaders

DURING THE WALK

1. Carry map, compass, first aid kit, torch and any other equipment appropriate for the planned activity.
2. Ascertain if anyone is carrying a mobile phone for emergency use and whether any participants have a first aid certificate and/or medical training.
3. Ensure group have adequate warm clothing e.g. hats, thermals, jacket
4. Ensure group have adequate water, electrolytes, hats, sunscreen
5. Sign-on for walks - Ensure all participants fill out walks attendance form, and guest waiver form for visitors. Without it both the member and the leader may be vulnerable to claims, and not protected by the Bush Club insurance arrangements.
6. A minimum of four (4) Bush Club members or prospective members, including leader, is required for a Club walk. If fewer than four, including leader, a walk, if continued, is not an official Club activity and the Club’s insurance arrangements do not apply.
7. However, a recce will still be covered by Bush Club insurance if there is a total of at least 2 Bush Club members and you notify the Walks Secretary by email prior to the walk.
8. Ensure that you have accounted for all those you know are coming, or have thoroughly checked the advertised meeting place(s) if no prior contact with the leader was required.
9. Hold an introductory circle prior to setting out and advise details of walk including expected terrain, distance, possible hazards, expected return time etc.
10. Control and manage risks.

    The leader has the right to refuse participation to any persons they consider may present a risk to themselves or other participants.

    • Ensure everyone has adequate water, at least one litre. In hotter conditions carry two litres or more, plus electrolytes
    • Check that all participants are able and suitably equipped for the activity.
    • Have a reliable person act as “tail” for the group and advise participants never to fall behind this person.
    • Wait at track junctions to ensure nobody goes the wrong way or appoint a person to wait.
    • Carry out regular head counts to ensure you have everyone.
    • Take extra time over crossings and assist inexperienced walkers. Consider alternate route if possible
    • Have regular drink/rest breaks and allow walkers to regroup.
    • Ensure everyone is comfortable with the pace and conditions. Remember it is easier for faster walkers to slow down rather than slow walkers to speed up.
    • Take regular drink stops
11. Carry snake/pressure bandage
12. Wear gaiters

SEARCH AND RESCUE

Contact the police or other emergency agency only if life or limb is endangered.

In the event of a party being overdue, or some other incident, phone Bush Club contacts

Graham Conden 0418 647 951;
Keith Maxwell 0431 262 101;
Lynn Dabbs 0408 214 669

TEXT EMERGENCY CALL - Dial 106

Bush Search and Rescue NSW

For emergency contact call 0427 455 897.

Wait for the number to connect. It takes around 10 seconds to do so as its rings through a few phone
diversions, so don’t hang up! The previous BWRS paging service has been shut down.

Click here to download complete Notes for Leaders as a pdf.