ScoutHike

What to know

- Scouts need to bring their own food to Scout Hike. It is best to plan to cook as a patrol.

- Scouts should wear their Scout shirt and scarf on the bus

- The Group will provide Tents and mess tins

- Packs, and sleeping mats can be borrowed from the Troop. Please let us know ASAP what you need.

- Hiking boots are the best footwear, but DO NOT buy a new pair now. They will not be able to be worn-in properly in time for Scout Hike.

- If you do not already have hiking boots, then a good, sturdy pair of runners will be sufficient.

- We have a hiking pack list here

Scout Hike Food

Each Scout will need to bring their own food for snacks, 2 breakfasts, 2 lunches and 1 dinner. Some suggestions are given below. Feel free to substitute alternatives bearing in mind the only cooking will be on Saturday dinner.

No nuts please. This hike involves Scouts from many other Troops (approx 1000 Scouts I'm told), so there may well be Scouts with extreme nut allergies.

As much as possible, food should be removed from bulky packaging, and stored in zip lock bags instead.

Snacks

- Dry biscuits - EG Cheds, Saladas, Country Cheese, Chicken Crimpy BBQ/Cheese/Pizza etc Shapes

- Gelatin lollies - Snakes/Raspberries/Jelly Beans etc

- Chocolate (Dark is better than milk if your Scout likes dark)

- Muesli/food bars (but not with nuts!)

Dinner Friday

- Eat before going to Thornton Crescent or

- "Cut Lunch" type meal to be eaten en-route Friday Night

- NB The buses will not be stopping to buy dinner

Breakfasts

- Single serve of cereal in zip lock bag and single-serve UHT milk (1 UHT milk packet per meal, these are available from Coles/Woolworths)

- Muesli or breakfast bar

Lunches

- Salada biscuits or crispbreads or wraps

- Cheese slices

- Sliced meats/salami repacked into zip lock bags

- Vegemite in tube (No glass jars please)

- Single serve jams/spreads

- Fruit (bananas not recommended - too easily squashed)

Dinner Saturday

- Main course needs to be heated in a mess tin on an open fire.

- Frozen, pre cooked pasta and meat sauce in zip lock bag, inside second zip lock bag (spiral pasta is easier to eat than spaghetti) or

- Frozen, pre cooked stew in zip lock bag, inside second zip lock bag (tinned stews are good, but remove from can to zip lock bag and freeze)

- Food that is frozen on Friday night will thaw out nicely by Saturday night.

- Dehydrated meals are available from Anaconda/BCF/Rays etc, but are relatively expensive

- 2 Minute noodles alone do not constitute an adequate meal but can be brought in addition to a main course

- Cup-a-Soup sachet

- Fruit

- Fruit-in-jelly cup

- or Pudding in a cup

This is a mess tin (two actually, one inside the other):

Patrol Leader Handbook

Welcome to Scouthike, you are sure to have a great time! Take some time to become familiar with the information and instructions in this Patrol Leaders Information document as it will help you get your Patrol prepared.

Your aim over the weekend is to navigate your Patrol through as many Activities as you can on Saturday before reaching your Sleep Point, and on Sunday before you reach the Finish Point. In choosing your intended route, think about what each of your Patrol is good at.

BEFORE THE WEEKEND

Make sure you spend time in planning, preparing and sharing skills with your patrol. Once your registration has been completed, the Scouthike Committee will send you information about your Patrol Number, Bus Number, and travel details. As Patrol Leader, you are responsible to organise and get your Patrol to the Bus Departure Point ON TIME. Late arrivals will not be waited for.

Make sure your Patrol know to arrange to be picked up from the same point on the Sunday afternoon at the designated time. Spend time with your Patrol so they know what to expect from the weekend. If you have any queries at all, please check with your leader or the Scouthike website:

www.scouthike.com.au

TRANSPORT FOR METROPOLITAN PATROLS:

Buses will take you in to the hike area of Tallarook State Forest on the Friday evening. Arrive at the bus departure point by 6.30pm to check-in. Buses will leave the departure point at 7.00pm SHARP!!

Your Bus Number is shown on the ‘Transport’ attachment sent to you with your Information Letter.

When you arrive at your Bus Departure Point you must have your complete Patrol present. in order to check in to the Bus Captain

You will receive your ‘PASSPORT’ or ‘LEARNER’S PERMIT’ booklet and two maps – MUST carry these with you at all times.

Whilst on the bus, fill in your map with all Activity sites and Sleep Points – instructions will be in the booklet..

On the bus please remember to — remain seated

Don’t forget to get all Patrol members to update their Operoo (Health) details

Not drop any rubbish keep your feet on the floor — not on seats not damage any of the bus interior fittings

Your Patrol will be returned to the same location for pick-up between 4.30 and 5.00pm on Sunday.

Other Matters For All Patrols

Matches, lighters, or anything else capable of creating a flame/fire are TOTALLY PROHIBITED from being in the possession of Scouts at Scouthike.

All personal and patrol gear, and food, must be shared and carried carry by the members of your Patrol.

There is no requirement to bring multiple changes of clothing. If you do, you will need to carry it with you.

Nothing is to be carried in your hands whilst hiking.

Each Sleep Point and Activity Point will have water and cooking facilities.

During Scouthike ALL Scouts must remain within the Forest confines which are clearly shown on your map.

WHAT TO TAKE

Before taking any item there are four questions that you should ask.

1. Is it necessary? If the answer is ‘yes’ take it. If there is any doubt leave it at home.

2. Is it effective? Will the tent keep out the rain? Will the sleeping bag keep you warm?

3. Is it as light as possible? A scout hiking pack for a 2 day hike does not need to exceed about 10 -13 kilograms.

4. Is it compact? If not then look around for a more compact option.

WHAT PERSONAL GEAR SHOULD I TAKE?:

The following are references which may be useful when planning and preparing for participation in Scouthike. They can be found in the ‘Fieldbook For Australian Scouting’ (3rd edition)

• Gear list > P75-77

• Menu & food > P 101 – 107

• Route planning & Naismith’s > P14-17

• Tents & sleeping > P 123-140

• Navigation > P177

• General hiking > P159-164

PACK —A pack which fits your back will enable you to carry gear with a minimum of discomfort as the weight is evenly distributed over the back. Carry a small length of nylon cord for pack repair. Small pieces of sponge may be useful to use as padding on the shoulders.

SLEEPING BAG (compulsory) — A reasonable quality sleeping bag is essential for a good night’s sleep. A sleeping bag inner liner is good to use as it helps care for the bag.

SLEEPING MAT: This can be anything from a hiking foam mat to an expensive self-inflating one.

TORCH — A SMALL torch should be carried. Replace or bring spare batteries.

TOILET GEAR — Should be carried by each person. This includes sunscreen, toothbrush and paste (a small amount in old tube), a hand-towel, small soap and toilet paper (in sealed plastic bag).

SMALL TARPAULIN – useful to sit on, unload your pack, extra shelter etc.

EATING GEAR— One plate or bowl, usually aluminium or plastic, and a mug is adequate. A knife fork and spoon are essential.

WATER-BOTTLE — A one litre, well-sealed water-bottle MUST be carried by each person in your patrol.

WHISTLE — A whistle is worth carrying for emergency use as its sound will carry much further than the human voice.

FIRST AID KIT — The Patrol should carry a First Aid Kit suited to the Patrol size. *See the FIRST AID section later in this booklet.

FOOTWEAR— These need not be expensive, or very heavy. They should be in good condition and comfortable. Feet swell when walking and when a load is carried the foot lengthens and widens. A rubber sole with heavy tread will provide good grip on most surfaces. Spare laces are useful.

SOCKS — Thick cotton or specific hiking socks are needed to absorb moisture and to cushion the feet. Can be useful to wear a thin cotton/wick sock inside a thick one.

PANTS — A pair of long trousers is essential for cold weather and protection against sunburn and scrub. Shorts are generally adequate. Thermal leggings under shorts can be a good

alternative.

SHIRT — Long sleeves and a collar for both warmth in cold weather and protection from sunburn. A light t-shirt could be carried. Remember that you will have to carry your Uniform shirt too.

JUMPER — A lightweight, long sleeved jumper or equivalent is necessary. Thermal alternatives are an excellent idea to use. Layers of clothing is the best way to think when hiking.

RAINCOAT— A lightweight waterproof raincoat is essential for protection against wind and rain. The best type for the beginner is the hooded japara. Padded ski type or spray jackets are not suitable. Ponchos can be carried as extra to protect your pack from rain.

HAT — A sun protecting hat MUST be worn/carried at all times by all patrol members. A beanie is good to carry for evening-time.

SCOUT UNIFORM — You are not required to wear your full Scout Uniform on the Friday night, only your Troop scarf. Your uniform must however be carried (use it as your spare set of clothes) and worn on your return home on Sunday.

WHAT PATROL GEAR SHOULD WE TAKE?:

TENT (compulsory) — Separate tents must be provided for both male and female members of the Patrol. Something quick and easy to erect is best, with a groundsheet for extra protection under it.

Make sure the whole patrol know how to erect their tents. Cheap nylon tents are not suitable.

The tent should have an external fly — # do not forget the ropes, poles and pegs.

FOOD — See the Section on Hike Food section in this booklet.

FIRST AID KIT — See the First Aid section in this booklet.

COMPASS — (compulsory > 2 per patrol) This needs to be always available, worn on a cord around your neck or inside your map pouch.

MAP — You will be supplied with two copies of the map when you board the bus. This needs to be carried in a plastic folder for protection

NOTE PAD & PENS etc — A small selection of coloured pens/highlighters are necessary for marking your map.

COOKING UTENSILS — A couple of nesting billies / frying pan, as needed for whatever your menu is, are needed. > in a sealed bag with elastic band around the opening (keeps the inside of your pack clean). Any implements that you are going to use.

CLEANING — Pot cleaners, scourers & tea-towels, > in a sealed plastic bag.

MENU AND CATERING

• Make your menu light-weight. Remember, you have to carry it.

• Make sure you can cook what you take. Practice at home first.

• Remember!!!! No stoves or matches are to be carried for the Scouthike event!!!!

• Cook as a Patrol. It is much easier than everyone catering for themselves.

• Make sure your menu is balanced to provide energy, salt and nourishment.

• Make sure everyone carries a full one litre bottle of water

• Keep your billies in a cloth or plastic bag to help keep the rest of your pack clean.

• Honey, vegemite and peanut butter have more food value than jams.

• Dried fruits are light to carry. They can be eaten raw, cooked, or soaked overnight to reconstitute.

• Carry all rubbish and litter with you. # Do not drop anything in the bush.

• Plastic bags are handy for storing food, wet gear, etc.

Meals you need to plan:

• Friday Supper - optional - a hot drink and snack bar is a good idea

• Saturday Breakfast - could be a hot meal but should always include a low GI cereal or bread

• Saturday Lunch – a lightweight but high energy meal.

• Saturday Dinner - it is important to make this meal hot, substantial, and something each Patrol member will actually eat.

• Sunday Breakfast - could be a hot meal, but should always include a low GI cereal or bread

• Sunday Lunch - lightweight and high energy meal.

• SNACKS — Scroggin is good!!!! Food rich in carbohydrates should be eaten at frequent intervals during the day, e.g. chocolate, nuts,etc.

• Instant noodle packs OR meal replacement drinks are NOT acceptable as a COMPLETE meal.

FIRST AID

Members of the Victorian Scout First Aid Service will be situated at each Sleep Point and at Hike HQ. Four-wheel drive vehicles from the Scout 4WD Service Crew, along with Amateur Band and CB radio Communications equipment will constantly cover the Scouthike area. As a Patrol, you should have good general knowledge of First Aid. # If in any doubt about anything related to First Aid seek advice from an adult or First Aider.

Personal First Aid Kit (all Patrol members carry)

Should include:

• 1 triangular bandage,

• 1 x 75 mm elastic crepe bandage,

• Partial roll of duct tape

• 1 sealed sterile dressing,

• 4 Bandaids or similar,

• 3 large safety pins,

• Any Personal Medications. #These must be labelled with Owner’s Name and relevant

• dosage.

Patrol First Aid Kit

Should include:

• Pair of scissors,

• Packet of gauze squares,

• Roll of adhesive tape (25 mm),

• Wound Dressings (2 x No.14),

• Foil Rescue blanket,

• Fine point tweezers,

• Disposable Gloves.

TROUBLE SHOOTING ISSUES THAT MAY HAPPEN

IT STARTS TO RAIN — Always anticipate rain no matter what the season. Be prepared and always carry a wet weather poncho or similar. Remember, in the case of bad weather, your destination or objective suffers — not the members of your Patrol.

SORE BACKS — Stop and check the backpack. Check for any hard objects which rest against the spine and re-pack the pack, padding these with jumpers, etc. Check that the load is being carried as high as possible on the shoulders. If the straps are rather slack the pack will sag down and rub against the lower part of the back. The pack might feel right when you start out, but if it is not adjusted properly the back will soon hurt. If some packs are heavier than others share the load or take turns in swapping packs.

BLISTERS AND SORE FEET — A blister can always be treated if you catch it early at the stage when there are no blisters, just red skin. Stop immediately and strap sticking plaster across the red area to stop it developing. If you do develop a blister — cover it, do not break it. Another hint — stick sore feet into cold creek water and then dry well.

PATROL MEMBERS KEEP STOPPING AND WANT TO SIT — Let them to a point. Don’t push needlessly or you will put them off hiking for life. There is no need to be too ambitious. Change your plans, if possible, to something shorter and easier.

KEEPING THE PATROL TOGETHER - Have a responsible patrol member at the front and another as the ‘tail’ person at the back of the patrol. Nobody walks in front or behind them.

WATCH OUT FOR VEHICLES — When vehicles approach, the whole Patrol should move to the same side of the road to allow maximum room for the vehicles.

FEELING THIRSTY — This is natural. The body’s normal turnover is 2.5 litres per day — but, in hot and strenuous conditions, it can be five times this amount. Forget the old wives’ tale that you should not drink too much when walking — drink when you want to.

FEELING CHILLED — Immediately you or any of your Patrol start to feel cold, put on a jumper and a beanie; if this still is not enough add another or a jacket. Feeling cold can be caused by a change in the weather or just stopping to eat, which is often the time for extra clothing. But remember to take it off when you start walking again. Another tip is to keep nibbling high calorie food packed in your pockets. Nuts, raisins, sugar, chocolate, etc. are ideal ‘warmers’ when on the move.

NAUSEA AND HEADACHE — Heat, tiredness and not eating properly are the usual causes. If a member is feeling sick — stop and rest. Do not try to push on. if dizziness occurs seek assistance. As P.L. you are responsible for all of your Patrol members.

ABDOMINAL PAIN — This is often caused by not using the toilet and/or by drinking strange water. Only drink the water you bring or that provided at all Sleep-points & Activity sites.

INSECT BITES AND STINGS — Repellents (Rid or Bushmans are best) will usually do the trick. Stingose will reduce itchiness.

LEECHES — Leeches are best removed by a sprinkling salt on them