Student Number: 1139 8112 PKM230

Part A
Essay on proposed Adventure Experience

Student Number: 1139 8112 PKM 230

Part B
Policies & Procedures Manual
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Student Number: 1139 8112 PKM230

Part A
Discuss the possible benefits for participants on your adventure experience - Mount Jagungal Advanced Hike.
Walkazi Adventures Pty Ltd has twenty-one years of experience in the adventure hiking and mountaineering industry. The company runs training courses in hiking and navigation which use practical recreation and education to allow participants to acquire the necessary skills to be a hiking guide. To get the certificate, participants are required to attend four different trips - a beginner hike; an intermediate hike; a solo rogaining hike day; and an advanced hike. The advanced hike is a very important part of the training course as it uses the skills the participants have learnt already and pairs that with a challenging and extreme alpine environment. This pairing creates an experience that pushes participants outside of their comfort zone mentally and physically, and encourages dynamic learning and personal growth to prepare them for the worst case scenario in the bush guiding industry.

The Advanced Hike goes for seven days in early to mid-Spring and is held in the Jagungal Wilderness Area in the Alpine region of NSW. The most anticipated clientele are between the ages of 18 and 25, however people up to the age of 50 may also come on the trip. They are also reasonably fit and looking for an adventure. The trip will start at the Intersection of Snakey Plain Fire Trail and Tooma Road, Jagumba, NSW and finish at the intersection of Round Mountain Fire Trail and Tooma Road, Jagumba, NSW. Most of the campsites along the way will have huts, and if not, there is one not too far away.

As the hike is not to test navigation skills but to increase confidence in the participants existing navigation skills the hike will have a few challenges on day one, two and three being a practice river crossing in cold, fast flowing water (day 1); halves of the group will separate and navigate for 2 hours then the group will be split 2

Student Number: 1139 8112 PKM230 into groups of three for a day of navigation (day 2); then they will do a whole day navigating solo (day 3). The rest of the week will require a number of river crossings particularly day 4 with two consecutively and day 6 will require the group to climb Mount Jagungal at 2061 meters.

There are many possible benefits to the participants from this adventure experience to Mount Jagungal Wilderness Area, particularly if reflecting upon it after each day and at the end of the hike. The Author has adapted three academic theories about benefits from outdoor adventure into a list of potential benefits for the participant from the Advanced Hike. The following list is a combination of benefits from Darst & Armstrong (1991), Ewert (1987, p.24) and Webb pre-adapted by Priest (1999): Helps participant overcome fears (e.g. crossing fast-flowing water, and hiking solo) (Darst & Armstrong, 1991). Participant can gain self-confidence in general and in skills such as navigation and decision-making (Darst & Armstrong, 1991). Enhances the participants ability to cope mentally and physically with the worst case scenario (Darst & Armstrong, 1991). Allows the participant to achieve a sense of accomplishment (Darst & Armstrong, 1991) such as reaching the summit of Mount Jagungal and completing the hike. Improves the participants strength, coordination, balance, cardiovascular endurance/stamina (Ewerts, 1987, p.24 and Stiehl & Parker, 2007, p.67). Builds the participants character by making him/her more independent; interdependent (mutually dependent with other people); willing to take risks to achieve more; tolerant of others in extreme situations; respectful of the needs of others; trusting and not doubt-stricken about others abilities; reliable; and compassionate/empathetic (Webb adapted by Priest, 1999). Develops participants outdoor leadership skills such as: decision-making, problem-solving, responsibility, and communication (Webb adapted by Priest, 1999). Improves participants general well-being and psychological health (Ewert, 1987). 3

Student Number: 1139 8112 PKM230 Walkazi Adventures Pty Ltd also believes that the circumstances of the hike can also encourage fast-tracked learning which can benefit the participants ability to make dynamic decision and therefore lead adventure recreation in the future. Dynamic decision-making means the participant can be forced into a situation where he/she has to make important decisions on the spot and be able to play it by ear successfully. Most often dynamic decision-making skills are learnt particularly well from mistakes in past experiences. For example; do I cross the river here, or keep walking until I find an easier and safer spot to cross? A good decision can encourage learning, but in particular a bad decision can fast-track learning as their reaction will be never going to put myself or others in that situation again! So, part of the benefit of the advanced hike is to create a reasonably controlled environment (with highly-trained/experienced leaders) for participants to make those mistakes. This will therefore fast-track their learning so they will not make those mistakes for their next leading experience where they are responsible for the safety of clients in the adventure recreation industry. Overall, this hike has been designed to develop the participants into the future leaders of our Outdoor Adventure Recreation Industry. This experience will benefit the participants in so many ways via changing them into better more experienced leaders mentally, physically and socially. This will not just benefit their success in the industry but in life as well.

Student Number: 1139 8112 PKM230

References
Darst, P.W., & Armstrong, G.P. (1991). Outdoor Adventure Activities for School and Recreation Programs. Waveland Press.

Ewert, A. (1987). The Bradford Papers Annual [Vol. II]: Research in outdoor adventure: Overview and analysis [pp.15-28]. Retrieved 24 May 2011, from: http://www.d.umn.edu/~kgilbert/ened55601/Readings/Adventure%20Research%20Overview%20-%20Ewert%201987.pdf

Priest, S. (1999). Introduction: Experientia. In Adventure programming. State College PA: Venture.

Stiehl, J., & Parker, M. (2007). Individual outcomes of participating in adventure. In D. Prouty, J. Panicucci & R. Collinson (Eds.), Adventure education theory and applications (pp.63-76). Champaign, IL: Human Kinetics.

Student Number: 1139 8112 PKM230

PKM230 Student Number: 11398812 PART B

Policies & Procedures Manual

Kelly Aitchison
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May 2011

Student Number: 1139 8112 PKM230

Table of Contents
1.0 Outline 2.0 Reconnaissance 3.0 Screening participants Figure 1 Waiver Figure 2 Medical Form Figure 3 - Questionnaire 4.0 Risk analysis 4.1 Overview of the hike 4.1.1 Location 4.1.2 Duration 4.1.3 Group Size 4.1.4 Ratios 4.1.5 Leader Qualifications 4.2 Rationale 4.3 Risk Analysis Table 5.0 Emergency communications 5.1 Communication equipment 5.2 Carrying contact numbers for emergency situations 5.3 Communication procedures 6.0 Hike intentions 7.0 Itinerary 7.1 Route card 8.0 Evacuation and exit points 9.0 Contingency plans 10.0 11.0 12.0 Pre-trip Checklist Environmental considerations Review of Policies and Procedures

Student Number: 1139 8112 PKM230

1.0

Outline

This Policies and Procedures Manual is a guide for staff of Walkazi Adventures Pty Ltd to use when working in both the field with clientele and in the office. These policies and procedures ensure all risks are minimised and if an emergency situation or even a minor situation occurs, it provides advice on procedures to follow. Every staff member of Walkazi Adventures Pty Ltd must read and be trained to follow these policies and procedures before working with clients.

Student Number: 1139 8112 PKM230

2.0

Reconnaissance

For each location we consider conducting a hike at, a reconnaissance must be carried out to ensure of emergency exit/access points, water sources and camp sites. Any hazards and risks that could make or break the hike must be viewed, considered and be able to be avoided, minimised and if a situation should occur a planned reaction must be able to be developed. The reconnaissance should also confirm the locations appropriateness to achieving the aim of the hike. For example; an area with a lot of fire trails can prove positive and negative when it comes to teaching navigation techniques. Conducting a reconnaissance is done only once by Kelly Aitchison (Managing Director of Walkazi Adventures Pty Ltd) or by whomever she sees fit. A reconnaissance must be conducted thoroughly and prior to making all overnight hikes available to participants. Day hikes on the other hand can be done on the basis of information found on Parks websites or through word of mouth as long as maps are thoroughly assessed and risks are known and considered.

Student Number: 1139 8112 PKM230

3.0

Screening participants

Clients/participants must sign a waiver (figure 1) for every trip to ensure any damages to themselves or equipment is paid for by the client and not blamed on Walkazis staff. A medical form (figure 2) must be filled out by every participant for overnight trips only. And a questionnaire (figure 3) or beep-test if the trip requires a higher maturity, fitness, ability and/or skill level to be completed. The questionnaire is aimed at reducing human hazards such as poor fitness, asthma, horseplay and disability which makes it unsafe for the participant themselves and the rest of the group.

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Student Number: 1139 8112 PKM230 Figure 1

Walkazi Adventures Pty Ltd WAIVER

RISK WARNING Participation in the hiking and navigation program organised by Walkazi Adventures Pty Ltd carries a risk that a participant may suffer personal injury or in highly unlikely cases permanent disability or death. Such injuries may occur by participation and exertion in an activity with which participants may not be familiar, or by participants making errors of judgement or failing to follow instructions in performing various activities. In addition, risks may arise from loss of property, remoteness to normal medical services, or from changeable and sometimes extreme weather conditions.

Acknowledgment by Participant 1. I _________________________ have read and understood the risk warning above. 2. I acknowledge that participants, including myself, to whom the program is provided for by Walkazi Adventures Pty Ltd, engage in the activities at their own risk and have a right to refuse participation. 3. I acknowledge that Walkazi Adventures Pty Ltd hereby exclude any liability under Division 5 of the Civil Liability Act that may result from breach of an express or implied warranty that the services be rendered with reasonable care and skill. 4. I agree that if I suffer injury or illness during the course of the program, Walkazi Adventures Pty Ltd, their agents or operators, may at my cost arrange medical treatment and/or emergency evacuation services, as they deem appropriate for my safety.

If participant is Under 18: Parent/Guardian (Print Name) ____________________________________ Signature _______________________________ Date ___________________

OR Participant (Print Name) ________________________________________ Signature _______________________________ Date ___________________

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Student Number: 1139 8112 PKM230 Figure 2

Walkazi Adventures Pty Ltd MEDICAL FORM

The purpose of this form is to allow us to adequately prepare for your hiking and navigation program. This information is strictly confidential and will not be used to deny access to any part of the program. This information will not be resold, reused, rented, loaned or otherwise enclosed to a third party, except with prior written permission.

PART ONE Name: ___________________________ DOB: ____________ Phone H: ___________________ Mobile: ______________________ Address: __________________________________________________ Postcode: ________ Medicare Number: _______________________ Female: Male: Please Tick Emergency Contact Name: _____________________________ Relationship: ___________ Address: ________________________________________________ Post Code: _________ Phone H: ___________________ Mobile: _______________________ Date of last Tetanus Inoculation? ______________ How far can you swim without assistance? 50m 100m 250m or more Please Tick Do you have any known allergies? Yes No Please Tick If No, please skip Part Two of this form. If yes, Please ensure you fill out the Allergic Reaction Management Plan which is Part Two of this form. Do you have any disabilities or illness? (E.g. asthma, diabetes, epilepsy, dyslexia, deafness, vision impaired, high blood pressure, heart and or lung condition), please give details._____________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________ Do you wear glasses or contacts? Yes No Please Tick Do you have dentures/false teeth? Yes No If yes to any of the above, have you ever been hospitalised for your condition? Please advise details._____________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________ If you have Asthma you must complete the Asthma Management Plan which is Part Three of this form. Have you ever suffered from a stress-related illness? Yes No Please Tick

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Student Number: 1139 8112 PKM230

If yes, Please give details. _____________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________ Are you currently taking any form of medication? Yes No Please Tick

Please give details, including dosage and frequency. ________________________________ _______________________ This Medication MUST be brought by student to the program. Do you have any past injuries? Yes No Please Tick If yes, Please give date and

details please._______________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________ Have you ever undergone surgery in the past 3 years? Yes No Please Tick If yes, Please give details including date and type. _______________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________ Are there any other medical conditions we should be aware of? _______________________ ___________________________________________________________________________

PART TWO ALLERGIC REACTION MANAGEMENT PLAN What are you allergic to? ______________________________________________________ Have you suffered from an allergic reaction to the above? Yes No Please Tick If No, you do not need to continue. If Yes, please continue. What are the signs and symptoms of the reaction? _________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________ What medication do you take (if any) for prevention against an allergic reaction?
Note: This medication MUST be brought on the program by the participant.

___________________________________________________________________________ What treatment is followed for you if an allergic reaction occurs? ___________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________ What kind of reaction to the allergy do you have? More than one box may be ticked. Localised Systematic Anaphylactic Yes No Please tick

Is there a family history of anaphylaxis?

Have you ever been hospitalised due to an allergic reaction? Yes No Is adrenaline (e.g. adrenaline injection, epi-pen) administered when you suffer from an allergic reaction? Yes No Please tick

If any of the red answers were ticked, the following is mandatory:

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Student Number: 1139 8112 PKM230

Your medical practitioner must be consulted about your participation in the hiking and navigation program. Your participation in the program will depend on full agreement by your medical practitioner, parent/guardian if Under 18, and management of Walkazi Adventures Pty Ltd. The medical practitioner is to be advised of the following information: On remote wilderness hikes you may be up to 5 hours away from medical/hospital treatment. All group leaders and program coordinators hold a Leaders wilderness first aid qualification from Wilderness first aid consultants (www.equip.com.au OR Ph: 1800 137 847). The staff will be with the group for the duration of the program with the exception of solo navigation practicals by which communication devices will be relied upon and if need be leaders are highly trained in search and rescue.

PART THREE ASTHMA MANAGEMENT PLAN

To assist us in taking the appropriate precautions for you, it is important we have the following information. The Asthma Foundation recommends this level of information as a minimum.

Regular medication: __________________________________________________________ Quantities and daily dosages: ___________________________________________________ Additional medications to be taking during an attack: ________________________________ The medications listed above must be brought to camp. Expected best Peak Expiratory flow reading: _______________________________________ Peak Expiratory flow reading requiring extra medication: _____________________________ Peak Expiratory reading when advisable to seek medical assistance: ____________________ Known trigger factors (please tick any appropriate item); Dust of any sort, in sufficient quantities Sudden change in temperature Contact with animals Grass and week pollens, mould Atmospheric pollution Vigorous exercise Other Details: ___________________________________________________________ Any further information that you may wish to supply us regarding any medical considerations for you would be greatly appreciated.

IMPORTANT NOTICE I acknowledge that Walkazi Adventures guides will be carrying the following medications in their first aid kits:

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Student Number: 1139 8112 PKM230

Please tick and initial the medications THAT ARE NOT TO be administered in the event of a medical situation. Panadol 500mg Naprogesic - 275mg Dia Check Imodium 2mg Glucodin 50mg Mylanta Lemsip Sachets 500mg Claratyne 10mg Gastrolyte 5.2g Ventolin 100mg Senakot 7.5mg Stingoes EpiPen 0.3mg

If participant is Under 18: Parent/Guardian (Print Name) ____________________________________ Signature _______________________________ Date ___________________

OR Participant (Print Name) ________________________________________ Signature _______________________________ Date ___________________

Thank you for your time.

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Student Number: 1139 8112 PKM230 Figure 3

Walkazi Adventures Pty Ltd QUESTIONNAIRE

The purpose of this form is to allow us to adequately prepare for your hiking and navigation program. This information is strictly confidential and will not be used to deny access to any part of the program. However, if you are likely to become a hazard on the trip and increase the risk of injury or of an emergency situation for yourself and other participants then we will inform you of this and give you the opportunity to forfeit your right to participate.

Name: ___________________________________________ Do you have a first aid qualification (e.g. Senior First Aid AND/OR Wilderness First Aid) ? No Yes, Please give type and expiry: _______________________________

Please indicate the total number of times you have hiked: 0-10 times 10-20 times 20-50 times 50-100 times 100+ times

Number of times in the last 12 months: ____________________________________ How many of the hikes above were overnight hikes? __________________________ Have you hiked in an Alpine environment? Have you hiked off-track? Yes No Yes No Please Tick

Please Tick

Do you have experience navigating using a map, land features and a compass? No Yes

What level of fitness would you say you have? (If not sure, you can describe it in the space given below) Low Average High Not sure _____________________________________________________________________

Participant (Sign) ____________________________ Thank you for your time.

Date __________________

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Student Number: 1139 8112 PKM230

4.0
Title:

Risk analysis

4.1 Overview of the Hike

The Bush Advanced Hike Location: Jagungal Wilderness Area - Kosciuszko National Park, NSW Duration: Seven days Group size and Group Leader to Participant Ratio: Group size is essential to group management and can be different depending on the type of hike. For the seven-day Bush Advanced Hike the participants must have wilderness first aid certification and be experienced at navigation for their own safety. Knowing this the group size can be larger than normal as the participants should be able enough to safely hike solo. On the other hand, the extreme conditions can negatively affect the mental and physical strength of the participants and consequently the instructor/group leaders capability to manage the group. With these factors in mind the minimum is four participants and two instructors and the maximum number of participants is fifteen with a max of three instructors. Leader Qualifications: The leaders/instructors must have the following qualifications: - Certificate IV in Bushwalking - Wilderness First Aid qualification - White-water Rescue qualification (Head Leader requirement only) - At least three years of industry experience.

4.2 Rationale
The rationale of the Bush Advanced hike is to build on intermediate navigation skills by increasing the difficulty of the hike. The difficulty will be increased via wilderness conditions (cold/wet weather and poor accessibility), the unreliability of man-made features such as FWD tracks, and the length of the hike. This should improve navigation skills by putting the participants in a worst case scenario situation and

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Student Number: 1139 8112 PKM230 allowing them to learn the mental and physical strength necessary to get them from A to B and be a leader whilst doing so. The objectives of the trip will be known to be achieved via observations of participants, via a debrief nearing the end of the trip asking them what they have learnt and through an assignment in the form of a hike diary which must consist of things they learned, where they went, what they brought, a route card and a discussion on improvements to things they did just right.

4.3 Risk Analysis Table

RISK ANALYSIS - Bush Advanced Hike at Jagungal Wilderness Area

HAZARDS
Environment
Strong UV rays as a result of high altitude, uneven ground, insects biting e.g. ants, steep mountain faces or unmarked cliffs, low lying branches, dead branches or trees around campsite, snakes especially in the marshland, sink holes in marsh, white outs, cold temperatures, cold and fast flowing rivers that must be crossed, tents get wet inside from rain causing sleeping bags to be wet as well. Insufficient wet weather/warm clothing or footwear, heavier pack than suggested, equipment failure e.g. broken tent pole meaning unable to erect tent, damage caused to rope necessary for river crossings at the first river it was needed for, sleeping bag gets wet because it is not sufficiently waterproofed for river crossing. Poor level of fitness; Asthma worsened by physical exertion or high altitudes, allergies to insect bites, plant varieties or foods e.g. nuts; hiking boots were not walked in prior to hike, did not bring sufficient wet weather and thermal clothing, horseplay especially on small areas of snow, not sufficiently trained in navigation, participants not listening to instructions because they were still getting ready or at the toilet

Equipment

Human
Likelihood

Risks
Sunburnt as a result of over-exposure to UV rays.

Prevention
Regular application of sunscreen, wear hats and sit in shade when possible. Wear appropriate shoes, be aware of hazards and choose an appropriate path. Wear appropriate shoes, be aware of hazards and choose an appropriate path. If crossing a river, use river crossing technique (link with other participants, the more the people more stable walk slowly and communicate).

Severity

Treatment
Keep in shade, wear long sleeved breathable clothing, apply more sunscreen and drink plenty of water. Apply first aid if necessary and assess severity.

Risk Level

Tripping/slipping on uneven ground or wet ground resulting in a minor, still usable injury (e.g. cuts/scratches). Tripping/slipping on uneven ground or wet river rocks resulting in an unusable injury.

1
Apply first aid and assess severity, evacuate if necessary.

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Student Number: 1139 8112 PKM230

Getting bitten by insects especially ants as they nest in Snow Grass tufts. Getting blisters from not wearing in shoes properly

Avoid nests, wear gaiters, long socks, and long sleeved clothing. Walk shoes in well, be sure they fit well too. Tie laces properly to prevent friction. Strap feet before hiking, wear appropriate socks, be sure to bring enough socks to wear a new pair each day or a reuse only once on the last day, bring plenty of strapping tape.

Drowning when crossing a fast flowing river without unbuckling pack.

Asthma attack as a result of physical exertion

Always unbuckle pack before crossing a river and significant creeks. Never cross alone unless a roper is there to hold onto, use the linking technique to stabilise you. Try and find the easiest way to cross e.g. finding a bridge and not getting wet at all. Set up a handline for participants and a pulley system for packs. Have a safety rope and stick downstream. Ensure below where you cross there is a shallow, non-white-water river section to allow for a rescue. Bring asthma inhaler and use when short of breath, rest regularly, especially when becoming short of breath.

Apply Stingoes or Methylated Spirits to minimise scratching. If really itchy consider an antihistamine tablet e.g. Telfast. If blister is large pop neatly with flame-sterilized needle because it will eventually pop anyway with more walking. Clean with alcohol wipes and dress with thick sterile padding. Tape over padding neatly to prevent tape from rolling up when shoes are put on. At night take off sealed dressing and let dry out with a breathable covering. Replace dressing everyday or twice a day if necessary. Throw out safety rope. If unsuccessful, instructor trained in white-water rescue to work with safety line holder to jump in (only if not life-threatening) whilst holding the safety rope and grab drowning participant. Safety rope is used to pull them to safety at the edge of the river. Once rescued if participant is conscious treat as necessary; if unconscious but breathing put in recovery position and check for bleeding; if unconscious with NO heartbeat perform CPR. Be sure to check for spinal injury. Evacuate if necessary.

Sit them down but keep upright to ensure lungs are open. Use Ventolin 4x and wait 4 minutes. If attack continues 4 more puffs,4 more minutes continue until attack subsides and let them rest until they are ready to continue walking - no pressure - campsite relocation can be considered.

VL

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Student Number: 1139 8112 PKM230

Hypothermia from not bringing efficient thermal wear to change into after cold river crossing with the contribution of physical exhaustion Bring plenty of warm layers and always have spare dry thermals in waterproofed sacks close to the top of the pack. Bring waterproof pants and jacket. If start to get cold do push ups or other form of exercise to warm up quickly. Be sure to eat properly even if you are too tired to and don't let yourself or other participants burn out Wear gaiters, long-limbed clothing, and choose your path wisely. If snake is sited take a wide berth and do not harass it, go in for a close look nor make it feel threatened. Erect a shelter, place a mat under the person, lend them dry thermal wear and place them in a sleeping bag, cover them in an emergency blanket or tarp and surround them with other people to share warmth and increase temperature underneath the shelter. Give them a hot beverage like a cup of tea and let their body warm gradually. Let them rest until they are back to normal. Get the person to move away from the snake if the snake has not already fled. Keep the person calm and still. Keep the bitten limb below the heart to slow the blood flow from spreading the poison. Wrap a tourniquet firmly around the leg above the bite to prevent the poison from spreading to other parts of the body, especially the heart. Circle the bite marks with permanent marker and write the time of the bite next to it. Monitor patient, particularly their heart rate and breathing. Evacuate immediately. Allow to rest in shade and drink plenty of fluids until back to normal.

VL

Participant gets bitten by a juvenile Brown Snake on the leg after accidentally stepping on it in the marshlands.

Dehydration as a result of not drinking enough water.

Bring plenty of water to start with to ensure you have enough water storage canisters or bladders for throughout the trip. When camping at or walking past a river refill to ensure you have enough for cooking and drinking. Use other people's water if necessary. Ideally have a Camelbak or similar water bladder with hose to constantly drink out of whilst walking.

VL

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Student Number: 1139 8112 PKM230

Vomiting and Diarrhea from drinking untreated water. Always treat and/or boil water before drinking to kill off bacteria or water bugs like Giardia. Take Gastro tablets and drink plenty of sugary fluids, e.g. cordial or sports drinks, as vomiting and Diarrhea severely dehydrates you and the sugar helps to hydrate the body quicker than if just drinking plain water. Rest until feeling well enough to walk out consider shorter route. Evacuate if necessary.

VL

Likelihood
1. Very Unlikely (< 1%) 2. Unlikely (1-10%) 3. Maybe (11%-50%)

Severity
1. Treated on-site (First Aid) 2. Evacuated (Hospital/Home) 3. Life threatening (risk of death)

Risk Level
VL (Very Low) = 2 L (Low) = 3 M (Medium) = 4 H (High) = 5 VH (VH) = 6

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Student Number: 1139 8112 PKM230

5.0

Emergency communications

5.1 Communication equipment

Electronic Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB) with GPS inclusion which is more accurate - one EPIRB per group, device should always be with head leader. UHF Radios - each leader and each participant should have a radio and the head leader should carry two spares in case of fault in or loss of a radio. Satellite Phone Two per group, one with head leader and the other with the other leader. Mobile phones (optional, not depended upon) participants may bring there mobile phones at their own risk these devices can possibly be used to contact the participant if they are lost however, reception is very unreliable and the phone will probably off. Fluorescent Marking Tape - each participant should have a first aid kit with a roll of fluorescent tape and if they are properly lost they should know to hang the tape around a diameter where they are located to make them more easily found by leaders.

5.2 Carrying contact numbers for emergency situations EMERGENCY CONTACT NUMBERS
Instructor/Guide Jayd Weiland UHF Channel: 2 Tim Benstead On-Call Person/Critical Incident Contact (CIC) Andrew Davis 6055 6912 Participant details Emergency contact, medical forms and mobile/home phone kept by on-call person and instructor Closest Emergency numbers Hospital (02) 6076 3200 Police (02) 6076 9433 Park Ranger (02) 6076 9373

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Student Number: 1139 8112 PKM230

5.3 Communication procedures

Procedure for talking over public radio: Code 1 = Treat on-site injury has occurred e.g. a cut that needs first-aid assistance and requires a bit of time to fix up which means a delay in arrival time. Therefore, only report if there is a reason why you need to. Code 2 = Treatment off-site necessary but not hugely urgent e.g. small laceration that needs stitches but can be fixed in the short term with steri-strips OR a mildly sprained ankle. Code 3 = Life threatening situation STOP PROGRAM Note: Never use a patients name on public radio as it can encourage unwanted media attention, just use their initials. For example: Kelly, Kelly this is Fred. Do you copy? Fred, this is Kelly I copy Kelly its a Code 3 for G.G. please contact me on my mobile, if no reception call me on the satellite phone for further details, over - copy that over and out.

Call-in times Call-in times are very important. They allow the on-call person to know how things are going with the group and if any plans have changed, which often happens on wilderness trips, things rarely go to plan. It is vital that the head leader calls at 8pm each night because if they do not make the call then the on-call person will start worrying. If the on-call person is not contacted and/or cannot get into contact with the head leader within SIX HOURS after 8pm, which is by 1am, emergency services will be called to initiate a rescue (refer to 6.0).

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Student Number: 1139 8112 PKM230 The Chain of Command in an Emergency Situation

KEY: A B means
A contacts B

Emergency Services

Critical Incident Contact If you cannot contact the Head Leader

Head Leader

OR nearest Leader

Participant

EMERGENCY

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Student Number: 1139 8112 PKM230

6.0

Hike intentions

Before each trip a Trip Intentions Form (Figure 4) must be filled out accompanied by a route card and gone through with the on-call person to ensure they understand where the participants will be the proportion of the time, fulfil their duties as stated on the end of the form. They should also follow the call-in times schedule (refer to 5.3). Section 5.3 of this manual states that if the group has not be heard from and cannot be contacted within the six hour period following the allocated call-in OR arrival time the police will be called by the on-call person to initiate a rescue. If necessary the on-call person may also contact the local National Park Ranger to inform them of the situation and see if they can be of assistance. The involved participants emergency contacts/next of kin as stated in their medical forms will be contacted once the rescue has been initiated and be made aware of the situation, and also be continually updated when new information is collected. The allocated Media Liaison Officer will deal with any unwanted interest (for example; local news journalists) to try to avoid a negative reputation and bad rumours about the incident.

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Student Number: 1139 8112 PKM230 Figure 4 Head Leader Assistant Leader

TRIP INTENTIONS FORM

Mobile Satellite Phone UHF Channel Mobile

Group Members
First Last Next of Kin Name and Contact #

The group is carrying

Waterproof Jackets and pants Spare dry clothes Food for 8 Days Tents and tarps Sleeping Bags and Mats First Aid Kits Matches Whistles Maps and Compasses ______________________

For contact person

If _______________________ has not contacted you by ____________ am/pm, on ______day ________ _________ date, ring police on (02) 6076 9433 or contact your local police station.

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Student Number: 1139 8112 PKM230

7.0

Itinerary

This Route Card should be left with the on-call person so they have an idea of where the group is at all times, if anything changes the head leader should notify them of such occurrence.

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Student Number: 1139 8112 PKM230

8.0

Evacuation and exit points

There are many factors that determine what kind of evacuation or exit is necessary, for example a spinal injury will preferably need a helicopter evacuation. The helicopter should preferably land rather than winch them out through trees. It also depends on where you are in the field, thick forest with very limited openings in trees will either require the injured person to walk or be carried on a stretcher to a more accessible location. Or, if there is a 20m by 20m opening in the trees a helicopter can winch the person out. To land a helicopter needs a 40m by 40m open flat area to land. There are FWD tracks throughout the Jagungal Wilderness Area which are in a variety of conditions, from completely grown over to ones still used by Parks Rangers. Keeping that in mind these tracks can be used for a FWD evacuation if one is nearby OR, participants can use them to walk out on as they can cut days of walking off the intended hiking route. The most ideal evacuation or exit strategy should be devised and discussed by the group and decided by the head leader. Each situation is different so the above information should be kept in mind when using the map to deciding an appropriate evacuation plan.

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Student Number: 1139 8112 PKM230

9.0

Contingency plans

The following strategies are the basic framework to conduct a contingency plan from. However, they must be adapted to suit the situation to be a success.

Strategies for dealing with: Lost Hiker 1. Account for other group members. 2. Start gathering information e.g. when you last saw them, direction they were headed, what they had on them. 3. Inform other group leaders and on-call person (CIC) on radio and phone (or satellite phone) to make people aware of the situation. 4. Start formulating a plan 5. Start search depending on weather and hours of light left in the day, OR report to emergency rescue team if serious.

Bush Fire 1. Be aware of fire dangers before hike (if there are dangers, dont initiate the hike). 2. If there is a fire when in the bush, find out more information via CIC who will contact CFA (Fire Authorities), e.g. where is the smoke blowing? 3. If possible evacuate via safe road to safe village out of bush OR walk downhill away from fire OR find a large water source. 4. LAST OPTION: Do a control burn downwind of you and the approaching fire and follow the burnt area ONLY IF YOUR OUT IN THE BUSH NOT NEAR VILLAGES.

Snake Bite (refer to Risk Analysis) 1. Check for danger and ensure everyones safety 2. Immobilize and gather information about patient 3. Let your CIC know of the incident and move patient to evacuation spot if possible. 4. Regroup everyone else and proceed to the next campsite.

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Student Number: 1139 8112 PKM230 5. Evacuate the patient.

Near Drowning (refer to Risk Analysis) 1. Before any river crossing instruct on safe crossing techniques and whitewater swimming position (figure 5). 2. Yell to swim diagonally upstream for an eddy and/or the edge of the river and if water is rapid get in the white-water position with feet downstream, bottom in the water. 3. Throw out safety rope. 4. If unsuccessful, instructor trained in white-water rescue to work with safety line holder to jump in (only if not life-threatening) whilst holding the safety rope and grab drowning participant. 5. Use Safety rope to pull them to safety at the edge of the river. 6. Once rescued if participant is conscious treat as necessary; if unconscious but breathing put in recovery position and check for bleeding; if unconscious with NO heartbeat perform CPR. Be sure to check for spinal injury. 7. Evacuate if necessary. 8. If rescue unsuccessful try to follow them downstream. Contact CIC for an emergency rescue team if participant is swept away by the current. Figure 5

Severe Illness Provide necessary medication and let the person rest until they feel well enough to walk out. A shorter route to final destination can be considered to allow them

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Student Number: 1139 8112 PKM230 recovery time. If its one person, splitting the group into two can also be considered. Evacuate the person if severe enough to make it necessary.

Lightning Storm Avoid them at all costs by relocating campsite at a lower altitude, however if unavoidable stay away from trees and water sources and get into lightning strike position (figure 6) until storm passes. If anyone is struck, attend to them immediately giving CPR if necessary, call CIC and evacuate immediately. Figure 6

Fall off a Steep Decline resulting in Broken Bones (non-walkable injury) 1. Try to get a response A) 2. a) No Response 3. a) Notify on-call person of Code 3 4. a) Assistant leader to calm and control the group. 5. a) Group leader and three participants to safely attempt to locate patient 6. a) Once located apply first aid and evacuate immediately. B) 2. b) Responding (note: make sure they dont move in case of spinal injury). 3. b) Apply first aid and formulate evacuation plan. 4. b) Evacuate immediately.

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Student Number: 1139 8112 PKM230

Anaphylactic Shock 1. Be aware of any allergies and required medications through medical forms if not on hand, contact CIC. Remove whatever caused the reaction from near the patient. 2. As soon as Anaphylactic Shock occurs immediately administer a shot of Adrenalin (EpiPen). 3. Keep the person calm and wait for them to recover. 4. Evacuate immediately if relapse is likely (decide depending on patients condition and the amount of exposure the person did and may continue to have to the allergen).

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Student Number: 1139 8112 PKM230

10.0 Pre-trip Checklist

Have a pre-trip meeting with participants about the trip and what
equipment or clothing is required to safely complete the trip (packs, food, tents, sleeping bag & mat, compass, maps, warm & waterproof clothing, etc.) and get them to fill out medical forms, questionnaire and waiver.

Book vehicles Book trailer Download weather forecast from BOM site Make copies of the medical forms for the leaders to take on the trip Check waivers and file all forms filled out by participants. Ring Andrew Davis (6055 6912) to make sure he understands his role as oncall person.

Ring the Park Ranger for Jagungal Wilderness Area on (02) 6076 9373 to
inform him/her of the trip and itinerary.

Ensure satellite phone and UHF radios are working and charged with spare
batteries.

Check EPIRB is in working order. Generate participant list Have a pre-trip meeting with staff to go through participant medical forms,
questionnaires, trip itinerary, reporting times and contingency plans.

11.0 Environmental considerations

All bushwalks will be conducted whilst keeping in mind that the environment is no worse for wear than it was before. The following points are the Alpine National Parks suggested way of minimising impact. These points are taught to participants hoping they will have minimal impact on the environment whilst bushwalking and camping in the sensitive Alpine ecosystem:

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Student Number: 1139 8112 PKM230 Stay on the track even if its rough and muddy. Walking on the track edges and cutting corners on steep zigzag tracks, increase damage, erosion and visual scarring, as well as causing confusion about which is the right track. Spread out in open country where there are no tracks. Spreading out (rather than following each others footsteps) disperses impact. A plant stepped on only once has more chance of survival than if trampled by the whole party. Avoid sensitive vegetation. Sphagnum bogs, cushion plants and other sensitive vegetation are easily destroyed by trampling. Stay on rocks and hard ground wherever possible. Keep the wilderness wild. Cutting new tracks is illegal, and marking tracks with cairns, tape or other materials is unsightly and can confuse other walkers. Walk softly. Choose appropriate footwear for the terrain. Solid but lightweight walking boots are best. Sandshoes should be worn around campsites. Choose a different route each time you visit a trackless area, and camp at different sites whenever possible. Please dont light a fire if you are in any doubt about the safety of lighting it. Fire restrictions apply in all national parks, forests and other reserves and open fires and fuel stoves may not be used on days of total Fire Ban. Do not light open fires during hot windy weather. Use only dead fall wood. Dead standing trees are a home for wildlife and are a valued part of the scenery. Be absolutely sure the fire is out. Before you leave, feel the ground underneath the coals. If it is still warm the fire is not out. Put it out with water, not soil. Above 1700m in Kosciuszko National Park is a fuel stove only area. Look for low impact campsites. Sandy or hard surfaces are better than boggy or grassed areas. Camp at an existing campsite rather than a new one, and keep at least 30m away from watercourses and the track. Spend only one or two nights at each campsite.

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Student Number: 1139 8112 PKM230 Use modern camping equipment. Use waterproof tents (with floors and tent poles) and foam sleeping-mats to minimise damage to camping areas. Digging trenches around tents is damaging, and unnecessary if the tents are sited properly. Leave campsites better than you found them by removing rubbish and dismantling unnecessary or unsafe fireplaces. Dont rely on finding a hut. They are usually only for emergency or refuge use. Huts are for everyone. Respect the rights of people who are there first, but be prepared to make space for late-comers. Dont leave food scraps or store food in huts. It only clutters up the hut and encourages rats. Clean the hut, check that the first is out, replace firewood and close the door securely when you leave. Dont wash in streams and lakes. Detergents, toothpaste and soap (even biodegradable types) harm fish and waterlife. Wash 50m away from streams and lakes, and scatter the washwater so that it filters through the soil before returning through the stream. Use a scourer instead of soap to clean dishes. Dont throw foods scraps into stream or lakes. Where there is a toilet, please use it. In areas without toilets, bury your faecal waste. Choose a sport at least 100m away from campsites and watercourses. Dig a hole 15cm deeps (preferably use hand trowel). Bury all faecal waste and paper, mixing it with soil to help decomposition and discourage animals. Carry out sanitary pads, tampons and condoms. In snow, dig down into the soil. Burying human waste is only temporary until the snow melts. Boil water for at least five, preferably ten minutes before drinking in highuse areas or areas with low water flow. Pack to minimise rubbish. Dont take potential rubbish such as bottles cans and excess wrapping. 35

Student Number: 1139 8112 PKM230 Dont burn or bury rubbish. Rubbish is likely to be dug up and scattered by possums and other animals and may injure them. Digging disturbs the soil and encourages weeds and erosion. If youve carried it in, you carry it out. Carry out all your rubbish, including those easy-to-forget items like silver paper, plastic wrappers, and orange peel which wont easily decompose. Other peoples rubbish. If you have the misfortune of coming across other peoples rubbish, do the bush a favour and pick that up too. Dont feed animals, especially around huts and campsites. Feeding causes unnaturally high and imbalanced animal populations dependant on walker food. Some animals become a nuisance and can develop disease such a lumpy jaw from eating refined foods.

12.0 Review of Policies and Procedures Manual

Walkazi Adventures Pty Ltd will continuously review this policies and procedures manual before and after every Advanced Hike making changes and improvements as necessary. Feedback forms are given to staff and clients after the hike for suggestions to improve the hike which will in turn affect this document. After reading this, if any staff have any queries, corrections and/or suggested changes they would like to see made to this document please inform Kelly Aitchison (Managing Director), your interest and suggestions of improvement will be much appreciated.

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