Pioneering is all about using materials at hand to make or fix things.
It is the one thing Scouts do that other youth groups don't.
Why do we mess around with poles and ropes?
Its fun, lateral thinking, planning, teamwork, thinking about safety, constructive, creative, astounding, and good for a laugh.
Check out some amazing structures and inventions:
It might be dry here, but we can often find a big rockhole to wet the canoes.
For twenty years, the Alice Springs Scout Group was well represented at the Katherine Canoe marathon.
A bus, a trailer with nineteen canoes, and a 900 km trip away for a long weekend.
Those were the days!
Plenty of places to go, but make sure there is water around.
Hiking in remote places can be very dangerous, so we insist on trained leaders being there unless scouts have shown they are competent.
You need to know all about how to use a map and compass and learn about survival techniques to avoid a slow painful death.
Scouts learn to be self reliant (look after themselves).
There is a terrific bike path to Simpsons Gap (21kms)
It is great for cubs and scouts, it winds through the hilly country, and has regular water tanks so we can refill the waterbottles.
Of course we expect experienced scouts to tackle something more adventurous, but it is a beautiful ride, great views..
We practice rock climbing at the YMCA Rock Wall, where rocks are cemented to the walls, creating climbs of various difficulty, from easy to chimneys and overhangs.
Instructors show us how the gear works, and make sure we have trained people belaying (paying out the safety rope).
The Emergency Services Rescue dudes also take scouts out sometimes, to tackle the real thing in the MacDonnell Ranges.
Scouts of all ages get some full-on training and seriously fun times at camps.
This is where we have the time to spend on games that use and teach skills.
E-mail your logs and photos to the webmaster here, to become a legend in your own time in our Hall of Fame.
We have instructors who can teach scouts to ride motorcycles safely. Of course.
Not all scouting activities involve camping.
Some bouts of amusement and frenzied activity are so savage, a day is all anyone can take.
Let's talk adventure - connect with Outback Scouts today!
Gayle Shearer
gl.alicesprings@nt.scouts.com.au
0428 891 070 (mobile)
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