Grading & Guidelines

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The following information must be taken as a guide only. The grade describes the level of difficulty e.g. the terrain.  In the program the pace of activities is described as leisurely (slow), moderate, or energetic and reflects the intention of the leader or may be dictated by the level of difficulty. e.g. a steep walk may need to be undertaken at a slow pace.  Please contact the leader if you are uncertain about the experience and fitness required . We strongly suggest that you start with the lower grades then progress to the higher grades.

Leaders and participants should check the weather forecast  beforehand and be prepared for changing conditions – See more information on weather forecasts and safety.

Walks

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Bike Rides

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Paddles

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Clothing & Equipment

The leader has the right to exclude you from an activity if they consider your fitness, skills or equipment are inadequate, or your clothing and footwear are inappropriate.  Participants should be able to operate independently by equipping themselves as follows:

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*NSW Government requirements for permitted E-bikes

*How to fit your bike helmet

*Water needs

*First Aid Kits

 

For camping, kayaking and cycling trips, contact the leader for advice about equipment, food and other supplies.

Participation in Activities

Before the activity

  • Ensure that you are fit enough
  • If you are unable to attend advise the leader immediately
  • Obtain the leader’s permission before inviting a friend
  • Arrive at the meeting place at least 10 minutes before the starting time.

On the activity

  • Stay behind the leader
  • Keep in contact with those ahead and those behind
  • At forks and junctions, wait for others to catch up
  • If you lose sight of the group and are unsure of the way – stop, stay where you are, call out, phone or blow your whistle
  • Advise the leader if you intend to leave the activity before the end
  • If cycling on bike paths, keep left and a safe distance from other users, ring your bell before overtaking.
  • Observe road rules when cycling in traffic.

Leading Activities

Planning the activity

  • Pre-check the route, noting any difficulties or hazards, and suitable rest spots
  • Participants in a reconnoitre should sign the Reconnoitre Activity Register.
  • Give thought to an alternative plan in case of unforeseen circumstances.
  • Describe the activity accurately including distances, climbs, terrain and hazards.
  • At the time of registration, check with anyone you don’t know that (a) they have read the Ramblers Club Grading & Guidelines and (b) they are sufficiently fit and able.  Ascertain if they have completed other Ramblers Club walks.
  • Refuse any who may have difficulty completing the activity.
  • For Grade 5 activities, fully equipped walking and kayaking expeditions, and activities in remote areas, a PLB must be carried. The Club has PLBs for members’ use – contact Gerry O’Leary or Penny Howes.
  • When carrying a club PLB, the Trip Details related to use of PLB form should be submitted prior to embarking on the activity.  Alternatively the Itinerary and Participant contact details can be emailed to illawarraramblers@gmail.com for uploading to the Australian Maritime Safety Association (AMSA) database.

Before and during the activity

  • Appoint a deputy leader
  • There should be a minimum of four participants on all walks Grade 4 and above
  • Brief participants on hazards and safe practices
  • Confirm that everyone is carrying enough water
  • Refuse any participant who does not have the necessary equipment
  • Have regular breaks and be aware of signs of stress
  • Stop at junctions and regroup
  • Cancel or change an activity if conditions become unsafe
  • In the case of a serious situation or medical incident, contact Emergency Services on 000 or 112. Only activate the PLB when other means of communication are not possible.

At the end of the activity

  • Ensure that everyone has finished safely
  • Forward the Activity Register to the Activity Recorder. If required, lodge an Incident Report. This can be done online from the Forms page

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