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.

Walks

GradeDistanceType of TerrainSuitability
1
Up to 8kmEstablished tracks, streets and beaches. May include some gentle gradients.Beginners.
2Up to 10kmEstablished walking tracks, gentle to moderate gradients.People with reasonable fitness.
3Up to 15kmBush tracks with possible off-track sections, moderate gradients.People with reasonable fitness and stamina who are used to bushwalking.
4Up to 20kmTrack and off-track with steep gradients. Experienced bushwalkers who are fit and agile and have previously completed Grade 3 walks.
5Up to 30kmExpect tracks, off-track, exploratory sections, thick bushland, steep gradients, rock scrambling, river crossings and rugged terrain.Very fit and experienced bushwalkers who have previously completed Grade 4 walks.

Bike Rides

GradeDistanceType of TerrainSuitability
1
Up to 30kmMainly cycle tracks, mostly levelCasual cyclists
2Up to 40kmCycle tracks and roads with some hillsRegular cyclists, reasonable level of fitness
3Up to 60kmCycle tracks, roads, steep hillsRegular cyclists who have completed Grade 2 rides comfortably

Paddles

GradeDistanceType of TerrainSuitability
1
Up to 10kmFlat waterBeginners, those with limited experience
2Up to 15kmFlat waterThose with experience and a reasonable level of fitness
3Up to 20kmFlat water with some small wavesExperienced paddlers with a good level of fitness
4Up to 30kmWater with fast flow and changing conditionsExperienced, very fit paddlers
5Up to 30kmOpen water with wave action as found in the ocean, large lakes or riversVery experienced and fit paddlers

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:

Basic equipment
for all activities
In addition –
For walks
For bike ridesFor paddles
Suitable footwear Enclosed footwear - not plasticRoadworthy bike, in good working order.
E-bikes must meet NSW Govt requirements* (see below)
Sea/riverworthy craft
Paddles
Suitable clothingHatHelmet AS/NZS 2063:2008 standard, undamaged and securely fitted and fastened* (see below)PFD (Life Jacket)
Hat
Adequate water for the conditions - at least 1 litre* (see below).Bell, lightsSpraydeck
Small First Aid kit* (see below)Whistle, insect repellent, sunblock, matchesInsect repellent, sunblockWhistle, insect repellent, sunblock, matches
Pump, tools, spare tubeBucket or sponge
Paddle leash, tow rope

*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 must be submitted prior to embarking on the activity.

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