Welcome
Scouts
Scouts are boys and girls aged 11 – 15 years old.
With the Black Friday sales upon us and Christmas just around the corner, we would like you to think about items your scout will require during their time in scouts. Macpac in Macquarie Centre also has a standing discount of 30% for scout members too (just bring your scarf to the shop).
Below is also a list of items that you or their grandparents may want to consider buying for your scout as Christmas presents. Items like a good down sleeping bag, a good hiking pack etc are investments that will last many years and your scout will use for scouting activities, school camps, and social outings.
Hiking Backpack – If you child is NOT the size of an adult, you will need to purchase a youth sized hiking backpack with Padded Waist Belt. A lot of young adults have a really small waist and if the waist strap cannot be tightened the weight of the backpack rests entirely on their shoulders. This leads to a very unhappy scout. We suggest a 45 to 55 litre capacity. Each Scout can only carry 20% of their body weight in gear. We always recommend the Osprey ACE 50. While this backpack is a “youth backpack” you will find that it will be a great backpack. A lot of our Venturers and Rovers still use their ACE for their adventures as day bag or even a one night pack.
Alpsport in Ryde currently seem to have the on special – but they do run out quickly.
https://alpsport.com.au/products/ace-50?_pos=3&_sid=af5dae81f&_ss=r
Please buy the best quality Sleeping bag that you can afford – Down if possible as that is the only type that will compress enough to fit into a hiking backpack. At least 3 seasons with a comfort rating of -5 degrees C recommended – If your scout is joining us for any camps from April – September a -5 is a MUST. This will be one of your biggest expenses, but if you buy a good quality full size sleeping bag, it will probably be an investment that will last 15+ years.
Sleeping Bag liner to keep the inside of the sleeping bag clean. Cotton is ok but silk will be smaller and lighter. The Sea-to-Summit Reactor is a great way to add additional warmth to sleeping bags.
Sleeping Mat – Again, this will depend on affordability, but look for one that will insulate and be as light as possible. Also consider the packed size as it will need to be carried INSIDE the backpack.
Head torch: As your scouts often need a flashlight or head torch for outdoor activities, we would like you to consider buying a better-quality product rather than the cheaper ones that you may have purchased from Bunnings or Anaconda. A rechargeable light also avoids the problem of leaking batteries etc. We would like to recommend that you check out the many models of head torches and flashlights that Olight sells. These are very high-quality lights that many of the leaders use.
LED Rechargable Torches | Olight Flashlights Online Store | OLIGHT Australia olightstore.com.au
Hat – As we try and spend a lot of time outdoors, we are exposed to the harsh Australian sun – therefore we highly recommend a wide brim bucket type hat to protect the ears and neck.
Good quality Navigation
Compass – one with a clear base and measurement markings. See here about our recommendations:
Compass | 2nd and 3rd Lindfield Scout Group (2nd3rdlindfieldscouts.org.au)
Good quality raincoat
– not lined so that it can be worn all through the year and loose enough to grow into and wear a layer or two underneath. Breathable material is best. And a hood is necessary. Please remember –
a spray jacket, is NOT a rain jacket. It will keep your scout dry for all but 5 minutes in a down pour and scouts often spend a lot of time outside without a shelter.
Fleece Jacket or real wool jumper (pullover) – A warm jacket is a must on any camp. Evenings and mornings outdoors can be really cold and a cold scout has no fun.
We have a few 2/3 Lindfield Scouts Fleece Jackets available to purchase. These warm jackets are excellent for those cold days and nights. Purchase this from our webstore.
Jacket – 2nd / 3rd Lindfield | 2nd and 3rd Lindfield Scout Group (2nd3rdlindfieldscouts.org.au)
Down jacket – a good quality down jacket is a great way to keep your scout warm in the winter months. Playing outdoors in the early morning and evenings can be very very cold. If your child comes with inappropriate clothing there is not much we can do to help them. Down is light weight but warm.
Collared t-shirts – we always recommend your scout wears a collared shirt while hiking or on an outdoor camp. It gives a much better sun protection than a plain tshirt.
Light weight long pants – a pair of light weight, quick drying long pants is the best way to stay sun safe on a bush walk. It also protects from scratches. And if it rains you will be dry again in no time.
Good quality walking/hiking shoes or boots. Waterproof ones if possible but we also acknowledge that kids outgrow their shoes so quickly at this age.
Messkit – a messkit is a set of non-breakable dishes you will need for eating. It includes a bag to keep your items in, a plate, bowl and cup (with handle) as well as a knife, fork and spoon. It MUST also contain a tea towel to dry your dishes with afterwards. We recommend you find the lightest items possible. I have seen some great plates and bowls at Kmart. Disposable dishes are NOT accepted at scouts – it is not environmentally friendly.
Hydration (Water) bladder – when joining us on walks a water bladder in the back of your backpack with a straw for easy access is a great way to make sure you stay hydrated while walking. We recommend you invest in a 3litre one, as you don’t have to fill it to the top every time, but have the option when you do need to take more water. Again, if you look after it, it will last you a long time. We wash them out after every use and store the hose in the freezer, to prevent mould from growing.
