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NEW ZEALAND

MOUNTAIN SAFETY COUNCIL

T: 04 385 7162 F: 04 385 7366

www.avalanche.net.nz www.incidentreport.org.nz www.mountainsafety.org.nz

Level 3, 19 Tory Street | PO Box 6027 | Wellington 6141 The New Zealand Mountain Safety Council (MSC) is a national organisation with a mandate from our member organisations to encourage safe participation in land-based outdoor activities. We facilitate the setting of standards, offer training and education opportunities, create and distribute resources, lead public awareness campaigns and foster positive support in the community so that more people can discover and enjoy New Zealand’s outdoors safely.

Our mission is to:

National Office Staff Members CEO > Mike Daisley Prevention Manager > Léonce Jones Shared Services > Richard Brodie Avalanche & Alpine Programme Programme Manager > Andrew Hobman Asst. Programme Manager > Gordie Smith

▲▲ Enable people to enjoy their recreation safely in the outdoors ▲▲ Foster positive community support for outdoor safety ▲▲ Promote the development and maintenance of national outdoor safety standards for land-based activities

Outdoor Land Safety Programme Bushcraft, Risk Management, Abseil & Rock Climbing, Youth & Community Development, SMS, Programme Manager > Nathan Watson Coordinator > Jen Hayto

Our outcome:

Firearms & Hunter Safety Programme Programme Manager > Nicole McKee Training Coordinator > Mike Pyatt

▲▲ More people participating safely in land-based outdoor activity

Our goals: ▲▲ An increased number of leaders, teachers, instructors and guides are inspired, inspiring, competent and retained as leaders. ▲▲ Groups and clubs effectively promote and deliver increased safety in the outdoors. ▲▲ Commercial operators operate safely. ▲▲ The community is more aware of outdoor safety. ▲▲ MSC is financially strong

ABOUT ONTRACK OnTrack newsletter is published by the New Zealand Mountain Safety Council in March, July and November each year. Disclaimer and submission guidelines: All efforts have been made to ensure accuracy but no responsibility will be taken by the Mountain Safety Council for errors or inaccuracies or for any consequences of reliance on this information. If you have any feedback, ideas or items that you would like to submit for consideration please email: marketing@mountainsafety.org.nz Publication is not guaranteed and the editor’s decision is final. Also available to view online at www.ISSUU.com/nzmountainsafetycouncil

Submission deadlines:

Published last week of:

30 June 31 October 28 February

July November March OnTrack | March 2014

Outdoor First Aid Programme Programme Manager > Mark Emerson Marketing & Communications Manager > Andrea Corrigan Coordinator > Emma Smart Administration Team: Finance > Alex Cordier Branch Network Manager > Jane Hoedemaeckers Qualifications Administrator > Christine Oakley-Hall Database Administrator > Nina Klauke Membership Administrator > Jill Knight

AUTUMN 2014

SEASONAL SAFETY MESSAGE

Mike Daisley CEO

Welcome The memories of our summer outdoor explorations are beginning to fade, but I am sure the shift in seasons is encouraging us to think and plan new adventures into the fantastic Kiwi great outdoors. Since joining the MSC family in late January, I have been getting to know the people in our wider team and the people from our partner organisations. Thanks to Chris Scahill, Geoff Ensor and rest of Board for making the transition as seamless as possible. A few common themes have been present throughout the conversations I have been having with stakeholders, key players in the sector and our members. There is recognition that the world around MSC has changed. Recognition, that like many organisations in our sector, MSC has not kept ahead of these changes. And, recognition that MSC’s network of branches gives us a unique ability to reach directly into local communities throughout New Zealand.

What we do in our leisure time, when we do things and who we do things with have changed. Kiwi culture has changed and it has changed much faster than the organisations in our sector have. MSC has always been about improving the safety of Kiwis while they enjoy exploring the varied outdoors environments. This is why MSC exists and remains central to all the work MSC does now and into the future. When I talk about change, it’s about what we do and how we do it. As ‘One MSC’, we are about to embark on a journey that will redefine MSC’s core business. In simple terms, it will define how we will concentrate our collective resources to ensure ‘more people participate safely in outdoor activity’. This journey will provide opportunity for all members of the MSC ‘family’, our partner organisations and our stakeholders to shape thinking and influence the core business. I encourage you all to play an active part in setting the future direction of ‘One MSC’.

Geoff Ensor Chairperson

MSC On the Cusp of a New Era I want to begin by welcoming our new Chief Executive. As you may already know, Mike Daisley arrived from Sport Manawatu in January after five years as their CE, and as often happens, it feels like he has been with us much longer (in a good way)! Not surprisingly, Mike has been incredibly busy getting to know his Wellington team, our volunteers and other key stakeholders. In late February, Mike facilitated a two-day conference in Wellington which was attended by MSC’s regional representatives and branch chairs. I also attended on the first day and it was humbling and inspiring to meet some of the MSC team who may be infrequent visitors to Wellington, but who are our leaders in the field.

The theme of the conference was growing a strong, sustainable and united MSC (‘One MSC’) and accepting that change is urgently required if we are to achieve that goal. There is a growing sense of belief and optimism that MSC can, and will adapt to ensure it remains relevant, effective and supported in the years ahead. My key message in this newsletter is very simple and sincerely delivered: Please join with the board and our CE as we embark on an exciting period of positive change. Mike is a committed, experienced leader with the wellbeing of MSC firmly in his sights. Please give him the support and direction he needs to make the right decisions for the right reasons.

I’m asking for your energy, passion and unconditional support to help MSC transition from the old to the new. It can be done, but it will take a steely resolve and a collective will. From the board, thank you for your ongoing belief in and contribution to MSC and outdoor safety. We really are on the cusp of new, stronger, more focused MSC. It’s exciting and positive.

MSC NEWS

Region Representatives and Branch Chairs’ Conference Report The Region Representatives and Branch Chairs’ Conference took place over 22–23 February 2014 at National Office in Wellington. It was well attended by three MSC executive board members, five MSC staff members and representatives from our seven regions and 17 branches. The primary focus of the weekend was “working together as one MSC”. To set the scene, Gina Lomax from the Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC) gave a presentation that reflected on the change in expectation across the government sector and the impact that this has on not-for-profit organisations like ours. After the session, attendees were encouraged to conduct and share an environmental scan of local and regional changes that have had significant impact. The conference then focused on how we could all play a part in ensuring we were focused on working as one, in all facets of MSC’s business. Frank and robust discussion took place throughout the weekend and resulted in a common understanding and commitment to the way forward.

A significant amount of time was allocated to discussing the underpinning principles that resulted in the implementation of the Safety Management System (SMS). While it was acknowledged that issues have arisen, the CEO is confident that this discussion assisted in bringing everyone to a common understanding and a determination to ensure its successful implementation. A short presentation was also provided on the police vetting process requirements and branch responsibilities. This helped to explain the process and the privacy constraints. The conference provided a timely opportunity for new CEO Mike Daisley to meet branch chairs, regional representatives and some of the executive board members, and gather support for new initiatives and establish a common understanding of the way forward. The CEO gave his assurance that the group would be kept informed of future developments and engaged in the process of change moving forward.

MSC Member Organisations

OnTrack | March 2014

www.mountainsafety.org.nz/firearms OnTrack | March 2014

Andrea Corrigan

Marketing & Communications Manager andrea.corrigan@mountainsafety.org.nz Now

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MSC’s range of promotional collateral now includes updated flyers for our top-selling manuals including: Abseiling, Outdoor Safety: Risk Management for Outdoor Leaders, Bushcraft and Outdoor First Aid. The flyers are DL sized, full colour and double-sided. They include images and information advertising the manuals on the front and details of related training/ courses on the back, including course descriptions and topics covered. The manuals have been produced by MSC to complement our courses, and so are critical to anybody undertaking our training. They are also suitable for the general outdoor enthusiast. Other flyers include: Avalanche Education, Range Officer Assessment Course, Whakatūpato, MSC Outdoor Safety Resources, Love the Outdoors? (get involved with MSC) and the Outdoor Safety Code. Your branch administration officer/ contact will have recently received a supply of these pamphlets for use by your branch. • Libr uts/Gui • de Club aries troo • Out roo ps doo ms Don ’t forg rs sho

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Post-Holiday Blues Soirée On February 20, National Office opened its doors and welcomed some new and familiar faces to our annual ‘Post-Holiday Blues’ event. Attendees from across the sector, (including representatives from our member organisations, key stakeholders and valued suppliers), took the opportunity to catch up with the national office team and meet our new CEO Mike Daisley. Mike said: “it was a good opportunity to put some faces to names and talk about some of the challenges facing our sector and the needs of the sector, and I look forward to continuing those conversations in the coming months.” The annual photo competition (judged anonymously) was won by Firearms & Hunter Safety Programme Manager Nicole McKee with her extraordinary close-up of a lurking seagull!

Marketing & Communications Manager Andrea Corrigan catching up with some of the team from Lift Education.

Promoting Outdoor Safety in the Community We have recently provided each branch with a package full of samples of the promotional collateral that is available to support branch activities. From flyers promoting courses and manuals (see above left), to pamphlets providing information on cooking in the outdoors or advice on going hunting, you can be sure that we will have something useful. Providing instruction on courses is one way of ‘making the community more aware of outdoor safety’, but there are many other ways that our branch members get involved with their local communities. Some branches undertake visits to schools, or to Scout and Girl Guide groups, and other youth and community groups in order to talk about outdoor safety and experiences first hand. The kids love it and also learn some valuable lessons about staying safe in the outdoors. It’s also good to be able to leave them with a pamphlet to take away. The promotional collateral can also be used at expos, shows, exhibitions or stands and any other number of activities that branches get involved in. Why not drop some off at your local outdoors stores or stick up a poster when you pick the kids up from swimming? There’s plenty we can all be doing to further encourage people to be safe in the outdoors. For more info about what is available, please talk to you branch administration officer.

OnTrack | March 2014

Andrea Corrigan

Marketing & Communications Manager andrea.corrigan@mountainsafety.org.nz

New Sliding Banners for Mountain Safety Council Website As part of the process of continuous improvement, we have recently introduced new functionality to the Mountain Safety Council web page. From now on, when you visit the home page you will see four new revolving sliders or banners at the top of the page. The home page, as you would expect, is the most landed on page of the whole website, so it makes sense to utilise that valuable real estate with key messages. The first sliding banners will be for the Outdoor Safety Code, Outdoors Intentions, the MSC shop and this season’s campaign which is currently firearms safety. In the coming months we have the opportunity to use different banners to reflect the season’s message.

Punctuation Saves Lives!

New Teardrop Flags

I came across this sign the other day which I found quite funny. But joking apart, it also demonstrates the serious side of what potentially could go wrong when putting out safety information. A missed piece of punctuation here, the wrong word there and the whole meaning of a sentence can be changed. Which is why almost every piece of communication that comes out of MSC, whether it’s a pamphlet or a manual or an email, has to be checked and edited by a subject matter expert, i.e. the programme manager and then by me. It certainly keeps us all busy, but is a vital part of the process that we do to ensure that the Mountain Safety Council’s information is credible, correct and of the highest standard possible.

A number of branches have recently taken delivery of some brand new tear drop flags. Centrally designed by Emma and Andrea we took some time sourcing a company who could produce a quality product at an economical price. We look forward to seeing the branches use the teardrop flags to promote their activities in their local community. We encourage an MSC member at each event to take a photo of them in action along with a few words explaining what the event is, and send them to design@mountainsafetycouncil.org.nz The best photo and story will be printed in each issue (three times per year) and will receive a $50 voucher for the outdoor store of your choice.

Congratulations to Emma & Stephen If you happen to contact Emma about anything, you may notice that she has changed her surname due to fact that she married her fiancé, Stephen, at the end of February. She is now known as Mrs Emma Smart. Congratulations to both of you from everyone at MSC.

New MSC Web Banners Available on Web Portal Official MSC web banners are now available for free download from the web portal. Members who are involved with websites, whether through businesses or their own personal projects, are encouraged to make use of these to spread MSC’s key outdoor safety messages and promote our courses, programmes and resources. The web banners are provided for the following campaigns: ▲▲ Outdoor Safety Code ▲▲ Outdoors Intentions ▲▲ Avalanche and Alpine Safety ▲▲ Firearms Safety

The idea is that people will see the banner and click on it for more information. Once clicked on, they will be redirected to the appropriate page of the MSC website, where they will be able to find out more. The web banners are located here in the web portal. Make sure you let us know whenever you use a banner by emailing the link to marketing@mountainsafety.org.nz – we love to see MSC out there on the World Wide Web!

A variety of sizes and shapes are available to suit a range of web layouts.

OnTrack | March 2014

Andrew Hobman Programme Manager: Avalanche & Alpine

andrew.hobman@mountainsafety.org.nz

2014 Alpine Instructor Training and Workshops

Anchor testing at the 2013 North Island alpine instructor workshop. Photo: Mark Hooker

We will be holding our annual alpine instructor workshops again this year with the aim of bringing everyone up to speed on the changes and updates to the programme and development of personal skills. The introduction of MSC’s Safety Management System (SMS) means that there will be new course reporting and daily hazard management procedures to record. For those that attended last year’s workshops, this will look very familiar. With the new changes it will be important that everyone attends the instructor trainings. The North Island training will take place at Mt Ruapehu on 28–29 June and the South Island training will take place at Temple Basin on 5–6 July.

Risk and Uncertainty: The Probability of Loss We hear a lot about ‘risk’ these days and how to manage it, but risk is not really about safety or security. Risk is about chance and uncertainty. It is about the chance of success balanced against the cost of loss and we all face this every day; be it driving a car, making a financial investment or looking for love. Academics define risk as the combination of the probability and consequence of something happening and then the vulnerability and exposure to that. In the outdoors we often equate this to a hazard (a source of potential harm) and the probability or chance of that happening, balanced against the consequence if it does happen. How much will you lose? How bad will it be? Of course there are no certainties in life, unless you count death and taxes, and we live in a world of uncertainty. Probability is described in terms of unlikely, possible and likely. The full extent of a hazard is described in terms of danger – high, moderate or low. So far this is separate to risk. Next we need to decide how vulnerable or susceptible we are to the impact of the hazard. When driving, we can wear a seatbelt and have air bags that will decrease the impact of something happening. In the outdoors we can carry safety and rescue gear, wear helmets and have skilled partners, but all these things do not reduce the chance of something happening – they just affect the impact when it does. The final part of the equation is exposure. This is the accelerator peddle of risk. Are we ‘all in’ or can we spread the risk out? When traveling with a group you could go one at a time or take a different route. You can make adjustments to your vulnerability and exposure to reduce the risk. But ‘how much risk is too much?’ is very hard to define. It is an invisible line that we usually can’t see until we’ve passed it. The best solution is to err on the side of caution and expect the unexpected. Risk is about embracing uncertainty as a fundamental part of life.

OnTrack | March 2014

Andrew Hobman Programme Manager: Avalanche & Alpine

andrew.hobman@mountainsafety.org.nz

Avalanche Courses on NZQA Framework For the past few years, the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) has been refining the number of qualifications on the national framework, via the Targeted Review of Qualifications (TRoQ). This process aims to remove duplication and simplify the options for learners and employers. This has provided an opportunity to get the workplace-orientated avalanche courses (Avalanche Risk Management Stage 1 and 2) onto the national framework and to expand the course options with a base level course and a top end Stage 3 course. The result will be more options for people working in an outdoor operation, greater consistency for all the courses being run across the country and results included on the graduate’s National Record of Learning, which can be used towards further qualification/learning. Proposed Qualifications – Snowsport (Avalanche): ▲▲ National Certificate in Avalanche Risk Management – Core course ▲▲ National Certificate in Avalanche Risk Management – with a strand in operation (Stage 1) ▲▲ National Certificate in Avalanche Risk Management (Stage 2) ▲▲ National Certificate in Avalanche Risk Management (Stage 3)

New Backcountry Avalanche Advisory Sign With the redevelopment of the www.avalanche.net website and the Backcountry Avalanche Advisory it was identified that the signs were no longer communicating the danger in the most effective way. A new sign has been developed that gives the public avalanche danger information for different elevation bands. This allows them to better align their plans to the forecasted hazard for the day. It is important to note that most people are recreating in the middle (alpine) elevation band and that they should be paying attention to the rating in this area as well as what is above them.

More information on the TRoQ process can be found at: www.skillsactive.org.nz/Default.aspx?page=4392 nEW ZEALAnD

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Electronic PDF published on the Avalanche Centre website www.avalanche.net.nz/resources/Publications/The-Crystal-Ball.asp along with all past issues. Register for email updates via the “Be kept in the Loop” box on any page (except the home page) of the website.

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Alpine Climbers Make Up Over Half of All Avalanche Fatalities in NZ Unfortunately, research shows that alpine climbers are triggering and dying in avalanches far more than any other user group in the New Zealand backcountry. The statistics show that nearly half of all of these incidents (45%) occur in summer, between December and February. Many of the actual avalanches triggered were quite small, but the steep and complex terrain that alpine climbers are usually in makes the consequences of a slide or fall deadly. If you are considering recreating in avalanche terrain, then you should ensure that your hazard assessment and terrain travel skills are up to scratch and should be as fundamental as learning how to tie a figure-of-eight knot.

OnTrack | March 2014

Nicole McKee

Programme Manager: Firearms & Hunter Safety nicole.mckee@mountainsafety.org.nz

New Year’s Honours

Resources

New Law in Effect

Oamaru Firearms Coordinator Derek Beveridge has been acknowledged in the New Year’s Honours List and awarded a Queen’s Service Medal for Services to the Community. His contribution to community includes his efforts with NZ Police, Search and Rescue, Scouting, Air Training Corp and MSC. We congratulate Derek on his award and acknowledge the great contribution that he makes to the Firearms Programme and Oamaru community.

We have created a selection of firearmsrelated pamphlets here at National Office. You have the opportunity to make these pamphlets available to the firearms licence applicants that you deliver to. If you would like us to send you a supply of resources please contact either Mike or I to arrange.

On 11 December 2013, the Arms (Military Style Semi-automatic Firearms and Import Control) Amendment Act 2012 came into effect. The amendment has created a new category of restricted airgun and has changed the definition of a pistol grip. The New Zealand Police have published and distributed literature to police stations and firearms retailers throughout the country. An online copy of an informative pamphlet is available on the NZ Police website www.police.govt.nz/about-us/ publication/important-changesarms-act-1983-semi-automaticfirearm-air-rifle-or-air-pistol

Public Shows

Firearms & Hunter Safety Coordinator Mike Pyatt with Nelson Branch Chair Garry Dunn

In any year there are shows and expos all over the country. These are opportunities to get the firearms safety message directly to the community as a whole. Should you or your branch need assistance with setting up, resourcing or anything else let us know and we will help where we can. The chance to contact the public beyond the firearms community is too good to miss – remember National Office is here to support you.

NZ Police-approved butt

Hunting on Public Land by Mike Pyatt Over the summer break I had the opportunity and motivation to get out into the scrub and I hear the number of deer on public land is up. On the second trip I was four hours’ stalk into the head of a creek when my mate and I were surprised to see two stags running toward us. We stepped into cover in the hope that they had not seen us and might stop. The bush was then treated to what sounded like a .308 shot that didn’t come from us. The two stags kept going and so did we, being quite vocal to make the shooter aware that we were there and for the most part human. From separate starting points we had hunted into the same spot, for the same purpose. There was no one in the wrong. On another trip onto public land, I checked the road for vehicles at the access points and found nothing. An hour and a half later I was on to the sign of a human. I identified another hunter in my hunting area. Withdrawing to a secondary side creek, 20 minutes later I was having a chat with said hunter. Needless to say the lawns got mowed that afternoon. There are more hunters on public land nowadays. This sort of situation need not be a big problem as long as we all keep to the seven basic rules of firearms safety. You absolutely must identify your target beyond all doubt before firing that shot. The consequences are unthinkable, but tragic deaths of hunters do occur in New Zealand. We are out there for the same reason so let’s take care of each other this roar. Remember: ‘no meat is better than no mate’! OnTrack | March 2014

Nathan Watson Programme Manager: Outdoor Land Safety

nathan.watson@mountainsafety.org.nz

MSC Web Portal Update The new MSC Web Portal is now live and is filling up with content. It’s very important that all MSC members activate their login as soon as possible. If you haven’t done so already, please follow the directions outlined in the activation email or contact your branch administration officer. The web portal is home to all MSC documents, forms, resources and tools relating to course delivery, instructor training, MSC member communication and your personal details such as warrants you hold and activity delivery. The portal provides the MSC with the ability to make this content available to a wide audience, across the country and ensure everyone has access to the most up to date versions.

What’s in the web portal? Document Library This area has six different sections making the library easier to navigate and the content easier to find. Some of the sections are broken down into their programme-specific areas. ▲▲ The most important section, ‘Safety Management’, contains all of the Safety Management System (SMS) documents plus the relevant forms, tools and resources. This section also contains SMS training material. We encourage you to have a look at this training material as soon as possible. ▲▲ If you’re looking for previous MSC communication, such as programme bulletins, these will be kept in the ‘MSC Communications’ section. ▲▲ Instructor training resources like syllabi and assessment checklists can be found in the ‘Course/Activity/Training Resources’ area. ▲▲ The MSC forms used for courses and internal training have all been updated. These are available in the corresponding sections. New content is frequently added to the document library so check in on a regular basis to stay up to date. Hazard Log As part of the news SMS, the hazard log provides a place for members to record significant hazards. It allows other members to check in and see if there are any hazards they need to be aware of before delivering a course. The hazard log relies on regular use so please keep updating the information and adding new hazards if you come across any. Equipment Log The equipment log is a tool designed for branches to manage their items of equipment and record equipment use. Having this on the portal allows all branch members to play a role in this process. When an item is used, you can update its log. If it is damaged this information can be included and any repairs noted. Like the hazard log this requires regular use so please keep updating the equipment use when relevant.

Activate your web portal login now and win! All MSC members who have activated their web portal login by 30 April 2014 will go in the draw to win one $250 outdoor shop/retail voucher of your choice. Activating your login is easy – just follow the directions in the email you were sent or contact your branch administration officer. The MSC Operations Team fully appreciates the expectations being placed on members and staff regarding learning and using new tools. However, they consider the web portal a critical component to communicating with members in an efficient and cost-effective manner. The web portal ensures 24/7 access to up-to-date procedures, processes and your personal information and is essential to the application of consistent delivery of all of our services across the country. The Operations and Senior Management teams ask that all members support the process and assist us by activating your portal access as quickly as possible.

OnTrack | March 2014

Nathan Watson Programme Manager: Outdoor Land Safety

nathan.watson@mountainsafety.org.nz

Safety Management System Training Emergency procedures and contact details If an emergency does occur while you’re operating, the SMS has a clear process you can follow. This process is best explained in Tier 4, Appendix 8 of the Safety Management System Overview. Depending on the severity of the emergency, the process may require you to contact someone from MSC using the ‘Internal Emergency Communication Process’. You can find more information about this in Tier 4, Appendix 9 of the Safety Management System Overview. Outside of business hours (evenings and weekends) the MSC phone line has a special message that provides all of the relevant emergency phone numbers. This means the only number you absolutely have to have on you is the main MSC line: 04 385 7162. The pre-recorded message will provide you with contact numbers for the Programme Managers, Prevention Manager, Chief Executive and Marketing & Communications Manager, but it would be prudent to have these numbers with you as well. It is highly recommended that you carry a hard copy of the Emergency Procedures and Internal Emergency Communication Process with you when operating, both of which can be accessed from the Web Portal.

Hazard Management: The 5 Key Steps Hazard management may well be the single most important aspect of any safe operation and forms a crucial aspect of the MSC Safety Management System. MSC has adopted a simple but highly successful approach to hazard management using 5 key steps. This approach may be very similar to what some members have used in the past but the resources provided by MSC have been updated. Here’s an overview of how it works: 1. Identify using: a. Potential Hazards: Generic & Discipline Specific tool, Appendix 1 b. Hazard Log on the MSC Web Portal c. Local knowledge, previous experience, other sources of information 2. Assess the hazards using: a. Assessing a Hazard for Significance Process, Appendix 2 3. Record the hazard on the Hazard and Risk Management (HARM) form, Appendix 3 4. Communicate all relevant information a. Use the Activity Briefing Checklist, Appendix 4 5. On-going hazard management You can access the Hazard Management tools from the MSC web portal.

RECENTLY ACHIEVED WARRANTS Bush 1 Iain Brown Feilding Rick Jochem Palmerston North Outdoor Leader Ted Wellstood Owen Raynor Briar Gordon Britta Mactaggart John Harris Tama Koia Alan Kircher Lisa Porter Yvette Bowers Tania Bartlett Kathy Roberts Dawson Liu Gerry Purcell Tuhi Mueller Hunter Ronke Katherine Dyer Tim Swale David Bastion Margot Bennetts Hattie de Vries Jodie Eaton

Bush 2 Sue Graham Te Awamutu

Wellington Gisborne Hawkes Bay Wanaka Tauranga Gisborne Methven Tokomaru Bay Auckland Gisborne Tauranga Auckland Tauranga Dunedin Katikati Tauranga Pahiatua Hamilton Whanganui Waimauku Auckland

*List valid as at 28 February 2014

OnTrack | March 2014

Nathan Watson Programme Manager: Outdoor Land Safety

nathan.watson@mountainsafety.org.nz

Course Reporting Packs for Bushcraft, Risk Management and Abseil

Updated ‘Let it Breathe’ and ‘Outdoor Communications’ pamphlets

These new course reporting packs include all the MSC forms that course directors/instructors are required to use when delivering a course. While the forms are all available individually in the web portal, the packs have been designed to make the paperwork requirements more streamlined and do not create any additional work for course directors/ instructors. The packs also allow for easier compliance with the new SMS, plus they provide a clear process so important information about the course such as participant feedback can be reported back to the branch and then on to National Office. The packs can either be downloaded and printed from the web portal or ordered from National Office by emailing orders@mountainsafety.org.nz

These two important pamphlets are currently undergoing a content review and refresh. Outdoor Communications – as new products have become available that influence the way we communicate in the outdoors, we felt it was time to update the pamphlet to reflect this. We’ve consulted with the rescue Coordination Centre New Zealand (RCCNZ) to make sure we’ve got it right. The Let It Breathe pamphlet will have a new name to better reflect the content of the pamphlet and the focus will be on cooking safely in the outdoors whether you use appliances or an open fire. Both pamphlets will be available from the online store or via free download from the MSC Website when complete. Branch AOs can order in the usual way.

First Aid Qualification: What Type Do You Need? The new SMS means a change in some of the First Aid certificate requirements for MSC members. Some changes are effective immediately and some have a transition period. Here’s a brief overview of the key changes. You can find more detailed information on pages 2:12 and 2:13 of the SMS overview document.

In Summary All current warrant holders who don’t hold all of the required unit standards (the most common one missing will most likely be 424), have until their next revalidation cycle to obtain them.

OnTrack | March 2014

Important tip If you are using a non-MSC course to obtain your first aid certificate, make sure the provider registers your unit standards. You may need to advise them you want them to do this for you.

News from Our MSC Branches

Drop Your Boss – A Joint Event Between MSC Waikato and FYD by Jane Hoedemaeckers In February, the Foundation for Youth Development (FYD) Waikato held a fundraiser called ‘Drop Your Boss’. Staff teams from a variety of local companies ‘dropped their boss in it’ by getting them to abseil off the side of the Gallaghers building in Hamilton and raised significant funds for FYD in the process. Bosses from Gallaghers, Dairy NZ, Montana Catering and Deloittes as well as a local MP, school principal and the regional manager of FYD, all made it safely down the side of the building (a little over 22 metres down a very smooth dark glass wall) and very much enjoyed the experience! The safety of participants and spectators was naturally of the upmost importance during the event. MSC Waikato stepped up to the mark with Doug Faulkner and Kate Parr undertaking pre-event building inspections, full abseil rigging, the safety briefing, general tuition and guidance for the participants and camera crew. On-the-ground support was provided by fellow

MSC Waikato members Sue Faulkner, Mark Bull and Shaun Hodson with additional support provided by St Mary’s Scouts Group Venturers. The day was a truly interactive experience and a great example of what can be achieved at a multi-organisational, volunteersupported event. The day was a roaring success with more than hundred spectators, 20 participants and coverage on the front page of the Waikato Times. Vikki Blundell, Regional Manager for FYD, said: “Kate and Doug did a wonderful job settling some severe nerves and it has been a pleasure to work with NZ Mountain Safety Council, Waikato in every way. Thank you for your professionalism, dedication to community and team work. Drop Your Boss will become an annual event and we are delighted to partner with NZMC for years to come.”

Supporting Practical Range Days by Nicole McKee “A great chance to get some real hands-on experience with a gun!” is the type of comment we get from the participants on practical range days, says a member from MSC Gisborne branch. The sentiment has been echoed in many other ways in other regions. Through our firearms programme activity, Whakatūpato, hunter safety trainings and range events, we participate and inform the public of firearms safety messages. We raise awareness and influence firearms licence applicants, trampers in the backcountry,

families of firearms users, users of firearms in the work place, school groups and community groups like Scouts. MSC branches are encouraged to facilitate practical range days for which we already have course descriptors and range SOPs in place to support you. We also actively encourage our instructors who facilitate range shoots, whether or not they are conducted under the MSC banner. If you want assistance projecting the firearms safety message we want to help you achieve that.

OnTrack | March 2014

News from Our MSC Branches

Wintery Blast Adds a Realistic Twist to River Safety Course by Andy Pedley, Wakatipu Branch Instructor Arriving at the venue at 9am we were greeted by snow half way down the Remarkables mountain range, a drizzly sky and increasing wind speed. The participants; a school teacher, a pilot and a DOC employee still looked keen and eager to learn despite the weather conditions. Unfortunately a couple of people cancelled at the last minute, they probably knew what was waiting for them! During the morning we covered all the theory content, such as weather, river dynamics, hazards, risk management and gear followed by watching the MSC River Safety DVD. Then it was off to the Shotover River to find the flow was at a perfect level for training. We covered the mutual support method with both the caterpillar turn and walking out backwards. Then solo crossings, followed by the fun bits; pack swims, ferry gliding to the side and pack snags and escapes. Everyone seemed very impressed by the course and a great day was had by all. The weather conditions we had just made the whole thing so much more realistic.

Manawatu Risk Management Course by Heather Grady, Manawatu Branch Chair, RM Facilitator In early February, MSC Manawatu ran a Risk Management (RM) course for three participants. This course was probably the first one to incorporate aspects of MSC’s new Safety Management System. In order to effectively cover this content and use the SMS via the Web Portal, the venue was changed so we had access to the internet. I would advise other RM facilitators to bear this in mind when planning for a MSC member specific RM course and if possible use a venue with internet access. I started the course with each student sharing a story relating to risk management and the course content was woven into the discussion of these stories.

The varied backgrounds (teaching, hunting and military) enabled thorough discussion of risk management topics, especially the effect of groups and objectives on real-life situations. The SMS induction section of the Outdoor Leader workbook was completed and we discussed the overall SMS as well. Using the HARM form and other SMS resources we planned an upcoming event for one of the students. One student commented on the SMS saying it was a ‘good system for holistic preparation’.

OnTrack | March 2014

SHOP GUIDE TO THE MSC STORE

MSC Pack Liner Large (150cm x 65cm) tough bright yellow plastic liner to keep your gear dry. ▲▲ Outdoor tips printed on one side, including an essential gear checklist ▲▲ Fits most packs. RRP $5.00

MSC Survival Bag Large (200cm x 80cm), tough, bright orange survival bag. ▲▲ Can be worn, or used as a signal ▲▲ Can be an emergency shelter ▲▲ Survival information on one side RRP $7.00

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Many resources available for

FREE!

Emergency survival bag for warmth and shelter. Comes compressed in a handy pocket sized ziplock bag. ▲▲ Lightweight (140g) ▲▲ Size: 190cm x 80cm ▲▲ Printed with survival tips ▲▲ Strong, durable plastic. RRP $7.00

MSC Safety Whistle This MSC branded, bright orange and extremely durable whistle is manufactured in the USA out of the strongest ABS plastic. This whistle will not fail or crack like cheaper polyproplylene products. RRP $9.95

Pocket Survival Bag

Survival Pack 1 – Basic Essential survival items for the outdoors in one light-weight and shower-proof zip-lock bag. ▲▲ MSC branded safety whistle ▲▲ Pack liner ▲▲ Pocket survival bag ▲▲ Safety information. RRP $20.00 inc GST

OnTrack | March 2014

CALENDAR

CALENDAR APRIL–DECEMBER 2014

April

May

June

26—May 3 Collaborative Leader Dev. Residential Course 3 29 Board meeting (Wellington)

14 Firearms TAC meeting (Wellington) 22 Avalanche Education Working Group meeting (Christchurch) 23 Snow and Avalanche Committee meeting (Christchurch) 23—30 Collaborative Leader Dev. Residential Course 4

18 Board meeting (Wellington) 20—22 OFA National Workshop (Wellington). One workshop only. 28—29 Alpine National Workshop (Whakapapa Ski Area)

July

August

September

5—6 Alpine National Workshop (S.I., Temple Basin Ski Area) 11—13 NZDA conference (Wellington) TBC Alpine and Avalanche field audits. (Most likely venues are Wakatipu, Canterbury and Central North Island)

2—3 Tahr Show (Pioneer Recreation & Sport Centre, Christchurch) 20 Board meeting (Wellington)

27—28 Sika Show (Taupō Events Centre)

October

November

December

4–11 Collaborative Leader Dev. Residential Course 5

4 Deadline for MSC to be registered with WorkSafe as an approved Adventure Activity Operator. 7—9 Bush 2 national assessments (N.I., location TBC)

10 Board meeting (Wellington)

10—12 Bush 1 national assessments (N.I., location TBC) 17—9 Bush 1 national assessments (S.I., location TBC) 22 Board meeting (Wellington) 31—Nov 2 Bush 2 national assessments (S. I., location TBC) TBC AGM

TBC OFA TAC meeting (Wellington)

15–22 Collaborative Leader Dev. Residential Course 6

www.adventuresmart.org.nz

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO The Outdoor Safety

CODE Before you go into the outdoors get familiar with New Zealand’s Outdoor Safety Code.

Plan your trip Seek local knowledge and plan the route you will take and the amount of time you can reasonably expect it to take.

Tell someone Tell someone your plans and leave a date for when to raise the alarm if you haven’t returned.

Be aware of the weather New Zealand’s weather can be highly unpredictable. Check the forecast and expect weather changes.

5 4

simple rules to help you stay safe:

Know your limits Challenge yourself within your physical limits and experience.

Take sufficient supplies Make sure you have enough food, equipment, clothing and emergency rations for the worst-case scenario. Take an appropriate means of communication. Also available: The Boating Safety

CODE

The Water Safety

CODE

For more information about how you can prepare for your outdoor activity, visit www.adventuresmart.org.nz

www.mountainsafety.org.nz

At the ‘expected date and time’ below, immediately try and contact the ‘OUTDOORS USER’ directly, if you have not already heard from them. If unsuccessful try and contact other group members (if applicable).

Option 2b. Download the form. Save to your system. Type directly into the form. Save file. Attach to an email and send to your TRUSTED CONTACT.

None of the fields on the form are compulsory, but the more details you provide, the better the search and rescue agencies will be able to respond should the alert be raised.

DD /MM / Y Y

Time:

: Activity:

Medical Conditions & Medication:

Address or Passport Number & Nationality:

Address/Passport No./Nationality:

Name:

Address/Passport No./Nationality:

Name:

Phone:

Medical Conditions & Medication:

WHO ARE YOUR GROUP MEMBERS? (Overseas visitors please include your passport number and your nationality.)

Home Phone:

Cell Number:

First name:

Family name:

OUTDOOR USER/LEADER DETAILS (Overseas visitors please include your passport number and your nationality.)

Note: Always enter your progress and changes to plan in hut logbooks, even if you don’t stay overnight.

Intended track/route/huts and alternatives:

Start Date:

AM PM

WHAT ARE YOU DOING AND WHERE ARE YOU GOING?

TIME

AM PM

If you are still unsuccessful in contacting the OUTDOORS USER or any members of the party, telephone 111 (or if outside New Zealand call +64 4 381 2000) ask for the Police and tell them you wish to report a missing person(s) who is on a trip in the outdoors and has not returned by the expected date and time. You will need to provide the Police with the information below.

EXPECTED DATE OF RETURN D D / M M / Y Y

For tips, advice and links to help keep you safe throughout your land, snow, water, boating and air activities in New Zealand, visit www.adventuresmart.org.nz

Whatever method you use, it is recommended that you check that your TRUSTED CONTACT has received your Outdoors Intentions prior to leaving on your trip. Remember to tell your Trusted Contact as soon as you have returned safely, to avoid unnecessary alarm and possible involvement from New Zealand Police.

By using this form you agree to the terms and conditions.

If unsuccessful wait 1 hour and then repeat the process of contacting the OUTDOORS USER and if applicable other group members. If unsuccessful and you are extremely concerned or bad weather has set in, go straight to contacting the New Zealand Police.

You have been nominated as the TRUSTED CONTACT for the OUTDOORS USER listed below, so you can raise the alarm and contact the appropriate authorities if for any reason they do not return by the expected date and time below.

OUTDOORS USER(S) may select either of these options to complete your Outdoors Intentions details via a downloadable form.

Option 2a. Download the form. Save to your system. Print form. Complete details by hand and give to your TRUSTED CONTACT.

TRUSTED CONTACT INSTRUCTIONS

OUTDOOR USER INSTRUCTIONS

Safety is your responsibility so tell someone, it could save your life | www.adventuresmart.org.nz

OUTDOORS INTENTIONS FORM

New Zealand

Phone:

Medical Conditions & Medication:

Other:

Mountain Radio Call sign:

Satellite phone number:

Make and model:

Colour:

Parked at:

The Outdoors Intentions form is provided free of charge but without warrant or guarantee. ‘OUTDOORS USER’ refers to the person using the form to complete their Outdoors Intentions. ‘TRUSTED CONTACT’ refers to the person that the ‘OUTDOORS USER’ gives their Outdoors Intentions form to, whether it be via electronic or hard copy means. The process relies on the OUTDOORS USER providing correct and comprehensive information. No responsibility is accepted for users providing incorrect information, including incorrect email addresses. The process relies on the TRUSTED CONTACT receiving the information from the OUTDOORS USER and following the designated process as set out on the form. It is recommended that the OUTDOORS USER checks that their TRUSTED CONTACT has received the Outdoors Intentions (by whatever means chosen) prior to leaving on a trip. It is the responsibility of the OUTDOORS USER to ensure that the TRUSTED CONTACT they select is willing and able to respond and follow the process contained within the information they receive. No responsibility is accepted for the TRUSTED CONTACT not receiving the information or not following the correct process. The timeliness and accuracy of a search and rescue response depends somewhat on the quality, quantity and accuracy of the information that is provided by the OUTDOORS USER to the TRUSTED CONTACT and that the TRUSTED CONTACT follows the process correctly. No guarantee is given regarding search and rescue response. Internet and telecommunications providers do not guarantee uptime of their systems or delivery of electronic messages. Postal services do not guarantee timeframes of delivery of physical letters, parcels or packages. By using the Outdoors Intentions form you accept that you have read, understood and agree to the terms and conditions above.

Terms & Conditions

Remember to tell your Trusted Contact as soon as you have returned safely.

e.g. name/address/telephone of accommodation:

WHERE WILL YOU BE GOING AFTER LEAVING THE AREA?

Registration no:

If you are leaving a vehicle in the area for your return, please provide details below:

Type of vehicle etc. Please also include name of bus/rental car company, if applicable:

HOW ARE YOU TRAVELLING TO AND FROM THE AREA?

Firearms (with spare emergency ammunition)

Personal Locator Beacon

Emergency Shelter

Survival Kit

Extra food

First Aid Kit

GPS

Wet weather gear and thermal clothing

WHAT TYPE OF EMERGENCY EQUIPMENT ARE YOU CARRYING?

* If you need to add more group members, please download the additional group members form.

Address/Passport No./Nationality:

Name:

Address/Passport No./Nationality:

Name:

Address/Passport No./Nationality:

Name:

ADDITIONAL GROUP MEMBERS? (Overseas visitors please include your passport number and your nationality.) YOUR CUT OUT AND KEEP MASTER OUTDOORS INTENTIONS FORM - VISIT WWW.ADVENTURESMART.ORG.NZ TO FIND OUT MORE

New Zealand’s outdoors is a great place to be and there are so many diﬀerent ways to enjoy it. But before you set oﬀ on your adventure, take the time to plan and prepare for a safe trip. Follow the 5 simple rules of Outdoor Safety Code and make sure you tell someone your plans. Tell someone you trust where you are going and leave a date and time for when to raise the alarm if you haven’t returned. Complete your outdoors intentions by downloading a form or entering your details online at www.adventuresmart.org.nz