NZ Mountain Safety Council - OnTrack Newsletter

Issue 15 March 2013

PHOTO: Tim Bond, Vicarious NZ Photography

MEET MSC STAFF | INSTRUCTOR TIPS | MSC SAVED MY LIFE | AWARDS | BUSHCRAFT | FIREARMS

welcome

darryl carpenter, CHIEF EXECUTIVE The long, sunny days of 2013 continue to be warmly received (literally), and while my thoughts go out to the farmers who are seeking drought relief, the outdoors beckons as never before.

I hope you enjoyed your summer break and managed to get out and experience the adventure of your choice. I know many of our staff members took the opportunity to get outdoors and my family had a wonderful trip down the Wanganui River - thanks to DOC for the good work they are doing with their Great Walks (or in this case, great ‘paddle’)!

As MSC’s spokesperson over this time, I also responded to a number of media enquiries regarding many land-based search and rescue incidents which occurred. Each time, as I prepared my response, it seemed that more people were preparing well and applied their skills and knowledge when things went wrong. However, while some adventures ended via a successful beacon alert rescue, for others, the resulting tragedy would have been a particularly difficult time.

On reflection, I am conscious of how easy it is to access New Zealand’s outdoors, whether we are residents or visitors.

When combined with the immense desire to experience

all that the country has to offer, I was particularly mindful of the leadership requirements necessary for those who are responsible for taking others into the outdoors. This not only includes commercial operators, but also organised tramping, mountaineering and hunting clubs, through to meet-up groups and even friends and family.

Wherever the leader is from, however they are appointed and whatever the activity is, I believe all leaders need a sense (and application) of the five core elements of leadership in the outdoors. These are: risk/hazard identification and management; outdoor first aid; group management; the art (and science) of leadership; and the technical expertise and experience required for the activity.

This edition of OnTrack highlights what MSC is doing to support all leaders in their role, and also provides an insight into the other work streams and projects we are currently working on with our collaborative partners and the outdoor sector.

-Darryl

Post-holiday blues photo competition

Karen Corcoran

Trevor Dyke

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

Join us on....

Carl Van Der Meulen

Stephen Reid (winner)

DISCOVER MORE, SAFELY

NEW ZEALAND

MOUNTAIN SAFETY COUNCIL the new zealand mountain safety council Level 3, 19 Tory Street, Wellington, PO Box 6027, Wellington, 6141 Tel: 04 385 7162 Fax: 04 385 7366 www.mountainsafety.org.nz

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www.avalanche.net.nz

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: 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

Our outcome: Imore people participating safely in land-based outdoor activity

Our goals: IAn 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 The 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

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www.incidentreport.org.nz

National Office Staff Members CEO > Darryl Carpenter Education Manager > Leonce Jones Business Manager > Richard Brodie Avalanche & Alpine Programme Programme Manager > Andrew Hobman Asst. Programme Manager > Gordie Smith Outdoor Land Safety Programme Bushcraft, Outdoor Risk Management, Abseil & Rock Climbing Programme Manager > Karen Corcoran Youth & Community Development Programme Manager > Nathan Watson Firearms & Hunter Safety Programme Programme Manager > Nicole McKee (from 29 April) Training Co-ordinator > Tracy Wakeford Outdoor First Aid Programme Programme Manager > Mark Emerson Marketing & Communications Manager > Andrea Corrigan Resources Co-ordinator > Archana Nair Design > Dani Millar Research and Evaluation Programme Manager > Elizabeth Grieve Administration Team: Finance > Alex Cordier Branch Network Manager > Jane Hoedemaeckers Qualifications Administrator > Christine Oakley-Hall Database Administrator > Nina Klauke Membership Administrator > Jill Knight Archive Co-ordinator > Lindsey Pickering

Submission deadlines: 28 Feb 30 June 31 Oct

Published last week of: March July November

NZ Mountain Safety Council | OnTrack | March 2013 |

Telling our story GEOFF ENSOR, MSC CHAIRPERSON

The Mountain Safety Council is off to a busy year across all parts of the organisation. My ever-growing impression is one of individuals and/or groups delivering great community outcomes across the country, but with many not feeling part of ‘one community that engages in joint action for a common purpose’.

This state of affairs is not surprising.

MSC people are spread across the country and building a recognisable ‘community’ represents a huge challenge. Similarly, the diverse range of work MSC undertakes is hard to capture in a succinct way that would help bind us together and build mutual respect.

It doesn’t matter how hard it is, the MSC Board is clear that a key focus in the coming months and years is fostering an MSC community.

The first step is getting to know what each other does in MSC, what value that provides and how all of our work is linked.

An MSC community exists now, but we feel a lot can be done to make it stronger and more visible in ways that will attract new people to join and contribute.

To this end, I’m beginning to think that being able to tell MSC’s inspiring story will be an important step towards rebuilding a strong sense of unity and purpose. If we can’t tell our story well, then no one else will. Darryl and I would really like to hear your thoughts – is this a good approach? How would you see it working?

The Board would like to thank everyone who contributes to MSC in whatever capacity. Your work makes a direct contribution to the safety of New Zealanders and those who visit our country and it’s a compelling story that must be told!

-Geoff

MSC Structure

National Office Positions -­‐ Overview

Chief Executive Officer Darryl Carpenter

The graphic to the right is a basic organogram of the MSC national office structure.

The Senior Management team is made up of Darryl, Leonce and Richard.

Leonce is primarily responsible for education issues and the operations team including all of the programme managers and their assistants.

Richard is responsible for the admin team which includes the branch administration officers, and internal business services including HR, IT and finance.

Not all staff work full time hours as some roles are part time and not all staff are permanent employees. Due to

how funding works, some staff are on fixed term contracts and sometimes we contract the services of high level experts (such as IT) on an ‘as needed’ basis.

Business Manager Richard Brodie

Finance

Alex Cordier

Branch N etwork Manager Jane Hoedemaeckers

The majority of staff are based at national office in Wellington, however admin officers are based in their local communities.

Three programme managers are based in Christchurch (Andrew, Karen & Nathan), with Gordie in Wanaka and Tracy in Kawakawa.

Education Manager Leonce Jones

Branch Administrators X 13

Database & Revalidation

Administrator Nina Klauke

Programme Manager Research & Evaluation (Contract) Elizabeth Grieve

Design (Contract) Dani Millar

Marketing & Communications Manager Andrea Corrigan

Leonce Jones

Resources Coordinator Archana Nair

OFA Programme Manager Mark Emerson

Qualification Administrator Christine Oakley-­‐Hall

Membership Administrator Jill Knight

Programme Manager Outdoor Land Safety Karen Corcoran

Programme Manager Youth Leader, & Community Development (Contract) Nathan Watson (March)

Archives Coordinator Lindsay Pickering

Find out more about the team on the next pages.

Programme Manager Avalanche & Alpine Andrew Hobman

Asst. Programme Mgr Avalanche & Alpine (Contract)

Programme Manager Firearms & Hunter Safety Nicole McKee (April)

Firearms & Hunter Safety Training Coordinator Tracy Wakeford

Gordie Smith

Leonce Jones

Leonce Jones

Macintosh HD:Users:Dani:Downloads:MSC Organisational Chart 2013 -­‐ may need to be adjusted to fit..docx

NZ MOUNTAIN SAFETY COUNCIL MEMBER ORGANISATIONS >> The New Zealand Mountain Safety Council is formed of a number of member organisations all with a stake in promoting safe participation in New Zealand’s great outdoors.

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NZ Mountain Safety Council | OnTrack | March 2013 |

national office

meet some of the staff at msc national office

Darryl Carpenter

Léonce Jones

Richard Brodie

Alex Cordier

Darryl is the CEO at MSC. He is responsible for delivering MSC’s annual business plan according to the Board and Council's direction contained in the Strategic Plan and Constitution. Darryl is a regular mountain biker and can be seen biking to work most days. He is a keen tramper, camper and skier with his wife and three kids (15, 12 and 10). Darryl still climbs mountains occasionally and hopes to climb most of the peaks on Mt Ruapehu with his oldest son this winter.

Léonce is the Education and Operations Manager at MSC. His role is to manage a team of programme managers along with ensuring MSC education is running smoothly and of a high standard. Léonce, previously a firefighter, is keen on DIY, plays piano and trumpet and enjoys the outdoors especially tramping and sea kayaking. Léonce also has a passion for travel and enjoys spending time with his wife of 39 years and two children.

Richard is the Business Manager for MSC. He manages a team of people whose role it is to ensure the financial and administrative processes of the organisation work well. When not knee deep in spreadsheets he enjoys fishing, particularly catching elusive trout, though recently he was lucky enough to land a fair sized Marlin which he tagged and released. He still feels his most interesting catch was a pig, caught from a boat sitting in the middle of Lake Taupo.

Alex is the MSC Finance Officer. He ensures invoices are paid and our books are up to scratch. Alex lives on a lifestyle block, often referred to as a ‘mini zoo’ with 10 alpacas, 15 chickens, 2 dogs (+boarders) and 11 cats. Alex also collects model trains and is the go-to for knowledge about war history. Alex also teaches French.

Karen Corcoran

Elizabeth Grieve

Christine Oakley-Hall

Andrea Corrigan

Karen is the Outdoor Land Safety Programme Manager.

Karen is responsible for Bushcraft, Risk Management, Abseil and Rock Climbing programmes. Karen's latest passion is trail running with her dog and is currently training for her first mountain marathon later in the year.

Elizabeth is the Programme Manager: Research, Evaluation & Project Management.

Elizabeth monitors the NID, analyses MSC courses and outdoor incidents. Her key role is to provide easy to understand research reports and ensure the outcomes model becomes embedded in the organisation. Elizabeth loves a good coffee, cooking and playing in her garden.

Christine is responsible for qualifications administration at MSC. One of her favourite pastimes is heading up the coast to Tora with her partner in their caravan where she can be seen hauling a craypot over the rocks or flicking a fishing rod out on the beach.

Between her and her partner they have 6 children so family BBQ’s can be quite loud. There is fierce rivalry when basketball is played at home but the Oakley-Hall's are the reigning champs.

Andrea is the Marketing and Communications Manager at MSC, responsible for media interaction, MSC resources and overall ensuring that the community is more aware of outdoor safety. Andrea is a keen football fan (and player) and regularly heads outdoors to fish, cycle and compete in duathlons.

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NZ Mountain Safety Council | OnTrack | March 2013 |

Nathan Watson

Mark Emerson

Jane Hoedemaeckers

Lindsey Pickering

Nathan is responsible for youth and community development, working with others to get more people into the outdoors safely.

Nathan loves heading into the outdoors and you will often find him with his camera or running along the Port Hills in Canterbury.

Mark is the Programme Manager for MSC’s Outdoor First Aid (OFA) programme.

He is responsible for overseeing all OFA courses, course material and instructor training. Mark commutes to National Office daily from Palmerston North where he lives with his wife Christina and 2 month old son Oliver.

Mark spends much of his spare time renovating his home and is about to take up hockey again after a few years away from the sport.

Jane is the Branch Network Manager and does a fantastic job at communicating to the branch administration officers nationwide. Jane is also the administration officer for Wellington branch. Jane is often envied for her ability to win numerous competitions (must have fantastic luck) and also her incredible bargain finding abilities. Jane is always busy but when she finds time she enjoys running and reading a good book.

Lindsey is the Archive Coordinator here at MSC and is currently uploading every member personal file to an online database (no more paper!) Lindsey has been here for nearly 20 years and many of you will have met her on the front desk. Lindsey is a grandmother to the adorable Oskar and loves spending time doing the usual Nana tasks, plus gardening, reading, day walks and travelling. Last year she spent a month in Rajasthan which was an wonderful (and very different) experience.

Archana Nair

Jill Knight

Nina Klauke

Dani Millar

Archana is the resources coordinator at MSC, responsible for our front-of-house reception services, resources coordination, managing the online shop and dealing with other administration tasks.

She is from Mumbai, loves heading to movies and reading Patricia Cornwell novels.

Jill looks after Membership Administration. Jill makes sure you received a warrant card, updates your file with records of your activity, instructing and course attendance. She also prepares the certificates you receive. Jill enjoys spending time with friends, and regular weekends away relaxing with her family at Waitarere Beach.

Nina is the Database and Revalidation Administrator and as such many of you will have contact with Nina regarding the General Revalidation of appointments every three years. She loves fishing and snorkelling, going to the movies and reading but most of all enjoys spending time with her family and friends.

Dani is the graphic designer and marketing assistant at MSC. Dani is responsible for our website, social media such as Facebook as well as the design of MSC adverts and publications. You can regularly find Dani outside running or planning her next tattoo.

Please note: Andrew ‘Hobbie’ Hobman, Gordon Smith, Tracy Wakeford and Nicole McKee are not pictured. Keep an eye out for information on them plus our nationwide branch administrators.

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NZ Mountain Safety Council | OnTrack | March 2013 |

BRIEF NEWS

WHAT’S happening at national office?

Mark Emerson receives 2011 Canterbury Earthquake Citation Last month, Mark Emerson, Programme Manager Outdoor First Aid, along with 140 other recipients from the central North Island, received the 2011 Canterbury Earthquake Citation.

The ceremony was held at Te Papa Museum and was to recognise the efforts of those who deployed to Christchurch between 22 February and 20 March 2011.

Mark received the Citation with Servimus Star, which recognises that he deployed and arrived in Christchurch before 7am on 23 February. Mark worked in the Red Zone with NZ Urban Search and Rescue as part of their medical team for two weeks. He is pictured here with the Citation after the ceremony.

MSC staff hit the range Staff made a visit to Kaitoke range to learn a thing or two about gun safety. What better team building experience than to shoot a few guns and learn about firearms safety. The dark horse of the day was Lindsey, proving to have rather steady hands. Big thanks to the Hutt Valley Deerstalkers’ including Gerry and Wayne.

Above: Leonce gets shown the ropes. Top right: Steady hand Lindsey. Bottom right: Richard having a blast.

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NZ Mountain Safety Council | OnTrack | March 2013 |

The voting poll had a record amount of attention on our Facebook page with a whopping 543 votes and reached 6,755 people all over New Zealand.

Once again a big thank you to all who participated and keep an eye out for more competitions coming soon!

Facebook.com/NZMSC

Tara Forde

With many entries we narrowed the finalists down to four (a difficult process!). We allowed the public to vote and Tim Bond won the title of champion photographer for summer ‘13 with his spectacular photograph of Syme Hut. Funnily enough Joe O’Dea was a close second with a photograph of the same hut covered in snow. The runners up were Gregory Young and Tara Forde.

Joe O’Dea

A huge thank you to everyone who entered our first Facebook photo competition. The photo competition was a huge success and it was great to see so many people getting involved with MSC. The competition was a great way to get MSC out in the spotlight.

Gregory Young

SHOW US YOUR HUT

Show us your hut winner: Tim Bond

PHOTO: Tim Bond, Vicarious NZ Photography

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NZ Mountain Safety Council | OnTrack | March 2013 |

FIREARMS

FIREARMS UPDATE

Tracy Wakeford, Acting Programme Manager – Firearms and Hunter Safety The last quarter has been a steady period for the firearms programme with a focus on the collection of our annual testing statistics and compilation of the 2012 non-intentional firearms incident report.

I’ve also been on the road attending events and supporting instructors, ensuring that two range officer courses (Rotorua and Auckland) and an assessors training day for our firearms assessors went smoothly. Well done to the Hutt Valley Instructors who promoted MSC and firearms safety messages via their stall at the Wellington Arms Fair.

Unfortunately, January also saw the first fatal non-intentional firearms incident this year which involved an airgun, alcohol and seemingly poor judgement. We will continue to analyse incidents such as this to identify trends and target our activity accordingly.

New programme manager starts soon The major news in the firearms programme, is the recruitment of Nicole McKee as the new Programme Manager for Firearms and Hunter Safety. I think Nicole will be a true asset for MSC and brings a huge amount of experience and skills with her. I hope you will all help me to welcome her to her new role.

Due to work and international competitive shooting commitments, Nicole will be starting the role the end of April 2013. In the meantime, please continue to contact me if you need anything or have any issues. > Find out more about Nicole on page 10

Whakatūpato programme looking to expand The Whakatūpato firearms safety courses have continued to run successfully around the North Island at locations including Wairoa, Tokomaru Bay, Te Araroa, Ruatoria, Hicks Bay, Mata, Waikaremoana, and Pakaraka. Thank you to MSC Gisborne, John Ransfield and the Mid-North firearms instructors for making these courses happen.

We are still interested in expanding this programme into new areas around rural New Zealand – so if you know of any hunting or shooting clubs, marae or rural communities who would like to have this programme run at their venue, please ask them to contact me.

The course is offered free to the communities and everyone is welcome to come and learn about firearms safety, regardless of whether they wish to apply for a firearms licence or not.

Safety messaging campaigns target deer hunters and duck shooters Finally, with the Roar underway and Duck season very close – I’d like to take this opportunity to remind all hunters and shooters to stay safe out there. Follow the seven basic rules of firearms safety and use the outdoor safety code as a guide to planning and preparing for your outdoors trip.

Andrea and I have been working on the safety messaging campaigns which support the Police advertising plans.

However, we need everyone to keep reinforcing our safety messages – especially to our experienced hunters, as this group has featured in our incident statistics in recent years.

Congratulations terry Terence Tuanui awarded Queens Service Medal MSC’s Firearms Instructor on the Chatham Islands, Terence (Terry) Tuanui has received the Queen’s Service Medal for services to the community during the New Year honours list.

Terry has been an identity on the Chatham Islands for more than 40 years and is a leading figure in that community and contributes in a variety of ways.

A former deputy mayor and councillor, he helped form the Chatham Islands Conservation

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Board in 1991 and has served on its television and radio society while maintaining a 20-year chairmanship of Chatham Islands Electricity. Terry has also served as a Justice of the Peace since 1995.

Terry has been a firearms instructor since July 1988 when he was recruited by former Firearms Programme Manager – Bob Badland. Bob stated: ‘Terry was, and still is, a valuable person in an outpost where it is difficult to get suitable people for the job’.

Terry also received an MSC Council Award in March 2006 and is still an active firearms instructor for his community.

On behalf of everyone from MSC, congratulations Terry on your achievement and thank you for your ongoing service to your community.

NZ Mountain Safety Council | OnTrack | March 2013 |

firearms news IPSC Australasian Championships 2013

The Australasian Championships for IPSC-style handgun shooting was held at the Rotorua Pistol Club from 22 February to 3 March 2013.

were not finished until after 7pm – it proved to be dusty and hot work! It was also great to see several MSC instructors amongst the volunteers and some even featuring as competitors.

There were more than 700 competitors coming from all around Australasia as well as some competitors travelling from as far away as Russia, the USA and Sweden.

Overall it was a great week, including the opportunity to meet new people from a multitude of countries, see some of the top IPSC shooters from around the world and spend time with like minded people with a passion for this sport.

It was the largest handgun event ever held in New Zealand and being a Level 4 event, it was only one step down from a world shoot.

The event was well run and all firearms safety protocols were followed and the organisers and volunteers did New Zealand proud.

MSC’s Tracy Wakeford attended to help on the pistol security team which involved issuing and collecting the pistols each day. The team had to start each day at 5.30am and often

The next Australasian Champs will be in 2016 – hope to see you there!

Obituary: Patrick (Paddy) Whiu, QSM (1950-2013) Sergeant Patrick (Paddy) Whiu, served with the New Zealand Police for 41 years.

In 1997, Paddy became Northland’s first Iwi Liaison Officer (ILO) and later began contributing to and facilitating ILO courses at the Royal New Zealand Police College. In 2001, he received a Queens Service Medal (QSM) for public services in the New Years' Honours. In 2004, he was honoured with a Commissioner’s Commendation for his role in the foreshore and seabed hikoi, from Northland to the steps of Parliament.

Since 2007, Paddy had played an integral role in the Maori, Pacific and Ethnic Services (MPES) team at Police National Headquarters, forging relationships with Iwi leaders in support of Maori Wardens and led training to build the Wardens’ effectiveness and professionalism, and it is through

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this work that Paddy had become involved with MSC and the Whakatūpato Programme.

Paddy was an advisor in the initial stages of the programme and also supported the local courses around Northland.

Paddy features on the Whakatūpato DVD and brochure and continued to advise the programme co-ordinator as the programme has developed.

On Waitangi Day Police Commissioner Marshall presented Paddy with his Silver Merit Award, which is the highest honour bestowed on a Police officer for meritorious performance of duties.

“Sergeant Paddy Whiu leaves an inspirational legacy. As the well-known Maori proverb says - ‘Kua hinga he totara i te wao nui a Tane.’ A totara has fallen in the forest of Tane”, said Commissioner Marshall.

The Mountain Safety Council sends our deepest sympathies to Paddy’s family and is grateful for the huge contribution that he made to the Whakatūpato programme.

NZ Mountain Safety Council | OnTrack | March 2013 |

FIREARMS

welcome nicole

Nicole McKee > Firearms and Hunter Safety Programme Manager

Mountain Safety Council is delighted to announce the appointment of Nicole McKee to the role of Firearms & Hunter Safety Programme Manager for the New Zealand Mountain Safety Council.

Nicole brings a wealth of experience to the role and will be starting her employment with us on Monday 29 April. Prior to that she will be representing the New Zealand Ladies Rifle team (as team captain and coach) at the forthcoming tri-nations match between South Africa, Australia and New Zealand in Bloemfontein, South Africa. Nicole is involved with multiple shooting sports to local and national level and is also a keen meat hunter who enjoys providing food for the family.

Nicole has a professional background in law having worked for East Brewster Barristers and Solicitors in Rotorua and continued her law interests on returning to Wellington.

However, since taking time out to nurture her young family, she has been involved in the munitions industry working with Steve Collings at Steve’s Wholesale during which time she has developed a network of firearms related contacts around country.

Nicole is also a member of many firearms and shooting related organisations and holds a variety of positions on significant committees at a local and national level. This experience and her excellent network of contacts makes her ideally placed to continue the good work of the MSC Firearms and Hunter Safety Programme.

Positions and Associations • Committee Member – National Firearms Advisory Committee • Board representative for NZDA - Council of Licenced Firearms Owners (COLFO) • Committee Member – New Zealand Ladies Association for Fullbore Target Rifle Shooting

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Captain – New Zealand Ladies Rifle Team (October 2010, January 2013 and March 2013) President – Karori Rifle Club est. 1892 (Fullbore Rifle Shooting) President – Melrose Rifle Club est. 1942 (Smallbore Rifle Shooting) Warranted Firearm Instructor, warranted Range Officer, Firearm Assessor & Wellington Central Firearms Coordinator – New Zealand Mountain Safety Council Range Officer – New Zealand Service Rifle Association

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Range Officer – National Rifle Association of New Zealand Member - New Zealand Deerstalkers’ Association Member - Wellington Rifle Association Member - Wellington Service Rifle Association Member - Wellington Smallbore Rifle Association

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Member - Target Shooting New Zealand

On a personal level, Nicole hails from Lower Hutt, although she spent some of her formative years in Rotorua before settling in Wellington. She is married and has four children.

She is New Zealand Māori, of Ngā Puhi descent and her Marae is Maungarongo based in the little settlement of Maungatapere South West of Whangarei.

Do join us in welcoming Nicole and we’re sure that many of you will get the opportunity to meet her on her travels around the country.

NZ Mountain Safety Council | OnTrack | March 2013 |

Long Range

Precision Target Shoot Tracy keeps an eye on the 2013 Long Range Precision Target Shoot

The 2013 Long Range Precision Target Shoot was held at Hangawera Station (Waikato) on the weekend of 9-10 March.

This was an invitation only competition which was well organised and superbly run by Harry Hoover (one of our MSC Firearms Instructors) with the support of his lovely wife, Hilary.

The competition, informally coined the ‘Sniper Shoot’, involves different scenarios which were designed to simulate sniper shooting such as considered precision shots and rapid fire over varying distances of 500 yards, 600 metres, 900 metres and 1000 metres.

The rules allowed the competitors to use any rifle, any sights, any calibre and any ammunition. For the 600m and 900m round, the competitors had to climb two rather steep hills with all their equipment and find a suitable shooting position – this proved to be a little challenging for some.

Competitors had to calculate for cross winds, shooting from different elevations and, of course, cope with the heat as it turned out to be a beautiful hot weekend in the Waikato.

The 2013 winner was Matt Ryan of Te Kauwhata, (North Waikato), second place went to Christian Neubauer from Berretta in Auckland, and third place was claimed by Joanne Fisher from Whangarei.

It was a fantastic event and it was very interesting to see the range of firearms and gear that was on display. MSC supplied all competitors with safety information and chamber safety devices and also provided one or two items from the online shop as prizes.

Thank you to Harry and Hilary for their wonderful hospitality and enthusiasm for the event, now in its sixth year, which they assure me they plan to be back next year).

firearms resources The following firearms resources and products are available on our online store

The New Zealand Firearm Handbook

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OnTarget DVD

Chamber Safety Device

NZ Mountain Safety Council | OnTrack | March 2013 |

BUSHCRAFT UPDATE

welcome KAREN

Karen Corcoran > Land Safety Programme Manager (Bushcraft, Risk Management, Abseil, Rock)

About Me I discovered the outdoors as a kid coming up through the Scouts and spending my weekends exploring the national parks and wild places of the North Island. I left home and moved south to finish my schooling at Mt Aspiring College and ended up joining MSC Canterbury branch as a volunteer in 2002. I’ve been working professionally in the outdoor industry ever since!

I have held various jobs, both instructing and guiding a number of outdoor activities including hiking, rock climbing, abseiling, glacier guiding, alpine climbing and avalanche

courses. I’ve even had a stint working on a ski field in the snow safety/management side of things. I’ve used my skills within New Zealand and overseas.

I currently live in Christchurch with my husband Ben and our dog Buddy and I am in training for my first mountain marathon later in the year.

I am passionate about teaching people how to stay safe in the outdoors and I truly respect the spirit of MSC and what it gives back to the community.

BUSHCRAFT update Karen Corcoran, Land Safety Programme Manager I commenced employment in this full-time, permanent position on 7 January 2013 and have been fully immersing myself in all aspects of the organisation.

Right now my biggest job is coming to grips with what the role of programme manager covering the disciplines of bushcraft, risk management and abseil/rock entails.

I will be working closely with Nathan (and we’ll be based in the same city - Christchurch) and see this as an excellent opportunity to really get things moving. At the same time, I am trying to put together a strategic plan for my areas of responsibility so that I can see the direction that we will want to steer these roles in over the next few years.

I am currently working hard on clearing the backlog of warrant applications and I will be trying to get training and assessment dates finalised over the next month or so and onto the calendar. I will be seeking branch input to help me with this so watch this space.

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I will also be getting out and about to various regions and branches to help facilitate these courses and find out what is going on in the different areas. It will also be an opportunity to let you guys know what is happening at a national level and bring you up to date with what changes are coming and how they will affect our instructors.

I am relishing the opportunity to work with the beating heart of MSC – you – the instructors and support people at the sharp end, so please bear with me as we go through this changeover. It’s never an easy thing playing catch-up, but I will be doing my upmost to get things up and running again as soon as possible and make improvements.

I am always open to correspondence and feedback. If I miss something important please let me know, however if you are coming to me with a problem just make sure it also comes with a suggested solution or two as well!

NZ Mountain Safety Council | OnTrack | March 2013 |

welcome NATHAN

Nathan Watson > Land Safety Programme Manager (Leader, Youth & Community Development)

About Me I’m really excited to be joining the Mountain Safety Council and becoming part of such an important organisation.

My earliest memory of the MSC dates back to a river safety course I attend as a young teenager in Canterbury.

My role with GirlGuiding NZ included writing, implementing and managing their outdoor safety management system as well as establishing a national outdoor training programme and qualification pathways.

I grew up in one of those typical kiwi families where all our holidays were spent camping, tramping, kayaking and generally exploring the amazing natural landscapes NZ has to offer.

Over the last two years I have had a reasonable amount of involvement with the MSC at both a national and branch level.

It became very apparent that the MSC is full of extremely dedicated and passionate people who believe in the vision of the organisation and the role it plays in NZ society.

Those early experiences - snowboarding at the Canterbury club fields, walking the Routeburn Track, swatting sandflies on the tent walls at Nelson Lakes and endless day trips in Arthur’s Pass National Park are some of the most enduring memories I have.

They have also played a significant role in shaping the pathway I have followed as an adult and professional in the outdoor industry.

Considering those influences in my early years, it was a natural choice to head to Christchurch Polytechnic to study Outdoor Recreation where I gained a Bachelor of Outdoor Education and Adventure Recreation.

Thankfully this foundation has allowed me to work, travel and play all over the world, including a year working in South Africa for Outward Bound and another year enjoying the cultural delights of rural Japan.

My previous roles and experience Closer to home recent jobs have included Youth Development Co-ordinator for the Christchurch YMCA and most recently I was the National Outdoor Programme Co-ordinator for GirlGuiding NZ.

My role at MSC The outdoor industry is currently going through a period of change and transformation. Government-led projects such as NZQA’s targeted review of outdoor qualifications (TROQ) and the new regulations around safety management are well underway.

While the final outcomes of this period are not yet known, what we do know is that it’s an exciting time to be involved in the outdoors and it gives the MSC a unique opportunity to lead by example and reaffirm itself as the organisation at the forefront of outdoor land safety.

Over the coming months I look forward to meeting as many of you as possible in my role as Programme Manager: Leader, Youth and Community Development. I will be based in Christchurch but will make regular trips to National Office and probably to all corners of the country as I engage with MSC’s various branches and members.

I’m looking forward to this new challenge and the many projects I will be taking on. I firmly believe that communication is key and I will be providing regular updates as appropriate.

Enjoy this late summer sunshine and keep on adventuring!

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NZ Mountain Safety Council | OnTrack | March 2013 |

OUTDOOR FIRST AID

Welcome Mark

Mark Emerson > Programme Manager: Outdoor First Aid (OFA).

Above: Mark on a deployment to Afghanistan during his career with the NZ Army

I started this role in January this year and I am based at National Office in Wellington. I currently live in Palmerston North with my wife Christina and our two month old son Oliver. As I am new to MSC I thought I would take a few minutes to introduce myself and give you all a little background on where I’ve come from professionally as well as my outdoor experience.

Professional Background

Outdoors background

I have spent the last 11 years as a medic in the NZ Army.

During this time I provided medical support to groups of varying sizes in many different environments including operational tours to Timor Leste (formally East Timor) and Afghanistan.

I have been fortunate to experience a number of outdoor activities in my life. While I would not say I am an expert in any one discipline, I can say I have ‘been there and done that’ in a number of areas.

One of the biggest challenges during these operational tours was the extreme environmental conditions. In Timor Leste we enjoyed high temperatures and high humidity, whereas in Afghanistan we were operating at high altitude. The Afghan temperatures could range from the mid 300C’s down to -300C with the change of season but my coldest night was -270C spent in a tin shed without heating!

During my NZ Army career I took the opportunity to complete some tertiary education and this included completing two diplomas relating to professional practice as a medic as well as gaining National Certificates in both First Line Management and Adult Education and Training.

Part of my role as a medic was also to teach first aid to army officers and soldiers. I instructed on numerous courses and have been course director for quite a number also. During my posting to a training unit I had the pleasure of directing and delivering a first aid programme to student nurses and police officers in Rarotonga. I also had the opportunity to assist with the development of the now updated NZ Defence Force First Aid programme.

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My experience in the outdoors started in the Canterbury area where I grew up. I was fortunate that my father was extremely keen on the outdoors and as a result, I spent a lot of my spare time tagging along. We would both try to fit trout and salmon fishing, along with rabbit shooting around a busy schedule of playing and coaching hockey.

I also had the advantage of attending a country school where the PE programme involved a wide variety of outdoor activities including tramping, rock climbing, abseiling, mountain biking and kayaking. The combination of these activities gave me a good grounding in the outdoors.

During my time in the NZ Army, I spent time in bush, desert, high altitude and avalanche prone environments.

Part of my role as a Non-Commissioned Officer, when not providing medical support, was also to lead groups in these environments.

One of the most enjoyable sides to life in the NZ Army was getting involved with the sports and outdoor activities on offer. Be it playing Rugby for the Linton Army Rugby Club, or participating in outdoor activities that had been designed for team building like abseiling, sea kayaking or alpine touring, I really got stuck into it and thoroughly enjoyed it.

NZ Mountain Safety Council | OnTrack | March 2013 |

OFA Programme Update Mark Emerson > Programme Manager: Outdoor First Aid I started as the OFA Programme Manager earlier this year on January 7. Since then I have been absorbing as much information as possible regarding the OFA programme from as many sources as I can.

Here are a few updates on the First Aid industry that I thought you should be made aware of: Unit Standards requirements The 6400 series unit standards that were due to expire in 2012 have had this expiry date extended. This is due to an industry review that occurred recently. MSC will continue to assess against the new unit standards at this stage.

Providers of first aid training are required to report the NZQA unit standards. This means we must get the required information from our students in order to process this.

Candidates will soon require first aid unit standards to be registered, in order to enrol on MSC Outdoor First Aid Refresher courses. More information will be available on this soon.

Wellington OFA Course: my first hand experience As I am new to the OFA programme, I wanted to have a look at how one of the courses ran first hand. I recently had the pleasure of being hosted by the Wellington Branch for their Workplace First Aid in the Outdoors course at Camp Wainui. Thank you to Bridget, Nigel, Leeann and Simon for your hospitality. I now have a much better sense of what is happening with the Workplace First Aid in the Outdoors course in particular.

After observing this course, and speaking particularly with Nigel and Bridget, there are a few specific areas that I will be working on over the coming months: Providing a detailed timetable for instructors – a lot of work has been done on this by Jen Riley, Nigel and Bridget but it is still a work in progress. I aim to complete this piece of work.

Instructor resources – I would like to see a standard set of resources made available to all instructors to assist with teaching to all learning styles. Again some work has been done here, and I aim to improve and complete it.

OFA Instructor Resource folder – my aim here is to provide a manual-style product that provides basic lesson plans with key teaching points for each section. It will also contain much of the policy and process that you need to run a course efficiently.

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Business as usual While I have all of these things to consider, as with most organisations and businesses, completing them is subjecting to timing, funding and resources. I am also aware that we must maintain the programme’s ‘business as usual’ aspects. I would therefore like to ask that if you have any issues around the OFA courses, or the programme in general, please feel free to contact me directly.

OFA instructor workshops 2013 The OFA Instructor workshops occur annually and take place in a North Island and a South Island location. The purpose of the workshops is to provide refresher training and up skilling to ensure all OFA instructors are both qualified to instruct first aid, and are current with the latest first aid practice. It is essential that all OFA instructors attend as it is their chance to discuss key information and to receive the latest training specific to the MSC OFA programme.

Activity North Island annual workshop

Date 14-16 June 2013

Venue TBC (Wellington area)

South Island annual workshop

21-23 June 2013

TBC (Christchurch area)

Communication While the industry changes are having an effect on the programme, it is even more important for me to be able to communicate with instructors quickly and easily. This will allow me to keep you up to date with the relevant changes as well as any actions MSC are taking to ensure that we comply and are able to continue to deliver the excellent OFA education that we are known for. I would please ask that you ensure that your contact details are up to date, and that you supply an email address that you regularly check.

I aim to get out of the office and meet as many of the OFA team as I can in the near future as it's good to put a face to the name. For those of you who I don’t get to see before the annual OFA workshops, I look forward to meeting you there.

NZ Mountain Safety Council | OnTrack | March 2013 |

ALPINE & AVALANCHE

AVALANCHE UPDATE

Andrew Hobman, Avalanche & Alpine Programme Manager

An image from NASA of the rock and snow avalanche on the 21 January 2013 from Mt Dixon, Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park.

As summer slowly fades away, Gordie and I are focusing on the fast approaching winter but also reflecting on the last four months of the alpine climbing season. The summer was relatively uneventful with long spells of fine weather, a stable snowpack and route access leading to some good climbing conditions.

Back here at home, we have been working on revisions and updates to the education programmes with new audio visual presentations for the Backcountry courses and revised resources for the Instructors

It was, however, marked by some enormous rock avalanche events that beg the question: “Is the current global climate eroding the very bonds holding together the New Zealand’s mountains?”

The professional Avalanche Stage 1 and 2 courses are being aligned with national certificates and NZQA status. This will allow these courses to be registered on the participant's permanent record of learning and hopefully allow access to government funding support for delivery of the courses, making them more affordable to the participants.

In early October a series of snow and rock avalanches on the Milford Road culminated in huge rock slide that brought down boulders as large as 200 tonnes. Wayne Carren, who manages the road, said that he has never seen anything like it in his many years working there and seriously questions the effect of the perma-frost melting and releasing the rocks.

Then in late January a rock avalanche 1km wide and 3km long released from the summit ridge of Mt Dixon in the Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park and charged down the Grand Plateau, narrowly missing Plateau Hut. This was the largest event of its type since the 1991 rock slide form the top of Aoraki/Mt Cook.

Another significant project is the revision of the Backcountry Avalanche Advisory Signs. The new website structure communicates the daily avalanche hazard in a far more detailed and accurate manner but the signage has not kept up. With the help of the Communications Departments of Canterbury and Massey Universities, we have been exploring the relevance and effectiveness of the signage and producing a plan to upgrade the signs over the next two years.

The Northern Hemisphere winter has also been an unusual one with a general lack of snow until the last month. This has led to difficult snowpack conditions and a spate of avalancherelated deaths across Europe and North America.

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NZ Mountain Safety Council | OnTrack | March 2013 |

Alpine UPDATE

Andrew Hobman, Avalanche & Alpine Programme Manager The MSC Alpine programme supports and promotes “more people participating safely” in New Zealand’s alpine environment by providing guidebooks, pamphlets, DVD’s, public and instructor education courses and travel advice.

The redevelopment of the programme is progressing well and the 2013 public education programme has had an update to the structure and flow of the courses offered with new instructor resources and participant workbooks for each level of alpine course.

The Alpine Awareness course offers a broad range of information and skills, from trip planning and personal equipment requirements to the environment, travel and emergencies. It is for participants with little or no experience in an alpine environment. From this level on, each course builds on the previous by revising the content and expanding on the skills required for steeper more complex terrain and longer trips.

The instructor resource booklets include important course delivery and safety information for the 2013 Alpine programme. The materials have been developed in order to standardise the quality and delivery of courses throughout New Zealand and ensure that a safe and positive learning environment is provided for those attending.

Along with the public course development we are also working hard on the instructor qualifications. As previously stated, we are aligning the MSC Alpine 1 award with the National Certificate in Outdoor Recreation- mountaineering strand.

This process has been complicated by the current government review of qualifications but we are starting to see some solid progress. The new qualification content is very similar to the previous one but there is a more robust process of assessment and a standardised training programme will have to be developed to ensure that all participants have received and are competent in the content before assessment.

The move to the National Certificate means we also need to go through the process of cross crediting everyone that has already been assessed to Alpine 1. This is a large piece of work and will take some time but our aim is to be able to issue everyone with the new qualification. There will be some gaps in people’s records and this may require some sections being reassessed but every effort will be made to make this as easy and transparent as possible.

With all these changes it will be important that everyone attends the instructor trainings in 2013. The North Island training is on the 29-30 June and the South Island training is on the 6-7 July. Locations TBC.

The alpine skills training courses start with the introductory Alpine Awareness course and progresses through to the advanced instructor level, Alpine 2.

avalanche conference WWW.MOUNTAINSAFETY.ORG.NZ/CONFERENCE

The New Zealand Mountain Safety Council invites the avalanche sector - from senior management to frontline practitioners - to the bi-annual Southern Hemisphere Avalanche Conference. The conference consists of a full day of optional workshops delivered by NZMSC and NZSAR followed by a two day conference schedule of informative presentations relevant for the Avalanche sector.

The purpose is to further collaboration, co-ordination and consistency throughout the avalanche community.

New Zealand and international speakers will present and workshop the latest knowledge and developments from around the world.

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Take the opportunity to meet, learn and share with the best minds in the industry, come and trial the latest gadgets and new technology plus catch-up with friends and colleagues.

About the Guest Speaker: Dale Atkins Dale has a long history in the avalanche game and is well known for his experience and work in avalanche forecasting, accidents causes, and avalanche rescue. He worked for nearly 20 years as an avalanche forecaster and researcher with the Colorado Avalanche Information Centre.

Registration Open: Book now, limited places available.

NZ Mountain Safety Council | OnTrack | March 2013 |

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

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NZ Mountain Safety Council | OnTrack | March 2013 |

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2

1

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:

Phone:

Medical Conditions & Medication:

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

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5

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Phone:

Phone:

Phone:

Medical Conditions & Medication:

Medical Conditions & Medication:

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

NZ Mountain Safety Council | OnTrack | March 2013 |

Andrea Corrigan, Marketing & Communications Manager guides and hope to go live with those soon. What else would you like to see in here?

Insider info This section contains course reviews, links to gear guides, articles that the MSC has published as well as some inspiring stories about some great New Zealanders undertaking amazing outdoor adventures.

Get Involved

New ‘Get Outdoors’ section We highly recommend that you go and check out the new ‘Get Outdoors’ section of the MSC website which has been completely overhauled. Click here or visit www.mountainsafety.org.nz/getoutdoors We have introduced a whole host of new sections containing helpful information to encourage people to get into the outdoors. Plus there’s everything you need to get you started from checklists to reviews, training schedules to gear guides, plus of course clubs to get involved in and where to go! As well as our own MSC produced content – we’ve also linked to content from a number of other recognised organisations too.

Be Prepared This section will contain lots of helpful information to get you started. We’re currently working on some gear lists and

Remember this section isn’t about us listing all the great commercial providers out there – NZ Tourism already does a great job of that. It’s more about having a centralised hub of all the organisations and clubs that enable people to get into and enjoy the outdoors. Have we missed an organisation that you think should be in here?

Where to go Again there’s an amazing array of information out there regarding where to go and there’s no need for us to duplicate that so in this section we’ve put up what we think are some of the most helpful links. If you know of a great online resource or website, and think it should be in this section, do let us know.

As mentioned this section is still work in progress and we think it will always be evolving. But we reckon there’s a lot more that we could put in here.

If you would like to contribute or have any ideas or suggestions for any of these sections, please email marketing@mountainsafety.org.nz

Working well together. Nelson branch double page spread If any of the branches are keen to replicate this success for their branch in their local community, then please do contact me to discuss.

DISCOVER MORE

It was a great way to showcase the tremendous value they add to their local community, attract new people as members and encourage people to undertake one of the many outdoor courses they offer.

DISCOVER MORE

SAFELY

SAFELY

A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E

River Safety an ongoing issue in the Outdoors Rivers are one of the greatest hazards in the New Zealand Outdoors.

Errors of judgement while making river crossings often have serious consequences, with an average of about three river-crossing deaths each year.

The New Zealand Mountain Safety Council is determined to reduce those statistics.

It’s not only the untrained who die, says the MSC. Experienced and skilled people have drowned after being tempted to give it a go against their better judgement. The message from MSC is that no river crossing should be taken lightly: the risks are too great.

Provisional figures from New Zealand Water safety show that 93 people drowned in this country last year, comprising 53 recreational drownings, 20 non-recreational drownings and 20 recorded as “other activities”.

Admin Officer Evelyn and Chair Garry Dunn co-ordinated information from their branch and consulted with key branch members to ensure all the information was collated and written up. Then I assisted by proof reading, editing, ensuring the information was consistent with policy, provided the graphics and photos and illustrations.

Diagram of river features including recirculating waves, obstacles, strainers, rapid and eddy lines.

“New Zealand Winemaker of the Year” New Zealand Wine Hall of Fame

“Nelson Tasman Supreme Business of the Year” Chamber of Commerce Business Awards

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Brightwater Vineyards

wine@brightwaterwine.co.nz | www.brightwaterwine.co.nz 546 Main Road, Hope. | Ph 03 544 1066

No drownings were recorded in the Tasman region last year; however that’s no reason for complacency, as in the 5 years 2003-2007 10 people drowned in rivers in the combined Tasman/Marlborough region. In 2011, 131 people drowned in New Zealand with increased deaths in many regions including Tasman. To the end of 2011 there were 6 drownings within the region and half of those were locals.

The statistics do not include the near misses in the region, says MSC Nelson branch chairperson Garry Dunn. “Often the difference between a near miss and a drowning is luck and the factors leading to both incidents are the same.

Our aim is to help young and old alike to understand the dangers that rivers pose and know how to deal with them sensibly, by completing proper training courses.”

A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E

Nelson MSC Branch plan to reduce river drownings The Nelson branch of MSC has developed a plan to conduct several River Safety training courses to teach people how to cross rivers safely.

“We’re targeting hunters, fishermen and trampers, as that is the demographic appearing in the drowning statistics; for both those in and out of organised clubs,” says Nelson branch chairperson Garry Dunn.

Last November a “train the trainers” course was held for local instructors to ensure that they are delivering consistent “best practice” techniques at the river safety courses in the next two months.

• The branch received a community grant from the Nelson BNZ branch and is using those funds to implement the programme of river safety courses.

• Craig Potton Publishing have donated copies of The New Zealand Trampers Handbook for spot prizes on each course for some lucky participants to win.

This course is designed for anyone who may encounter rivers or streams to cross while tramping or hunting in the New Zealand outdoors. Participants must be reasonably fi t and, ideally, be able to swim, but that is not essential. The course is open to anyone but persons under 14 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

On completion, participants will: • Be able to understand basic river dynamics and hazards.

• Know the basic safety rules for assessing whether it is safe to cross a river or stream.

Workplace First Aid in the Outdoors

Risk Management Essentials

23-24 March 2013 & 24-25 August 2013 Cost: $185 Venue: Paretai Lodge Girl Guide campsite, Lee Valley, Brightwater, Nelson.

Weekend late May or June 2013

The two-day Workplace First Aid in the Outdoors course aims to educate fi rst aiders to respond correctly to common outdoor fi rst aid problems and emergencies. It is a qualification for fi rst aid that is based in the outdoors, with skills that are transferable to the home and the workplace. The course is divided into 13 modules, each with its own set of competencies.

Risk management is a foundation skill for all outdoor leaders and those managing outdoor programmes. The MSC Risk Management Essentials course provides training on: • Risk management theory & principles • Identifying, understanding and assessing risks and how to manage them • Crisis management • The practical application of the theory and principles of managing risk.

• Know that it is often right to choose not to cross.

• Be able to pick where it is safest to cross.

• Be able to organise clothing and equipment for travel/river crossing.

• Be able to use an approved method for solo crossing (if alone) • Be able to use an approved mutual support method.

• Know how to float and recover if swept away • Know how to self-release from a trapped pack.

• Know how to safely retreat during a crossing if necessary All participants will receive a certificate of attendance.

Register online at http://www.mountainsafety.org.nz click on Nelson on the map and then on River Safety under the course menu.

Alternatively you can email nelson@mountainsafety.org.nz with any queries.

About the New Zealand Mountain Safety Council The New Zealand Mountain Safety Council (MSC) was formed in 1965 in response to the increasing number of mountain, bush and firearms fatalities. Today, MSC is a national organisation with branches based in the local community that support safety in land-based outdoor activities.

13 April 2013. Cost: $95 Venue: Paretai Lodge Girl Guide campsite, Lee Valley, Brightwater, Nelson.

“We facilitate the setting of standards, offer training, 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,” explains Nelson branch chairperson Garry Dunn.

To enrol in this course you must already hold the Workplace First Aid unit standards and have some experience recreating in the outdoors. Its purpose is to assess outdoor users in the skills and knowledge necessary to manage emergency care of patients in the outdoors, when professional help is up to 12 hours away.

MSC is a not for profi t organisation and registered charity. The courses run are priced to cover the costs of the training which is mostly delivered by volunteer instructors. Regular courses include Bushcraft, Navigation, Firearm Safety, First Aid, Alpine, Outdoor Risk Management and Abseiling.

Outdoor First Aid Emergency Management

Outdoor First Aid – Refresher 17 August 2013. Cost: $95 Venue: Paretai Lodge Girl Guide campsite, Lee Valley, Brightwater, Nelson.

Upcoming River Safety courses The Nelson branch of the Mountain Safety Council is now taking registrations for three one-day River Safety courses on Saturday 16th and Sunday 17th March, and Saturday 13th April 2013. The cost will be $35 per person and will consist of a theory session before a practical session in the river. It is intended at least one course will be held at Department of Conservation Motueka office for theory followed by practical session at the Motueka River, and one at Nelson using the Fish and Game rooms and the Waimea River, depending on flows.

Other Nelson Courses

The Outdoor First Aid refresher course is designed to refresh and update participants’ skills in fi rst aid in an outdoor setting. Participants must hold either a valid workplace fi rst aid certificate, with unit standards 26551 and 26552 (or the expired units 6400, 6401 and 6402) registered with NZQA; or a certificate of revalidation, from an accredited provider.

Certificates must have been issued within the last 27 months.

Take A Kid Tramping 26-28 April 2013. Cost: $90 Venue: Matakitaki Lodge, Murchison.

A beginners course that introduces 8-12 year old students, accompanied by their parent or guardian, to the outdoors and teaches basic bush skills.

Bushcraft Intermediate Navigation 25-26 May 2013. Cost: $55 This course is aimed at those with moderate experience. It will suit those who are looking for entry-level instruction to the Outdoor Leader course.

Group of trampers demonstrating the correct mutual-support method of crossing a river.

2nd Wednesday of every month (except January) at Nelson Police station. Next course 13 March.

Rural residents check with your local Police station.

A complete introductory Bush Leadership course with Unit Standard assessment and a certified qualification. The programme includes an Outdoor Risk Management course and Outdoor First Aid course. Dates and details to be confi rmed. Register now online.

Learn and develop outdoor skills to safely enjoy the challenges in our wild backcountry.

Firearm safety lecture and certification is a prerequisite for Firearms Licence applicants. Spaces may be limited so book early.

Register at your nearest Police station. For hunter training (HUNTS) courses go to the NZDA website www.deerstalkers.org.nz For any of the above courses other than firearms, register online at http://www.mountainsafety.org.nz.

Click on Nelson on the map and then on the relevant course name under the course menu. Alternatively you can email nelson@mountainsafety. org.nz with any queries. Online payments can be made at the time of registration. Minimum numbers are required for the courses to go ahead so register your interest now.

Outdoor Leader Programme From Mid - May 2013 Monday evenings

“The Nelson branch has 71 volunteer instructor members and is a very active and successful branch,” says Garry, adding that it is not surprising considering the natural beauty and outdoor opportunities in the region.

Firearms Safety

DOC thanks the Mountain Safety Council for promoting safety in the outdoors. www.doc.govt.nz 5149648AA

The Nelson branch of MSC recently published a double page spread in their local newspaper all about the MSC, their branch and their courses and activities.

Thanks to BNZ Nelson for their sponsorship of the feature as well as the following businesses and organisations that supported the feature by advertising.

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MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS

Marketing & Comms update

NZ Mountain Safety Council | OnTrack | March 2013 |

Gaining support for outdoor safety click here for more information

How other organisations are supporting MSC to make the community more aware of outdoor safety Making the community more aware of outdoor safety is one of MSC’s 5 key strategic outcomes as detailed in our 5 year strategic plan (link).

One of the ways in which we do this is by working with other organisations to get the message through to their audiences and use their channels to promote our safety messaging campaigns.

A really good way of doing this has been designing and creating web banners. By displaying a web banner, people can click on them and be redirected to the appropriate page of the MSC website, the Avalanche Centre website or the AdventureSmart website. It’s something that works as we can measure it with Google analytics and see where our referral traffic is coming from.

It is practically a no-cost exercise (other than time and effort) and really easy to implement.

We are very grateful to those organisations who have helped us by using our web banners. For example Outdoors New Zealand currently has a web banner promoting the Outdoors Intentions process, New Zealand Alpine Club has a banner promoting avalanche safety and Girl Guides have links to AdventureSmart, to name but a few.

We also have local and regional Councils promoting AdventureSmart and the outdoor safety code. Farmlands is promoting firearms safety, we even have commercial operators up in Tongariro linking to us as it’s in their interests to help keep their customers safe too.

Why not check if your business or organisation is supporting MSC to promote the outdoor safety message. We can supply pre written text, images, web banners and links for you to use on your websites and in your publications. Contact Andrea to see how we can work together for the better good.

The Roar – safety messaging campaign aimed at hunters

By the time this is printed, the annual Roar will be well underway. For anyone unfamiliar with this term, the Roar is the mating season for Red Deer in New Zealand and generally starts mid to late March.

It’s when stags (male deer) become vocal and bellow a challenge (a roar) to rival stags to protect their harem of hinds (female deer) and is regarded by many as the highlight of the hunting calendar.

Consequently the number of hunters heading out there to pursue their quarry means there is lots of activity.

Unfortunately this often means there are more incidents.

Sadly by failing to identify your target, the consequences can be tragic.

Remember though, as well as the need to be safe with their firearms, hunters are out in the bush and often in tricky and demanding terrain for long periods of time. Therefore we also need to promote the need to 'plan and prepare for safe trip' to this key audience in a bid to reduce the all too common headlines like ‘hunter fails to return’ or ‘hunter drowns crossing a river’.

public engagement, communications and promotion tasks required to support this activity so keep an eye out for mentions. Police are also actively engaged in firearms safety advertising campaigns at this time of the year and you will see the Mountain Safety Council logo contained within those as well.

The key messages are: • • • • •

Follow the 7 basic rules of firearms safety (also known as the Firearms Safety Code) No meat is better than no mate Identify your target beyond all doubt (rule 4) Plan and prepare for a safe hunting trip – use the Outdoor Safety Code as a guide Complete your outdoors intentions, before you go, so someone you trust can raise the alert if you don’t return

There is a role for branches and all instructors to play in ensuring the message is delivered in the community, by the community. Administration officers and branches are encouraged to ensure they have plenty of promotional collateral stock and keep distributing it in their community.

Tracy Wakeford (acting Programme Manager: Firearms & Hunter Safety) and I have been busy working on the media,

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NZ Mountain Safety Council | OnTrack | March 2013 |

MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS/ ABSEIL

Visitor Risk Management UPDATE

Outdoors Intentions – officially approved providers Outdoors intentions is simply the mechanism of following rule number 2 of the outdoor safety code: ‘tell someone your plans and leave a date and time for when to raise the alarm if you haven’t returned’.

Today there are many ways you can tell someone. Whether it’s a post-it note on the fridge, a facebook post or a twitter tweet, email, tramping club book, mobile phone text or using one of the simple mechanisms on the AdventureSmart website, there are a range of ways you can do it!

your answers get sent via email. There are also two approved external providers that offer intentions services.

The key point is that any provider who is listed as approved on the AdventureSmart website has been thorough a rigorous testing and acceptance process developed by the outdoors intentions steering committee consisting of the MSC, the police, LandSAR, Rescue Coordination Centre, NZ Search and Rescue and DOC.

The aim of the outdoors intentions section of the AdventureSmart website was to bring some consistency to how people complete intentions, capture all of the information required by search and rescue agencies in a written format and make sure that someone you trusted was looking out for you.

Only providers who have applied and passed the stringent testing are able to display the official ‘approved’ logo and appear as a link on the AdventureSmart website. This means that you know that you can trust them to deliver the service they are promising and your intentions are safe.

You can download the form and complete by hand (we’ve handily printed in this magazine as well so feel free to photocopy and share) or you can answer the questions and

Other recent providers to enter the market have been invited to apply for approved status and we’ll update you on any future developments.

Congratulations to Adventure Buddy Congratulations to Adventure Buddy – our latest approved outdoors intentions provider The New Zealand Mountain Safety Council is pleased to announce that the new ‘Adventure Buddy’ outdoors intentions service has been approved by New Zealand’s outdoors safety agencies.

Adventure Buddy is a free monitored outdoor intentions service provided by Adventure Gear Hire in Nelson. Before heading out on a trip, outdoors enthusiasts simply complete an online form with details of their trip including where they are going, who is going with them, what equipment they are carrying and a time and date when they due back.

This service could be especially useful for international visitors or tourists visiting New Zealand who do not necessarily have a trusted contact in New Zealand or someone immediately available overseas.

Adventure Buddy was created by George Turner and Don Schwass, directors of Adventure Gear Hire in Nelson who between them have more than 60 years’ experience tramping, camping, and bushcraft, and over 30 years’ experience in search and rescue activities.

More information regarding outdoors intentions and approved providers can be found at www.adventuresmart.org.nz

New Boating Safety Code short films The boating code has received the same treatment as the outdoor safety code and has been made into a series of short films. Duncan Ferner at NZSAR led the project and the completed film has now been uploaded and linked via the AdventureSmart website.

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Duncan said, ‘we know that many people who enjoy the outdoors take part in range of activities on land, in and on the water and in the air which is why AdventureSmart was designed to offer safety information for all of those activities'.

‘We hope to do the same for the water code in the future as well to complete the suite,’ said Duncan. * Andrea represents the land sector at the Recreational Safety Partnership team and currently looks after the AdventureSmart website.

NZ Mountain Safety Council | OnTrack | March 2013 |

transformation UPDATE

Leonce Jones, Education & Operations Manager NZQA Accreditation Our application for accreditation has been with NZQA since August last year. We have recently received a request for further information and have submitted the additional information requested on 20 February. I am hoping that we will achieve accreditation soon and that we can then move on to the consent to assess approval phase of the process.

Capability Development A considerable amount of work is being undertaken as part of the Database development. The Administration and Operations team members are working collaboratively on a number of issues that will impact procedures and capability going forward.

One of the key pieces under action is the collection and graphing of feedback from courses which is having a major overhaul. This work will result in more accurate and timely delivery of information back to branches.

Whitireia Community Polytechnic We have signed a contract with Whitireia Community Polytechnic for continued access to their qualifications through until the end of 2013. We are hopeful that by the end of this year, certainty around the outcome of the NZQA Targeted Review of Qualifications will be known and that we will be in a position to transition to those qualifications.

In parallel with use of Whitireia qualifications we are also moving more towards the use of Skills Active NZQA New Zealand Qualifications and are engaged in benchmarking exercises to enable award of these qualifications by Recognition of Prior Learning. In addition we are establishing a pool of Skills Active Registered Assessors to enable processing of assessment results through Skills Active to NZQA. Sustainable Funding The current economic environment and introduction of more detailed reporting measures by various funding agencies has provided us with a number of funding challenges this year and looks set to be an issue for some time to come. The cost of services is escalating and it is becoming increasingly difficult to find additional funding to offset the increases to ensure capability is not being compromised.

National Office Change Management A number of new staff appointments have occurred and this has resulted in a change to the way in which programmes are managed and inter-relate. In addition an increased number of staff are working remotely. This provides a number of opportunities but also challenges and we are investigating ways of ensuring ease of access to remote staff to overcome technology barriers that exist. We will advise once options are put in place.

ABSEIL UPDATE

Karen Corcoran, Outdoor Land Safety Programme Manager This year’s North Island National Abseil Workshop weekend was a great success. Based in Whakapapa in the National Park we enjoyed easy access to superb abseiling sites with multiple venues and plenty of space. The weather was sunny and apart from a bit of wind on the first morning, it behaved itself nicely.

Attendance was again up from last year with 22 participants from 7 branches and the enthusiasm and energy from this group was great to see. This was further shown by the 9 participants that put their hands up to be assessed, Fortunately we had 5 assessors on hand and were able to run assessments and training simultaneously.

The abseil 1’s stepped up to the mark and put the remaining trainees through their paces and everyone came away having seen different ways of doing things, shared knowledge and gained experiences.

In particular a big thank you to Angie and Tanby Gerrard for cooking up a storm and keeping us all very well fed and free to focus!!! Also to Nigel Seebek and Derek Brenchley who facilitated the weekend and pulled it all together. I’m almost sure I saw them put their hands up to do it all again next year.

The South Island Workshop has had a date change due to lack of numbers and will be running on the 11-12 of May - venue to be confirmed shortly (any suggestions welcome). Please let Karen Corcoran know if you are able to attend these dates and if you are requiring assessment as soon as possible so we can work out how many assessors we need, accommodation and catering.

The abseil handbook is currently under review and we will be looking at releasing the revised version sometime after July 2013.

Thank you to the assessors, instructors and trainees that attended and helped make this a weekend to remember.

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NZ Mountain Safety Council | OnTrack | March 2013 |

RESEARCH & EVALUATION

Welcome Elizabeth

Elizabeth Grieve: Programme Manager - Research, Evaluation & Project Management

Elizabeth with her brother and neice on Kaikoura beach

About Me Hello everyone. I began this role at the beginning of January and initially this contract role has been funded by Lottery Grants Board (LGB) for six months. The purpose of this role is to maintain and improve MSC’s evaluation framework. This includes providing meaningful data and easy to understand reports which show how we are achieving the outcomes stated in the MSC outcomes model and strategic plan.

managing the contestable research fund, overseeing strategic projects and managing the online ‘just-in-time’ promotional ordering system.

Previously I was employed by the New Zealand Fire Service for 18 years where I held many roles, the most recent being Principal Risk & Project Advisor. In that role I was responsible for the organisation’s risk management framework,

I look forward to adding value to the MSC’s research and evaluation space and getting my teeth into some of the projects we have lined up.

I come from a veritable tribe and have five brothers. I am a keen gardener and cook and it would be fair to say that although I enjoy yoga, I’m not about to give up my day job anytime soon to become a yogi instructor!

RESEARCH & EVALUATION update Elizabeth Grieve: Programme Manager - Research, Evaluation & Project Management Participant Feedback Forms

Coronial Data

Course participant feedback forms are a rich source of useful information that can help us improve our course delivery. In conjunction with programme managers I have been trialling some changes to the way this information is reported back.

In the event of an unexpected death, a Coroner’s inquest may be held into the circumstances surrounding the event. As you would expect the information that is gathered through this process can provide great insight about any factors that led to the event or contributed to it. Access to this information is highly controlled due to its sensitive nature and/or out of respect for victim’s family and friends.

The new report shows the national delivery of courses by programme. It contains summary information about number of courses delivered; people trained as well as the graphed responses to the main questions on the feedback form. For the first time, I have also included information about how people heard about MSC courses and what other courses participants would like information on. This is particularly useful marketing data: it tells us how people heard about our courses and will in future enable us to know what courses people are most interested in attending and therefore which types of courses we should be running.

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At MSC we are applying to gain access to the new Australasian National Coroners Information System (NCIS) so that we can investigate and determine if there are any common causational features of fatalities that have occurred during outdoor activities in New Zealand. We would then use this information in conjunction with other data sets to help shape policy, procedures and the content of future public information to lessen the likelihood of similar events occurring again.

NZ Mountain Safety Council | OnTrack | March 2013 |

welcome toni

Toni Holmes: Canterbury branch administration officer

About Me My name is Toni Holmes and I became the new Administration Officer for MSC’s Canterbury branch earlier this year.

I’m originally from a small town in the North Island and moved to the South Island in the 1990’s, so my sporting allegiance will always be Northland/Auckland, much to the despair of my Canterbury born and raised husband Ross of 16 years! We live in Christchurch with our two children Talor 12 and Lucas 6 as well as our four-legged friend Monty the dog.

My interests include softball and netball. I still play netball and also thoroughly enjoy coaching netball U12 and U17 teams as well as my son’s tee-ball team. I have also been a representative on various committees.

I have been doing administration work for 20 years, with the last three years spent within a search and rescue/outdoors environment. Last year I commenced volunteer work on a school holiday programme helping co-ordinate activities and supervising volunteer senior high school students. We work to give younger kids from all walks of life an enjoyable week of holiday activities before school starts.

I am very excited to be working for MSC and look forward to getting to know you in the future.

VOLUNTEER FOCUS Dr Heather Grady joined the Manawatu Branch of the MSC in May 2002. She was appointed an Outdoor Leader in May 2004. Heather was elected to the chair of the Manawatu Branch in 2005. She was appointed as a Bush 1 instructor in March 2006. In the same year she became the Risk Management Facilitator and an Outdoor First Aid instructor (June and November respectively.) Heather still holds those four positions within the Branch, some 6 years later.

Heather strives for continuous improvement in all she does. She has organised a lot of her branch’s bushcraft course material as well as other administrative documents to make it easier for branch members to access.

She has developed internal systems to assist the smooth running of the courses and to help manage the large courses and high demand from schools. She has also contributed new material in numerous disciplines including assisting with the new Outdoor First Aid manual. Heather also researched and initiated a project to compare the accuracy 25

Good Sorts

of SPOT personal trackers against Personal Locator Beacons.

(This project is still on-going.)

Heather has overcome serious physical limitations to keep herself fit and current to enable herself to continue in the role of bushcraft instructor. She has a passion for teaching and is a wellrespected, competent and capable instructor who develops a great rapport.

Heather has been totally committed over the years to the Manawatu Branch of the MSC providing almost 1500 instructor hours to date as well as directing and driving the Branch from the chair. Heather has proven that she is a strong and motivating instructor who achieves maximum success as a direct result of her dedication, enthusiasm and commitment. Her service as an instructor across multiple disciplines and as Branch chairperson was recently recognised when she received a MSC Council Award.

- Jane Hoedemaeckers NZ Mountain Safety Council | OnTrack | March 2013 |

revalidation update NEWS & AWARDS

We are now closing this off By now all members (except for those with HUNTs and Range Officer appointments), should have returned their revalidation documents and we will have processed you through our system. Most of you should have your new warrant cards by now unless your form was a little late getting to us or you required a number of signatures as was the case with some alpine people.

Thank you to everyone who has assisted with this process including Branch Administration Officers, Chairs and Branch Co-ordinators. I know you have spent a great deal of time collecting forms, following people up and reviewing their applications.

Thank you also to those of you who got your form in promptly at the start of the process. I know this has usually made it easier for your Branch to do their checks, before returning the forms to National Office for final processing.

If you have not returned your revalidation forms but wish to continue your membership with MSC, please contact your local branch urgently to ensure that your membership is not retired by default. If your membership is retired by default

but you wish to continue with MSC we can reinstate your membership, but your local Branch will want to move on that process as early as possible, so please contact them at the earliest opportunity.

The appointments that still need to be processed are HUNTs and Range Officers and they are each being dealt with separately at this stage. The Range Officer appointments are in the final phases of being revalidated and warranted, while the revalidation of HUNTs appointments will start in the very near future. Our apologies if this has created additional work or problems for those of you who have other MSC appointments as well. We are looking to streamline this whole process a little more for the future and are working with NZDA around this currently.

The great news is that as we get to the close of this year's revalidation, we can see we have increased number of members who have chosen to revalidate their appointments compared to past years. Well done!

- Richard Brodie, Business Manager

MsC saved my life!

It’s always good to receive great feedback about how the MSC has touched or affected someone’s life for the better.

But in this article, Grant Booth explains how MSC saved his life!

Last year I was involved in a freak dirt bike accident and as I lay there I realised I was probably suffering from some pretty nasty injuries. However, I was very grateful to have recently completed the MSC outdoor first aid training course and what I’d learnt immediately kicked into action.

Although I was in severe pain, I was conscious, acutely aware of my situation and was able to play an active role in my own first aid care.

My airway was obstructed but I was quickly able to guide and indicate this to the people around me – and show what was needed to be done so I could breathe.

Because of this training I was able to ensure that I was moved in a safe manner and that my neck and spine were protected from any un-detected injuries.

I am well on the road to recovery but I am incredibly grateful for the MSC training. I undertook the course thinking that I would use the skills and experience to help other people, I certainly didn’t expect to be helping myself so soon after. I also now know that if I’m ever faced with a first aid situation in the future that I will have the confidence to help someone else too.

You never know when you might need to call upon a skill that could save your life or that of someone else.

To find out more about the courses that the Mountain Safety Council runs in your area, please visit: www.mountainsafety.org.nz/courses

I also felt very relieved once my friend Stacey arrived on the scene as I knew he had also recently been on the same MSC outdoor first aid course too.

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NZ Mountain Safety Council | OnTrack | March 2013 |

msc award recipients 2012 MSC Lifetime Award 2012

The lifetime Award is the most prestigious honour that the New Zealand Mountain Safety Council can bestow. These are limited in number, and are awarded by the full Council. Lifetime awards are normally restricted to 5 per Branch level and 15 at National Level, at any one time. The award recognises a lifelong commitment to the outdoors and maintaining safety.

Rex Allen - Lifetime Award 2012

Rex joined MSC in 1989 and over the years has instructed in Outdoors First Aid, Bush, and Firearms and in 2009 qualified as a Range Officer. Rex is one of Gisborne’s longest standing members and has served on the committee for many years and is currently chair. Rex’s love and enthusiasm for the outdoors is an asset to our organisation and also to others such as Land Search and Rescue. Rex has been involved in the set up of new courses such as HUNTS, Take a Kid Tramping, GPS courses and the East Coast Firearms events which are run under the Whakatupato umbrella. We acknowledge Rex’s knowledge, enthusiasm and commitment with this life time award.

MSC Council Award Recipients 2012 To be nominated by their branch, the nominee must have demonstrated commitment, passion and service beyond what is expected. The nominees are then considered by the Board and only those who are the very best, receive the award. Our congratulations go to the following members who received Council Awards last year.

Emlyn Wright (Canterbury) Emlyn first joined MSC Southland in 1993. Emlyn has co-ordinated the ‘Above the Bushline’ course for a number of years and has received outstanding reviews from participants. A review of the course which featured in Wilderness magazine attested to the thoroughness of his leadership skills and instructing. In his role as Chairperson, he is known to run a tight ship keeping the Committee on their toes and the interest of our members at the forefront.

Ross Meder (Canterbury) Having first joined MSC in 1975, Ross became an instructor for Bush, Abseil, Alpine and Outdoor First Aid. Over the years he has continued to update his skills and holds numerous national qualifications in all disciplines. These qualifications have enabled the Canterbury Branch to use his skills in assisting and assessing candidates in all disciplines through their chosen pathways. Ross also held the position of MSC Chairperson for ten years and still continues to serve as a member of the Board.

Lynette Horn (Waikato) Lynette joined MSC in 1998 and has spent the subsequent 14 years working almost exclusively in the Outdoor First Aid discipline.

Lynette supports MSC at a number of levels – as an assessor, mentor and trainer, as well as in a hands-on role delivering courses. She is in much demand, and is often called upon to run courses in other regions.

Robin Shepherd (Northland) Robin was one of MSC’s very first firearms instructors.

He has been instrumental in maintaining and growing the Kaitaia firearms instructor group and also ensuring the delivery of the programme is consistent and available for all. Robin’s team also delivers in rural communities around their district.

Colin Kirby (Canterbury) Colin is a warranted Firearms Instructor, Range Officer and Outdoor Leader. In the past 18 months, Colin has taken on the added responsibility of a Firearms Assessor in Canterbury. He is supportive of the local firearms coordinator and has encouraged most of the firearms instructors to participate in the assessment/ qualifications programme within the Firearms Programme.

Bryce Meredith (Auckland) Bryce has been a member of MSC since 2003. Bryce is always willing to assist the firearms programme in any way and is currently the convenor for the firearms technical advisory committee as well as an authorised MSC media spokesperson. Bryce’s strong interpersonal skills have been invaluable in this role as he has helped develop instructor buy-in to the process and he has supported the Auckland firearms coordinator when required.

Mike Spray (Gisborne) Mike joined MSC 30 years ago in 1982 as a volunteer instructor in Abseil, Bushcraft and firearms safety. Mike has extensive knowledge and understanding across a range of disciplines including Bush and firearms. In his volunteer role Mike was the driver behind establishing the HUNTS course in Gisborne and has continually involved with instructing since the first course. Mike also spent 8 years as Firearms & Hunter safety programme manager at national office.

Mike Bradley (Wellington) Mike Bradley joined MSC in 1980 as a firearms instructor and has regularly been delivering the firearms safety courses since then. In 2005, Mike became firearms co-ordinator for Lower Hutt (MSC Wellington Branch Committee Position). In 2011 Mike achieved the WCP Certificate in Outdoor Leadership (Firearms Instructor) qualification and has successfully worked with other firearms instructors to achieve the same.

Continued....

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NZ Mountain Safety Council | OnTrack | March 2013 |

Award recipients continued........

Malcolm Perry (Tauranga) Malcolm joined MSC in 1972 and is one of the organisations original members. Malcolm originally joined as a firearms instructor and has been actively delivering firearms safety instruction to the Rotorua community for the past 40 years. He has subsequently become a qualified Range Officer, coaching shooting techniques and controlling live fire activities for various shooting clubs. As a firearms instructor Malcolm is regarded as an expert by his peers. He is a very talented instructor whose experience and depth of knowledge is very evident.

Murray Johnston (Wairarapa) Murray has been a member of MSC since 1999. Year after year he continues to volunteer above the minimum time expected of an instructor and has been the driving force behind the branch as the volunteer treasurer and secretary, positions held since 2007.

Joe Green (Wellington) Joe joined MSC in 1991. His commitment to personal development means he is a very experienced and highly qualified outdoor instructor. In 2005 Joe was instrumental in getting the very first Kapiti HUNTS course up and running. Joe delivered the bush training modules and has continued instructing HUNTS trainees each year since then. Joe is an extremely dedicated volunteer who continues to demonstrate that he is always willing. He delivers high quality instruction and is regarded by other MSC volunteers as a leader in the outdoors.

Mike Pyatt (Gisborne) Mike joined MSC in 2000 as a Firearms Instructor. Since 2009 Mike has volunteered many hours each year by instructing on public courses, training members and other branch activities. Mike is a dedicated committee member and has been involved with establishing new courses in our region e.g. the HUNTS course, Eastcoast Firearms safety training activities and Take a Kid Tramping, as well as being a mentor to existing and new branch members.

Doug Faulkner (Waikato) Doug has been a member of MSC Waikato for nearly 15 years and branch chair since 2010. He contributes across all disciplines but has a special interest and skill in abseil. Doug has been responsible for the training and up skilling of large numbers of youth leaders – particularly from Scouts – in the Waikato.

Heather Grady (Manawatu) Heather joined MSC in 2002. She was appointed an Outdoor Leader in May 2004. Heather was elected to the chair of the Manawatu Branch in 2005. She was appointed as a Bush 1 instructor in March 2006. In the same year she became the Risk Management Facilitator and an Outdoor First Aid instructor (June and November respectively.)

Heather still holds those four positions within the Branch, some 6 years later. She has been an active Bushcraft instructor acting as the director of many courses and assisting on others. Heather is incredibly committed and has volunteered more than 1500 instructor hours (at the time of application) for the Manawatu Branch.

A very big congratulations to all recipients from everyone at MSC

Database update MSC's new CRM Database is progressing well. The Database itself now has most of the features required for us to manage memberships, qualifications and courses. This includes a modified venue management system which will allow us all to monitor the venues being used.

There has been a lot of reviewing policies, procedures and getting people through training. Thank you to all of you that have been looking at the different versions of the policies and providing feedback, this feedback is essential for us to set up the rules for the business and then put these in place in the Database.

Jane has been working with Administration Officers and it is good to see you start using the system to support your work.

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Over the next little while she will start to train you all in loading scheduled courses into the Database for your Branch.

This will be the first step in preparing for the online booking system which is being developed at the moment.

We are also in the process of testing the members login page.

The page looks great and will give members the ability to view their personal details as held in the system. At this stage only personal contact details will be visible through this page but over the time we will also have it populated with MSC Appointment, Qualifications and Activity information.

Setting up the online booking system and bringing across more of our historic data will be the next big pieces of work.

- Richard Brodie, Business Manager

NZ Mountain Safety Council | OnTrack | March 2013 |

instructor tips

Presentation aids In previous issues of OnTrack I have written about various aspects of teaching and learning. This article focuses on presentation aids.

So what does this all mean? As instructors (presenters) we need to find ways to help the learner get the most out of the learning session so that it is memorable and therefore learned. Ultimately this will help with outdoor safety because the people attending our courses hopefully will REMEMBER what we have taught and APPLY this to their experiences.

Presentation aids are a way of enhancing our messages through creating a more memorable experience.

The purpose of presentation aids are: • to arouse and maintain interest • to simplify instruction • to accelerate learning due to more sense being involved • to aid retention of information The types and variety of presentation aids you can use is endless and includes whiteboards, flipcharts, TVs, overhead projectors, charts, diagrams, posters, photographs, handouts and of course ‘the real thing’ props such as a GPS, stove or rifle. Of course it depends on the topic you are instructing on and the location where the instruction is taking place (i.e. classroom or riverbank).

MSC produces a variety of pamphlets and other items that make excellent presentation aids which can be used in the field or the classroom. (Ask your branch AO to make sure they have some in stock for you to use).

Ways we learn:

I encourage everyone to think about – what is one thing different or extra I can add to my presentation? It may be as simple as preparing a simple diagram on chart paper or revising a powerpoint presentation you would normally use to ensure it has a variety of pictures and colour to add interest and emphasise main points.

There are advantages and disadvantages to every type of aid so it makes sense that there is no one ‘best’ aid for the job.

With that in mind, I encourage instructors to think ‘variety’.

We are all individuals with different likes and dislikes and different ways of learning – having variety increases the odds of appealing to more people in your audience, one way or another.

As a guide, here is a summary of what makes a good presentation aid: • it is simple and easy to understand • it is brief and concise • it helps stress essential points • it is the correct size for your audience and clearly visible • it is interesting • •

it is accurate it is applicable to the subject

More information on this topic can be found in the MSC Instructors’ Handbook.

- Tracy Wakeford

Ways we remember: sight

Reading (10%)

Hearing (20%)

hearing smell touch taste

Remembered

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Forgotten

NZ Mountain Safety Council | OnTrack | March 2013 |

shop guide to the mountain safety council store Your guide to buying the perfect gift for yourself or the other outdoor enthusiasts in your life, to keep safe in the outdoors. Make sure you have the below essentials on your outdoor adventures.

A

B

C

E

C. Chamber Safety Devices

E. NZ Firearm Handbook

However sound advice and techniques mean this resource is essential for recreational trampers and hunters likely to encounter water. RRP: $30.00

Chamber Safety Devices can be inserted into the chamber of a firearm which then clearly demonstrates that it is free of live ammunition. The device is great to use while travelling with firearms, storage in the home and on the range where they are particularly helpful, and in some cases, mandatory. Pack of 5. RRP: $7.00

B. Outdoor Logbook

D. Risk Management

To purchase, ask your branch Administration Officer or visit www.mountainsafety.org.nz/resources

A. River Safety Resource

These two resources are designed to be used together and intended for use by instructors and teachers to introduce river safety to beginners of all ages.

A loose-leaf folder for recording details of personal outdoor experiences and courses. Essential for outdoors instructors, leaders and students and useful for outdoor recreationalists.

RRP: $12.00

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D

Since its publication in 1993, this resource has been acknowledged widely by outdoor instructors, tertiary lecturers and the general public. This publication addresses issues across the spectrum and a prime reference within the field of risk management. RRP: $25.00

An elementary introduction to common firearms used for sporting purposes and their usage in New Zealand. Provides simple explanations of what happens between pressing the trigger and the impact of the bullet at target. RRP: $25.00

NZ Mountain Safety Council | OnTrack | March 2013 |

Outdoors New Zealand Roadshow Do you want an update on projects affecting the outdoors community? Do you want to attend a Safety Management System (SMS) or Marketing and Communications workshop? Come join us at the Outdoors New Zealand Autumn 2013 Roadshow!

The Roadshow will travel to nine locations around New Zealand and will be divided into two sessions.

The morning session is to provide you with current information on: • The state of play with the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment safety audit standard and the audit scheme • Adventure Activities update • Outdoors New Zealand projects • Outdoor Sector Planning Forum update • Outdoors New Zealand strategic plan • Value Proposition Outdoor Recreation Report first draft • Updates from key community stakeholders The afternoon session provides a choice of two workshops: • Safety Management Systems • Effective social media strategies The morning session is free and the afternoon session costs $50 inc. GST. For further information and to register, visit www.outdoorsnz.org.nz/onz-roadshow-2013

THE PERFECT OPPORTUNITY TO NETWORK, KEEP UPTO-DATE AND GET INFO ON WHAT’S HAPPENING IN THE OUTDOORS COMMUNITY

VENUES ACROSS

• Industry Updates • Safety Management Systems workshop

New Plymouth 27 March Greymouth 3 April Nelson 4 April Queenstown 9 April Dunedin 10 April Christchurch 12 April Auckland 19 April Rotorua 26 April Wellington 30 April

• Social Media workshop Funded and Supported by:

Register Now LIMITED PLACES AVAILABLE www.onz-roadshow.co.nz

the world outdoors summit The World Outdoors Summit 2013, 18-22 November, Rotorua, New Zealand. Theme: ‘The value of the outdoors to society’.

Today, all around the world, the outdoors is being challenged with pressures from every angle including; education, environment, cultural and economic.

The World Outdoors Summit is the best opportunity for the global outdoors community to share, discuss and present how to resolve those challenges to ensure that lifelong recreation habits in the outdoors remain an important, relevant and valued part of our societies.

Leave with strategies and tactics to present the value of your outdoors product or service to the world. Gain insight, knowledge and wisdom from local and international experts.

Learn and experience Maori outdoor education, bush skills and cultural heritage.

world outdoors summit THE

THE VALUE OF THE OUTDOORS TO SOCIETY The World Outdoors Summit aims to advance the progression of education, recreation and leisure activities within the international outdoors community, through the sharing of knowledge, debating of ideas and experiential practice.

19-22 NOV 2013 ROTORUA NEW ZEALAND OUTDOORS EDUCATION OUTDOORS COMMERCIAL OUTDOORS LEISURE ∞ Professional Development ∞ Networking opportunities ∞ Keynote presentations ∞ Panel discussions ∞ Workshops and discussion groups ∞ Outdoor sessions ∞ Activities ∞ Exhibitions ∞ Awards Gala Dinner

This event is designed for professionals working in the outdoor education, outdoor recreation and adventure tourism communities.

For more information, visit www.wos2013.com

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CALL FOR SPEAKERS NOW OPEN

To submit an abstract or for more info visit:

NZ Mountain Safety Council | OnTrack | March 2013 |

31 may - 2 june

CHRISTCHURCH, NEW ZEALAND

The New Zealand Mountain Safety Council invites the avalanche sector - from senior management to frontline practitioners, to the bi-annual Southern Hemisphere Avalanche Conference. The Conference consists of a full day of workshops for the SAR sector, instructors and forecasters, followed by a two day conference of informative presentations from New Zealand and international experts on the latest developments and current best practice in theory and research, management and mitigation and search and rescue. Take the opportunity to meet, learn and share with the best minds in the industry, trial the latest gadgets and new technology, catch-up with friends and colleagues.

REGISTRATIONS OPEN: www.mountainsafety.org.nz/conference Supported by: 32

NZ Mountain Safety Council | OnTrack | March 2013 |