Clothing and equipment list

The Odyssey

The Odyssey occurs in late Spring / early Summer. This period is notoriously unstable for weather and can offer anything from snow to 40 degree heat. Students need to be prepared for all weather conditions, but particularly for warm days and cold nights.

Cool natural fibers (like cotton) in light colors offer excellent UV protection and are essential. Warm jumpers (x2: 1x Polar fleece, 1 x wool), thermals, beanie and gloves are likewise. Remember…our program will run in rain, hail or shine!

At this time of year, it is also essential that students are equipped to best manage this possibility. Items particular to this need are written in italic and must be brought on program.

All of the following listed items are critical to student comfort and safety. Please be sure to bring all items on the list.

Remember that clothing needs to be functional before being fashionable.

Remember to layer your clothing – multiple thin layers are more effective and versatile than one thick layer.

Please bring all your equipment to Billanook for the packing day in a large duffle bag or similar – no suitcases please.

o  Sleeping bag, inner sheet, waterproofed (using 1x large plastic bag). We recommend that bags be rated between -5 and 0 degrees.

Camp / travel shoes = runners or boots- no thongs or crocks!

o  3 - 5x wool, wool-blend socks

o  1 – 2 sets of thermal underwear (top and bottom)

o  2x long pants – (1x cotton, 1x nylon)

o  2x shorts - (‘Board shorts’ are typically perfect and are recommended)

o  jocks

1x cotton long-sleeved, collared shirt

o  2 - 3x jumpers – (minimum 1x wool, 1x polar fleece)

o  Beanie, or balaclava (woolen)
o  Gloves

o  Cotton sunhat (broad brimmed)

o  Bandana or large handkerchief

o  small towel or travel chamois

o  sunglasses (on a soft strap)

o  SPF 15+ sunscreen, lip screen,

o  toothbrush, toothpaste, insect repellant ( Roll on - NO pressurized sprays)

o  Feminine hygiene: sufficient pads/tampons for duration of the camp (even if you’re not expecting your period - the change in environment can alter your cycle). A small packet of baby wipes can also be very useful.

o  toilet paper (waterproofed in snap lock bag)

o  first aid kit especially medications (e.g. Asthma puffer). This kit should include 1x roller bandage, antiseptic cream, Stingose, band aids

o  whistle on cord

o  Head torch, spare batteries

o  plate and/or bowl, cup, spoon, fork

o  drink bottles (minimum of 2lt capacity with strong waterproof seal)

o  plastic bags for waterproofing - 6x Large orange garbage bags, 6 x black rubbish bags

o  5x strong rubber bands

o  Matches – waterproofed!

o  journal/diary, pen, pencil (waterproofed in plastic bag)

o  ‘Scroggin’ – we recommend no more than 600grams.

You will need to provide your own personal mix of high-energy snacks such as chocolate, nuts, dried fruit, jelly beans, etc. Pack a small snap lock bag for each day. Please avoid wrapped lollies as the wrappers only add to the rubbish we have to carry out.

o  watch

Optional

o  camera (waterproofed in plastic bag)

o  book to read

o  deck of cards

o  Tennis ball

Rafting

·  River shoes - these need to have a closed toe and a secure fastening (we recommend laces). They will get wet and muddy! We recommend an old pair of sneakers.

·  1x rash vest (if you have one)

OEG provides Life jacket (PFD), wetsuit, spray jacket and helmet

Group gear

All of the following gear will be provided by OEG and will be divided up amongst the group on the packing day.

·  2x tarp

·  6x tarp ropes

·  1x groundsheet

·  2x water bags

·  1x ‘Spaceship’ cooking burner and pot

·  1x wok

·  3x chopping boards

·  3x cutting / spreading knifes

·  1x large plastic serving spoon

·  1x crockery drying bag

·  1x ‘Micropur’ water purifying treatment

·  1x soap cleaner & 1x ‘Sanigel’ hand cleaner.

Comfort Bag

Students will arrive at the Buchan River confluence in the afternoon of day 9, this is the end of the trip and students will have access to the bus and their comfort bags. Included in this small bag should be a change of clothes, shoes etc to make there final night and trip home comfortable. Perhaps their favorite sweet treat can also be in the bag!

What we provide for you

All of the following gear will be provided by OEG.

·  Backpack

·  Tent ( 2-3 person)

·  Closed-cell foam mat

·  Waterproof jacket and waterproof over pants

·  Stoves & fuel

·  40ltr barrels for storing food

·  Watercraft, helmet, PFD, paddles and spray jacket.

·  Group First Aid

·  Emergency Communications

Do not bring the following

·  Mobile phones

·  IPods etc

·  Knives

·  Aerosol Cans