Scouts tackle a wild stream in Sai Kung

Late summer is the perfect time to head into the great outdoors and cool off under waterfalls.

Two groups of Scouts teamed up for an adventurous stream hike in Sai Kung Country Park. This involves swimming, trying to keep your balance on slippery rocks, and scrambling on big boulders as you slowly work your way up. At lunch break, the scouts had great fun jumping into a deep mountain pool – and even tried synchronised diving.

The Scout motto is “Be Prepared.” 

We teamed up with Tara Smyth, Scout Leader at 299th in Sai Kung, and an expert on Hong Kong streams. 150th Scout leader Corinne Vigniel joined her for a full recce the week before to ensure the stream was passable after summer rains and to check out exit points. On the day, we had a high ratio of leaders to Scouts (1:3), including properly qualified first raiders.

So, here are a few tips for stream hikes:

• Always go with an experienced leader who knows the way
• Know your exit points and emergency procedures
• Number off at the start, use the buddy system
• Wear good hiking shoes and running tights to protect your legs
• Use two hiking poles to keep your balance on slippery rocks
• Don’t jump from one rock to the next, walk slowly
• Keep all your belongings in dry bags inside your backpack

150th Scouts is an open group, mostly made up of students aged 11-15 from South Island School.

Two weeks ago, we went canoeing. In October, we will have a pioneering camp to build large towers, bridges, catapults and swings from bamboo.

We still have a few openings, especially for girls and boys in Year 7 and 8 (and up to age 15). Older students (age 15+) can join the Ventures section.

If interested, email: 150sjgleaders@gmail.com

By Corinne Vigniel
Scout Leader, 150th Hong Kong Group