The Introductory Navigation Course is conducted by Darren Osmond on behalf of

the Queensland Rogaine Association (Rogaining NQ) and Adventure HQ.  It is the first step towards becoming an independent navigator in the wilderness and to develop confidence and competence to be able to complete a range of exciting activities including rogaining, adventure racing, bushwalking and orienteering.

The training course takes one full days and includes approximately 4 hours of theory and 4 hours of practical experience.  It is conducted from the picturesque Davies Creek National Park Day Use Area, just under an hour’s drive from Cairns.  Car pooling is normally arranged.

• types of maps;

• map scales and measuring distances;

• grid references and position description;

• understanding contours and map features;

• common map reading errors and mistakes;

• compass anatomy and taking bearings;

• accounting for magnetic declination;

• basic route planning tips techniques.

• Timing and pacing;

• Following a bearing;

• Interpreting contours on a map and in real life;

• Estimating distance and altitude gains and losses;

• Route planning strategies.

An orienteering/bushwalking-type compass if you have one (we have spares we can lend if you don’t), pen/pencil and notepaper.  A map case or sealed plastic A4 insert sleeve to store your map in during use (we have spares otherwise).  You will also require everything you would normally need for a day in the bush, such as suitable clothing, sock protectors / gaiters (some spear grass may be present), hat, sunscreen, torch, small personal first aid kit capable of treating snakebite and at least three litres of water per person.  You will also need to supply your own lunch and snacks for the day.

$50 per person, payable in cash on the day.  Many courses in other cities are up to five times this price for the same level of training.  This includes all instruction plus a colour map and certificate for each person.  You will also be given a comprehensive set of notes from the course and a map reading guide produced by Sunmap, which includes a romer (map reading tool).  If you do not have a compass you may borrow one for the day.