Summer Camp Staff Manual - Counselling

Job Descriptions

JOBS are identified on specific pages.  These are not descriptions of persons, but positions. In addition to your specific job, you are a part of the team developed to accomplish this camp’s ministry.  When you see any unanticipated problem, or can meet an immediate need your assistance is always appreciated.

"Work hard and cheerfully at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people."   Colossians 3:23 (NLT) 

Introduction

Basics for all staff are included in this section.  In addition, you will find later in this text a page, which defines your specific job.  You are expected to fulfil all these tasks.  Your page may contain details pertaining only to your job.  The principles in this introduction apply to each of you in addition to your own position.
The North NSW Conference Executive Committee invests final responsibility for the operation of the camp.  Final in-camp authority for the Summer Camp rests with the Camp Director or other individual as announced.
Basic qualities apply to each Staffer.  All are evaluated by these foundational qualifications.  Specific requirements for individual jobs build upon these and include them.

  1. Personal relationship with God through having received the Lord Jesus as a personal Saviour.
  2. Loyalty to the beliefs, standards and purposes of the camp.
  3. Acceptance of the distinctive purposes and approaches of Christ-centred camping.
  4. Agreement with the unique emphasis and policies of the camp and its appointed leaders.
  5. Familiarity with the facilities and printed materials of the camp.
  6. Love for persons and concern to minister to them in the name and spirit of Christ.
  7. A willingness to work with others in a spirit of mutual ministry to achieve common goals.

General responsibility of each staff person is to accomplish the camp’s objectives.  You are to provide for each camper, the maximum opportunity to accept Christ as his Saviour and to grow in Him into a Christ-centred maturity.  Every facility, activity and program is to be used for this task.

"We tell everyone about Christ … teaching them with all the wisdom God has given us, for we want to present them to God perfect in their relationship to Christ.  I work very hard at this…" Colossians 1:28-29 (NLT)

CONSIDERATIONS the camp provides are a combination of the worth of your duties and the availability of the resources.

  1. Room and board for the full session.
  2. Health and accident insurance supplemental to your own personal insurance (Medicare and/or Private Health Insurance)
  3. All tools, equipment and supplies necessary to your job.
  4. Training needed to effectively carry out your ministry at camp.

A Summary

Director

  • General overseeing of the camp
  • Spiritual Leadership of staff
  • Serve all leaders in their specific areas

Program Director

  • Details of program
  • Morning Program
  • Evening program
  • Sabbath School

Activities Director

  • Responsible for staffing all activities.
  • Having all equipment ready for activities time.
  • Be responsible for the repair and storage of all equipment

Pastor

  • Morning Programs (10 minutes).
  • Devotionals for units
  • Worship at evening programs.
  • Support activities
  • Church Service
  • Camp counselling
  • Mix and mingle with campers

Music Director

  • Singing at evening and morning program.
  • Assist in activities.
  • Responsible for special items.
  • Serve music team members

Boys' Director

  • Responsible for introducing campers to Counsellors.
  • Rising and Taps (check in all rooms at taps).and        
  • Call to line

Girls' Director

  • Reports to Camp Council.
  • Attend Staff worships.
  • Allocation of rooms.
  • Assign duties at meal times.
  • Responsible for running camp timetable    

Nurse

  • Be on standby in case of emergency.
  • Care of sick in sick bay.
  • Report to Director if emergency.

Office Secretary

  • Responsible for Registration.
  • Collection of fees.
  • Supervise office
  • Maintain Camp Records (staff & campers).
  • Monitor phone calls.

Buyer

  • Keep account of all income & expenditure daily.
  • Check buying requirement with Camp Director.
  • Use & maintain vehicle wisely.

Ranger

  • Responsible for hygiene and cleaning in all facilities.
  • Where possible, assist in activities.
  • Maintain and repair facilities as needed.

Drama Producer

  • Supervise and direct drama program.
  • Supervise and schedule rehearsal sessions.
  • Produce the evening drama.
  • Serve Drama Team

Catering

  • Responsible for the total food service operation, preparation, food quality, purchasing, and budgeting.
  • Supervise preparation and serving of food.
  • Train and supervise all assistants in kitchen.
  • Provide food for all meals on time

Catering Assistant

  • Catering Manager in preparation and serving of food.
  • Keep assigned work area clean and tidy.

Lifeguards

  • Oversee total beach program.  Supervise beach staff that they operate their program in a safe manner.
  • Perform search, rescue and first aid as required.

Camp Director/s

THE RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE SUMMER CAMP DIRECTOR ARE TO:

 

  1. Assume final responsibility to Conference President for over-all administration of all camp operations.
  2. Assume final responsibility to Conference Treasurer for over-all administration of camp finances.
  3. Establish all camp staff job descriptions.  Supervise all camp staff in harmony with these job descriptions.
  4. Make final decisions on all questions concerning camp policy, camper and/or staff selections, camper and/or staff supervision and/or discipline, camp programming and services, facility improvements, maintenance tasks, purchasing and any other matter relating to camp operation.  Seek counsel as needed in the making of decisions.
  5. Plan and co-ordinate spiritual leadership of staff. Take primary lead in presentation of staff worships.
  6. Serve as Counsellor in all camp staff matters, as needed.
  7. Rotate as needed through all camp activities in order to be aware of the general "pulse" of camp atmosphere and the degree of implementation of all camp policies and principles. Serve as a primary catalyst for camp atmosphere and "spirit".
  8. Participate frequently in evening programs and other general meeting functions in order to maintain leadership identity with campers.
  9. Effect a personal ministry with camp staff as opportunities permit.
  10. Lead camp staff in continual elevations of personal performance, over-all camp administration, and camp programming in order to affect a continuing "forward thrust" of camp services and facility development.
  11. 1Administer a continuing programme of public relations with the Conference Administration and workers specifically, the Union constituency at large, Yarrahapinni area and community Park officials.
  12. 1Develop and administer camper follow-up procedures. 

Program Director

THE RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE PROGRAMME DIRECTOR ARE TO:

  1. Co-ordinate morning program and evening programmes
  2. Be responsible for producing evening programme including music and drama segments.
  3. Be responsible for producing morning programme including music and drama segments.
  4. Organise the Sabbath morning program
  5. Roster staff for morning staff worships
  6. Evaluate sessions with programme staff and report same to camp Director during staff meetings.
  7. Prepare copies of all camp programmes for camp Director and staff.
  8. Distribute same to staff involved, in sufficient time prior to the programme to ensure adequate preparation.
  9. Arrange or purchase special authorised programming needs prior to the event.
  10. Assist Camp Director with staff meetings.
  11. 1Supervise care and storage of all camp programme supplies and equipment.
  12. 1Assist Camp Director in assigning Counsellors to respective units.

Activities Director

THE RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE ACTIVITIES DIRECTOR ARE TO:

  1. Establish operational objectives with each camp activity leader.  (Camp Director will review objectives with Activities and Programme Directors to implementation and final programme preparation).
  2. Evaluate daily how the activities are running and report to Director at staff meeting.
  3. Prepare copies of all staff activity rosters for Director and staff and distribute these to staff in sufficient time prior to the activity to ensure adequate preparation.
  4. Arrange or purchase all authorised equipment for activities prior to the event.
  5. Rotate frequently through camp activities - assist activities staff where needed.
  6. Arrange with Camp Ranger for any special equipment or maintenance.
  7. Assist Camp Director with staff meetings.
  8. Supervise care and storage of all camp activity equipment and supplies.
  9. Coordinate cleanup and packing away of all equipment at the end of camp.

Girls & Boys Directors

THE RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE GIRLS/BOYS DIRECTORS ARE TO:

A) To the Counsellors and their units:

  1. Introduce Counsellors to their campers.
  2. Be available to Counsellors for guidance.  While you can arrange to counsel with campers, be aware that the Counsellor is the direct carer for the camper - work through the Counsellor as much as possible.
  3. Participate with campers and Counsellors in camp activities as much as possible.
  4. Structure opportunities for ministry to units on a personal basis through the day; i.e., morning worship, meal times, rest periods, evening worships, etc.
  5. Guide all Counsellors in relation to camp policies, principles, and worship attendance.  Deal with problems on an individual basis.  Inform Camp Director of major concerns.
  6. Supervise allocated duties
  7. Supervise cleanup at the end of camp

B) Regarding general running of Camp Programme:

  1. Supervise Dining Room.  Act as host and hostess; units should sit at same table each day.
  2. Supervise cabin inspection procedures.
  3. Organise the special tea for Thursday Night

Camp Pastor

RESPONSIBLE TO:  GOD AND THE CAMP DIRECTOR

ROLE:

  1. CREATING SPIRITUAL EXPERIENCE
    a. Involvement with worship team, Program Director and Camp Director in creating meaningful and memorable worship experiences
    b. Speak at morning program, church and evening programs.  (Relate talk to play at Junior and Teen camps).
    c. Take evening cabin worships as invited
    d. Be available for counselling camp staff.
    e. Be available to assist with worships or devotions or stories in individual cabins as requested by counsellors.
    f. Pray with Campers.

  2. NURTURING
    a. Get to know campers and staff as friends through participating with them in activities
    b. Listen to, encourage, and provide counselling as needed.
    c. Communicate with Girls and boys Directors as necessary.
    d. The Camp Pastor should make it a point to become well acquainted with as many campers as time will permit, in order to ascertain the needs and problems of campers. The Pastor can thus encourage the individual camper in spiritual lines by being available for counselling at all times. This can be done by closely associating with the campers in all activities.

  3. FOLLOW-UP
    a. The Camp Pastor will facilitate decision making of young people for Christ through appeals and calls as are appropriate. This may include a call for recommitment, Bible Study, baptism and/or taking my chances on my own
    b. Coordinate with camp directors a follow up for campers.
    c. Make a note of any specific decisions or conversions that should be brought to the attention of a fellow Pastor, and leave these with the secretary before leaving.

  4. HAVE FUN – CONTINUE TO PRAY FOR US!
    a. The spiritual tone of the camp is set by the Camp Pastor. He/she has the opportunity to influence, for eternity, the lives of many children. Much prayer and study is essential.

Beach Co-ordinator

RESPONSIBLE TO:  SUMMER CAMP DIRECTOR, ACTIVITIES DIRECTOR, AND CAMP DIRECTORS

GENERAL RESPONSIBILITIES:

  1. Oversee total waterfront program.  Supervise waterfront staff and see that they operate their program in a safe manner.

SPECIFIC TASKS:

  1. Teach classes as assigned.
  2. Assist in specific programs as needed.
  3. Direct special activities at waterfront.
  4. Assign equipment to each waterfront activity.
  5. Keep Camp Director informed of any needs for new equipment.
  6. Keep all equipment in good, safe working condition.
  7. Be responsible for the neat, clean appearance of grounds and rest rooms in the immediate area of the waterfront.
  8. Assign jobs to any staff that come to participate as needed.
  9. Inventory waterfront equipment at beginning and end of camping season.  Inventories must be turned in to office to complete checkout.

"So Peter got out of the boat and walked on the water and came to Jesus; but when he saw the wind, he was afraid, and beginning to sink, he cried out, ‘Lord, save me.’ Jesus immediately reached out His hand and caught him." Matthew 14:29-31 (RSV)

Camp Ranger

RESPONSIBLE TO:  SUMMER CAMP DIRECTOR

SPECIFIC TASKS:

  1. Keep the grounds and facilities in good and safe condition.
  2. Make periodic inspection of all camp facilities.
  3. Clean and maintain shop and equipment.
  4. Make repairs to buildings and equipment as needed.
  5. Check the activities of outside repairmen or construction people when needed.
  6. Plan a regular routine of daily checking and servicing of all rest rooms.
  7. Instruct Counsellors on how to clean rest rooms and make sure all necessary tools, supplies, and equipment are readily available.
  8. Order all necessary fuel and keep record of how much is used.
  9. Work out and supervise regular maintenance of all camp vehicles.
  10. Assemble and maintain blue prints or charts showing location of all utilities and sanitation lines and cut-off points.
  11. 1See that all food storage areas are free from rodents and vermin.

Music Director

THE RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE CAMP MUSIC DIRECTOR ARE TO:

  1. Rehearse with appropriate staff for staff music productions.
  2. Audition campers’ items for evening programmes.
  3. Arrange in consultation with Camp Programme Director, leading of all evening group singing.
  4. Arrange in consultation with Camp Programme Director, leading of singing and special music for morning programs.
  5. Assist with staff and/or camper preparations of musical specials, secular and sacred.  Be available as a resource person to encourage the formation of musical numbers and assist with practising, if needed.
  6. Be available if needed, to assist in supervising activities during activity periods.
  7. Be available to Counsellors for individual music with cabin units (free time periods, morning or evening worships, etc.).
  8. Be available if needed, in consultation with Camp Programme Director, or preparation of special recorded music needed for evening programmes.
  9. Serve as member of Camp Advisory Council.

Drama Director

RESPONSIBLE TO:  PROGRAM MANAGER, SUMMER CAMP
DIRECTOR, EXECUTIVE STAFF

GENERAL RESPONSIBILITIES:

  1. Supervise and direct Drama program.

SPECIFIC TASKS:

  1. Train and assign all assistants.
  2. Assist in video production.
  3. Produce the evening drama.
  4. Work with Executive Staff to co-ordinate evening program.
  5. Keep all equipment in good condition.
  6. Design set for evening drama with drama team.
  7. Inventory Drama equipment and supplies at beginning and end of camping season.  Inventories must be turned in to office to complete checkout.
  8. Supervise and schedule rehearsal sessions
  9. Choose costumes for Drama with drama team
  10. Assist in making sure drama team fulfils other camp duties

Office Secretary

RESPONSIBLE TO:  SUMMER CAMP DIRECTOR, PROGRAM DIRECTOR, AND ACTIVITIES DIRECTOR.

GENERAL RESPONSIBILITIES:

  1. 1 Secretarial work as indicated by the Summer Camp Director.
  2. 2 Supervise the operations of all activities of the office.

SPECIFIC TASKS:

  1. Type and duplicate records, forms and instructional materials for the various camp departments.
  2. Answer phone calls and deliver messages.
  3. Receive the mail and be responsible for distribution.
  4. Monitor the camp daily schedule.
  5. Receive all offerings taken on Sabbath.  Sabbath School offerings are to be sent to the Conference Office.
  6. Inventory office supplies at beginning and end of camping season.
  7. Prepare deposit of income.
  8. Make, or arrange to be made, weekly camp deposits in harmony with Conference Treasury procedures, and required receipting.
  9. Cash out all petty cash monies.  Report any discrepancies to Summer Camp Director.
  10. Develop, in council with Summer Camp Director, pre-registration process providing rapid service to incoming camp registrants, giving special attention to quick processing of all prepaid campers.
  11. 1Advise Summer Camp Director by Friday afternoon of each week, numbers of boys and girls to be registered the following Sunday, and numbers, if any of individuals on standby lists.
  12. 1Be prepared to begin extended camper registration promptly at 1:00 pm Mondays.
  13. 1Prepare and maintain staff activity and accommodation lists for each camp.
  14. 1Ensure completion and maintenance of staff records and child protection forms.
  15. 1Check with Camp Nurse and Girls and Boys Directors at the conclusion of registration to be sure all registered campers have a medical form on file, with properly signed release by parent or legal guardian.
  16. 1At all times, treat incoming campers and adults in the registration process with kindness and courtesy.  Instruct all registration personnel to do likewise.
  17. 1Advise Summer Camp Director immediately of any difficulties in accounting or registration procedures.
  18. 1Process all routine office secretarial tasks as needed by camp Administrative Staff.
  19. 1Receipt all income for guest meals.
  20. 20. Clear any non-routine secretarial assignments by any camp personnel with Summer Camp Director.
  21. 2Leave in Summer Camp Directors box, copies of all typed or printed materials relating to Summer Camps.
  22. 2Keep supply cupboards and storage areas orderly, with supplies identified for easy reference.
  23. 2Keep files on all camp activities, campers and personnel, as requested by Summer Camp Director.
  24. 2Monitor the use of the camp telephone – supply change as required
  25. 2Supply staff change for washing machine and drier and keep record for Camp Ranger (staff buy own laundry powder).
  26. 2Monitor use or camp radios, maintain base contact and keep schedule of whereabouts of other radios.

Nurse

RESPONSIBLE TO: SUMMER CAMP DIRECTOR

GENERAL RESPONSIBLITIES:

The overall role of the Camp Nurse involves supervising health procedures, administering medications, First Aid and treatments.  Understand the purpose of Summer Camp (i.e. lead children and youth to Christ).

The Camp Nurse supervises the health care of all campers and staff and provides education in wellness and healthy habits.  The Nurse must be available for seeing campers and staff in the Treatment Room but is not limited to this facility.  The Nurse makes decisions regarding accidents or medical incidents in consultation with the Camp Director.  They maintain the medical records of campers and staff members; administer medications under the direction of campers’ parents; supervise the camp clinic and may need to liaise with parents regarding the health of their child.  Must be a Registered Nurse in the State of NSW, current certification in First Aid and CPR desirable; primary health care, paediatric, ER and/or experience in camp setting helpful.  Need to possess basic knowledge of: pathophysiology of asthma, medications utilised in the treatment of asthma, allergens & allergic responses.

SPECIFIC TASKS:

  1. Commit to a full week of camp on call 24 hours per day.
  2. Attend Staff Camp.
  3. Assist in preparing Treatment Room and equipment during orientation.
  4. Conduct first Aid in-service training for staff during Staff Camp including prevention of accidents, illnesses and hygiene.
  5. Ascertain the medical status/special needs of all campers and staff, including any allergies and/or medications required.  This may require discussion with parents/Counsellors prior, during or at close of camp.
  6. Attend to First Aid requirements and other ailments as presented by campers and staff.
  7. Manage the Treatment Room, including the maintenance, operation and security of the clinical supplies cupboard.
  8. Ensure clinical supplies cupboard and First Aid kits are stocked with the necessary drugs/equipment by stock taking and reporting deficiencies to the Camp Director/Buyer for purchasing.
  9. Liaise with NSW paramedics re:  stocktaking/supplies.
  10. Administer medications to children as requested by their parents and as per staff health observations.
  11. 1Inform Summer Camp Director or Boys’/Girls’ Directors of any pertinent health information on campers whilst maintaining client confidentiality.
  12. 1Maintain accurate and complete health records including health screening (if undertaken), health histories, record of accidents, and First Aid medical treatment of everyone at camp – complete Incident Report where necessary.
  13. 1Provide relevant information to parents if they call.
  14. 1Provide nurturing for campers who are lonely, homesick, etc.
  15. 1Assist in formal and informal education during the week and attend medical staff meetings as scheduled by Camp Director.
  16. 1Transport ill/injured campers to hospital as directed by Camp Director.
  17. 1During check out, review with parents or carers, their child’s medical questions/concerns.
  18. 1At close of camp, inventory all treatment room and First Aid supplies, prepare list of needed supplies and make recommendations for future changes and improvements.
  19. 1Orientate Assistant Nurse where available.

CONFIDENTIALITY:  If at any time I become aware of any incident or concern, which affect Yarrahapinni Summer Camps, its families or team members, I shall not discuss it with any person other than the Camp Director or person designated.

Assistant Nurse

RESPONSIBLE TO:  CAMP NURSE, SUMMER CAMP DIRECTOR

The Assistant Nurse should preferably be a Registered Nurse.
Experience with children and camping desirable.

GENERAL RESPONSIBLITIES:

  1. Work under the supervision of the Camp Nurse to help provide health care and education for campers and staff and safety monitoring.
  2. Assist in the provision of care in the camp clinic and in providing TLC to the campers and staff.
  3. Sign Confidentiality pledge.

CONFIDENTIALITY:  If at any time I become aware of any incident or concern, which affect Yarrahapinni Summer Camps, its families or team members, I shall not discuss it with any person other than the Camp Director or person designated.

Catering Manager

RESPONSIBLE TO:  SUMMER CAMPS DIRECTOR

GENERAL RESPONSIBILITIES:

  1. Responsible for the total food service operation – kitchen hygiene, meal preparation, food quality, purchasing, and budgeting.
  2. Responsible for menu planning so that nutritious, palatable food, consistent with denominational standards, is served.

TASKS:

  1. For all youth camping the following schedule is observed for the serving of meals:
  2. All equipment, work and storage areas should be kept clean and orderly at all times.
  3. Supervise preparation and serving of all food.
  4. Train and supervise all assistants in kitchen.
  5. Check with Camp Secretary and/or Camp Nurse for needs of campers with allergies.
  6. Maintain adequate supplies.  Order far enough in advance to avoid running out of any particular item.
  7. Report any equipment malfunction immediately to the Camp Ranger.

"I am the bread of life:  he who comes to Me shall not hunger, and he who believes in Me shall never thirst." John 6:35  RSV

Catering Assistant

RESPONSIBLE TO:  CATERING MANAGER, SUMMER CAMP DIRECTOR

SPECIFIC TASKS:

  1. Assist Catering Manager in preparation and serving of food.
  2. Keep assigned work area clean and orderly.
  3. Receive schedule and assigned duties from Catering Manager, which will include:
    a. Put away orders
    b. Dining room - sweep and mop floors
    c. Clean floors in kitchen and dish room
    d. Periodically clean out dishwasher
    e. Periodically clean out storeroom
  4. Assist Dish Room Supervisor in running dish washing machine as needed.
  5. Assign campers’ pot cleaning duties each mealtime.
  6. Keep all equipment in good condition.

Boat Drivers

GUIDELINES FOR BOAT DRIVERS FOR SUMMER CAMPS
The purpose of the following document is to act as a guide for all who drive boats at Yarrahapinni summer Camps whether it be their own boat or the boat owned by the NNSW Youth Department.  All drivers must adhere to the guidelines outlined below to ensure the safety of everyone involved in activities on the water at the time.

FLOW CHART OF RESPONSIBILITY
Camp Director
Senior Boat Driver
Boat Drivers
Observers

RESPONSIBILITIES:
Camp Director
It is the Camp Director’s ultimate responsibility to ensure that all safety measures are adhered to when people are involved with boating activities.  The Camp Director will/can determine if a person is suitable to undertake the responsibility of driving a boat for the water activities offered at the time.  The Camp Director will remove that person from the position if he/she feels that the driver is not complying with the safety regulations outlined in this document.

Senior Boat Driver
It is the responsibility of the Senior Boat Driver to ensure that procedures which promote the safety of all people involved in water activities are carried out.  It is his/her duty to ensure that all drivers are aware of all procedures and that they carry out all activities in a safe and efficient manner.  The Senior Boat Driver should also notify the Camp Director of any equipment or boat damage or any injury to participants as a result of activities undertaken.

Boat Drivers
It is the responsibility of each Boat Driver to firstly obey all NSW Waterways regulations and also to follow the procedures outlined by the NNSW Youth Department.  The Senior Boat Driver will ensure that all drivers are aware of the procedures and regulations involved with the activities and should there arise a question concerning these issues the first port of call should be with this person.  Safety of the participating people in and around the activities is the foremost obligation of all drivers, and drivers must ensure that they are clean on the expectations required of them.  All boats must be registered and insured.

Boat Observers
Must be over the legal age (16 years) and can be relied on to do the duties required by the Boat Driver.

  1. Responsible to throw ski rope to waiting skier and retrieve it at the completion of their ski.
  2. Carefully watch the skier at all times and report any signal and signs that the skier may be conveying to the boat driver.
  3. Indicate to the driver if the person has fallen off or releases the ski rope.
  4. Assist in collecting skis/wakeboard etc. out of the water if required.
  5. Assist the driver in any way to ensure that all passengers and riders have a safe and fun ride.

PROCEDURES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Drivers for the morning shift should:

  1. Assist in getting all boats to the lagoon at Stuart’s Point and placed in water.
  2. Ensure that all activity equipment is carried over to the appropriate places from where the activities will be conducted.
  3. Be at the pick-up point near the boat ramp as soon as the bus arrives with the kids for the first activity.
  4. Transport and return the kids in a safe manner to the place where the activities will take place.

Afternoon Drivers should:

  1. Assist in transporting all passengers and equipment back to the boat ramp.
  2. Help in loading and transporting the boats back to the campground.
  3. Ensure that all boats and equipment have been thoroughly washed and cleaned ready for use for the next day.
  4. Repair or notify the senior driver of any damage to the boats or equipment.


All Drivers should:

  1. Hold a licence with the NSW Waterways.
  2. Follow all regulations issued by the NSW Waterways.
  3. Drive in an anti-clockwise direction from the take-off point.
  4. Ensure that no swimmers are in the path of the boats at any time, and instruct the beach staff to assist you if you feel this is not being adhered to.
  5. Drive at a speed that is appropriate for the conditions and the ability of the skier.
  6. Drop the skier off at the designated point and immediately have your observer pull the rope in as you manoeuvre in line for the next skier.  You should not have to beach your boat unless you are changing observers or passengers as it only takes up valuable time that is needed to ensure that all kids have maximum exposure to the activities.
  7. Watch out for skiers in the water that can be obscured by rolling waves, created by boats at the pick-up point.
  8. Drive to the pick-up point where the beach staff will have a skier waiting for you in the water ready to go, where you pick them up and start the procedure again. Remember, better to be a little too slow than a little too fast!
  9. Select an observer who is over the legal age (16 years) and one who you can rely on to do the duties that they are required to do.  Explain what you require of them, as they should not be there just to gain a suntan (see Observers Duties).
  10. Be very watchful of what lies ahead of you at all times, especially when towing learners as it is easy to watch the skier and not where you are going.
  11. 1Be aware of people getting into your boat when the motor is running.
  12. 1Allow no skier or person to ride on any water toy without a life jacket and under no circumstance is there to be any variance from this.
  13. 1Do not carry more than the specified number of passengers for your boat except when ferrying passengers to and from the bus to the activities area.  It is recommended the people be seated while travelling in transit.

Between Activities Drivers:

  1. Are permitted to tow camp staff if time permits.
  2. If they are driving their own boats they may have a licensed driver of their choice drive for them if they wish to have a ski, etc.  However, only approved drivers by the Camp Director are permitted to drive the Youth Department’s boat and there is to be no variation to this guideline.
  3. Should be back at the pick-up point in time to meet the new arrivals to start the next session of activities.

Whilst Driving for the Tube:

  1. Have the length of rope from the rear of the boat to the tube no greater than 50 feet in length.  This will ensure that you have better control of the tube and the people in it.
  2. Remember the laws of physics; the faster you travel in to a corner, momentum will ensure that the tube will travel faster than you are going.  Also the heavier your passengers, the faster they will travel in tight whips.
  3. The aim for the passengers is to have fun whilst remaining in the tube, i.e., not being purposely thrown out.  The only injuries that have occurred with this activity have been due to careless boat driving, with people travelling too fast and being thrown out the tube.
  4. Make sure that you take the tube riders right away from all other boats and sailing vessels and keep focussed on where you are going.  Rely on the observer for details as to how your passengers are fairing.
  5. Whilst returning to the shore have the tube stay behind the boat and travel at a slower speed to ensure you have full control of the tube.  Remember that the passengers cannot steer the tube so you are totally responsible as to the direction it takes.
  6. Do not attempt to land the tube and it’s passengers onto the shore.  People only get injured when drivers feel they have the ability to do so.  There are too many variables that constantly change for this to be done safely 100% of the time.  Slow the boat to a stop, bring the tube close to the shore and have the passengers swim to the beach where the staff will gather the tube and load for the next run.
  7. Remember your riders are 50 feet away and will still continue to travel in an arc even if you need to come to a sudden halt.
  8. All riders are to wear helmets.

Drivers of the Youth Department’s Boat should:

  1. Only drive with distinct permission of the Youth or Assistant Youth Director.
  2. Take extra care with this boat as it is not yours, and you are being entrusted to make sure you return it in the same condition as you received it.
  3. Make sure before starting the boat that all connections and bungs are in place, particularly the hose leading to the water pump.  Do not start the engine without first checking these details.
  4. Be especially careful of picking up and dropping off passengers near the boat ramp, as it can be very shallow at low tide.  There are channels for which it is safe to motor in and if unsure ask before proceeding.  Proceed with extreme caution in this area; a few extra seconds taking in caution could save the Youth Department hundreds of dollars and you the embarrassment of being asked not to drive the boat again.
  5. Be cautious when driving at idle speeds back into your own wash when picking up a skier.  Water can easily enter the boat over both the bow and the stern if you stop too suddenly after travelling at high speed.
  6. Not start the boat until the boat is clearly afloat from the bank as it can easily suck sand into the water pump and cause damage.
  7. When cleaning the boat, be extra thorough when washing the motor out, as it has to last the allotted time and does a lot of hard work in salt water.
  8. Ensure when flushing the motor out at the end of the day, that the water is running before starting the motor and check that the gearbox is in neutral.  At completion of flushing the motor, reconnect the hose back onto the water pump.

First Aid:

  1. A First Aid kit should be located on the beach, and First Aid should be administered to any minor injury.
  2. In the event of a serious injury that requires further medical attention, take the injured person directly to the boat ramp with a person who is able to drive them to the nearest medical centre – located at Dr Graham Mayze, 8 First Avenue, Stuart’s Point (Mon & Thurs), otherwise Macksville Hospital, Boundary Street, Macksville.
  3. Suggest that you first call Dr Mayze (Phone 6569 0678), or Macksville (Phone:  6568 1366) or dial 000 for Ambulance, Police and Fire.  If ringing 000 be sure to specify that the location is the Ecology Centre of nearest cross streets at the water.
  4. Contact the Camp Director, Camp Nurse and Senior Boat Driver immediately and notify of situation and action taken.  Camp Office number is 6569 0428 or 6569 0708 (Foyer).  We are also trialling a UHF two-way radio system – details will be given to activities leaders.
  5. Complete incident report form straight away and ask witnesses to write up a report also.  (Forms at the Camp Office).

Induction of New Boat Drivers/Owners
Upon arrival to Yarrahapinni the senior boat driver at the time or the Camp Director will assist new boating staff in ensuring that they are familiar with the equipment and layout of the area.

The following steps will occur:

  1. A tour of where the boats/equipment will be kept.
  2. Where the fuel is stored and how to access this.
  3. Explanation of the water activities program will be given and some of the details will be covered in this document.
  4. Upon the first visit to the water a tour of where the boats are to go for the activities, where certain channels lie and further explanation of what goes where, etc.
  5. For those who may at times be required to drive the Youth Department’s boat a run down of how it operates, what to watch out for, and cleaning procedures.

Archery Instructor

RESPONSIBLE TO:  ACTIVITIES DIRECTOR

SAFETY

Archery must always be properly organised with a competent person in charge (the Field Captain).  The following rules must be strictly observed:

  1. Loose clothing or anything on the clothing that might catch the bowstring should not be worn or should be held back by a bracer and/or chest guard.  Long hair should be tied back and scarves removed.  Long dangling earrings should also be removed.
  2. Participants must stay behind the Waiting Line until asked to come forward to the Shooting Line.  Nothing must be touched until told to do so.
  3. SHORT BLASTS OF THE WHISTLE MUST BE OBEYED.
    1 blast from whistle - Get Ready
    2 blasts from whistle - Fire
  4. A bow (even without an arrow on the string) must only be drawn when standing with one foot either side of the Shooting Line once permission has been given and only then in the direction of the target.  Bows should not be "dry shot" i.e. without an arrow, as this damages the bow.
  5. All participants must know to stop ALL archery when anyone calls "STOP" and blows 3 SHORT BLASTS from a whistle.  In particular participants must be able to "come down" (relax bowstring tension without letting go of the string and loosing the arrow).
  6. If a person or animal moves towards or whilst shooting is in progress, all shooting MUST STOP.
  7. An arrow must never be shot upwards into the air.
  8. No person is to move forward in front of the shooting line until everyone has finished shooting and permission is given by the instructor (Field Captain).
  9. No-one should run to the target (or anywhere else in the archery area).  Participants must walk to the side of the targets watching the ground for arrows that have fallen short.  Arrows should be removed from the ground before removing those in the target.  Nobody should stand behind anyone drawing arrows from the target.

Mt Biking Supervisor

RESPONSIBLE TO:  ACTIVITIES DIRECTOR

Please note the following guidelines:

For the safety of Campers:

  1. All downhill rides are to be supervised.
  2. Ensure there is an allocated seat for each rider in the tow vehicle.
  3. All mountain bikers must wear a helmet, shoes and other protective wear as appropriate.
  4. Ride within their own capability.
  5. Don’t follow another mountain biker too close.
  6. Ride for enjoyment, not pain.

ASSESS ALL RIDERS’ SKILL LEVEL BEFORE ENGAGING IN ANY DOWN-HILL RIDING.

For Equipment:

  1. All bikes must be checked for any mechanical defect before any session of down-hill riding commences.
  2. Any bike that has any mechanical defect should not be used.
  3. Ensure the tyres are inflated correctly to suite the type of riding.
  4. All bikes are to be secured to the trailer with the use of tie down straps.
  5. First Aid kit to be carried in tow vehicle.
  6. It is the responsibility of the two vehicle driver to ensure the trailer is secured to the tow vehicle and all lights work.

Most importantly – have FUN.

Video Team

The overall role of the video team is to assist in providing "content" for the evening program and camp council. This "content" is broken up into two specific areas.

  1. Capturing the memory of Summer Camp.
  2. Providing video clips to use in the program.

SPECIFIC TASKS

  1. Capturing the Memory of Summer Camp
    • It is important to have people dedicated to collecting footage. Often events are missed because a camera person is off doing something else. If you are designated a camp camera person, you've got to "live and breath" filming.
    • Make sure that a variety of events at camp are filmed.
    • Don't concentrate on just the popular kids. Make sure a variety of kids are filmed (if not most)
    • Be creative in your filming. Remember videoing, just like photography is an art.
    • Each night, a highlight video of the day’s activity is to be shown. This needs to be around 5 minutes in length.  Choose music that suits your footage, and ties in loosely with the theme of the camp.
    • Remember you have special skills that can make camp special for the kids. Be a servant, willing to do all you can to capture the memories of Summer Camp.
  2. Providing Video Clips to use in the Program
    • It is important to liaise with the program coordinator to see what requirements are needed for the night programs. Are there any promotional clips to be made, does the night show team want video support in the night show, does the drama team need video support, does the drama team want the whole drama captured on video etc etc.
    • Delegate your team and resources according to the requirements of the night program.
    • At minimum have a camera person and/or editor for each clip to be made.
    • Remember video filming and editing take TIME. Before you know it, you will have run out of time and won't be able to show the video clip that you have been working on.

GENERAL TASKS

  • Label each clip before you "print" it back to tape with the name of the clip. Put a slate of 5 seconds of black screen either side of the clip.
  • Provide a time code tag for where the clip starts on the tape for the night producer
  • Backup the clips by recording them to a master tape that will be kept in the video editing rooms
  • Provide the CD team with a Hard Disk copy of your clip so it can be compressed for the Camp CD. (If working in Final Cut Pro save it as a self contained FCP movie).
  • Make sure the CD team get the clips on a daily basis.  They need all the time they can get to compress the movies.
  • Send all clips no later that 30 min before the program starts in the hall.  7:00pm will be the deadline for a 7:30pm start. It's not fair to have the program producers rushing around at the last minute because you didn't get your videos to them on time.
  • Make sure you take time out. Video editing is intense.  Pace yourself by taking frequent time out so you don't lose your creative edge.
  • Remember you have a special gift. That doesn't mean you are better than anyone, it means you work harder in making camp extra special for the kids that come to Summer Camps.