Flying Fox (Specialised Activity)

LOCATION - On site at the camp the flying fox is situated below the equipment shed at the
top end of the property.

DESCRIPTION - In this activity each student will be harnessed up to a “pulley and strop”
system where they will be able to fly freely down a cable of 130 meters from top to bottom. A
rolling platform is to be used to assist with the dismount at the completion of the ride at the
bottom of the mountain.

AGE SUITABILITY – In this activity all age groups are accepted. Provided each participant
can fit correctly into a body harness.

RATIOS - The ratios and qualifications for this activity have been taken from the Education
Department Challenge Ropes Course guidelines and the AAS for Challenge Ropes Courses.
The supervision strategy will vary depending on the type of venue and relevant conditions as
well as the group completing the activity. School groups will need to comply with the
Education Department ratios.

ACTIVITY STAFFING

Flying fox guidelines

Organisations Staff required Participate numbers

Vic education 2 1-12

department

3 13-18

REQUIRED EXPERIENCE – The instructor should be aware of relevant safety factors as

outlined in the flying fox SOP and activity safety guideline. They should also be trained in
correct fitting and use of the harness, helmet and equipment.

ASSISTANT REQUIRED EXPERIENCE - All assistants running this activity must be trained
and signed off on the flying fox rules and dismount safety procedures. This leader is also
responsible for all supervision including behavior and safety of the campers at the activity.

PARTICIPANT REQUIRED EXPERIENCE- No experience is required.

ACTIVITY PROCEDURE

Gather group in a central location and complete a group safety briefing (refer below)

Activity instructions:

1. Explain the purpose of the bike return system, how to use the system and tell students
all participants will need to return to the start of the ride bringing with them their harness.

2. All students watching or waiting must be behind the safety barrier

3. One person at a time will be fitted with a full body harness and helmet (refer to fitting
guides). During this all students will remain seated

4. Check harness on all students for proper fittings.

5. Connect the first participant to the flying fox cable. Be sure to connect the second back-
up safety strop. The Strop height will then be adjusted to remove any slack.

6. Ensure that the landing zone is clear.

7. Confirm the dismounting area is ready before takeoff.

8. Once the first participant has been disconnected from the fox and the dismount area
has indicated they are ready by blowing the whistle, one the bike can be peddled to return
the strop to the top of the ride.

9. Ensure the bike pedal speed is slowed as it reaches the top of the fox to avoid damage
to equipment and people.

NOTE - NEVER attach another participant to the Flying fox cable until the current
participant has COMPLETED the Flying Fox and is safely released.

Activity safety CYC – Adanac

1. The Adanac instructor must check both the harness and helmet before clipping
the participant on to the flying fox cable.

2. Solid footwear must be worn with no loose clothes or jewelry. Hair must be tied
back

3. One person on the flying fox at a time.

4. Before each participant is released, the operators must use flags to indicate the
area is clear of obstacles

5. Participants must always be seated upright

6. The bike should not be used until instructor gives all clear

7. under no circumstance is the flying fox to be used after dark or without

supervision.

Activity Pack up- To prevent misuse, equipment should be returned to the Program office
between sessions.
Flying fox risk management:

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