It is done as part of any Expedition. Participants will be given equipment such as "parang", tent sheet (tarpauline), karrimat, waterbottle, cooking pot, rucksack to name a few. They have to share the duties of making the shelter, cooking and collecting firewood.

Selecting a good campsite is an essential part of the exercise here. Participants are advised not to erect any campsite in a farm, near a river, on a hill slope and of course on a tree. A few aspects that should be looked into are such matters as the area, availability of water, threat from the strong wind and lightning, and fallen dead branches.

Aims:

• to provide an opportunity to become more self-reliant, efficient and proficient in wilderness living.
• to stimulate group's interaction by sharing tasks
• to present situations which test students initiative, humour, sense of responsibilty and willingness to perform routine work even when tired
• to instil attitude that one can live with enjoyment and comfort in a natural environment without harming it.

At certain times, participants will need some period of time to think about themselves and their commitment to the group and their level of understanding of each member in the group. The solo is introduced to give them time to think about this. There are 3 types of Solo, namely,

Mini Solo or Time Out

It can happen anytime when the group needs a mental / physical break. It can be as short as few hours only. It provides a chance of short period of time for participants to stop and think (to reflect) about their actions and attitude toward the course.

This is an overnight solo or even longer. The added challenge of spending a night or night camping alone adds many new dimensions to the solo experience. They are faced with being alone, having to build their own shelter and to cope with fears. A task will be given to them while performing this activity. Namely:
• write a letter to themselves which will be mailed to them in 3 months time
• list out the area of improvement and one noticeable strength for each group member
• make gifts for each other
• asked not to talk while being picked up from solo until they have reached Annex.

Instruction: please click the thumbnail to view the larger picture

"I did things I never thought I could - and that spilled over into my life as a whole."    - Allison George, OBS participant