PROJECT ASSEMBLY | SEASONS | DURATION | FREQUENCY | LAUNCH | ROAD ACCESS | TEAM BUILDING | CANCELLATIONS
Does it take much time to put a HutReno project together?
When it comes to putting a backcountry project together there are a number of complexities that need time, management processing and patience. The recent Lake Sumner project, for example, took twelve months of planning before we watched the paint dry! As it turned out the project was a fabulous success because a thorough procedure was followed!
Depending on volunteer response and timing, once volunteers have registered their interest and recorded relevant details for undertaking a HutReno project, planning with DOC will get underway over a certain time frame. When relevant details are completed, volunteers will be notified in ample time prior to the project commencement date. Time is of the essence as no project will be hurried.
A Project Profile outlining a range of important details will follow once HutReno has completed its planning with DOC.
All volunteer projects approved by HutReno require careful consideration, including a project viability assessment. Any project undertaken is governed by protocols for individual volunteers in order to make the best use of their individual skills in the context of the project.
When is the best time to undertake a HutReno?
Summer is obviously the best time to undertake a HutReno (weather-wise) but depending on volunteer availability and DOC priorities, projects will be considered at different times throughout the year.
How long does it take to complete a backcountry project?
A HutReno effort in the backcountry is expected to range from one to four days. Larger projects or repeat volunteer efforts at the same hut will be considered as and when the need arises.
How often will a HutReno take place?
HutReno is committed to doing all it can to mobilize as many volunteer hut projects in association with DOC’s requirements in any one year. The emphasis is not on volume but on protocol, health and safety, and quality outcomes.
When will HutReno begin operating this backcountry volunteer service?
From the beginning of 2020, HutReno will begin operating as a backcountry volunteer service.
What is a HutReno Project Profile?
A Project Profile provides details of a completed HutReno project once the adequate number of volunteers have registered their interest. A Project Profile will detail a range of important matters for volunteers to be fully informed ahead of time. The development of a HutReno App for communicating any Project Profile updates is being considered.
What is a HutReno Project Calendar?
A Project Calendar comprises possible up and coming HutReno backcountry project/s that are being discussed with DOC.
What information is needed for making an informed decision on becoming a backcountry volunteer?
In addition, from what is provided on this website, once a HutReno project is complete, a Project Profile will be emailed to each volunteer. Information on accommodation arrangements, meals, and all other details will be made available in full detail in this profile so that volunteers are kept well informed. Depending on the demand for HutReno services and time available, volunteers will be kept up to date throughout each project however a Project Profile will be the most effective way of complying and simplifying all the information required. The development of a HutReno App for communicating any Project Profile updates is being considered.
Are HutReno Projects only Undertaken Within Easier Reach from Road End?
HutReno will undertake projects wherever there are DOC huts. However, huts that are further inland and take several hours and/or days to reach or are situated in mountain terrain, will require volunteers to have certain bush craft and route-finding skills.
For example, they will need a high level of fitness, have an understanding of weather conditions and the ability to carry a heavier pack. Such volunteer efforts may include extra conditions and planning by DOC for the duration of the project.
Is there a Team Building Exercise during a HutReno Project?
Yes, there is a team-building aspect to most HutReno projects which is a life coaching exercise. Apart from an individual’s volunteer commitment to sustainability, commonality of purpose and project achievement, HutReno users a strategy it calls ROPE. It is an acronym for a volunteer experience that is: Robust, Organized, Practical and Enriching. The simplicity of ROPE enables combined leverage, group synergy, and momentum.
The second aspect of team building is providing a focus on understanding, The health benefits of being eco-active and the third is validating an individual’s motivational self-efficacy. Balancing team-building exercises is complementary with the overall theme of giving back and the belief there is: Much More 2 Live 4.
Team building/life coaching heightens the learning experience because it incentivizes motivation, cohesion and enthusiasm for getting the job done. The three elements of team building are a crucial part of most HutReno projects which can have personal significance in other aspects in a volunteer’s life.
Project Cancellations
Is there a possibility of a backcountry project being cancelled?
Yes, there is a possibility of a backcountry project being cancelled. The very nature of any backcountry work is weather dependent along with other unforeseen circumstances that can and do arise. Volunteers need to be mindful of this issue when planning for their involvement. A HutReno activity may be cancelled at any time during the planning stages or even when the project itself is in full swing. Health and Safety are the guiding principles for determining the life of any HutReno project. All volunteers will be kept informed as and when circumstances change.
HutReno Projects
Details and logistics about the Projects.
Tramping with HutReno
Most projects will involve some degree of tramping. The estimated tramping time, difficulty, terrain and/or track types will be outlined in each Project Profile.
Enquiry Form for DOC
If you are a DOC employee wishing to propose a hut that requires renovation, please complete and submit this form.
HutReno Stories
We share volunteers’ stories here to give you a sense of the HutReno project experience.