Safety & respect
Climbing the Wall means you need to follow some special guidelines. Safety and respect are the two most important things. We reckon everyone knows what that means, but if you’re not clear, we’ve got some general guidelines. If you aren’t sure of anything – just ask!
General guidelines
Supervisors
All Bouldering Wall sessions are run by volunteer supervisors who give their time so everyone gets to climb. Remember to respect and listen to them so they can keep you safe.
New users
New to climbing? Come see a supervisor to get all the basics and safety tips to get you started.
Food & drink
If you spill food or drink on the mats you will have to clean the whole Youth HUB with a toothbrush (or maybe just don’t eat or drink on the mats).
Kids under 12
Kids under 12 years need to have a parent or carer (like a teacher) there the whole session. They might even want to get climbing too!
Spectators
If you’re at the Wall to watch some mates or a child under 12, remember that you need to follow safety guidelines as well. Keep an eye out and respect the space.
Alcohol & Drugs
The Hub is an alcohol, drug & smoke free zone. If you’re under the influence, climbing is unsafe for you and other climbers.
Positive language & attitude
The Wall is a place to support other climbers – it’s not about ego or judgement of other climbers.
The Wall is used by people of all ages and backgrounds, so it’s good to keep things positive. Watch what you say, especially any colourful language (there might be kids around).
Remember – it’s always nice to get a shout-out when you’ve mastered a climb!
Safe climb guidelines
Free Fall Zone
If you’re climbing, you need to work within the Free Fall Zone. That means you’re not climbing above or below anyone else.
When you fall, you’re always going to want to land on a mat, not the concrete. However, mats are not foolproof. Don’t rely on them and try not to use them if you don’t need to.
Using the space
Once you’ve finished your section, move on and let others access the Wall. Jumping, playing and wrestling can be fun, but the Wall isn’t the place for it. Here, we climb.
Problems with the Wall
Please let us know if you notice anything not right on the Wall – like the holds starting to spin or moving. We’ll want to get them fixed straight away.
Climbing shoes
If you’ve got some, they make a huge difference to how well you climb and they also protect the Wall and the mats.
You can also hire shoes for your session for only $2.00.
Boots or shoes that mark the wall aren’t allowed. Not sure if yours are ok? Talk to a volunteer supervisor.
Work within your limits
Always warm up properly before climbing anything you find challenging – your volunteer supervisor can always give you some tips.
Stop climbing if you feel pain – you can push your limits, but you don’t want to hurt yourself!
Safety when falling
Falling is a part of bouldering, especially when attempting challenging climbs.
That does not mean just letting go and hoping you’ll land ok. All climbers should be prepared for a fall and thinking about the risk of falling as they climb.
Never attempt anything that feels unsafe or uncontrolled.
If you’re worried about a potential fall, discuss the risks with a volunteer supervisor, and ask them to spot you before you start the climb.
General rules for safety & controlled falling
Always climb down where possible
Land on both feet to distribute the impact
Avoid landing with twisted ankles
Don’t keep your legs straight when landing
Absorb impact by bending the knees
Roll down and let the mat absorb your body’s impact
Don’t just bend forward at the waist when landing
Practise your soft falling and rolling
One climber per wall section