Living comfortably in the bush

Bushcraft is about feeling at home outdoors. It covers the traditional survival skills of Scouting — using tools, cooking over a fire, reading nature and looking after yourself and others in the bush.

What the stream covers

• Safe use of knives, saws and axes
• Fire lighting and cooking outdoors
• Knots, lashing and building with natural materials
• Reading weather, terrain and wildlife signs
• Caring for the environment while you explore it

Early stages to advanced stages

The early stages focus on the basics — learning to use a tool safely, helping cook a simple damper, tying a few useful knots. As young people progress through the nine stages, they take on bigger challenges: planning their own bush meals, leading a shelter build, teaching younger members and running camp activities for their unit.

Why it matters

Bushcraft builds confidence like little else can. There’s real pride in making fire from a spark you created, or a meal you cooked on it. Along the way, youth members develop patience, problem-solving, teamwork and a genuine respect for the Australian bush.

How units deliver Bushcraft

Most units start Bushcraft at their regular meeting place — a fire bucket and some cord make a great night. Camps are where skills grow quickly, and experienced leaders and activity helpers are always on hand to support safe progression.

Try this

Next time you’re outdoors, spend five minutes noticing three things about the world around you — then share them with your unit.

Stage badges

The OAS stages for this stream. Youth members wear their highest achieved stage with pride.