This week, Shackleton Explorer Scout Unit put their teamwork and problem-solving skills to the test in an action-packed Team Challenges Evening held in the grounds of our scout hut. With three unique and engaging bases, the Explorers were split into teams and rotated through each activity, using communication, strategy, and collaboration to succeed.
🚧 Base 1: The Da Vinci Bridge
At the first base, teams were challenged to build a self-supporting Da Vinci Bridge using only wooden spars and their ingenuity. This classic pioneering challenge tested their understanding of tension and compression forces — with no ropes or fastenings allowed! Working together to figure out the interlocking structure, teams had to communicate clearly and work methodically to keep the bridge stable.
💦 Base 2: Gutter Run Water Transport
The second challenge took a more fluid approach — quite literally. Teams had to transport water from one point to another using only assorted lengths of guttering. This led to some creative thinking and impressive coordination as teams passed the water from one piece of guttering to the next, trying to avoid leaks and spills along the way.
☢️ Base 3: Toxic Waste Bucket Retrieval
Perhaps the most physically demanding base was the Toxic Waste Retrieval. A bucket placed inside a restricted zone had to be safely moved to a target area using ropes attached to a frame. Explorers had to carefully pull and release tension on the ropes to lift, balance, and carry the bucket without stepping into the exclusion zone — simulating a hazardous material removal operation. It was a real test of patience and precision.
