‘Disaster’ test for Raleigh trip hopefuls

Press, 9 September 1985, Page 9

‘Disaster’ test for Raleigh trip hopefuls

Young people who had gathered at West Melton during the week-end, hoping to be selected for the Operation Raleigh world expedition, believed they had an authentic disaster when two of their party disappeared. Operation Raleigh is a four-year, round-the-world programme with threemonth expedition slots for those young people who qualify. During a navigational exercise at the Army’s West Melton rifle range, two young people slipped away from the main group.

Although it was a fake, the others believed the two were lost, said the fundraising co-ordinator, Lady Stewart. One of the missing pair was found, seemingly suffering from hypothermia, and the other was covered in fake blood.

Lady Stewart said that everyone was under stress but showed initiative and managed to get the “injured” person to a local doctor. Those taking part even had to deal with Lady

Stewart posing as a member of the news media, wanting information on the “missing” people. Forty-three young people from throughout the South Island, their ages ranging from 17 to 24, took part in the week-end. They had only three hours sleep during the more than 40 hours of intensive activities.

Three women and 10 men were selected as suitable venturers for the Operation Raleigh expedition. Young people in the North Island would have a chance to try for selection during a week-end towards the end of October, said Lady Stewart.