Southern Highlands Orienteering (SHOO) is a sports club based in the Wingecarribee Shire Council area of New South Wales, Australia. It is the home of orienteering for Macarthur, Liverpool, and the Southern Highlands region. Orienteering is an adventurous and action-packed sport where competitors navigate themselves using a map and compass. While traditionally a bush sport, modern orienteering also takes place in cities and suburbs, as well as the local bushland.
SHOO holds a variety of events throughout the year, catering to beginners through to experienced orienteers, and children through to seniors. These events provide opportunities for participants to race and embark on their own individual orienteering adventures. The club ensures that beginners are supported and welcomed at all events, offering beginner clinics and courses specifically designed for newcomers. SHOO prides itself on being a fast-growing club that encourages inclusivity and a supportive environment.
For those new to orienteering, SHOO offers resources and information to help individuals understand the sport and become familiar with the club. This includes an overview of orienteering, explanations of how to navigate using a map and control descriptions, as well as basic navigation techniques. The club emphasises that beginners do not need to worry about getting lost or being in danger during events, as support and guidance are always available.
Attending an SHOO event involves arriving at the designated assembly area, which is where courses start from. The location of each assembly area can be found on the events page of the club's website or on their Facebook page. Upon arrival, participants can register themselves or their group and pay the necessary fees. SHOO always has club coaches available to provide coaching and guidance, ensuring that participants have a positive and enjoyable experience.
Joining SHOO can be done by attending an event, signing up for their mailing list, or becoming a member. The club also offers a newsletter that provides news updates and event information to those who subscribe via email. Photo credits on the club's website are attributed to Tony Hill and Adam Williamson, who capture the beauty and competitive nature of orienteering.
Southern Highlands Orienteering is committed to promoting and growing the sport of orienteering in the Macarthur, Liverpool, and Southern Highlands regions of New South Wales. With their welcoming and supportive approach to beginners and their focus on providing exciting and challenging events for all skill levels, SHOO is an ideal club for anyone interested in experiencing the thrill of orienteering.