The Orange Speleological Society (OSS) is a sports club located in the Orange City Council region of New South Wales, Australia. Founded in 1955, the OSS is dedicated to promoting the conservation and management of caves and karst landforms, as well as furthering speleology as a science and recreation through safe and responsible caving practises.
One of the main activities of the OSS is recreational caving. Members of the club regularly visit caves in the Orange region and other parts of Australia. These caves are predominantly wild caves, which often require the use of equipment such as torches, helmets, ladders, and ropes.
Conservation is also a key focus of the OSS. The club aims to protect caves and minimise the effects of human activity on these environments. Additionally, the OSS engages in restoration projects to repair caves that have been previously damaged.
The surveying and mapping of caves is another important aspect of the OSS's work. Members survey caves and use the collected data to create detailed maps, enhancing our understanding of these unique underground systems.
Exploration is an exciting part of the OSS's activities. Club members search for new caves using maps, aerial photography, and local sources of information. This allows for the discovery of previously unknown cave systems, adding to the knowledge and exploration of Australian caves.
The OSS hosts a variety of events and activities throughout the year. These include caving trips, canyoning adventures, and bushwalks in the Central West region and other areas of New South Wales. Monthly meetings are also held, with the Annual General Meeting taking place in February of each year.
Membership to the OSS is open to individuals over the age of 16. The club offers various membership categories, including Single, Family, Student, and Introductory 3 Month Membership. Benefits of joining the society include membership to the Australian Speleological Federation Inc. (ASF), public liability insurance coverage, subscriptions to the club's journal and the ASF's Caves Australia journal, access to specialised caving equipment, and a comprehensive library of club records and caving-related publications.
To join the OSS, individuals can contact the club through the “Contact Us” page on their website or write to the Secretary at the provided address. New members can join at any time, with the membership year running from 1 March to 28 February. The OSS also offers pro rata membership for those joining after the start of the membership year.
For participation in caving trips, it is important to come prepared with overalls or old clothes, sturdy footwear, and a reliable light source with spare batteries. The OSS emphasises the importance of safety and responsible caving practises, ensuring an enjoyable and secure experience for all members.
Overall, the Orange Speleological Society is a dedicated and active sports club within the Orange City Council region, offering opportunities for adventurous individuals to explore and appreciate the unique underground world of caves.