One of the most important parts of the planning outline dealt with emergency scenario planning. Examples include a group lost in the middle of the island or caught in a storm at sea; a broken arm sustained during cycling; or a need for immediate evacuation. The teams have to learn to anticipate potential hazards and be quick to come up with sound solutions. Undoubtedly, these exercises will come in handy and even offer a lifeline for those of us who may field such trips in the future.

The next stage of the programme was the groups’ presentation of their programme outline. The presenting team had to answer queries from the floor. This proved difficult for those who were not used to thinking on their feet. 

Questions were deliberately posed in such a manner to expose the ‘faults’ and oversights of each team’s planning. It was a rowdy and hilarious session for everyone.