Release of Liability, Waiver of Claims, Assumption of Risk, and Indemnity Agreement
This document applies to all participants (“Attendees”) in any activity organised by or associated with Trail Hiking Australia, whether arranged via the Trail Hiking Australia Meetup platform, the Trail Hiking Australia website, or by its organisers and volunteers (“Organisers”).
It applies to all events (“Events”), including but not limited to hiking, bushwalking, and other outdoor adventure activities. It covers all attendees, whether members or non-members, adults or children, and applies regardless of whether an RSVP was submitted for the specific Event. By attending any Event, Attendees affirm, acknowledge, and agree to the following terms.
1. Acknowledgement of Non-Professional Status
Attendees understand and agree that the Organisers, volunteers, and other members of Trail Hiking Australia are not professional guides or experts and do not hold themselves out as such. Participation is strictly at the Attendee’s own risk.
2. Acknowledgement and Acceptance of Risks
Attendees acknowledge that participation in Events involves inherent risks—both known and unknown—which cannot be eliminated without affecting the unique nature of the activity. These risks include, but are not limited to:
- Loss or damage to property.
- Getting lost, trapped, or separated from the group.
- Exposure to adverse weather, rough terrain, or hazardous natural environments.
- Injuries or death resulting from falls, slips, trips, wildlife encounters, insect bites, plant reactions, dehydration, hypothermia, or other environmental hazards.
- Risks arising from the actions or inactions of other participants, organisers, third parties, animals, or environmental conditions.
Attendees understand that there may be no rescue or medical facilities available during an Event and that self-reliance is essential. They agree to exercise appropriate care for their own safety and for those around them.
3. Medical and Emergency Information
In the interest of participant safety, the Organisers may require Attendees to provide:
- Emergency contact details (name, phone, relationship).
- Relevant medical conditions or allergies.
Attendees are responsible for ensuring they are physically and medically fit for the Event. Participation by minors under 18 requires written consent from a parent or legal guardian, who must accompany the minor. Minors are bound by this Release through their parent or guardian.
4. Carpooling Disclaimer
Trail Hiking Australia does not organise or endorse carpooling. If Attendees choose to share transport, they acknowledge that such arrangements are private agreements between individuals and carry their own risks, including road accidents or incidents.
5. Assumption of Risk and Waiver of Liability
To the fullest extent permitted by law, Attendees agree to:
- ASSUME ALL RISKS—including those arising from negligence—associated with participation in any Event.
- WAIVE AND RELEASE the Organisers, volunteers, and members of Trail Hiking Australia from any and all claims, demands, or causes of action for injury, loss, or damage arising from participation in an Event.
- HOLD HARMLESS AND INDEMNIFY the Organisers, volunteers, and members of Trail Hiking Australia against any claims, damages, or costs (including legal fees) resulting from their own actions, inactions, or negligence during an Event.
This agreement is binding upon the Attendee’s heirs, executors, administrators, and assigns, and extends to any minors or pets accompanying them.
6. Understanding and Agreement
By attending any Event, Attendees confirm they have read, understood, and voluntarily accept this Release of Liability and Waiver of Claims. They acknowledge that outdoor activities inherently involve risks, and they participate entirely at their own risk.
