What is Rogaining?

Rogaining is the ultimate cross-country navigation sport, blending endurance, strategy, and teamwork. Using only a map and compass, teams navigate diverse terrains, from rugged bushland to scenic farmlands.

How Does it Work?

Teams of 2 to 5 (or solo for some shorter city events) aim to visit as many checkpoints as possible within a set time. Each checkpoint is worth points, with harder-to-reach locations offering higher rewards. The goal is to maximize your score!

Event Formats

While traditional championship rogaines last a full 24 hours, many events are shorter, ranging from 3, 6, 12, or 15 hours. Most NSW events are conveniently located within 2 to 3 hours of Sydney. You’ll find rogaines held on foot in beautiful natural settings, with some exciting “Metrogaines” taking place in urban areas. Whether it’s a day event, a night challenge, or a course spanning both, rogaining offers a thrilling adventure for everyone.

Rogaining is more than just a sport; it’s a fun and engaging endurance adventure.

Welcome to NSW Orienteering

Some FAQS

Yes. Anyone can rogaine. The only restriction is that a team that has a member under fourteen years of age shall also have a member eighteen years of age or over. Teams must be between 2 and 5 people. Although some of the shorter city based events allow solo entry.

Quite a few of our experienced rogainers did their first rogaine in a pram or baby carrier.

No team? No problem at all!

It’s really common for participants, even seasoned rogainers, to be looking for teammates. That’s why we offer a handy Partner Finding Service on every event page.

Here’s how it helps you:

  • Connect with others: You can easily post your details or browse listings from other solo rogainers looking for a team.
  • Find your perfect match: Our service allows you to outline your experience level (even if you’re a complete beginner!) and how challenging you’d like your rogaine to be. This helps you find someone with similar goals and pace.
  • A great way to start: Many newcomers find their first rogaining partners this way. It’s a fantastic opportunity to meet new people and experience the sport in a friendly, supportive team environment.

So, don’t let not having a team stop you from joining the fun!

An emergency blanket, a whistle and a snake bandage is the only mandatory gear. If you don’t have these you can buy or borrow these items from the Admin team when you arrive. You can read more here: https://nswrogaining.org/AboutRogaining/Novices/WhatEquipment.htm

According to our rules

i)  There shall be three gender classes of competition:

  1. Men (all team members must be men)
  2. Women (all team members must be women)
  3. Mixed (all other teams)

ii)  There shall be three age categories of competition within each gender class:

  1. Open (no age restriction)
  2. Veteran (all team members must be 45 years of age or over on the 31st December of the year of the competition)
  3. Super Veteran (all team members must be 55 years of age or over on the 31st December of the year of the competition)

iii)  At the discretion of the organising association, there may be additional age categories, for example Junior (under 18 years), Under 23 or Ultra-veteran (65 years and over).

Can I finish early?
Absolutely! It’s quite common for teams to return from an event before the official finish time. There are many reasons why you might want to, such as tiredness or minor injuries. Listen to your body and your teammates – your safety and enjoyment are paramount.

Do I have to start on time?
Not at all! If you have other commitments, you can arrive late to an event. Take your time to plan your route, and then start your rogaine whenever you’re ready. There’s no penalty for a late start or an early finish, giving you the flexibility to enjoy the event on your own terms.

We offer a fantastic variety of events to suit all levels and preferences, from quick urban adventures to epic overnight challenges!

Our events typically range in duration and often longer events are run at the same time as shorter events:

  • 3 & 6-hour events: Perfect for newcomers and those looking for a shorter, more accessible challenge.
  • 8, 12 & 15-hour events: For those ready to step up their endurance and navigation skills.
  • 24-hour events: Our ultimate championship challenge, offering a full day and night of rogaining.

You’ll find our rogaines set in diverse and exciting locations across NSW:

  • “Metrogaines” in urban areas: These are excellent for beginners, providing a lower-risk environment to practice your navigation skills while exploring city parks and green spaces. They’re a great way to learn the ropes without venturing too far into the wilderness.
  • Beautiful bushland and farmland: Our more traditional events take you through attractive natural settings, offering stunning scenery and varied terrain.
  • Remote, hilly, and trackless scrub: For the more adventurous, some events push your limits in challenging and wild landscapes.