The Great Guide Sleepover

The Great Guide Sleepover is one of the most highly anticipated Girl Guides NSW, ACT & NT events. The first sleepover was held in 1996 on the steps of the Opera House to raise awareness and funds for homeless communities.

Since then, the Sleepover has become a tradition, moving locations over the years but always funding a cause for the community. Now  its 28th year we continue to support Taronga Zoo and Girl Guides NSW, ACT & NT through this fundraiser with an eventful evening of sleeping under the stars, Guiding, animals, movies, dancing and more. We will be hosting this event in Sydney Taronga Zoo, Dubbo Western Plains Zoo & Territory Wildlife Park. 

This year we will be fundraising for the much loved Australian icon, the Platypus!

Donations received by online fundraising will remain open through the event, however all amounts for prize consideration must be received by 5pm Sunday 21 August.

When

Saturday 27 August to Sunday 28, August, 2022
Check in and event start times vary by location. The event continues until Sunday morning with an option to spend the day at the zoo on Sunday.

Where

- Taronga Zoo Sydney, Bradleys Head Road, Mosman NSW

- Taronga Western Plains Zoo, Obley Road, Dubbo NSW

- Territory Wildlife Park, Berry Springs, Darwin NT 

Who

Sydney and Dubbo
Guides in a Guide Unit aged 10+, Olaves, Leaders, and Adult Helpers
This is not a Junior Guide Event. Any Junior Guides that register will be issued a refund.

Northern Territory
Members ages 5+, Pre Junior Guides, Junior Guides, Guides, Senior Guides, Adult Members and Adult Helpers.

Download this booklet! All you need to know

 

Bring a Friends 

Invite your non-member friends to join you as this event is open to Bring a Friends! 

What's a Bring a Friend, someone who is not already a Girl Guide Member. Bring a Friends will get all the benefits of Girl Guides plus the opportunity to experience guiding at this fun activity. 
 
Click here to learn more about becoming a Girl Guide Member. 

Use these tools to tell your non-Guiding Friends about the event 

Program

Each location will have their own dedicated programs which will be shared closer to the event. However, here is what you can expect!

Saturday 

  • Interactive and engaging stations on arrival.
  • Registration check in.
  • Collection of fun, branded goodies and event badge!
  • After hours entry in the Zoo and Wildlife Park.
  • Delicious Dinner.
  • Live Streaming to each event to see all your Sister in Guiding all over.
  • Presentation of fundraising prizes.
  • Dance Party!!
  • Movie with supper.
  • Sleeping under the stars.

Sunday 

  • Rise and shine by the surrounding animal calls.
  • Grab and go breakfast.
  • Exclusive animal experiences just for Girl Guides!
  • Say goodbye...either stay to explore the Zoo and Wildlife Park more or head home.

Kit List

Each location will have their own specific kit list but for now here is a list of essential items that you will need at all locations.

Equipment

Make sure to have your name written on all items. 
Ensure that you pack as small as possible.

  • Bedroll and all bedding
  • Mess kit
  • Camp uniform (clothes for both getting wet and keeping dry and warm)
  • Sleeping gear e.g. pyjamas, sleeping bag, blanket etc
  • Spare clothes
  • Wet weather gear (weather dependant)
  • Face Towel
  • Drink bottle
  • Toiletries
  • Hat
  • Sunscreen
  • Torch
  • Insect repellent
  • Platypus theme outfit (if you choose)
  • ADM.27 or ADM.28 to hand in at registration and to give to your Unit Leader
  •  All meals for Friday dinner, Saturday breakfast, lunch &  snacks. Please note: Dinner and supper will be provided on Saturday night. Breakfast will also be provided on  Sunday. 
Downloadable Kit List & Bedroll instructions

Dress

Participants are encouraged to dress to the Platypus theme for Saturday night but this is not compulsory. At all other times Girl Guide uniform should be worn.  

Forms

All participants must bring two copies of completed ADM.27 for Youth or ADM.28 for Adults to the event. One copy is to be handed in at registration and the other copy is to be given to your Leader.

Fundraising

Getting Started

Once you have registered for the Great Guide Sleepover, simply set up your fundraising page by clicking the link below. Fundraising is really easy. You can do everything online. Grassrootz is mobile friendly and convenient to use from your phone, iPad, or tablet.
  1. Download our Grassrootz how-to
  2. Sign up for Grassrootz and create your fundraising page.
  3. Click the blue Join Us tab and sign up under your Girl Guides Unit by selecting Join a Team. Personalize your campaign page and then you are ready to start fundraising as an individual or as a Unit.
We’re here to make your fundraising a success. If you need help, please contact the Events Team by email or phone 02 8396 5200.

Fundraising Focus

Funds raised from the Great Guide Sleepover go to support Taronga Conservation Society. Taronga cares for 4,000 animals from over 350 species, many of which are threatened. This year the Platypus was selected as our focus for all donations.
Our goal is also to help raise awareness and funds for Girl Guides NSW, ACT & NT & Taronga Zoo. If you or your donors would like to make an additional donation to Girl Guides you are able to do this through the Grassrootz campaign page as well.
Taronga, Taronga Western Plains Zoo and Territory Wildlife Park is offering the below prizes for top fundraisers this year.

For Individuals:
  • Plush Platypus toy for any girl raising over $50
  • Taronga prize pack which include, Taronga merchandise and 2 tickets to either Taronga Zoo Sydney, Taronga Western Plains Zoo or Territory Wildlife Parkfor any girl that raises over $350
  • VIP Behind-the-Scenes Animal Experience plus family pass (4 pax) to either Taronga Zoo Sydney, Taronga Western Plains Zoo  or Territory Wildlife Park for any girls that raises over $750.
  • Roar and Snore experience at Taronga Zoo Sydney for four (4) people for Top performing individual who raises $1200 or more. 

    For Units:
  • Top Performing Unit will be provided a day out to Zoo site of choice with unit, plus a keeper talk (This will be limited to 10 pax)
Fundraising Prize Deadline:
  • To be eligible for all fundraising prizes fundraising must be submitted via Grassrootz by 5pm Sunday 21 August.

Fundraising tips

Fundraising doesn’t have to be difficult. So follow these ten simple tips for success, and feel free to reach out to us at any time so we can help with your fundraising journey.
  1. Start your fundraising early.
  2. Once you create your Grassrootz fundraising page, share it. Keep your supporters engaged by regularly posting pictures and updates on your activities.
  3. Update your email signature and social media bio’s to include information about Girl Guides and your fundraising campaign.
    4. You can use social media* to help your campaign and also provide more information about your fundraising focus. Download social media badges and graphics under the resources section.
  4. Ask your family, friends, teachers, and neighbours for their support. Share your fundraising page, let them know what you are fundraising for and keep them updated on how you are progressing to reach your goal.
  5. Draw up a list of your potential donors and approach them for their support (consider businesses in your committee or work colleagues).
  6. Always ensure you are with a friend or responsible adult at all times.
  7. Work in your Unit as a fundraising team. Teams are truly a great way to get others involved, have fun, and access a wider pool of resources and networks.
  8. Make a donation yourself to set the expectation. If you have a special occasion such as a birthday, anniversary or christening, ask your friends to donate to your fundraiser instead of buying a gift.
  9. Be cheerful, courteous and don’t forget to say thank you. Thank your supporters in person, via email or with a card and let them know how much you raised.
  10. Have Fun!
*  Ask your parents to share your link on their social media accounts. If you’re old enough and have permission you may use your own account too.

Fundraising FAQs

  1. Is fundraising required this year for everyone?
    No, fundraising is optional but highly encouraged. There are prizes available for those raising as little as $50.
  2. What are the fundraising goals this year?
    Our overall goal is $15,000  to support the Platypus at Taronga Conversation Society. For individuals the first goal is $50 with additional prizes on offer from Taronga Zoo's and Wildlife Park for higher goals.
  3. What are the fundraising prizes offered by Taronga Zoo Sydney, Taronga Western Plains Zoo and Territory Wildlife Park?
    • Plush Platypus toy for any girl raising over $50.
    • Taronga prize pack which include, Taronga merchandise and 2 tickets to either Taronga Zoo Sydney, Taronga Western Plains Zoo and Territory Wildlife Parkfor any girl that raises over $350.
    • VIP Behind-the-Scenes Animal Experience plus family pass (4 pax) to either Taronga Zoo Sydney, Taronga Western Plains Zoo  or Territory Wildlide Park for any girl that raises over $750.
    • Roar and Snore experience at Taronga Zoo Sydney for four (4) people for Top performing individual who raises $1200 or more. 
  4. Who can help fundraise for the Great Guide Sleepover?
    Guides, Leaders, and Parent Helpers are all able to create a fundraising page. Just sign up under your Unit, create your page and fundraise away!
  5. What happens if I receive a cheque or cash donation? 
    Donations will only be accepted by the online Grassrootz portal.
  6. Can additional donations to Girl Guides NSW, ACT & NT be made?
    Yes, you are able to donate directly to Girl Guides NSW, ACT & NT through the main page of Grassrootz by using the link in the About Girl Guides NSW, ACT & NT section.
  7. When do I need to return my fundraising money to Girl Guides NSW, ACT & NT?
    Leaders are responsible for ensuring that Guides who are fundraising have submitted their funds through the online Grassrootz portal. 
    All fundraising for prizes must be submitted by 5pm Sunday 21 August 2022. 
    The online fundraising portal will remain open through the event however to be eligible for prizes all monies must be in by the above date.

Resources

There are resources, below, to help you with your fundraising.

Fundraising Kit. Click here to download a dedicated Platypus Fundraising Kit. This kit also includes a personalised name badge to be worn on Guide uniform when fundraising door to door. There's also a QR Code to use to easily promote fundraising dollars.

Grassrootz Step by Step for additional assistance setting up your Grassrootz page download this step by step guide. 

Do’s & Don’ts for Charitable Fundraising

We’ve provided some great suggestions to help you fundraise for this unique Guiding event. But before you hit the ground running, please take time to read the following list of Do’s and Don’ts for Guides aged 10–17 (otherwise known as the boring but ever so important legal bits)

Do
  • Guides are to be adequately clothed in uniform and otherwise protected from extremes of climate or temperature.
  • At all times reasonably practical, participating Guides must be able to contact their parent/s during the fundraising activities.
  • Guides must be adequately supervised. Their supervisor must supervise no more than six Guides; be in close proximity and make contact with the Guides at intervals not greater than 30 minutes.
  • Guides must work with at least one other Guide raising funds for the Sleepover.
  • There must be 12 hours between shifts.
  • Parents or Guardians should ensure that Guides receive appropriate and nutritious food.
  • Food should be available at reasonable hours and drinking water available at all times.
  • Toilet facilities (toilet, hand washing and hand drying facilities) must be accessible to each Guide participant.
  • *After the appeal is finished the Guide must be accompanied by their parent or an adult authorised by their parent/s to travel home.
  • *This requirement does not apply if the child is more than 12 years of age and the distance home is less than 10 kms and public transport is available, and the travel is in daylight hours
Don’t
  • Guides must not enter a private dwelling when soliciting door to door; and not solicit, sell to or collect from a person in a motor vehicle.
  • Guides must not fundraise for more than four (4) hours a day—three (3) hours if under 12 years of age.
  • Guides must not fundraise before 6am or sunrise (whichever is later) and not after 7pm or sunset (whichever is earlier).
  • A Guide is not to lift any weight that would be likely to cause injury.
 

 

 

Start Fundraising Here

Travel Fund

Apply to have half your travel cost covered by Girl Guides.

Girl Guides NSW, ACT & NT have a dedicated fund available to provide Members with financial assistance to attend special projects, camps, training and international conferences as well as to provide Volunteers with financial assistance to attend administrative events.

Eligibility
Members of Girl Guides NSW, ACT & NT and non-member volunteers in NSW, ACT & NT are eligible to access the fund.

An individual may access this or any similar fund only once in three years.

Applicants will be eligible for assistance of up to half the travel component of their expenses.

Youth applicants must be recommended by their Unit Leader.
Adult applicants must be recommended by their Region Manager.

Application
Applications for Youth and Adult members must be submitted in writing to the State Commissioner no later than 6 weeks prior to the commencement of the event.

Selection
Selection is decided by the State Commissioner.

The outcome of the selection for Youth and Adult members will be advised in writing to the applicants by the State Commissioner or her delegate.

 Downloads

From building a bedroll to packing your bags and what's on at the event itself, download all the helpful info you need below in preparation for an amazing night!

 
Kit List
Bedroll How-to  
Early Arrival Pass Darwin
Early Arrival Pass Dubbo
Early Arrival Pass Sydney

Public Transport

Transport for NSW has granted free public transport to Great Guide Sleepover event in NSW. Darwin attendees need to make their way to designated meeting points for coach transfers.

Please click the links below to download and print to show proof of free travel to Transport NSW Staff.
- Transport NSW Free Transport letter
- Transport NSW Ticket for each attendee
You must bring a printed copy with you of letter and ticket to be able to access free public transportation for the event. 

Participants can travel to Sydney Taronga Zoo and Dubbo Western Plains Zoo on Sydney Trains and NSW TrainLink intercity and regional services, Sydney Ferries, Sydney Light Rail and Sydney metropolitan and outer-metropolitan bus services from Saturday 27 to Sunday 28 August 2022. TrainLink regional services may also be accessed for travel to the event (economy class seats only). 

All bookings must be made in advance prior to Friday 23 August 2022 by: 
  • attending a NSW TrainLink sales outlet and presenting either official identification from Girl Guides NSW, ACT & NT or a copy of Transport NSW Free Transport letter; or 
  • telephoning NSW TrainLink on 13 22 32.
Girl Guides and Girl Guide Leaders will be required to wear their uniforms with the Girl Guide trefoil. Volunteers must present either official identification from Girl Guides NSW, ACT & NT and carry a copy of the Transport NSW letter.
If you park in a Transport Park&Ride car park, use the intercom button at the exit gate and advise the operator that you are a participant in the 2022 Great Guide Sleepover event. You may be asked to show either their official identification from the Girl Guides NSW, ACT & NT or a copy of the Transport NSW Free Transport letter to the car park operator who can then manually open the gate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Tickets & General Information

How old must I be to attend the event?
Guides must be a minimum of 10 years old by 27 August and registered in a Guide Unit to attend this event. Junior Guides cannot attend. All Bridging Junior Guides must be registered with paperwork approved and submitted by 31 July.

If my membership is not current, can I still attend?
No, your membership must be current for you to attend this event and all your fees must be up to date. Your membership status will be checked before the event.

What if I can no longer attend? Can I get a refund?
Refunds will only be offered to those with extenuating circumstances and who notify us they cannot attend before the registration closing date.
This event fills quickly and we often have a waiting list, so please make sure you notify us asap if you can’t attend so we can give the place to someone else.

If the event is booked to capacity, can I be put on a waiting list?
Yes. The event fills quickly and we do create a waiting list. However, we can’t guarantee you a place.

Will the event still go ahead if it’s raining?
The event will go ahead even if it is raining. In the advent of extreme weather conditions there is a contingency plan.

Will the event be catered?
Yes. On Saturday there will be different dinner options in all three locations and  late night snack which is included in the ticket price.
Tea and coffee will be available and an insulated mug with a lid will be provided to you for hot water.
Breakfast will be served on Sunday morning.

Guiding Requirements

I am a Unit Leader Not Yet Qualified, can I take my girls to the Great Guide Sleepover?
Yes, but all ULNYQs must be accompanied by a Qualified Leader.

Can Adult Non-Members attend the event?
Yes, however each adult non-member will need to follow the Child Safe Child Friendly requirements and be screened prior to attending the event.
Adult non-members will need to purchase their ticket to the event to be able to begin the screening process. Please refer to the How to Adult a Non-Member Adult Helper document below.

I am a Leader/District or Region Manager and I can’t see my Guides when trying to register my Unit?
If you are having difficulty registering please use the below resources to assist.
How to register for an event
How to register a Unit
How to register a Non-Member Adult Helper
Please email the Events Team to assist with registration issues.

Do individual Units need an OUT01 and risk assessment?
No they do not.

Do individual Units need to cover their 1:8 ratio with at least one adult being a Leader rather than a parent?
Yes, and to meet our Child Safe Child Friendly requirements, all non-members attending need to be screened as non-member ongoing volunteers which includes completing a National Police Check.

How long can a Unit stay at the zoo on the Sunday?
Until the zoo closes.

If staying at the zoo, do individual Units need 3 adults regardless of their number, with one being a qualified Leader - as per activity ratios?
For 9–14 Year Olds
For the main part of the event, Units will only need to make sure that there their ratio of 1:8 is met and that there is at least one qualified Leader. The minimum of 3 adults is met by the quantity of adults at The Sleepover. When separating from the larger group to explore the Zoo on Saturday or Sunday, groups may need to buddy up with other Units to comply with Guide Lines for Girl Guides .
 
For 14–17 year olds
 For the main part of the event, Units will only need to make sure that there their ratio of 1:10 is met and that there is at least one qualified Leader. The minimum of 2 adults is met by the quantity of adults at The Sleepover. When separating from the larger group to explore the Zoo on Saturday or Sunday, groups may need to buddy up with other Units to comply with Guide Lines for Girl Guides .

Terms & Conditions

  • Attendees must be a minimum of 10 years old in a Guide Unit and be valid Member of Girl Guides NSW, ACT & NT to attend this event. Girls age 9 and in a Guide Unit (not a Junior Guide Unit) are able to attend. 
  • Places are strictly limited and the event is usually full well before the closing date.
  • Membership must be current for all participants to be registered and to attend this event and will be checked.
  • Following the registration cut-off date no refunds or name changes will be offered.
  • If you need to leave Taronga Zoo early on Sunday or will be arriving late on Saturday night, please indicate at point of registration.
  • Only Adult Members with current Leader Qualifications should attend unless adult non-Members are needed. All Adult Members must be part of a Unit and maintain an adult to girl ratio. If you are bringing adult non-members (females only) to bring with your Guides please register them by purchasing an Adult Helper Ticket. Interim Leaders can only attend if they are assisting fully Qualified Leaders.
  • If you are using a bus to take your girls to the zoo, and the bus driver is male, he cannot stay overnight at Taronga Zoo.
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