RTS Tingira Boatshed Closure

Following comprehensive building inspections of the RTS Tingira boatshed from the waterline to the roof, the difficult but necessary decision to close the boatshed completely on safety grounds has been endorsed by the Girl Guides NSW, ACT & NT Board of Directors in consultation with the State Commissioner, the Water Activities Committee, and the staff team at Guide House. This is particularly disappointing given the new deck was installed so recently.  However, the safety of Members and Volunteers is our primary consideration, and that has led us very clearly to this decision. The boatshed is over 100 years old and at the end of its life. It has given the organisation wonderful service and we are grateful to those with the vision to purchase it for Girl Guides more than 50 years ago.

Woody’s Cottage will remain open and accessible.

Guide House and the Water Activities Committee are working together to relocate as many of the planned Tingira training courses and events for 2024 as possible, so that they can continue to run for Members, Volunteers, and families. There have been funds allocated to support the alternate approaches, including purchasing trailers. The Tingira Volunteers are enthusiastically working with staff and the Board to minimise disruption and ensure programs continue as planned.
Guide House and the Water Activities Committee will also endeavour to accommodate requests from Districts for overnight stays at Woodys and/or small group canoeing or kayaking activities for District groups at locations close to Tingira.  Please continue to send those requests to the Property Team, who will work with Districts to do our best to accommodate those.

The Board and management are currently exploring options for the organisation to best support sustainable sailing and watercraft activities for Guides in the Sydney basin in the longer term. This property is a major asset to the organisation and one which we hope will have a bright future. There will be more information communicated about progress on this in coming months.

If you have any questions, please forward them by email to Property Compliance Manager, Barbara Cuthbert.