This final and most difficult challenge for a number of boys is called The Solo which is based around the boys completing twenty hours in isolation within a designated site.

The boys are “prepped” before they head to Peel Forest and make their own penny stoves to cook their food on. They are briefed on how to make the best possible shelter out of the meagre supplies they are given (one tarpaulin, two guy ropes and a pack liner) and then they are sent off into the bush.

This year the forecast was perfect for the week as the first class headed into the bush but as all boys were escorted to their sites, the weather began to deteriorate, beginning to pour with rain. Fortunately, the boys were all comfortable and dry when they were checked on, and were in excellent spirits with a nice warm meal of noodles and sausages, (depending upon the availability of fuel for their stoves!) and they were set for the night. Being put to sleep by the sound of woodpigeons and other native birdlife was a highlight for a number of the boys.

The weather improved from that point on and all other classes had an excellent week pushing themselves outside of their comfort zone. Congratulations must go to all boys who completed The Solo and earned their badges; these can be worn with pride in the years to come.