Map Symbols and Control Descriptions
It’s important to learn the map symbols for both bush & sprint maps, as well as the control description symbols – see below for PDF downloads. Once you have learned the symbols, you may want to do this online quiz to test your memory!
PDF: Map Symbols for 1:10,000 and 1:15,000 bush maps.
Direct pdf download: Bush Map Symbols
PDF: Map Symbols for sprint maps.
Direct pdf download: Sprint Map Symbols
PDF: Control Description Symbols
Direct pdf download: Control Description Symbols
Uncrossable features at a Sprint
Sprint maps include features that are forbidden to cross. It’s very important that the rules are followed. If a competitor doesn’t follow the rules they will be disqualified.
Out of Bounds Area poster: Download PDF
Article by Eric Andrews: Sprint Maps – Uncrossable Features
Anthony Scott's Orienteering Lessons
Introduction to Orienteering
These five lessons provide an introduction to basic orienteering skills for beginners.
Lesson 1: Features of an Orienteering Map
Lesson 2: Map Orientation
Lesson 3: Thumbing the Map
Lesson 4: Basic Navigation Routine
Lesson 5. Introduction to Contours
Intermediate Orienteering Skills
These lessons will introduce skills suitable for orienteers progressing to the intermediate level.
Lesson 6: Navigating with the Thumb Compass
Lesson 7: Making Life Simple – Following Line Features
Lesson 8: Attack Points, Collecting Features and Aiming Off
Lesson 9: Cross-Checking the Map, Compass and Forest
Lesson 10. Improving Your Contour Navigation
Lesson 11: Relocation
Lesson 12: Plans, Route Choice and ‘Traffic Light’ Orienteering
Advanced Orienteering Skills
These lessons introduce some advanced orienteering techniques used by elite competitors.
Lesson 13: Concentrating on Your Navigation
Lesson 14: Navigating in Complex Granite Terrain
Orienteering Australia Coaching Tips
Orienteering Australia has a comprehensive coaching tips page that starts with the basics (orienting your map) to more advanced topics (navigating through rocks and advanced interpretation of contours).