Terms of Reference

 

ClimbingQTs is a queer, trans and gender diverse rock climbing and social club and advocacy organisation. This terms of reference is intended to encompass members of ClimbingQTs and to value sexual and gender diversity within the climbing community and beyond. ClimbingQTs members do not need to identify as members of the LGBTQ+ community however must identify as allies to the community and invest a personal interest in fostering inclusive environments for all. 

Mission Statement

As a collective, ClimbingQTs came together after identifying the value of fostering and expanding self-respect of non-normative gender and sexual identities. This initiative aims to promote understanding by advocating for and creating trans and queer friendly climbing spaces and events. 

We aim to address the struggle and complexities of sport for people of diverse genders, sexes and sexualities and re-conceptualize the relationship between sport, gender identity and body image.

Queer sport spaces can be a welcome refuge from heterosexuality and cissexism as well as place of comfort. Given the heteronormativity of athletics and sport culture, ClimbingQTs aims to create a space for this community to grow and diversify.

We also seek to address femme invisibility, racism, trans acceptance and fat phobia. 

All levels are welcome from beginner to advanced and events range from monthly meet-ups, inclusive indoor climbing sessions and multi-day outdoor adventures. At the heart of ClimbingQTs values is creating an inclusive, diverse and empowering environment where LGBTQ+ folk can be their true selves, learn new skills, participate in active social sport and connect with the outdoors. 

Terms of Reference

  • To champion inclusion through behaviour, attitudes and support for peers.

  • To support the networking of LGBTQ+ climbers.

  • To assist the broader climbing community to provide an inclusive environment for LGBTQ+ identifying climbers and allies. 

  • To participate in social events and celebrate diversity and inclusion.

  • To increase visibility of LGBTQ+ climbers through awareness initiatives and events.

Who are ClimbingQTs Board members?

Board members may share varying amounts of time and skills to the club for ongoing and long term projects. Most importantly, they are the ClimbingQTs brain trust and the individuals we refer to for advice regarding the organisations strategic direction, partnership and sponsorship commitments and key developments.

Who are ClimbingQTs Champions?

Champions assist with indoor events across Australia:

  • Meeting and greeting new attendees

  • Sharing banter, beta and tricks on and off the wall

  • Supporting indoor event accessibility

Lead Champions oversee where events are hosted and oversee the delivery of monthly meet-ups across so-called Australia.

Who are ClimbingQTs Camp Mentors?

Camp Mentors support outdoor overnight events:

  • Welcoming attendees to the camp sites, the crag and our guides.

  • Providing folks new to camping and climbing outdoors with advice and tips to make the most of their experience.

  • There to help you set up your tent, find the toilets, cook with a camp stove and enjoy the outdoors sustainably and respectfully.

Who are ClimbingQTs General members?

General members pay for an annual membership on a pro-rata basis to benefit from discounts, community events, social gatherings, access to the online community and outdoor trips.

ClimbingQTs members will also exhibit the following qualities:

  • Works to understand how patterns of discrimination of any kind will not be tolerated and is willing to challenge these negative behaviours in others.

  • Publicly acknowledges their support for LGBTQ+ people and issues.

  • Expects to make some mistakes and knows to speak with a ClimbingQTs peer when things become discouraging. 

  • Zero tolerance for any form of discrimination or harassment. 

  • Will report accounts of harassment or discrimination either as the bystander or the subject, that may take place within ClimbingQTs spaces. 

  • Promotes a sense of community with LGBTQ+ individuals.

  • Works to address / confront individuals without being defensive, sarcastic or threatening.