FIRST TIME
HEY?
The first thing you’ll need to do is sign your waiver using the button below.
We’ve also put together a list of common questions we get from first timers, as well as proper bouldering etiquette.
If you've got questions,
We’ve got answers.
WHAT IS BOULDERING?
Bouldering is a form of rock climbing on 4.5 meter high climbing walls. “Problems” are climbed without ropes or harnesses with one person climbing at a time. There is no need for belayers so all participants are free to climb at their own pace.
Portside Boulders has over 100 problems available within the one bouldering area at any one time. Problems stay on the wall for 4 weeks before being changed. So there will always be something new to climb at Portside!
what do i need?
All you need to bring is light, comfortable clothing/activewear.
A water bottle is also a good idea to keep you hydrated.
Rental shoes are $5 and rental chalk bags are $3. Feel free to bring your own or purchase shoes and chalk bags from our store.
Climbing shoes must be worn when bouldering at Portside, this is so the climbing wall and holds remain nice and clean for everyone.
what about kids?
Here at Portside, we are an adult-focused facility, however we do aim to be inclusive towards those who are 16 and below.
Youth Policies
Youth Climbing Policy (Under 16yrs)
For the safety and enjoyment of all climbers, please ensure you adhere to our policies. You may be refused entry if these requirements are not met.
- Climbers must be at least 4 years of age. A child is considered anyone under the age of 16.
- All children and supervising adults must complete our waiver and safety induction.
- For every 2 children, there must be at least 1 adult supervising at all times.
- All climbers must wear climbing shoes.
- Bookings are required for groups of more than 4 children, and must be approved by the gym ahead of time.
Youth Booking Policy (11-15yrs ONLY)
- 4 - 10 years old - NO group bookings allowed - we suggest that you check out our Pebbles or Youth program.
- 11 - 15 years old - group bookings are possible, but MUST be booked with a coach, plus the below:
- Bookings will not be accepted for groups that include participants under 11 years old.
- We have a STRICT policy of one (1) adult supervisor/ participant for every four (4) children.
- Important: Strictly NO kids birthday parties. Unfortunately our facility is not suitable for kids birthday parties, and we therefore do not allow them at Portside.
For more information, please see our Portside Policies below.
DO YOU ACCOMODATE GROUPS?
If there are 4 or less of you coming for your first climb, we are happy to have you drop in at any time (you can speed up the sign in process by filling out the waiver)
If there are 5 or more new climbers in your group, please put in a group booking request here and we will be in contact with you to confirm a booking.
*Please note: Staff reserve the right to refuse groups of 4 or more who arrive without prior booking confirmation
WHAT IS PROPER CLIMBING ETiquette?
See below for our list of house rules/proper climbing etiquette you should follow when visiting our gyms.
HOW DOES YOUR GRADING SYSTEM WORK?
The grade of each climb is indicated by one of seven different coloured tags, with two additional tag designs for Mystery and Kids’ climbs.
Note that the hold colours do not indicate grade! The colour system allows our routesetters to have the freedom to use all of the holds throughout the whole range of grades, so climbers won't be stuck on the same hold sets.
The coloured tags will also have the name of the colour on them, and the posters in the gym will have the names of the colours on the bands, so that our colourblind climbers will be able to identify climbs.
BE A BETTER CLIMBER
SAFETY
BE AWARE
Always be aware of your surroundings.
BEHIND THE LINE
When not climbing, please stand or sit behind the taped lines.
GIVE WAY
The first person on the wall has the right of way.
STEER CLEAR
Don’t climb above or below another climber.
STAY OFF THE MATS
Stay off the mats when not climbing: they are only for falling and landing on. Please no running, wrestling, stretching, flips etc. on the mats.
CLEAR FALL ZONES
Keep fall zones clear of people and objects.
CLIMB DOWN
Try to climb down whenever possible.
ETIQUETTE
Climbing safety refers to the practices and procedures that minimise the inherent risks involved in climbing.
PEACE OUT
Keep it chill, good vibes only.
DON’T BETA SPRAY
Let others climb their way, unless they ask for help. As well intentioned as it may be, not everyone would like advice on how to do things, let people ask should they want some help!
RESPECT
Be respectful of other people, their space and belongings.
TRYING IS A SUCCESS
We’re all at different levels.
YOU BRUSH IT, YOU CRUSH IT
If someone brushes a hold, let them climb it first.
TAKE TURNS
Take turns climbing, let others have a go. Have 1 - 2 attemps before rotating with other climbers, and keep a safe distance while waiting.
NOT SO “EASY PEASY”
Don’t downplay anyone’s climbing.
BRUSHING
SLIPPERY WHEN CHALKY
Excess chalk makes the holds smooth and slippery.
BRUSH THE HOLDS
Brushing holds removes the excess chalk. If someone has brushed a climb, they are entitled to the next attempt on it.
GET A GRIP
Clean holds offer better grip.
LONG LASTING
Taking care of the holds by brushing them regularly increases their lifetime.
MANY HANDS MAKE LIGHT WORK
If you see someone climbing dirty holds, help by brushing it for them.
PROTECT THE HOLDS
Do not use a brush if the bristles have worn down.
REPLACE BRUSHES
Please let staff know if a brush is worn and needs replacing.
RULES
SAFETY FIRST
Climbers must complete the safety induction and sign the waiver (including supervising adults).
SUPERVISION
Climbers under the age of 16 must be actively supervised by an adult: one adult per two children.
DON’T DRINK & CLIMB
No entry to the climbing area while under the influence.
CLIMBING SHOES ONLY
Only climbing shoes are to be used on the walls and mats.
CLIMBING SHOE FREE ZONES
No climbing shoes in the bathrooms or weights gym.
DON’T BLEED & BOULDER
Climbing while bleeding is highly unsanitary. Please treat injuries and seek help from our staff to remove blood.
KEEP THE MATS CLEAR
Don’t leave your water bottle and non-climbing belongings on the mats.
FOOD FREE ZONE
No food in the climbing area
SLOW DOWN
No running anywhere in the facility.
SICK GYMS, NO ONE WINS
Please refrain from using the facility if you feel unwell.
NO TOPPING OUT
No grabbing the top of the wall and no topping out, it is unsafe to do so.
REMOVE JEWELS
Remove all jewellery before climbing - especially rings.
EXPERIENCED SPOTTERS ONLY
Only spot or power spot if it is absolutely necessary and with the consent of the climber.
DON’T TRY CATCH A FALL
Spotting is helping someone control their fall, not trying to catch them.
NO COMMERCIAL SOLICITAION
Strictly no commercial solicitation is allowed.
INCLUSION
- Never comment on someone's lack of ability/climbing skill and/or discourage anyone from climbing.
- Unsolicited sexual language and/or behaviour towards anyone is strictly prohibited.
- We do not tolerate homophobia, biphobia, inter-phobia and any other form of sexist, racist, discriminating and bullying comments and/or actions.
- We do not tolerate cyberbullying of any kind. This includes mediums such as emails, comments or messages via our social media platforms.
- Do not instruct people on how to climb unless they give explicit permission first - this includes showing beta (the solution to climbing a problem), or physical assistance.
PORTSIDE BOULDERS POLICIES
GYM POLICIES
MEDIA AND CONTENT POLICY
General Guidelines
- Permission Required: All media and filming activities (especially on professional equipment) must receive prior written approval from the Portside Media Team. This includes photography, video recording, interviews, and live streaming. We do not allow filming for external business advertising purposes unless it is approved and performed by the Portside Boulders Media Team.
- Notification: All members and staff must be informed of scheduled media activities in advance to ensure their comfort and privacy.
- Respect Privacy: Filming should not capture individuals without their explicit consent. Legally, Portside Boulders cannot give consent on behalf of our customers. Signage should be placed in areas where filming is occurring to notify gym users.
- No Disruption: Media activities should not disrupt gym operations or member activities. Filming should occur during designated times and areas agreed upon by the Media Team.
4. Safety and Equipment Use
- Equipment Guidelines: All equipment must be safe and not pose any risk to gym users. Tripods and lighting should be securely set up to avoid tripping hazards.
- Personal Conduct: Media personnel must adhere to all gym safety protocols and respect the personal space of members and staff.
5. Content Review
- Content Approval: Portside Boulders reserves the right to review and approve any content featuring the gym prior to its release. This includes ensuring that the content aligns with our brand values and does not misrepresent the gym.
- Attribution: If content is used for promotional purposes, proper attribution to Portside Boulders must be provided.
6. Special Events
- Event Filming: For special events (competitions, community events), additional guidelines will be established to manage media coverage effectively. Event organizers should work closely with management to coordinate.
7. Non-compliance
Failure to comply with this policy may result in revocation of media privileges.
8. Policy Review
This policy will be reviewed annually and updated as necessary to ensure compliance with current laws and best practices.
9. Contact Information
For inquiries or to request permission for media and filming activities, please contact:
Portside Boulders Media Team
PET POLICY
We love having your pets visit Portside! For the safety and comfort of all of our visitors, we just ask that you follow a few rules.
- All pets must be on a standard-sized lead at all times - one lead per dog!
- Pets may only be tied to provided points in the facility, and must not be tied to any furniture.
- Pets must stay off the matting and furniture, and must not enter the gym area.
- Be aware that other dogs may be in the gym - if your pooch is uneasy around other pups, it may be better to leave them at home.
- It is your responsibility to clean up any mess left by your pet.
Please remember that having your pet in the facility is a privilege - we do our best to accommodate for
this, and ask for owners to comply with our policy to allow this access to continue. We reserve the right to go beyond these rules in necessary situations.
SHOP POLICIES
REFUNDS & EXCHANGE POLICY
We are happy to process a return or exchange for you for any product you purchase from us, provided you fulfill the following criteria. The product in question must:
- Have seen no use or damage
- Be returned with its original packaging & tags
- Be accompanied with proof of purchase (in the form of a receipt or bank statement)
- Be returned within 30 days of purchase
*All returns or exchanges must be assessed & processed in person at one of our gym locations.
WARRANTY POLICY
If a product you purchased from us contains a manufacturing fault, we would be happy to assess this for you and either replace, credit or refund as desired (if a claim deemed to be legitimate). In order to process any warranty claim we require the following:
- The faulty product to be assessed
- Proof of purchase (in the form of a receipt or bank statement)
- Identification (in the form of a driver's license, passport or Australian state and territory issued identity photo card)
It is important to note that normal 'wear and tear' is not considered a manufacturing fault.
A manufacturing fault would be considered as any problem that prevents a product from performing as intended by the manufacturer.
GIFT CARD T&Cs
- Gift cards expire 3 years from the date of purchase.
- This gift card can be used ay any Portside Boulders venue and can be redeemed for any goods or services we provide.
- The purchase amount will be deducted from the gift card amount, and any remaining value can be used at a later date.
- This card must be presented at time of purchase.
- This card cannot be returned, refunded or redeemed as cash.
ONLINE SHOP POLICY
All online items are FINAL SALE and we cannot accept returns unless there is a manufacturing fault. Please note we will only process return requests that have been purchased ONLINE via the below process.
It is important to note that normal ‘wear and tear’ is not considered a manufacturing fault. A manufacturing fault is considered any problem that prevents a product from performing as intended by the manufacturer.
For us to assess a manufacturing fault, the product must:
- Have seen no use or damage
- Still have it’s original packaging and tags
- Be accompanied with proof of purchase (in the form of an order email from us or bank statement).
- Have a returns request raised within 14 days of receiving the order
How to submit an online returns request:
- Submit your request within 14 days of receiving your order to onlinereturns@portsideboulders.com.au
- Title: Returns Request:
- Include a detailed description of what the fault is and how it came to be
- Attach photos of the fault from different angles and close up
YOUTH CLIMBING POLICIES
YOUTH CLIMBING POLICY (4-15 yrs)
kids are welcome to climb at Portside, but the below policy must be observed at all times to ensure the
safety of children & all other visitors. These rules apply to all visitors under the age of 16.
- Climbers must be at least 4 years of age. A child is considered anyone under the age of 16.
- All children and supervising adults must complete our waiver and safety induction.
- For every 2 children, there must be at least 1 adult supervising at all times.
- All climbers must wear climbing shoes.
- Bookings are required for groups of more than 4 children, and must be approved by the gym ahead of time.
- Important: Strictly NO kids birthday parties. Our facility is not suitable for kids birthday parties, and we therefore do not allow them at Portside.
ACTIVE SUPERVISION means ‘within arms reach or within a few steps away’. It is also imperative that no running, cartwheels or similar types of activities be undertaken by the child in the climbing area (or adult for that matter) as it significantly increases the risks of injury.
YOUTH CLIMBING POLICY (16-18yrs)
- Youth aged 16-18 do NOT require a supervisor to climb with us.
-
Once someone is 18+ they will be able to supervise others, but they must not be climbing at the same time.
-
One adult may not be responsible for more than 2 youth (15 and under).
-
Before climbing, participants under 18 must have their waiver signed by a parent or legal guardian.
-
Anyone supervising youth will need to be inducted and have a waiver completed with Portside.
You can now apply for an exemption to our supervision policies for children aged 14 and older who are currently enrolled in our Youth Programs. If successful they would be able to climb without a supervisor.
We will base our decision on these applications on the behaviour, attitude, and sense of responsibility of the youth during classes.
Finally, climbing unsupervised is a privilege. If the application is granted but exempt youth exhibit unsafe behaviour, they will risk losing this privilege. Any Portside staff member reserves the right to revoke an exemption if unsafe behaviour is observed.
If you would like to begin an application you can do so here.
YOUTH BOOKING POLICY (11-15 yrs)
- 4 – 10 years old – NO group bookings allowed – we suggest that you check out our Pebbles or Youth program.
- For youth aged 11-15 years of age ONLY. Bookings are not accepted for groups including children below 11 years of age.
- Groups of 5 children or more MUST request a booking ahead of time using the form.
- All Youth Group Bookings include mandatory coach(es) to assist adult supervisors in maintaining a safe environment.
- Strict policy: One (1) adult supervisor for every two (2) children climbing.
- Our facilities are not suitable for kids birthday parties and we do not allow them at Portside.
WE WILL REFUSE ENTRY TO YOUR GROUP IF:
- You arrive without prior notice.
- You arrive without receiving a confirmation email of your booking.
- You do not have the correct number of adult supervisors per number of children.
- You are hosting a birthday party.
- Your group includes participants below 11 years of age.
GROUP BOOKING POLICIES
GROUP BOOKING POLICY (16yrs +)
- Group Bookings are for ages 16 years and over.
- We require at least 7 days to process group booking requests.
- You will receive a call or email back from our relevant team to confirm dates and further details.
- We do NOT accept bookings for parties of any kind.
WE WILL REFUSE ENTRY TO YOUR GROUP IF:
- You arrive without prior notice.
- You arrive without receiving a confirmation email of your booking.
- You do not have the correct number of adult supervisors per number of children.
- You are hosting a birthday party.
- Your group includes participants below 11 years of age.
CHILDREN (11-15 years)
- Groups of 5 children or more MUST request a booking ahead of time.
- All Youth Group Bookings include mandatory coach(es) to assist adult supervisors in maintaining a safe environment.
- Bookings are not accepted for groups including children below 11 years of age.
- Strict policy: one (1) adult supervisor for every two (2) children climbing.
- Our facilities are not suitable for kids birthday parties and we do not allow them at Portside.
PRIVATE STUDIO CLASS BOOKINGS
- Flat fee of $200 per class.
- Private Studio Class booking participants must be 16 years of age and over.
- ONLY at Willetton and O'Connor. Must not clash with an existing class time.
YOUTH BOOKING POLICY (11-15 yrs)
- 4 – 10 years old – NO group bookings allowed – we suggest that you check out our Pebbles or Youth program.
- For youth aged 11-15 years of age ONLY. Bookings are not accepted for groups including children below 11 years of age.
-
Groups of 5 children or more MUST request a booking ahead of time using the form.
- All Youth Group Bookings include mandatory coach(es) to assist adult supervisors in maintaining a safe environment.
-
Strict policy: One (1) adult supervisor for every two (2) children climbing.
-
Our facilities are not suitable for kids birthday parties and we do not allow them at Portside.
WE WILL REFUSE ENTRY TO YOUR GROUP IF:
- You arrive without prior notice.
- You arrive without receiving a confirmation email of your booking.
- You do not have the correct number of adult supervisors per number of children.
- You are hosting a birthday party.
- Your group includes participants below 11 years of age.
PRIVACY POLICIES
PRIVACY POLICY
1. Introduction
Portside Boulders ("we," "our," or "us") operates the website located at "www.portsideboulders.com.au". This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, disclose, and protect your personal information when you use our website and any related services.
2. Information We Collect
We may collect the following types of personal information:
- Contact Information: Name, email address, phone number, and postal address.
- Account Information: If you create an account with us, we collect login credentials and account preferences.
- Payment Information: If you make payments on our website, we may collect payment card details or other payment information.
- Usage Information: Information about your interactions with our website, such as IP address, browser type, pages visited, and the date and time of access.
- Communications: Information you provide when contacting us, such as emails, feedback, or other correspondence.
3. How We Use Your Information
We may use your personal information for the following purposes:
- To provide and maintain our website and services.
- To process and complete transactions.
- To respond to your inquiries and provide customer support.
- To send you updates, newsletters, and marketing communications (if you opt in).
- To personalize your experience on our website.
- To improve our website's functionality and user experience.
- To comply with legal obligations and protect our rights and interests.
4. Sharing Your Information
We may share your personal information with third parties under the following circumstances:
- With service providers and partners who assist us in operating our website and providing services.
- With legal authorities to comply with legal obligations or protect our rights.
- In connection with the sale, merger, or transfer of all or part of our business.
5. Security
We take reasonable measures to protect your personal information from unauthorized access, disclosure, alteration, or destruction. However, no data transmission over the internet or electronic storage is completely secure, and we cannot guarantee the security of your information.
6. Cookies and Tracking Technologies
We use cookies and similar tracking technologies to collect usage information and enhance your experience on our website. You can manage your cookie preferences through your browser settings.
7. Your Choices
You have the right to:
- Access and review your personal information.
- Correct inaccuracies in your personal information.
- Delete your personal information (subject to legal and operational requirements).
- Opt out of marketing communications.
8. Children's Privacy
Our website is not intended for children under the age of 13. We do not knowingly collect or store personal information from children under 13 without parental consent.
9. Changes to This Privacy Policy
We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time to reflect changes in our practices or for other operational, legal, or regulatory reasons. We will post the revised Privacy Policy on our website, and the updated version will be effective from the date of posting.
10. Contact Us
If you have any questions or concerns about this Privacy Policy or our data practices, please contact us on our contact form on the website.
WEBSITE T&Cs
Website Terms and Conditions of Use
1. Acceptance of Terms
a. By accessing and using the Portside Boulders website, you agree to comply with and be bound by these terms and conditions.
2. Privacy Policy
a. Please refer to our Privacy Policy for information regarding how we collect, use, and protect your personal information when using our website.
3. Intellectual Property
a. All content on this website, including but not limited to text, images, logos, trademarks, and graphics, is the intellectual property of Portside Boulders and is protected by copyright laws.
b. You may not use, reproduce, or distribute any content from this website without prior written permission from Portside Boulders.
4. User Conduct
a. You agree to use this website for lawful purposes only.
b. You are prohibited from engaging in any conduct that could damage, impair, or disrupt the website's functionality or interfere with other users' access.
5. Links to Third-Party Websites
a. This website may contain links to third-party websites. Portside Boulders is not responsible for the content or practices of these websites.
6. Limitation of Liability
a. Portside Boulders is not liable for any direct, indirect, incidental, consequential, or punitive damages resulting from your use of this website or any content herein.
7. Disclaimer
a. This website is provided "as is" and "as available." Portside Boulders makes no representations or warranties regarding the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information or content on this website.
8. Jurisdiction and Governing Law
a. These terms and conditions are governed by the laws of Western Australia, and you agree to submit to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of Western Australia.
9. Changes to Terms and Conditions
a. Portside Boulders reserves the right to update or modify these terms and conditions at any time without notice. Your continued use of the website after such changes will constitute your acceptance of the new terms.
10. Contact Information
a. For questions or concerns related to these terms and conditions, please contact us via our contact form on the website.
11. Entire Agreement
a. These terms and conditions, along with our Privacy Policy, constitute the entire agreement between you and Portside Boulders regarding your use of this website.