Workshop: The Art of Stick Clipping
Description
Stick clipping is often thought of as just a way to protect the first moves, but it’s much more versatile than that.
In this 1 hour hands-on workshop, Hugh Ward from the Blue Mountains Climbing School will take you through the many safety applications of stick clipping from single-pitch starts to multi-pitch environments. You’ll also cover compact solutions for carrying and deploying stick clips, plus how to use bolt plates and even trad gear in creative ways.
Hands-on, practical, and safety-focused, this session will expand your understanding for managing risk and efficiency on the wall.
What you’ll learn:
Common stick clip uses, including protecting the first bolt, hanging draws, and retrieval
Uncommon extra safety uses for stick clips
Different stick clip options and solutions for single and multi pitch environments
Placing bolt plates and trad gear with a stick clips
Shared equipment provided. Just bring yourself and your stick clip (if you want to practice with your own one).
Location: Climbing Anchors Sydney, Alexandria
Date: Monday, 23 February 2026
Time: 6:15 - 7:15pm
Participants: 20
Tickets: $5*
Open to all skill levels.
*Ticket cost will be donated to Sydney Rockies Bolting Fund. Registration to the event is free, but bring your $5 cash donation on the night.
Lineup
Hugh Ward
AMGA Rock Guide, Cert IV and Diploma in Outdoor Leadership Hugh Ward is the Director and Lead Guide at Blue Mountains Climbing School, bringing decades of experience and a lifelong passion for rock climbing. Raised by climber parents and inspired by his first big trip to the Wolgan Valley at 19, Hugh has since climbed across Australia and around the globe – from Yosemite and the High Sierra to Denali, Kilimanjaro, and the Dolomites. With qualifications including AMGA Rock Guide, Cert IV and Diploma in Outdoor Leadership, Wilderness First Aid, SPRAT (Rope Access), and Vertical Rescue, Hugh is highly regarded for his expertise in both technical rigging and risk management. He has also served in Wilderness Search and Rescue, applying his skills to rescues and complex rope access logistics. As a Trainer and Assessor, Hugh is passionate about mentoring guides and helping climbers of all levels grow their skills, confidence, and connection to the outdoors. His favourite days are spent teaching, climbing, and sharing the adventure with others in the stunning Blue Mountains.
Tickets for good, not greed Humanitix dedicates 100% of profits from booking fees to charity
