operation Resilience
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operation Resilience *
Operation Resilience
Operation Resilience is a proven, life‑skills based program delivered by Burnie PCYC. Established in 2002, the program uses hands‑on, challenge‑based activities to help young people develop confidence, resilience and a strong sense of responsibility to themselves and others.
What began as a local anti‑bullying and team‑building initiative has grown into a multi‑phase program supporting schools and community groups across the region.
Our Purpose
Operation Resilience prepares young people for the realities of life beyond school by teaching practical skills that matter:
Teamwork
Cooperation
Effective communication
Leadership
Participants learn that success comes not from focusing on themselves, but from supporting those around them.
Building stronger, more resilient young people through teamwork, leadership and challenge
The Program
Operation Resilience is delivered across four structured phases, each building on the last.
Phase One – Indoor Obstacle Course
Participants work in teams to complete a timed indoor obstacle course with set rules and consequences. The experience places students in real‑time problem‑solving scenarios where success depends on teamwork, communication and leadership.
Phase One supports students from Prep to Year 12. School students are bussed to Burnie PCYC from as far away as Smithton and Launceston to participate in the program. A version of the program is also delivered to community groups on application. This phase has been recognised with:
Educational Excellence Award (2004)
NAB Schools First Award – School and Community Partnership (2010)
Phase Two – Battle Fit
Battle Fit focuses on building physical fitness, mental resilience and self‑discipline through structured training and positive mentoring.
This phase supports young people who may be disengaged or struggling at school or within the community.
Participants often include young people preparing for careers in the Australian Defence Force, emergency services and other community‑focused roles.
Phase Three – Tactical Tots
Tactical Tots is a gross motor skills program for children aged 0–5 years facilitated through primary school Launching into Learning programs.
Using a scaled obstacle course, toddlers safely explore balance, agility, movement and confidence in a controlled environment, supporting early physical and personal development.
Proven Impact
Operation Resilience delivers measurable outcomes for schools and communities:
Over 5,000 classes have completed Phase One
Over 70 young people have successfully gained employment in the ADF or Tasmania Police
Strong support from the education sector, with teachers integrating program principles into classroom learning
Successful engagement with individuals with intellectual disabilities using alternative, experiential learning methods
Program Management
Operation Resilience is managed by the Burnie PCYC Club Manager, who oversees delivery, coordination and record‑keeping to ensure quality outcomes and continuous improvement.
Preparing Young People for Life
By building self‑discipline, adaptability, leadership and teamwork, Operation Resilience equips young people with the skills they need to face life’s challenges with confidence.
Delivered at low cost and grounded in real‑world experiences, Operation Resilience is more than a program, it is an investment in stronger individuals, teams and communities.
Interested in bringing Operation Resilience to your school or community group?