The Joeys, Cubs, Scouts, Venturers and Rovers recently set up shop at the front of Woolworths Seymour and were pleased with the response from the community.
“We are grateful for their support. This included a donation of 10 fireman teddies from Tracey Kersten and local craft ladies from Seymour and district,” group leader Renee Clarke said.
“The purpose of scouting is to help young people achieve their potential - physically, intellectually, emotionally, socially and spiritually - as individuals and as members of their local, national and international communities.
“We support the concept of youth led and adult supported. This barbecue came about as our youth members saw those affected by the bushfires needed help and they wanted to help.”
The barbecue was just one of the huge range of activities the 1st Seymour Scout Group has planned for 2020.
The Joeys will be heading to Kangaree in March, a major event for Joey Scouts held every two years in Victoria. Joeys enjoy a busy program of activities and entertainment, delicious food in large dining areas with hundreds of friends, and either sleep in tents or on stretchers in large pavilions.
The Cubs will be heading to Cuboree in September, a four-night camp for Cub Scouts held every three years where they will enjoy hikes, camps and have plans to go abseiling.
Venturers are going to “Anything Goes”, an adventurous activities weekend camp held on the last weekend of February every year at Lardner Park near Warragul. Activities include horse riding, rafting, mountain biking, tenpin bowling, scuba diving, high ropes course, four-wheel driving, helicopter rides and laser tag.
Rovers are going to Surf Moot at Anglesea and in June are running Mudbash - a rally car-style event at Mafeking Rover Park, near Yea.
“Our youth members range from five to 25 years old. Apart from fun and adventure we ask youth to do their best, to consider others and help other people,” Renee said.
“This includes fundraising for charities, tree planting, Anzac Day parades, Clean Up Australia, visiting and learning about community-based emergency services such as SES, CFA and the police, as well as participating in local sports, music and theatre groups.
“It’s a great way to have a social life and gain extra credits while studying year 11 and 12.
“Members learn early on the importance of our flag and that they can make a difference at the local level which in turn is an important part of our national community.”
Renee encouraged interested community members of all ages to get involved with the 1st Seymour Scout Group.
She said it was a fantastic way to develop new skills, meet new people and have unforgettable experiences.
“Because we believe in youth led and adult supported, all youth get to share decision-making about what we do in our programs,” she said.
“And there is something for everyone. If you want to fly, we have air activities teams, if you want to go abseiling, there is a state abseiling team.”
“Scouting is a worldwide movement and international camps and adventures are only as far away as your dreams. Your local Scout group will try hard to support you while we teach you the planning that will help make it happen.
“Several years ago, we sent eight Venturers and Rovers to Switzerland. Others have travelled to interstate camps.
“Scouting is not just for youth. Adults have fun too and are the most positive people I have ever met. We encourage family members to come along as adult helpers, committee members and leaders. Other community members are also welcome. We have child safety checks.
“We are currently seeking committee members and a female assistant Venturer leader to help our two male Venturer leaders.
“Adult leaders are trained over three years to work with specific age groups, each having different needs and abilities. Certificate and diploma accreditations can be achieved through the leader training programs.”
If you are interested in being part of the 1st Seymour Scout Group phone 1800 SCOUTS (1800 726 887) or email gl.1stseymour@scoutsvictoria.com.au