By BRIANNA PIAZZA

The Warrandyte Scout Group enjoyed a significant increase over the past year, however they are still welcoming new scout members and volunteers of all ages.

Volunteers for the Cubs Group grew by more than 50 per cent in the past year, whilst Scouts increased their membership base by at least 20 per cent.

“All our staff are volunteers,” Scout Leader Iain Jansen said, “and we do need more volunteers to support this growth.”

Uniforms and training are provided for volunteers and no previous experience is necessary.

Scout Leader, Carmen Jansen, told the Diary that her experiences as a volunteer with the Scout Group have been “very rewarding”, and she enjoys participating in the activities with the kids and watching them develop new skills.

“As a Scout Leader, you get to know each child and watch them grow. You also get to have fun as a leader because you’re with the kids on the camps and you get to do a lot of the same activities,” she said.

Scout members participate in weekly meetings at the local scout hall – beside the Community Church in Yarra Street – where they take part in physical activities, games nights, teamwork and community and badge-work activities.

Several camps are offered during the year, giving members opportunities to learn survival skills and experiences in rock-climbing, orienteering, caving, canoeing and skiing.

Scout committee chairman, Ed Stuyfbergen, said Warrandyte Scout Group gives young people the opportunity to participate in exciting activities they cannot access on a day-to-day basis.

“The kids get a lot of exposure to camping, leadership and life skills,” he said. “I think scouts bring a lot of great skills to the kids they don’t find anywhere else.”

He said the group is especially looking to recruit more 15 to 17 year-olds. However, young people of any age can join and are welcome to a free, three-week trial.

“We understand teenagers are pushed for time, however, joining the Scouts is a great way to take a break from studies. Every kid is welcome to try for three weeks before they commit. We are more than happy for people to come along and have a look.”

Scouts is a not-for-profit organisation and group meetings are held throughout the year.

• Anyone interested in becoming a volunteer, or having a trial with the Warrandyte Scout Group should call 1800 SCOUTS or visit the website.

(Published in the Warrandyte Diary, September 2010 issue)

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