pics: Saywells Camp, October 2012

Around 20 cubs, scouts, venturers, leaders and parents (with an additional crew from Paparangi Scouts) had a fine time in sunshine, rain, hail, high wind…..you name it, we had it.

Thanks to the careful checking by our quartermaster, and Terry and friends, the tents all (well, with the sad exception of Grayson’s) stood up to the rigours.

At Saywells, we did our scouts’ good deed with a rubbish cleanup, we walked and learned compass navigation basics, played games, and completed an orienteering course.  Newer scouts used their time well to acquire new skills, and three cooked their own dinner over the open fire – delicious.

— Denise

(as ever, if you don’t see the photos below click here)

Search for next Scouts NZ National Chairman underway

Recruitment is underway for the next Chair of Scouts NZ to take over in March 2013.

It’s a 3 year, unpaid, position, with on average 10 hours per month commitment (personally, I’d reckon at least 2 days!).

See the Appoint website detail, or call Peter McLaren on 04 4991069

Desired attributes are:
  • Proven experience as a Director and/or Chairman
  • Proven ability to mentor the skills and capabilities of a new, dynamic and vibrant CEO – an opportunity to make a real difference
  • A thorough understanding of good governance practices in the Not-for-Profit sector
  • Have knowledge of and success in areas such as fiscal overview, stakeholder engagement and strategic planning
  • Has had success in working closely and constructively with the diverse views of a volunteer workforce
  • Knowledge and experience of Scouting in New Zealand is desirable as is the need to understand the needs of a large membership organisation
  • Has an awareness of, and real interest in youth development
  • Excellent communication and be able to liaise with the volunteer leaders who actually deliver Scouting.

pics: All the fun of the fair!

Yesterday was a special Kids edition of the Brooklyn Community Fair.  The tables were full of games, pre-loved soft toys, cakes and other tasty treats.  Pocket Money soon disappeared!

Brooklyn Scouts had a really strong presence, from Venturers through to Cubs: it was impossible to get inside the community centre without being tempted by a scout-served hot-dog, a turn on the real-life fruit machine (cubs and scouts make cheap labour), push the tyre or trampoline!

Whilst these activities make a bit of profit for the group, their main benefits are profile raising (Duane and Sue were distributing our information leaflets faster than a WWII propaganda campaign),  strengthening the links between the youth, parents and local community, and getting youth involved in fundraising activities.

Enough words – pics below…

[if you can’t see the pics click here]