Our ‘Pre-Jamboree’ settling in camp went very smoothly. Brooklyn Scouts are combining with Karori West Scouts. We are now firmly in the grips of the new youth leading model, so it took twice as long to put up the tents than might have been expected!? The youth undertook team building activities (planned by Scouts from the six Troops that make up the Wellington Jamboree Contingent) and designed our gateway for the campsite. It was noted by a passing observer that we appeared to be the most relaxed Troop – so that bodes well for Jamboree!

On the weekend of the 23-25th September, 17 Scouts placed themselves at the mercy of Jamie and his ability to run a Patrol/ team camp in the Wairarapa. This is a sign-off requirement for his Chief Scout award. Jamie had planned a number of challenges ranging from making woggles to firelighting with flints. Luckily we also had magnifying glasses which actually allowed us to achieve our fire-making goal – some more devious Scouts simply borrowed/ transferred fire from successful teams to light their own fires…

Jamie also dialled in a spectacular frost on Saturday night (the tents had ice on them by 8pm!). This lead to some pretty cold fingers and toes, and was a lesson to all to be well prepared for the cold. Ironically we also had a big bonfire, the ashes from which were so hot we had trouble getting close enough to toast marshmallows!

Thanks to Jamie – I’m sure he slept well on Sunday night!

Cheers, John

A chili blast was had by all. We had 53 attend our annual Winter wonderland trip. Our accommodation was at the Auckland Grammar Venture Lodge, what a fantastic venue it had all we needed for an enjoyable weekend.

The effort of the organisers and the kitchen crew were phenomenal (thank you), however the weather committee failed for Sunday snow activities!! This provided a perfect opportunity for us to show our resilience.

Tonight Raven & Fantail teams ran a World of Wearable Rubbish runway challenge. Points were awarded for using all the materials provided, flair, style, complexity, modelling prowess and dancing skills!?

T’was a busy night last night with Blue Penguin Team (Patrol) running a “Mystery Box – Disaster Chef” challenge. Points were awarded at the discretion of the Senior Team, with the use of ingredients (like curry powder, rolls of tape and Vegemite) receiving bonus points. The maple syrup (with curry powder) was not well received! Kakapo bathed themselves in glory, closely followed by Takehe Team. Danial (aka “Special”), the Blue Penguin’s Team Leader, ran the night and demonstrated that youth lead scouting is the way of the future. Of course he required plenty of support from Senior team of Jamie, Winston & Lucia ?

Our Team (and Assistant Team Leaders) also received more leadership training form Mark ?? We now have five teams due to our high numbers.

We welcome Joss (one of our cub leaders going to Jamboree) and Sarah (waiting for her Warrant and also going to Jamboree) to our adult team. They are both getting to know our Scouts and bring significant experience to the section.

YiS, John