Ash Bolt
Three Belmont Scouts have achieved the highest honour available to Scouts, the Queen’s Scout Award.
Claire Breakey, Ruby Taylor and Callie Barnes’ achievements were celebrated at a ceremony last Sunday in front of friends, family and dignitaries, before they head to Government House next week to officially receive their awards from Victorian governor Linda Dessau.
The Queen’s Scout Award is the peak award for a Venturer in Scouts, and requires over 300 hours of work.
The significant challenge sees the Venturers commit their time to a range of activities including outdoor activities, community involvement, leadership development and personal growth, before
1st Belmont Scouts group leader Scott Barnes said it was an amazing achievement that only around five per cent of Venturers reached.
“This award saw the three girls to complete adventurous activities all over Victoria, interstate and overseas, demonstrating that young people don’t need to drop all the things they enjoy for VCE,” Mr Barnes said.
“Australian research has shown that Scouting actually improves a student’s ability to study through being encouraged to be social and physically active away from home and the pressures of school, while also improving mental health.
“It’s a big achievement and we congratulate Claire, Ruby and Callie.”
Mr Barnes said the three girls had dedicated their time to organising and completing hikes, as well as undergoing new and challenging experiences such as learning how to ski, play volleyball, abseil and crochet, as well as volunteering in the community.
Geelong MP Christine Couzens attended the celebration ceremony and said she was impressed with what Claire, Ruby and Callie had achieved.
“Scouting has given these girls opportunities to teach others and take on leadership responsibilities which in turn has helped them to develop into young leaders in their communities who are now confident to stand up for what they believe in,” she said.
