It has been five years since an historic organisation in Lake Macquarie shut its doors.
But the Carey Bay/Toronto Scout Group is on the hunt for new members to rekindle the passion that originally led to its formation in 1916.
An information and fun day will take place from 10am to 2pm on Sunday 16 June for boys and girls aged between five and 17.
Leader in charge, Diane Bellette, says she is excited about the group’s potential return after so long in the wilderness.
“The kids started to dwindle off [five years ago] because the leaders were wanting to leave,” she says.
“We couldn’t recruit at that time and then the last leader that was there had enough and decided to pull the pin.
“I was [eventually] put in charge and it was really daunting to start off with – it was the first group where there’s been nothing.”
Despite this, Mrs Bellette was determined to gauge the community’s interest.
She set up meetings, created a social media account and organised information sessions, with her hard work leading to the recruitment of four new leaders so far.
Now, she wants young people to come along and see what happens as a Scout.
“It’s a benefit for all kids to be able to try things that they haven’t done before like abseiling, canoeing, rock climbing,” she says.
“We want to get them away from their computers and Game Boys, we want to get them outdoors.
“But the main aim is for kids to have fun.”Mrs Bellette, who has been involved in Scouts for three decades, adds new programs will make the experience more adventurous, challenging and inclusive.
“It’s done a complete about-face; kids tell us now what they want to do, and we put a program together for them,” she says.
“It is more up-to-date these days and challenges their minds and bodies.”
The information and fun day will be at the scout hall, 74 Excelsior Parade, Toronto.
A follow-up event has also been organised for Wednesday 19 June from 7pm.
Visit Carey Bay Toronto Scout Group on Facebook for more information.
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