Prior to volunteering as Scout leader, Julie Segal had no previous experience in making green slime. Now she considers herself as an expert thanks to the “whacky and fun” activities Kurilpa Scout Group experiences. After running for more than 70 years, the Scouts covering the areas of West End, Yeronga, Fairfield and Dutton Park have been a pillar of the local community. With age groups including Joeys, Cubs, Scouts and Venturers, hundreds of members have embraced their morally uplifting philosophy, teaching confidence, resilience and leadership to burgeoning generations.
Accepting the position of group leader in 2013, Segal believes in the internationally recognised Scout ethos within her group. “We just want to encourage an all-encompassing attitude of looking beyond your own sphere of living, to expose yourself to different things. These experiences are often entertaining, but also challenging as we’d like to help develop the life skills of these young people.”
After signing up her kids in 2011, Segal quickly became captivated by the positive philosophy that has seen scouts flourish across the world. Two years later she saw herself at the helm of a community group involved in abseiling, mountain bike riding, and even slime tug of war. “These crazy and whacky experiences allow for kids of all ages to learn important life skills that will help them later in life. Whether it may be planning journeys, rising against challenges and even hands on work, all of it is essential for character building,” she said.
Beyond the outdoor experiences, the Scout group has played an active role in their electorate formerly known as Kurilpa. This sense of moral responsibility to the original community is reflective in their actions with participation in numerous civic ceremonies, including ANZAC memorials environmental campaigns and the Walk in Our Shoes Festival for youth refugees last year.
Scouts is not only open to the younger demographic, but also actively encourages outdoor loving volunteers from all walks of the community to inspire future leaders. For those who are on the lookout to upskill in outdoor recreation, or seek leadership and management certifications, Kurilpa Scouts has an open door policy. This is evident in their 11 current leaders, with eight of them being outside volunteers rather than parents. “We have such an invigorated team, with plenty of uplifting stories of those who have lent their time to us. We’ve had former scouts and newcomers join us and gain the qualifications they’ve needed to further themselves in the next phases of their lives.”
This year is shaping up to be one of the Kurilpa Scouts’ biggest yet, hosting its annual general meeting alongside a memorable community event complete with jumping castle, rock climbing wall and barbecue. “We’re just encouraging everyone to join and embrace the entertaining atmosphere. We’ve seen a huge shift in volunteers due to the diverse range of activities we offer. We will continue to do this too, because if it’s fun for everyone; it’s easier for everyone.”
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