SCOUTS AUSTRALIA Report to the Nation 2008 This report covers the period 1 April 2007 to 31 March 2008. Contents Chief Commissioner’s Report 1 National Chairman’s Report 4 Highlights 2007-2008 6 What is Scouting? 13 Mission 13 Aim 13 Principles 13 Methods 13 The Scouting Sections 14 Scout Law 14 Scout Promise 14 Management 15 National Council 15 National Executive Committee 17 Officer of the Committee 17 Awards 18 Thank you 19 Message from the Chief Commissioner

In this “The Year of the Scout” in In the continuing effort and achievement in keeping Scout Australia for 2008, we can also reflect Programs up to date and relevant to young Australians, the on an excellent year of the 2007 World Venturer Scout Review has been most thorough and will be Scout Centenary in this 48th National completed by June 2008. All Branches have been vigorously Annual Report of Australia. represented in this review and all members have had Significant membership growth of 3%, opportunities to contribute, through local mechanisms and the in the scout year to 31st March 2007, internet sites. With the relevant publications, resources and Adult indicates high quality Scout Programs training programs updated by the end of the year, the revised for our young people in this youth Venturer Scout Program will be launched at the Venture “Escape” development Movement and much in in January 2009. improvement and determination in promoting Scout values and benefits to our varied communities. Scouting’s Profile has continued to increase, through media advertising and interviews and public relations, nationally, in The Year of the Scout was officially launched at “AussieMoot”, for states and territories and in local municipalities. The “Scarf Up for and young leaders, held at Cataract Scout Park in January, Scouting” in National Youth Week in April was a tremendously jointly by the chairperson of the National Youth Council, Nikketah successful event. Hundreds of politicians, national ambassadors, McGrath and chairperson of the National Rover Council, councillors, media people, visible commercial people, school Patrick McCormick.

“The “Scarf Up for Scouting” in National Youth Week in April was a tremendously successful event. Hundreds of politicians, national ambassadors, councillors, media people, visible commercial people, school principals and other prominent citizens wore a scarf to demonstrate their support for Scouting.”

The Scout Movement membership grows or declines at local principals and other prominent citizens wore a scarf to Group level, affected by many factors, including, of course, the demonstrate their support for Scouting. socio-economic climate of the variety of local communities. A large contingent of Australian scouts participated in the World Ultimately these factors influence the delivery of the Scout Centenary Jamboree at Hylands Park, near Chelmsford in England Programs to and by local Joey Scout Mobs, Cub Scout Packs, Scout in August 2007. This was a life-changing experience for 40,000 Patrols, Venturer Scout Units and Rover Crews. So, the Youth scouts from every scout member country in the world. Program, Adult Training and Personal Development to deliver the Program, the International nature and the Image and Profile of A highlight was the celebration of “Scouting’s Sunrise” at 8am the Movement are the key elements of this Report. on 1st August in each country and time zone, and at Brownsea Island, where the first experimental camp commenced on that The Adults in Scouting Review and its consequential Projects, date in 1907. particularly with respect to excellent relationships, support, encouragement and coaching of our adults, to provide effective, Major, highly visible celebrations took place in every capital city exciting and challenging activities, has been a major factor in this and many regional centres throughout Australia on that morning, success. Well supported Adult Leaders “deliver” excellent Scout at Government Houses in and Melbourne, at the Programs and also assist Patrol Leaders, Venturer Scouts and Opera House with a giant Scout flag flying from atop the Harbour Rovers to do so. Bridge, at “breakfasts” in Hobart, Adelaide and on Darwin’s Esplanade. The Western Australians re-enacted the Brownsea This results in greater retention and recruitment of both youth camp on an island on the Swan River, in and members and adults. Scouts were presented with the Keys to the city of . Our Governors / Chief Scouts were prominent in leading many of these celebrations.

SCOUTS AUSTRALIA REPORT TO THE NATION 2008 • PAGE 1 Royal Australian Mint commemorative gold, silver and cupro- Forum, Nikketah also became the Young Adult Member of the nickel coins, 50 cent, $1.35 and $2 stamps contributed greatly to APR Youth Program sub-committee. the celebrations of Scouts Australia’s centenary. A circulating With Scouting New Zealand, we also play a facilitating role at the 2008 Scout Centenary one dollar coin will be in every Australian’s two-yearly Forum and Council of South Pacific Scout Associations pocket during this year and beyond! including the Cook Islands, Fiji, French Polynesia, Kiribati, New The most helpful and professional work of AdPartners Caledonia, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu organisation continues to make a huge impact, which is very and Vanuatu. Sea Scouting is a growing element of these much appreciated. island Associations.

The Australian Bureau of Statistics Yearbook, launched by the The “Scouting in Isolated Indigenous Communities” program Governor-General and Chief Scout, Major General Michael Jeffery, progressed steadily in its second major phase, with new local features Scouting’s Centenary. The 2008 “Superbrands” book, managers in Queensland, Northern Territory, and magazine and newspaper articles have featured Scouting. . A new extension is taking place in northern Western Australia. For more than fifteen years, our national Scouts Australia’s international profile remains high with many president, Sir William Deane has strongly supported and requests for the services of our leaders, including members on encouraged our efforts in this and several other vital areas. five World Organisation Task teams, the Asia-Pacific Region Committee and the five sub-committees. In the sub-committees National Adviser to the National Youth Council and National just re-appointed in October at the Asia-Pacific Region Conference Youth Forum, Steve Tyas, very efficiently and effectively facilitated in Tokyo, Julie Creed was appointed vice-chairperson of the the Youth Forum at “AussieMoot”, the 17th national Moot. (Youth) Program sub-committee, Ian Langford-Brown was Recommendations from these national Youth Forums go directly appointed vice-chairperson of the Finance sub-committee, Emma to the National Operations Committee and to the relevant Youth Barker remains on the Management sub-committee; Paul Program councils for action and report back. Parkinson on Adult Resources, Richard Miller on Profile and I Chairman Patrick McCormick chaired a very productive and continue on the Region Committee. participatory National Rover Council following the Moot. A highlight for Australia was the election of National Youth Tasmanians Alyssa Pears and Geoff Hurst were elected Chair and Council chairperson, Nikketah McGrath to the six-member Young Vice-Chair respectively for 2008, with Rhian Blackwell from the ACT Adults Group, which has an on-going role culminating in the re-elected as Training Officer. Valuable resolutions from the NRC running of the next APR Youth Forum preceding the APR Executive were adopted by the National Operations Committee, Conference in Kuala Lumpur in 2009. Having led with distinction relating to environmental practice, fees at national events and the five member delegation to the Asia-Pacific Region Youth uniform for Rovers who are also Leaders in younger Sections.

PAGE 2 • SCOUTS AUSTRALIA REPORT TO THE NATION 2008 The National Youth Council continued to make important Eight Scout leaders around the country were congratulated on contributions to Scouts Australia’s national decision making. receiving the award of the Medal of the Order of Australia, in the Nikketah McGrath has completed an excellent two-year term as 2007 Queen’s Birthday Honours, while Branch Chief Chair of the NYC in which the establishment of the national Youth Commissioners Graeme Fordham and Alston Park were made Electronic Newsletter has been another highlight. An NYC Members of the Order! “Facebook” and re-modelling of the NYC Patrols and their functions have kept up the energy of members, who can meet It is excellent for the Movement that this recognition is made, of together only once per year. the dedication to the “physical, intellectual, emotional, social and spiritual development of young people, so that they take a Scouts Australia’s commitment to environmental best practice, constructive place in society as responsible citizens, and as illustrated by six-years of “Murray-Darling Rescue” tree-planting, members of their local, national and international communities”. “Rottnest (clean up) Invasion”, “Clean Up Australia” and invaluable Indeed it is our Aim! local projects, has been greatly magnified by a major contribution to Australia’s dramatic water shortage. Funded by the federal John Ravenhall AM government’s Water Grants Scheme, and thanks largely to the Chief Commissioner driving efforts of Victorian Branch Executive Committee chairman Scouts Australia David Jones, Scouts Australia is in the process of having water tanks fitted to most of its Scout Halls, Dens and some camp sites – a very practical demonstration of “A Scout Cares for the Environment”.

Scout Shows, excellent examples of teamwork and leadership learned in planning, developing and practising a range of skills and relationships, continued to provide great entertainment around the country.

Again we record our great appreciation of the continuing tremendous support from our Governor-General and Chief Scout, His Excellency Major General Michael Jeffery and Mrs. Jeffery, National President of Girl Guides Australia, completing their term in office this year. Scouts Australia has the highest praise for the encouragement and support given to us by these outstanding people, who have made a most significant contribution to and expressed belief in youth of Australia.

SCOUTS AUSTRALIA REPORT TO THE NATION 2008 • PAGE 3 Message from the National Chairman

A Happy Centenary to you all. employers and/or recruitment agencies who subscribe to the The twelve months since our last Report website on a commercial basis. There is no cost to those seeking to the Nation have been unique, jobs and if they are (or were) members of Scouts Australia their exciting, positive and productive while CVs can be flagged to highlight that. also setting the scene for us to showcase This concept, developed from initial discussions between Geoff Scouting to our broader community to Morgan, one of the founders of Morgan & Banks, and the National an extent, and in ways not previously Office, has resulted in a partnership between Scouts Australia and available to us. LinkMe whereby there is both a practical benefit to our members I am sure that we have all seen the and an income stream for Scouts Australia. exciting cinema and television commercials, the bus sides and the newspaper profiles. We have In another area, our partnership with the Federal Government for participated in the gatherings at Scouting Sunrise and the parades the installation of water tanks on Scout sites is the largest, both through our communities. We have been honoured with a physically and financially, we have ever entered into. Not only is it circulating coin, the commemorative coins and the stamps a partnership in the traditional sense, it is also a positive depicting Scouting. These are just part of the fabric which has demonstration of the excellent supporting dimension that our come together and given us a feeling of pride while, at the same non-uniform colleagues bring to Scouting. time, enhancing the image of Scouting across our Nation.

“We have a wonderful Scouting Program, a great team of Leaders, a sound financial base, a range of excellent partnerships and other support facilities and we enjoy a wonderful sense of togetherness across Scouts Australia.”

While the centenary celebrations have been paramount, the Calling upon the business and financial acumen of David Jones we business of Scouting has continued on many fronts, all with the undertook a comprehensive tendering process which culminated single aim of building upon the great legacy that Baden-Powell left with the appointment of Storm Sustainability Limited to have the us just over a century ago. tanks installed. David then established a network of mainly non- uniform contacts and supporters in each Branch, developed Surely one of the highlights of this centenary period has been the appropriate reporting and monitoring systems and set the wonderful contribution made by all sections and segments of program in motion. While there have been the traditional teething Scouting, be they uniform or non-uniform, coupled with the sense problems to overcome, both with the contractors and within of togetherness that has flowed so strongly. It really is Scouts, the installation program now has a head of steam and is extraordinary what we can do together. progressing well. David, we thank you for taking on this In my report last year I expanded upon the theme of “partnership” mammoth commitment. and indicated how it has become such a fundamental and Another of our partnerships with the Federal Government is our significant tenet of our planning and development. By taking this National Indigenous Scouts Program. This program, with its strong approach we are enhancing the opportunities to position interaction with a range of Governmental Departments and ourselves as a robust and worthy youth organization, both for Agencies, is under the guidance of Graeme Fordham and receives tomorrow as well as today. great support from Sir William Deane. While this presents a range Our partnership program continues to develop as we seek of challenges in terms of cost, time and resources it is a partners whose areas of endeavour and expertise will assist and demonstration of our commitment to bringing Scouting to all benefit Scouting. A recent example is our relationship with LinkMe young people in Australia. In addition it is important for Scouts Pty Limited, an enterprise which provides career networking Australia as it provides us with an excellent opportunity to both facilities for both job seekers (including our members present and enhance our credibility, and maintain positive working relations, past) and employers. The interaction is simple; an individual’s CV with Government. is posted on the LinkMe website and is then made available to

PAGE 4 • SCOUTS AUSTRALIA REPORT TO THE NATION 2008 Sometimes it may be hard to measure the success of a As an adjunct to the Adults in Scouting Review we awarded two partnership but that is not the case with the partnership with our scholarships from the Sir Vincent Fairfax International Study colleagues at AdPartners. We have been extremely fortunate in Fund, each of $15,000, and the two researchers, Sarah Gover from this relationship, one that has been in place now for a few years Western Australia and Haydn McComas from South Australia, and continues to be successful. delivered their reports to the National Team Meeting in February 2008. These were the first two full scholarships granted from this Following the then Prime Minister’s announcement that 2008 Fund and given their successful outcomes further projects will was to be decreed “The Year of the Scout” we were required to continue to be identified in areas where overseas research will produce, at extremely short notice, a comprehensive integrated provide benefit to Scouts Australia. communications campaign to enable us to receive funding of While partnerships have been a large focus of this report we have $1.5 million to help us celebrate “The Year of the Scout”. continued to seek improvement in a range of areas and amongst AdPartners immediately rose to the challenge and the funding these we have set ourselves the challenge of streamlining our was ours. It is no secret that this campaign, together with the governance focus. The first steps along this path have been many other activities undertaken around Australia, has been formally establishing the Chairmen’s Committee as a sub- instrumental in significantly raising the image, interest in and committee of the National Executive Committee as well as awareness of Scouting in our communities. forming a Working Group to review the management functions of However, as in all strong partnerships, there is another Scouts Australia. Work in this area is underway. dimension to the range of support that AdPartners provide. Our financial position is currently very healthy due in no small During the past year this has included obtaining “pro bono” measure to our Treasurer, Jonathan Karlovsky and his team on the advertising; drafting and issuing press releases; media Finance Committee. We certainly gained from the strength of the monitoring; addressing the Scouts Australia Foundation Stock Market last year and by reviewing our investment strategies, Committee on current trends and methodologies of fundraising taking advantage of financial opportunities and receiving various as well as working with the Lord Baden-Powell Society to grants we have established a solid financial platform. produce a new Member Acquisition package. In conclusion let me use my version of a phrase which comes to We were also successful in obtaining two significant grants during mind – “comest the man and comest the hour”. The man was the year. The Federal Department of Education, Science and Training surely Lord Baden-Powell and the hour, in our case, has been our provided a grant of $147,000 to SAIT to assist in the training area and two centenary years. We have seized the initiative and Scouting in the majority of these funds were distributed to Branches. We also Australia has received the benefit. However we must not let our received $205,000 from the Vincent Fairfax Family Foundation, being momentum wane. We have a wonderful Scouting Program, a the first payment of a three year project of e-learning and multi- great team of Leaders, a sound financial base, a range of excellent partnerships and other support facilities and we enjoy a modal delivery in relation to Adult Development and Training. This is wonderful sense of togetherness across Scouts Australia. an area of development which will enable SAIT to work at the forefront of modern training delivery and will be of considerable Ian Langford-Brown benefit in our time poor society. Chairman, National Executive Committee.

SCOUTS AUSTRALIA REPORT TO THE NATION 2008 • PAGE 5 Highlights 2007-2008

2007 marked the World Centenary of Scouting and a time to participated in the simultaneous events held at the Opera House celebrate and recognise the significant contribution Scouting has and Martin Place, while the Scout flag could be seen flying from made to young people during the past 100 years around the world the Sydney Harbour Bridge. in over 150 countries. With a worldwide membership of over 28 South Australian Branch had a corporate breakfast with guest million, including more than 60,000 in Australia, Scouting continues to be the world’s largest youth movement. It is estimated more than Kerry O’Keefe whilst Groups and Districts gathered to participate two million Australians have been part of Scouting over this time. in other special activities. A Brownsea Island re-enactment took place on 4-5 August. The Branch also broke the world record for The theme for the World Scouting Centenary was ‘One World, One the most number of kites flown at one time which was 1,127! Promise’. This theme highlights the values and benefits of Scouting for individuals, as well as the contributions Scouts make In Brisbane thousands of Scouts paraded through city streets and to their communities and for a more peaceful world via leadership, received the keys to the city of Brisbane. A History Wall was also tolerance and innovative programs. launched later in August.

Centenary Celebrations Western Australia Branch celebrated with a Pioneering Exhibition Centenary Celebrations across Australia were many and varied. and a special breakfast in King’s Park followed by Promise Groups from all over the country woke before dawn on 1 August 2007, renewals and a Scouting Sunrise ceremony.

“The theme for the World Scouting Centenary was ‘One World, One Promise’. This theme highlights the values and benefits of Scouting for individuals, as well as the contributions Scouts make to their communities and for a more peaceful world via leadership, tolerance and innovative programs.”

to begin their Scouting Sunrise activities. At 8.00am local time right Tasmanian Scouts gathered at the Cenotaph at 6.00am followed across Australia thousands of members renewed their Scout promise. by a hearty breakfast cooked by Rovers. Whilst around the globe Promise Ceremonies took place in almost every country in locations such the Colosseum in Rome, the top of Northern Territory Branch held a breakfast on the Darwin Mont Blanc in France and Lake Geneva in Switzerland. Esplanade and an award fellowship night with ex-leaders and ex-Scouts in attendance. In Canberra His Excellency Major-General Michael Jeffery, Governor-General and Chief Scout of Australia hosted around 1,100 Scouts and supporters in the grounds of Government House Fly the Flag to celebrate Scouting’s Sunrise. At 8.00am His Excellency led the During the year, the Fly the Flag competition was launched. renewal of the Scout promise by all who attended. Open to all Groups, it was a great way for Scouts to show their pride in the Scouting movement and promote Scouting to the The city of Canberra also showed its support of Scouting by flying public. The 2007 winners, 1st Gingin Cub Scout Pack (WA) and the World Scout flags on Commonwealth Avenue. Platabeen Rover Crew (NSW), were chosen based on a At 6am, the quiet of Government House in was shattered combination of creativity, originality and the amount of by one thousand present day Scouting members helping exposure their entries received. themselves to a delicious breakfast of cereals, juices, bacon and eggs, tea and coffee in the company of the Chief Commissioner of The Cubs of 1st Gingin Cub Scout Pack (WA) made a flag using Victoria, Alston Park and Mrs Park, the Governor of Victoria, aluminium cans. They made their flag by collecting cans, Professor de Kretser and Mrs de Kretser. gluing them onto two boards, spray painted purple and then the fleur-de-lys painted on. Daen Simmat and Simon Smith of Platabeen In Sydney at 8am, NSW Scout Dominic Warland blew the Kudu Rover Crew (NSW), abseiled next to a giant Scouts Australia Banner Horn from the top of the Opera House to signal the renewal of the from Warriewood Headland in Sydney. The banner was so prominent Scout Promise. More than 800 young people, Leaders and Parents it could be seen from a number of nearby beaches.

PAGE 6 • SCOUTS AUSTRALIA REPORT TO THE NATION 2008 Scouts Raise money for Ronald McDonald The Royal Australian Mint also released a series of House Charities commemorative coins of gold, silver and cupro-nickel. All three coins depict elements which are highly identifiable to Australian Scouts Australia had the pleasure of partnering with one of the Scouts young and old, immortalising the significant contribution world’s leading children’s charities. Ronald McDonald House Scouting has made in Australia. Charities has been improving the lives of seriously ill children in Australia since 1985. In order to raise funds for the Charity, an Centenary Stamps annual event known as McHappy Day is held every November. Australia Post released a series of three Scout Stamps on This national community partnership was a first in McHappy 19 February 2008. The spirit and camaraderie that makes up the Day’s 16-year history and saw Scouts members aged 6 – 25 years Scouting Community in Australia was captured with vibrant old participating in a variety of community events to help achieve images. Each stamp tells a story all its own. The 50 cent stamp the $2 million fundraising target. Some 3000 Scouts collected depicts , and Scouts in an action shot that donations and raised more than $17,000. highlights the resourcefulness and teamwork that is the Scouts Australia Chief Commissioner, John Ravenhall, said backbone of the Scouting culture. “Scouting is developing the leaders of tomorrow and by raising A second stamp features a more global image that depicts the money for McHappy Day, our members gain a better goodwill of Scouts from around the world. The third stamp understanding of the importance of helping those less fortunate features a commemorative profile of founder Lord Robert than themselves. It gives them a great reason to interact within Baden-Powell. their local community and collectively make a significant difference for a worthwhile cause.” “This is a wonderful opportunity for Australia Post to play a role in reminding the community just how important Scouting Australia 2008 Declared “The Year of the Scout” is for our youth. For over 100 years Scouts have instilled in young 2008 is the centenary of Australian Scouting and to recognise the Australians leadership, teamwork, self-reliance, resourcefulness, contribution that Scouting has made and will continue to make to bushcraft, mateship and fun. It is an honour to acknowledge this Australia, the former Prime Minister John Howard in mid 2007 through the Scouting in Australia series,” said Philatelic Noel declared 2008 as The Year of the Scout. Leahy, Australia Post Group Manager. Mr Howard also announced a grant of $17.7 million to Scouts Australian Bureau of Statistics Yearbook Australia to install water tanks at every Scout hall in Australia. Scouts Australia has been featured on the cover of the Australian Centenary Coins Bureau of Statistics 2008 Yearbook. This was launched on 7 February 2008 by His Excellency Major-General Michael Jeffery. In addition, Mr Howard approved, as a very special tribute to The book also includes a feature article on Scouts Australia. Scouts Australia, the production of a $1 circulation coin. The coin has the Scout Australia logo on one face.

SCOUTS AUSTRALIA REPORT TO THE NATION 2008 • PAGE 7 Scouting around the World Of 120 entries from Scouts Australia to the Asia-Pacific Region Scout Photo Competition, Jonathan Karl Mandl, an ACT Cub Scout The international family of Scouting came together as one for the Leader, was successful in winning second place for his photo Deep 2007 World Centenary celebrations, with some fantastic worldwide Underground Investiture. Jonathan’s photo has been included in events. Not to be outdone, Australian scouts came out in larger the 2008 Asia-Pacific Calendar. numbers than ever to participate in these international events. A Contingent of 170 Australians participated in the World Youth Program Rocks On Jamboree in the UK with 40,000 other participants. After the The sense of achievement, and the significant progress made by Jamboree they travelled to Ireland where youth members were our Youth Program teams has been very satisfying. able to enjoy the hospitality of Irish Scouting families. Venturer Scouts – have a lot to look forward to with the next The 18th Annual NZ Jamboree, also known as C-Jam, kicked off on Christmas Day 2007. The Jamboree was smaller in size than a Australian Venture “Escape” in 2009. With the Venturer Scout typical Australian Jamboree with 5000 people, but the activities Section Review drawing to a close, a final report is due in June were similar with the Rover Extreme, On Target and Ignition being 2008. Work is also being done to strengthen the guidelines for feature events. Venturer Scouts attending Jamborees.

Twenty five adults had a chance to take part in a world tour called As part of the Venturer Scout Review, the Scouts Australia Institute Follow the Footsteps of Baden Powell. The group visited a number of Training (SAIT) conducted a number DACUMs (Developing a of countries Baden Powell visited during his time in the army and Curriculum) to look at training requirements. Representatives later as Chief Scout. Some of the countries were Kenya, United from each Branch were involved through their respective Branch Kingdom, India and Hong Kong. Commissioner for Adult Training and Development.

“A real Scout is a person who has made a commitment to themselves to become better people and to challenge problems that they face,” member of Aussie Contingent at 2007 World Jamboree.

Throughout the year, smaller groups participated in various Scouts – the production of the new Campcraft Target book has centenary Jamborees around the world, two of which were the been very well received whilst the Scout and Venturer Scout Canadian Jamboree and the UK district camps. Along with the fun Section Commissioners continued discussions on strengthening of the actual Jamborees, the opportunity for Australian Scouts to the linking process between Scout and Venturer Scout Sections. share a special occasion like the centenary with their counterparts One Branch is planning to produce a “Try Scouting” badge along throughout the world was truly a once in a lifetime experience. the lines of the “Try Venturing” Badge.

Cub Scouts – The production of two CDs, Pack Holidays and PAWS Scouts Australia, through the Lord Baden-Powell Society and the Books has added to the resources available for Leaders. In addition, Australian Friendship Fund, funded a number of youth members a new section in the Cub Scout Resource Folder “Items for to participate in events overseas. As well as some of the events Achievement Badges” was created. Discussions also took place to above one leader and two youth members were sent to the clarify the requirements for the Grey Wolf Award. Centenary Jamboree in Kenya and Kanderjam in Switzerland. Joey Scouts – The publication Promise and Law was revised. Plans Scouts Australia has representatives on various Asia-Pacific Region are also underway to reprint the A-Z Program book. Age ranges for (APR) Sub-Committees. Over the year, they contributed to various Joeys has also been a topic of discussion, however the current age workshops and training courses in the Region. range has been retained as being most suitable for this Section.

Five young people were selected to represent Scouts Australia at the Plans are underway to produce an updated Song Book and a new 5th APR Youth Forum and Nikketah McGrath, Chair of the National Scout Prayer Book. In addition the Centenary Values Trail is being Youth Council was elected to the APR Youth Advisory Committee. used by all Branches during The Year of the Scout.

PAGE 8 • SCOUTS AUSTRALIA REPORT TO THE NATION 2008 National Youth Council and Cub Scouts, motivating them to continue in Scouting and showing them what is yet to come. Rovers gave out ‘I Want To Be The National Youth Council (NYC) held their Annual Conference A Rover’ woggles to the younger youth members as part of in May 2007 with eleven new members being welcomed on to activities that explained the Rover section and motivating them the Council. to continue up the ranks of Scouting. Recommendations from the conference focused on youth related, Rovers continue experiencing Scouting overseas, interstate, or including “Centenary Celebrations”, “Training for Remote and even in other parts of their Branch. A number of Rovers Regional Leaders”, and “Incorporating Cultural Awareness into participated in the World Jamboree in England, while others section programs”. The NYC has also been involved in the National attended the annual New Zealand Rover Moot at Dunedin on Venturer Scout Review, providing suggestions, areas for the South Island. development and feedback on proposed changes. At the 5th Asia Pacific Youth Region Forum in Tokyo, Rovers took a The NYC has continued to produce quarterly editions of the leading role in organising and/or participating, experiencing National Youth E-newsletter, a great communication tool for some amazing cultural experiences and idea-sharing. They also youth members of Scouting. In partnership with the National attended the 22nd APR Scout Conference afterwards, giving them Rover Council, a Scouts Australia page on Facebook and MySpace an opportunity to witness the governance of scouting in the have been created to take advantage of the current trends in APR first hand. youth communication and ensure Scouts Australia remains ever present as a leading and relevant youth organisation in Australia. Rovering’s Greatest Adventure (RGA) winners from Bill Waters Rover Crew (and friends) made an ascent of Mt Bogong to mark National Youth Week the Centenary of Scouting on the 1st August 2007. The team followed the same route that Bill Waters and his Victorian Rover Scouts Australia has been a proud sponsor of National Youth team took, when they made the first winter ascent of Mt Bogong Week for a number of years. Scout members throughout Australia (Victoria’s tallest peak) in the early 1930s. have played a significant role for some years now in National Youth Week activities. In celebration of National Youth Week in Rovers hosted our international friends at the 17th Australian April 2007, high profile members of the community in Rover Moot (AussieMoot) in Sydney from December 2007 to all States and Territories were asked to “Scarf Up for Scouting”. January 2008.

Scarf presentations were made to entertainers, Federal, State and The Moot theme was ‘endless opportunities’ and participants Local politicians, international ambassadors and consuls and enjoyed the myriad of activities on offer over the two weeks. The 4th various community leaders. Australian Rover Youth Forum brainstormed many ideas that were passed on to the National Rover Council (NRC) and NYC for review.

I want to be a Rover Ten Australian Rovers were able to attend through the Moot Rovers are mentors to the younger groups within the Scouting Buddies fund which was established to assist Rovers who cannot movement. So it was fitting to share experiences with Joey Scouts attend a Moot due to financial, physical or other difficulties.

SCOUTS AUSTRALIA REPORT TO THE NATION 2008 • PAGE 9 The members of the NRC continued the drive to increase Rovering Two meetings of the National Training Committee were held. The in 2007. The Council awarded its first National Rover Service Award Victorian Branch hosted one Training Committee meeting at the to Julie Creed, National Commissioner for Youth Program in conclusion of the 23rd Course for Leaders Trainers (CLT) in April. A recognition for her outstanding support of the Rover section. second meeting was held in November, hosted by Tasmanian Branch.

Branch Commissioners for Adult Training and Development Scouts and the Environment (BCATD) also participated in a transition training program, from Rod Abson retired as the first National Adviser for the Environment the previous industry Certificate IV to the new industry standard, to take up a role with the World Scout Bureau Environmental after the 23rd CLT. A steady program of implementation in all Education Team in Geneva. Gordon Young was subsequently Branches continues to transition trainers and prospective trainers appointed to fill the position of National Adviser. to the new requirements.

As the first to take on the National Adviser position, Rod was The current Adventurous Activity Strategy of writing and instrumental in setting up a solid platform to coordinate and reviewing training materials to conform to the new SR03 promote environmental activities in Scouting on a National basis. requirements was completed. This reiterates the commitment of The Environment page of the Scouts Australia website and the the Association to conform to the VET national industry standards. numerous articles published in Branch newsletters are a Trialling of the materials commenced and will continue testament to Rod’s hard work and trail-blazing enthusiasm. throughout 2008 with full implementation of our accredited A National Environment Conference was held in October 2007. All Adventurous Activities in Abseiling, Bushwalking, Canoeing, Branch Environment Commissioners, Greenfleet and other Scouts Kayaking and Sea Kayaking to commence in 2009. A meeting of active in environmental projects met and discussed actions from Branch Adventurous Activities Coordinators was conducted in the past 2 years and the direction towards 2009. Adelaide during June 2007.

“I am quite excited that my daughter has joined Cubs and really likes it” Jane, parent of a new Cub Scout.

Outcomes included further national development of Scout SAIT received substantial funding from the Vincent Fairfax Family Environment Weeks, revision of the Scouting Centres for Foundation in July 2007 to support the development and Environmental and Natural Excellence (SCENES) program, and implementation of on-line training options. With $855,000 being greater co-ordination and resource sharing between the states. provided over three years, the grant allows SAIT to provide some self-paced training options and a wider variety of training Development of Environment Policies for each Branch will be pathways, including e-Learning for adults. investigated as part of a greater emphasis on greening our own activities and processes within Scouts Australia. The Murray Many of the special Electives utilised at advanced level training Darling Rescue was agreed to be an ongoing success for Scouting have been revised. Teams from the campuses of SAIT led by and Greenfleet. Ways of expanding and renewing the event are their respective BCATD did some excellent work in bringing being developed. these materials up to date as well as preparing them for on-line development.

Scouts Australia Institute of Training (SAIT) Attaining the Wood Badge has been reinforced by the Adults in The year has seen some significant achievements in adult training Scouting Review. The Wood Badge is a WOSM requirement and its and development. continued promotion is part of the SAIT Business Plan and remains a priority for this current year. The 23rd Course for Prospective Leader Trainers was held during April 2007 in Victoria. Thirty-six Australian participants and eight Training statistics for the previous twelve months are detailed Scouting friends from the Asia-Pacific Region completed the opposite. Concern continues to be expressed at the small numbers training. Overseas guests came from Bangladesh, Hong Kong, of Leaders completing their Wood Badge Training. Malaysia and Vietnam.

PAGE 10 • SCOUTS AUSTRALIA REPORT TO THE NATION 2008 ACT NSW NT QLD SA TAS VIC WA TOTAL

Basic-Certificates of Adult Leadership – LOY 44 317 10 141 84 207 525 117 1445

Basic- Certificates of Adult Leadership – LOA 7 72 2 45 22 23 73 14 258

Advanced Training Courses – LOY 5 95 0 111 41 0 180 29 461

Advanced Training Courses – LOA 3 70 0 38 10 0 24 5 150

Wood Badges LOY 5 69 0 46 46 8 79 0 245

Wood Badges LOA 0250131019058

Training of Trainers Part 1, 2, 3 and 4 21 51 0 63 45 4 125 0 309

Assessors 0171145100047

LOY – Leader of Youth LOA – Leader of Adults

Branch Cert II Cert III Cert IV Diploma Diploma Units Issued

ACT (Nil) Nil (7) 9 (Nil) Nil Nil Nil

NSW (1) Nil (68) 147 (46) 45 Nil 1

NT (Nil) Nil (Nil) Nil (nil) Nil Nil Nil

QLD (Nil) Nil (31) 72 (15) 22 1 Nil

SA (Nil) Nil (65) 51 (33) 34 Nil 11

TAS (Nil) Nil (10) 17 (11) 10 Nil Nil

VIC (Nil) Nil (65) 134 (21) 28 1 5

WA (Nil) Nil (82) 49 (2) 9 Nil 2

Total (1) Nil (328) 479 (128) 148 2 19

( ) Leadership

SCOUTS AUSTRALIA REPORT TO THE NATION 2008 • PAGE 11 Paul Parkinson National Commissioner for Adult Training and Development and National Project Commissioner Peter Blatch presented papers to 200 participants from 45 countries at the World Scientific Congress. The Congress was held during November 2007 in Switzerland and focussed on the contributions of non-formal education (the Scout Method) to the development of young people.

Find Your Past Scouting Friends with Scouts Reunited As part of the celebration of World and Australian Centenaries of Scouting, the Scouts Reunited (www.scoutsreunited.com.au) website was launched. The website helps past and current Australian Scouts rediscover their Scouting friends and renew acquaintances and friendships. By creating your own profile, the site allows you to view profiles of individuals or groups and search for friends.

Lord Baden-Powell Society The Lord Baden-Powell Society, formed 24 years ago has three levels of membership – Members, Leader Members and Patron Members – who contribute from $160 to $1000 annually.

Members also give to a jamboree fund appeal on an annual basis providing additional funds for distribution. The society contributes funds towards branches and gives financial assistance to Australian Scouts to attend national and international jamborees. These youth members may not otherwise get the chance to attend these events.

During the year the Society contributed $145,000 to Branches and Scout members. Scouts Australia sincerely appreciates the 1200 Society Members ongoing support to members of the Movement each year.

PAGE 12 • SCOUTS AUSTRALIA REPORT TO THE NATION 2008 What is Scouting?

Scouts Australia is the largest youth Movement in Principles Australia. There are around 60,000 members, joining over The principles of Scouting, as identified by the founder, Lord 28 million Scouts in 156 countries. Baden-Powell, are that Scouts serve God, act in consideration of the needs of others and develop and use their abilities to the The Mission of Scouts betterment of themselves, their families and the community in To contribute to the education of young people, through a value which they live. system based on the Promise and Law, to help build a better world, where people are self fulfilled as individuals and play a Methods constructive role in society. The principal methods used by the Association to achieve its aims are: We achieve this by: • Voluntary membership of a uniformed group which, guided • Involving young people through their formative years in a by adults, is increasingly self-governing in its successive non-formal education process. age groups; • Using a specific method that makes each individual the • Commitment to a code of living as expressed in the Promise principal agent in his or her development as a self-reliant, and Law: the meaning of which is expanded as the member supportive and committed person. grows towards maturity; • The provision of a wide range of attractive, constructive and • Assisting them to establish a value system based upon challenging activities, including opportunities for adventure spiritual, social and personal principles as expressed in the and exploration, both indoors and outdoors; Promise and Law. • The provision of opportunities for leadership and Aim responsibility; • Learning by doing; The Aim of Scouting is to encourage the physical, intellectual, • Encouragement of activities in small groups; emotional, social and spiritual development of young people so • An award scheme that encourages participation in the full that they take a constructive place in society as a member of their range of activities and provides recognition of individual local, national and international community. achievements.

SCOUTS AUSTRALIA REPORT TO THE NATION 2008 • PAGE 13 The Scouting Sections

Joey Scouts their special interests closely, develop Scout Law personally, and learn special skills in fields (Ages 6 to 7.5) A Scout is trustworthy such as campcraft, air and water activities A Scout is loyal Joey Scout activities develop children’s and the environment. A Scout is helpful sense of sharing and personal identity, as A Scout is friendly well as teaching them about nature. The Venturer Scouts A Scout is cheerful Joeys work together as a Mob under the (Ages 14.5 to 17.5) A Scout is considerate theme HOP (Helping Other People). The A Scout is thrifty Program emphasises co-operative, Young people in Venturer Scouts develop A Scout is courageous participatory learning through a wide their sense of maturity and responsibility A Scout is respectful range of fun activities. through the chance to be self-governing A Scout cares for and to choose their own activities. the environment Cub Scouts Venturer Scouts expand on their Scouting knowledge, learning more about (Ages 7.5 to 10.5) Scout Promise leadership, initiative and personal skills. Cub Scouting gives boys and girls There are two versions adventure, achievement and a chance to Rovers of the Scout Promise. grow their character. Cub Scouts develop Individuals taking the (Ages 17.5 to 26) their skills by working for achievement Promise may choose to use badges in their favourite areas such as A Rover is a young adult dedicated to either of the Promises. sport, environment and art. Cubs operate in fun and adventure while serving the On my honour a Pack, with the emphasis on fun activity. community in the Scouting way. As young I promise that adults, Rovers can apply to their lives the I will do my best Scouts principles of Scouting they have learned To do my duty to my God whilst still enjoying challenge (Ages 10.5 to 14.5) And to Australia and adventure. To help other people and Boys and girls of Scout age are looking for To live by the Scout Law. a sense of achievement. Scouts gives or, young people the opportunity to follow On my honour I promise that I will do my best To do my duty to my God And to the Queen of Australia To help other people and To live by the Scout Law.

“Going to Denmark was a fantastic experience and an opportunity that I am extremely grateful for. Before my trip I was not aware of how global the Scout Movement is,” Melinda Blake, SISEP exchange

PAGE 14 • SCOUTS AUSTRALIA REPORT TO THE NATION 2008 Scouts Australia Management

Scouts Australia is managed by a National Executive Committee. National Council A body of volunteers, the Committee is made up of Chief Commissioners and Chairpersons from each State Branch as well CHIEF SCOUT OF AUSTRALIA as the Chief Commissioner of Australia, National Chairman and His Excellency, Major General Hon. Treasurer. Michael Jeffery AC CVO MC (Rtd) Governor-General of The Commonwealth of Australia Other members of the National Executive Committee are the International Commissioner, National Commissioner for Youth PRESIDENT Program, National Commissioner for Adult Training and The Honourable Sir William Deane AC KBE Development as well as two young people under 26 years of age, SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT currently the Chair National Youth council and Chair National Mrs Leneen Forde AC Rover Council. JUNIOR VICE PRESIDENT Scouts Australia’s National Office has six full-time and three part Mr Wayne Geale OAM time professional staff members providing support to the positions above. CHIEF SCOUTS OF BRANCHES

The most significant part of the team, however, are the tens of New South Wales thousands of volunteers that act as Branch and Section Her Excellency, Professor Marie Bashir AC Commissioners, Leaders, Associates and Supporters within the State Branches. They work at the ground level, directly with the Northern Territory Scout sections, building Scouting in Australia, everyday. His Honour, Mr Ted Egan AO CVO MBE until 30 October 2007 His Honour Mr Tom Pauling AC from 24 February 2008 These volunteers have the support of full-time and part-time staff members at each Branch. Queensland Her Excellency, Ms Quentin Bryce AC Scouts Australia is an accredited member of the World Organization of the Scout Movement (WOSM). South Australia Her Excellency Marjorie Jackson-Nelson AC CVO MBE until 31 July 2007 Scouts Australia Membership 2007 His Excellency Rear Admiral Kevin Scarce AC CSC RANR from 27 September 2007

Tasmania 20000

19251 His Excellency, The Hon. William J E Cox AC RFD ED

Victoria

16607 Professor David de Kretser AC

15000 Western Australia His Excellency, Dr Ken Michael AC 12825

10000 5210

5000 4376 2458 1663

0 CUBS JOEYS SCOUTS ROVERS LEADERS VENTURERS NO. OF GROUPS OF NO.

SCOUTS AUSTRALIA REPORT TO THE NATION 2008 • PAGE 15 Life Members Mr J Derbyshire Mr P Oldfield Mrs CD Doidge Mr A Park Mrs K Brown OAM Mr HK (Chick) Carey AM Mr JD Doidge Mr G A Park AM Mr CW Farmer Professor G Elliott Mr P Parkinson Mr W J Geale OAM Mr G Faulks Mr H D Paroissien Mr A G Lee AM OAM - deceased Mr T Fearnley AM Mr R G Pate OAM OBE 23 November 2007 Mrs L Forde AC Major General J Pearn AM RFD (Rtd) Dr B M Munro AM Ms C Frederickson Mr J Peck Mr A L Tannahill AM Mrs M Geerlings Mr K Pestell Dr W G Wells AM Mr G Hannaford Mr J C Price Mr N Westaway AM Mr T Hartley Mrs L Price The Hon. Sir John Young AC KCMG Mrs L Harvey Mr A Pusterla Mr G Irvine Mr J Ralph AC Members The Hon. GR James QC Mr J Ravenhall AM Mr DW Jones OAM Mr W W Roberts Mr D Abell Mr J Karlovsky Mr A Sherlock OBE Mrs JJ Archer Mr R Baker OAM Mr E Kilpatrick Mr N Tomkins Miss E Barker Mr I Langford-Brown Mr W Vilanova Mr G Blight Mr M J Law AM Mr R Viney Mr P Browne Mr J D Leece OAM Mr P Washusen Mr BE Chaseling MBE His Honour, Dr J F Lincoln AM Mr K Wells MLA Mr J C Clarke Mr P McCormick Mr G White Mr DD Cleak OAM Miss N McGrath Mr C Wilkinson Mr G Coates Judge J McKecknie QC The Hon. G Williams AO Mr N Comrie AO APM Mr D Martin OAM Mr R W Williams RFD Mr D Cossart Mr K Millero Major General N Wilson AM RFD Mrs J Creed Mrs S Mitchell Mr D Young Mr M D Cross AM Mrs G K Morgan Mr N Cutler JP Mr R Morgan Mr G De Fries Mr R Nolan

Emma Barker, International Commissioner presents Centenary of Scouting Scarf to Julia Gillard MP, then Deputy Leader of the Opposition, April 2007.

PAGE 16 • SCOUTS AUSTRALIA REPORT TO THE NATION 2008 National Executive Committee NATIONAL COMMISSIONER FOR ADULT TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT CHAIRMAN Mr P Parkinson Mr I Langford-Brown

CHIEF COMMISSIONER OF AUSTRALIA INTERNATIONAL COMMISSIONER Mr J Ravenhall AM Miss E Barker

BRANCH CHIEF COMMISSIONERS NATIONAL COMMISSIONER FOR YOUTH PROGRAM Australian Capital Territory Mrs J Creed Mr N Tomkins CHAIR, NATIONAL ROVER COUNCIL New South Wales Mr P Mcormick to 15 January 2008 Mr G De Fries Miss A Pears from 15 January 2008 Northern Territory CHAIR, NATIONAL YOUTH COUNCIL Mrs C D Doidge Miss N McGrath Queensland Mr M J Law AM HONORARY TREASURER Mr J Karlovsky South Australia Mr J Derbyshire Officer of the Committee Mrs L Harvey NATIONAL CHIEF EXECUTIVE Mr R J Miller B Com GAICD FAIM FAMI CPM Victoria Mr G A Park AM Western Australia Mrs S Mitchell

BRANCH CHAIRMAN/PRESIDENTS

Australian Capital Territory Mr T Wheeler New South Wales Mr N Cutler JP Northern Territory Mr A Pusterla Queensland The Hon. G Williams AO South Australia MR R W Williams RFD Tasmania Mr R Nolan Victoria Mr D W Jones OAM Western Australia Mr L Lucas

SCOUTS AUSTRALIA REPORT TO THE NATION 2008 • PAGE 17 2007-2008 Awards

The following members were included in the Queen’s Birthday Medal (OAM) in the General Division 2007 and Australia Day 2008 Honours. • Robert Arthur Baker

Medal (AM) in the General Division • Ivan John Cash • Graeme Leslie Fordham • Darryl James Clare • Graeme Alston Park OAM • Kenneth Raymond Maguire

• Mrs Jennifer Staddon

2007 Adult Recognition Awards The following members of Scouts Australia received the Silver Kangaroo for eminent achievement and meritorious service to the Association in the 1 August 2007 Adult Recognition Award Presentations.

NAME POSITION BRANCH STATE

Kevin Allen Regional Commissioner (Scouts) Hunter and Coastal Region NSW

Ormonde Butler OAM Branch Commissioner (Special Projects) NSW Branch NSW

Betty Handley OAM Assistant Regional Commissioner North Western Region QLD

Peter Harris OAM Arts Commissioner ACT Branch ACT

Jean Hattander Honorary Commissioner (Region) Hunter and Coast Region NSW

Irma Howell Youth Program Support Regional Commissioner Near North Coast and Country Region QLD

Shirley Lindoy Assistant District Commissioner Keirawarra District

Ronald Penn OAM Honorary Commissioner (Region) South Metropolitan Region NSW

Jennifer Staddon Youth Program Support Regional Commissioner North Western Region QLD

Dennis Tuckerman Youth Program Support Regional Leader Central and Coastal Region QLD

Jacqueline Warner Activity Leader Training ACT Branch ACT

The following members of Scouts Australia received the National President’s Award for eminent achievement and meritorious service to the Association in 2007.

NAME POSITION BRANCH STATE

Mr V Littleford Regional President Moreton Region QLD

B Stone OAM General Fellowship Member Friends Of Scout Fellowship QLD

PAGE 18 • SCOUTS AUSTRALIA REPORT TO THE NATION 2008 Thank you to all Volunteers and Supporters

The National Executive Committee of Scouts Australia would like to thank you for your continued support and encouragement of our work over the past year. Your dedication and spirit motivates and inspires us to strive for more in the upcoming year and has helped shape Scouting into what it is today. Our Sponsors The support and financial contributions of our sponsors has been very much appreciated at every level within the Association:

Adpartners Group

Australian Government

Dick Smith Foods

Federal Department of Education, Science and Training

Macquarie Group Foundation

MindVision Interactive

Vincent Fairfax Family Foundation

Woolworths Ltd

Scouts Australia thanks the following for allowing us the use of their photos in this issue of the Annual Report: Australian Scout Magazine, Mark Mangles, Jonathan Mandl, Katherine McGuigan, Peter Marriott, Rob McKnight, South Australia Branch, NSW Branch, Northern Territory,

SCOUTS AUSTRALIA REPORT TO THE NATION 2008 • PAGE 19 PAGE 20 • SCOUTS AUSTRALIA REPORT TO THE NATION 2008 Contact Details

National Website Northern Territory Branch www.scouts.com.au PO Box 2908, Palmerston NT 0831 Tel: 08 8932 4155 National Office Email: [email protected] Level 1, Scouts Australia House 8 Help Street, Queensland Branch Chatswood NSW 2067 32 Dixon Street, Tel: 02 9413 1133 Auchenflower QLD 4066 Email: [email protected] Tel: 07 3870 7000 Email: [email protected] Scouts Australia Institute of Training Unit 17/332 Handford Road South Australian Branch Taigum QLD 4018 211 Glen Osmond Road, Tel: 07 3216 2314 Frewville SA 5063 Email: [email protected] Tel: 08 8130 6000 Youth Program Office Email: [email protected] The Lea Scout Centre Tasmanian Branch 330 Proctors Road The Lea Scout Centre, Kingston TAS 7050 330 Proctors Road, Tel: 03 6229 9385 Kingston TAS 7050 Email: [email protected] Tel: 03 6229 9385 International Office Email: [email protected] PO Box 290 Victorian Branch Kew VIC 3101 Australia 152 Forster Road, Tel: +61 3 9855 2703 Mount Waverley VIC 3149 Fax: +61 3 9855 2344 Tel: 03 8543 9800 Mobile: 0418 365 664 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected]

Australian Capital Territory Branch Western Australian Branch 89 Kitchener Street, 581 Murray Street, Garran ACT 2605 West Perth WA 6872 Tel: 02 6282 5211 Tel: 08 9321 2814 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected]

New South Wales Branch Lord Baden-Powell Society (LBPS) Level 1/Quad 3, Baden-Powell Scout Centre 102 Bennelong Road, Pomona Street, Homebush Bay NSW 2128 Pennant Hills NSW 2120 Tel: 02 9735 9000 Tel: 02 9980 5155 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected]