If you’ve seen more colourful scarves around lately, there’s a reason: Scouts are in the spotlight.
Friday, August 1 marked World Scout Day, a recognition of the role the organisation plays across the globe.
In Seymour, the 1st Seymour Scout Group acts as a vital part in the lives of many young people in the community.
Cub Scarlett France said she loved everything about the group.
“It’s pretty great, you can do a lot of activities and a couple of camps as well,” Scarlett said.
“I’ve learnt how you can do knots in so many different ways.
“I’ve made lots of friends.”
Scarlett said she would be wearing her scarf around school to celebrate World Scout Day.
Alex Morton, who has made international friendships doing Scouts, said there was a range of aspects that brought him to the group.
“I do it partly for fun, partly to make friends and mainly to develop leadership, teamwork and survival skills,” he said.
“It’s fun, but it’s also balanced with learning.
“I’ve made heaps of friends, in and out of Australia. I’ve connected with a couple of people overseas.”
The general consensus of the five to 14-year-old Joeys, Cubs and Scouts in town is that the group offers valuable opportunities to meet people and learn practical skills.
Scout leader Stuart Ferguson said it was important to recognise what Scouts did for young people.
“With a huge shift in trying to get off our phones, I think Scouting is still really relevant to where we are today, now more than ever,” Mr Ferguson said.
“I’ve found a lot of parents are recognising that as well and we’ve definitely noticed the more we’re trying to get away from the technology and getting out and doing things, the kids actually respond to that.
“It’s all about getting outdoors and doing things.”
For more information on the 1st Scout Group in Seymour, contact Mr Ferguson on 1800 726 887 or gl.1stseymour@scoutsvictoria.com.au