Highest scouting honour for three young leaders

THREE Ballarat Venturer Scouts have received the highest youth honour in the scouting movement in Commonwealth countries, the King’s Scout Award.

Bridie Newman, Oscar Hines and Archer Hall were presented with their citations at Government House by Lieutenant Governor of Victoria, Professor James Angus, earlier this month.

Then last Sunday, a ceremony to celebrate the trio’s achievements was held at the 5th Ballarat Scout Hall where Archer was formally presented with his badge and plaque by Victorian State Commissioner for Venturer Scouts, Duncan McColl.

“Scouting has not just taught me outdoor skills and people skills; scouting has taught me who I am,” Archer said at the event.

“Thank you to the Venturers and Leaders who have walked beside me on this journey – it is the connections we made that make this award so special.”

City of Ballarat councillor Tess Morgan attended the celebration and praised Archer and the scouting community for fostering young people who develop valuable life skills.

“The skills developed through scouting are a huge asset to our city,” Cr Morgan said.

Formerly known as the Queen’s Scout Award, the King’s Scout Award is the highest honour achievable in the scouting Venturer section (ages 14 to 18). Only about four per cent of Venturer Scouts in Victoria attain the milestone.

It acknowledges young people who demonstrate a track record of perseverance, leadership and collaboration – qualities developed over time – as well as an ability to adapt to change and support others.

The award also rewards personal integrity and a commitment to making a positive impact on the world.

Earning it involves fulfilling six key requirements over a span of about three years.

Venturer Scouts must attain three Milestone badges; six Special Interest Area badges; 12 Outdoor Adventure Skills badges; complete a weekend development course camp; plan and execute a four-day, three-night hiking trip; and complete a reflection process.

Bridie is a 2024 graduate of Loreto College, Oscar is in year 12 at Mount Clear College, and Archer is in year 12 at Ballarat Grammar.