Leaders mission to revive scout group

RETIRED volunteer Les Smith is calling on the community to help revive the Alstonville Scout Group.

The group has gone into hibernation since midway through last year when it ran out of volunteers.

Smith has 28 years’ experience as a cub leader and has offered to help train new volunteers with assistance from former scout leader Dave Rowe.

He said a lack of leaders and retirements had left them in limbo with about 20 kids still involved last year.

They need a new group leader and treasurer as a minimum to build a small committee around.

“I’m happy to get on board and keep this train going,” Smith said.

“I’d like to think I still have a lot to offer, I know Dave would be pleased to provide some assistance, too.

“It’s a great thing to be part of, there should be an avenue for kids who want to be involved.

“Until we get that top tier of management locked in, we can’t build anything though.”

Scout groups aim to provide youth development activities, while building resilient and confident children into adults.

They also play a vital role in the community and take part in fundraising events.

The Alstonville group has been heavily involved in Clean Up Australia Day for several years.

It still has a sense of adventure with flying foxes, white water rafting and other thrill seeking activities for kids.

They learn how to tie knots with rope and can complete first aid and other courses.

“In its heyday it was a big thing for the kids to progress from joeys to cubs into scouts,” Smith said.

“We’ve done trips to the Border Ranges and spent days swimming at waterfalls around the region.

“They learn life lessons and the enthusiasm of the group leaders often rubs off on the kids.”

Anyone wanting to assist or be part of the management team can contact Les on 0427 005 075.