Scouts clean up for a clear future

PROTECTING and improving a natural space they enjoy, First Bannockburn Scouts headed to Bannockburn Bush Reserve last Thursday for a Clean-Up Australia working bee.

Supported by some of First Lethbridge’s Cubs, Scout Leader Brad Griffiths said the group has worked with the Friends of Bannockburn Bush to de-contaminate the space over the last few years.

“There are a lot of Clean-Up Australia Day programs, but we choose to participate at the Bush Reserve because it is a resource we love and use a lot,” he said.

“We go bushwalking in there, during the day or for night hikes. We use it to practice our orienteering skills, or simply get out in there to observe and enjoy nature, because there is important native flora, like orchids, and fauna in there.

“We’re in close contact with Stuart McCallum and the Friends, and have permission to camp in there sometimes. We really appreciate having this resource so close to Bannockburn.”

Mr Griffiths leads approximately 24 young Scouts, who he said are always enthusiastic when it comes to helping their neighbours, especially when they’re central to the removal of large-scale rubbish, like car parts, or even a full vehicle.

“One of the aims of Scouts is to contribute to your community, and alongside the Cubs, they really enjoy this side of things, where they can get out and about with their gloves and buckets and do something for our community.

“The big-value rubbish also encourages great storytelling. The kids love telling people all about how they found an old car, pulled a tyre out of a ditch, and helped get some junk out of the Reserve,” he said.

“They see the value in doing all of this, because over the years, the Bannockburn Bush has become tidier and tidier, which means they can continue to enjoy it in the future.”

Cubs move up into Scouts when they are approaching their 11th birthday. Between the ages of 14 and 15, Scouts begin their adventure unit, which runs until they are approximately 17 years old.

Mr Griffiths wants to remind the community that the Scouts and Cubs movements are enjoyable for all ages involved.

“For adults volunteering, it’s a lot of fun, and we need supportive adults to make Scouts and Cubs events happen, so if people are interested, they can get in touch.”

If you or your child are keen to get involved, contact 1st Bannockburn Scouts at bit.ly/2OEIZyx or 1st Lethbridge Cubs at bit.ly/3epZs4c.