Cash commitment to Scouts

THE First Bannockburn Scout Group will receive a major funding boost if the Labor Party forms State Government later this month.

First Bannockburn Scout Group leader Brad Griffiths said the pledged $400,000 would open opportunities for the growing organisation to start thinking about finding a new home.

“At the moment we share the Bannockburn Cultural Centre, and a shared storage shed provided by council for equipment, but it would be great to have our own space where we can put up our logos, posters and paraphernalia,” he said.

What would be fantastic would be to have a nice block with enough space for a meeting hall, storage, to set up tents, have campfires and play games, and maybe other community groups could eventually share that space.

“The State contribution would be the first step that would enable us to get our own space, and we’d then be seeking further contributions from local council or other sources to supplement that, and community support to make it feasible.”

Labor candidate for Geelong Christine Couzens said the Scouts group offers a vital community service.

“It’s run by the community, for the community,” she said. “This $400,000 grant will ensure that it can continue to teach our kids skills for life.

“I’m proud of Labor’s record of supporting volunteers to promote, support and strengthen our community.”

Minister for Youth Ros Spence said a Labor government would support Scouts Victoria-wide, and therefore, young people from all backgrounds.

“We promised we’d invest $5.5 million in building and upgrading Scouts infrastructure across Victoria, and we’ve delivered,” she said.