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Guiding first became a part of the local community one year before the 4th Ballarat Girl Guide Company launched.<\/p>\n
Ms Brown said while some aspects have evolved, the fundamental goals, objectives, and principles of the organisation have remained consistent.<\/p>\n
\u201cTraditionally, the aim was to provide girls with opportunities for personal growth, character development, and the acquisition of practical skills,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
\u201cOver time, the aims have extended to incorporate empowering girls to become confident, responsible, self-respecting, and contributing members of society, with a strong focus on discovering their potential as leaders in their world.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe specific areas of focus have evolved to meet the changing needs and interests of the members. Personal development, outdoor activities, and community engagement have remained central to the organisation’s objectives, with new areas of focus often added to address emerging challenges and opportunities.\u201d<\/p>\n
In 2023, Ms Brown said Ballarat’s Guide groups have a greater focus on leadership, global awareness, diversity, inclusion, and environmental sustainability.<\/p>\n
The group held an official 100th birthday party at the end of last month, with a special cake cut by newest local Guide, seven-year-old Imogen, and 4th Ballarat Girl Guide Company member of 69 years, Sandra Ballard.<\/p>\n
Long-time leader Margaret Littlehales was one of the event\u2019s organisers.<\/p>\n
\u201cI joined the 8th Ballarat Brownies when I was eight years old, just after my ballet teacher told me that I didn\u2019t bend in the right places and would never become a ballerina,\u201d Ms Littlehales said.<\/p>\n
\u201cThere was a Guide company meeting at my church and I was fascinated by the older girls in blue uniforms doing semaphore.<\/p>\n
\u201cI gave it a go and it turned out to be the best decision I ever made. I enjoyed it so much that I stayed forever.\u201d<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
THE leaders and members of Fourth Ballarat Girl Guides are marking one hundred years of learning, growing, fun, and friendship. The group is the longest-running Girl Guide unit in the city, and first met at the All Saints Church of England Hall on Drummond Street. Ballarat Girl Guides volunteer unit leader Cherie Brown said there […]<\/p>\n