Scouts from Caroline Springs, Keilor Downs and Deer Park descended on Government House last week, where they were invited to camp on the vista lawn at the home of the governor-general David Hurley.
More than 1400 scouts across Australia, ranging from five through to 25-years-old, spent the week based on the lush government property with excursions to explore the natural surroundings and hone in their practical skills.
Among the scouts was Scarlett from the 1st Deer Park Scout Group, who shared her highlights of the camp from what she called the “Governor-Generals backyard”.
“[We did] paddling, archery, water watch, [and] some people have done dot painting and badge trading,” Scarlett shared.
From the tents to the bathrooms, Scarlett said everything at the campsite was “cool”.
“The tents are really cool because they can fit up to eight people and the campsite is really big … I went mountain biking, it was my first time and I rode 10 kilometres,” she said.
“We also saw kangaroos and one of the kangaroos had a joey with them.”
According to data collected by Resilient Youth Australia in partnership with Scouts Australia, the focus on outdoor education delivered through the scouting experience provides significant wellbeing benefits to young people.
The study found scouts indicated a healthier mental state than non-scouting peers of the same age.
Speaking before the scouts arrival, governor general Hurley said he was pleased to welcome the large cohort.
“I am delighted that the grounds of Government House will be the backdrop for so many scouts from across Australia to come together, immerse themselves in team-building activities and forge lifelong friendships,” he said.
