By Danielle Kutchel
Narre Warren youths are among the 692-strong Australian contingent to the World Scout Jamboree 2019.
This is a once in a lifetime trip for many of the young scouts, who have descended on ‘The Summit’ in West Virginia for the Jamboree which is jointly hosted by Canada, the USA and Mexico.
Once stateside, the biggest ever Australian contingent at a World Scout Jamboree will join up with around 47,000 other Scouts from 170 different countries around the world.
The Jamboree, running from July 22 – August 2, is an entirely youth-led, adult-supported event and runs every four years.
Scouts are presented with a range of age-appropriate challenges and are required to work together with their global companions to solve them, developing skills in leadership and teamwork.
Holding fast to the age-old traditions of conservation and outdoorsmanship, the Jamboree will embrace the growing trend of leadership development and global citizenship that the scout movement has cultivated.
This year’s theme, ‘Unlock a New World’, invites participants to unlock new adventures, new cultures, and new friendships.
Mitchell Radley, from Narre Warren South Scout Group, is one of those making the trek to West Virginia.
He’s been scouting since the age of six, both following in the footsteps of his two older brothers and setting an example for his two younger sisters who are progressing through Scouts too.
Mitchell’s mother Tracy said the trip was the fulfilment of a dream for the young scouts.
“We have fundraised for a year to subsidise the almost $11,000 it cost each to go and as parents we are very proud of them.
“I’m hoping they come back with a new appreciation for the world, their families and the opportunities they’re given, and just seize the day, live and enjoy it.”
