What we’ve been up to!
Jimboomba Venturer Scouts – Unforgettable Nighthawk Adventure
Jimboomba Venturer Scout Unit attended Nighthawk in Clifton, where an incredible example of inclusion, teamwork and thinking outside the box unfolded.
For one of our youth members, Vann, attending Nighthawk meant much more than simply going camping. Living with complex and chronic health conditions, the initial goal was simply to get Vann to the site so they could enjoy a night away with their peers, sleeping in a tent, sitting around a campfire and experiencing the outdoors.
The unit initially explored whether a reasonable adjustment could allow the patrol to bring a mobile phone onto the course to photograph activities at the bases. The aim was to recreate some of the activities back at the den so Vann could share the experience with the rest of the group.
During the Patrol Leader briefing, Thom, our Patrol Leader, and Possum, our leader, stayed behind with the Nighthawk HQ team to discuss what options were available. With the support of Brett, Head of Diversity and Inclusion, an unexpected and wonderful plan came together.
Marshals transported Vann between bases in a support vehicle, allowing them to participate alongside their patrol. Vann even managed to walk from Base 2 to Base 3.
For Vann, this was a huge milestone. Despite being involved in Scouts for four years and having been part of multiple groups, this was their first opportunity to fully experience a regional event.
They were able to be with their peers, take part in activities, laugh, contribute to their patrol and truly feel part of the event.
The Nighthawk team went above and beyond to ensure Vann’s safety and inclusion. Every transition was carefully coordinated, including notifying HQ when the support vehicle was approaching so that flashing lights and beacons could be switched off when approaching to reduce the risk of triggering a seizure.
These details may seem small, but they made a huge difference in helping Vann feel safe, supported, included and valued.
The Jimboomba Venturer Patrol also did an outstanding job; they adapted without hesitation when the plan changed. They supported Vann, communicated well, located them and their support person at each base and continued the event together without complaint.
The weekend showed what reasonable adjustments can achieve when inclusion moves from theory into practice.
Jimboomba Venturer Unit looks forward to future regional activities and next year’s Nighthawk, with the opportunity to plan further in advance and continue creating inclusive experiences for every young person.
A huge thank you to the entire Nighthawk HQ team, especially Brett, Tom and their teams.
And well done, Jimboomba Venturers – your leaders are incredibly proud of you
Bunya Park Scout Group 90th Anniversary
Bunya Park Scout Group proudly celebrated its 90th anniversary on 15 August, marking nine decades of Scouting in Toowoomba. We were honoured to welcome Mayor Geoff McDonald, Regional Commissioner Kerry Harrison and Assistant Regional Commissioner Barry Kelleher as special guests.
The highlight of the afternoon was the official opening of our newly renovated campfire area. In true Scouting style, the Mayor used a saw to “cut the ribbon”, much to the delight of everyone gathered.
A 2‑year Service Award was also presented to Karina O’Reilly (Cookie), our Assistant Venturer Scout Leader, recognising her dedication and contribution to the youth of Bunya Park.
The day concluded with a relaxed campfire sing‑along, bringing together current members, families and a wonderful number of alumni. It was heartwarming to see former Scouts, leaders, committee members and parents reconnect and share stories from across the decades.
Inside the hall, Koala Shelly Cameron curated an impressive historical display featuring photos and memorabilia from Bunya Park’s 90‑year journey. Outdoors, Scouts set up a Queensland Pitch tent, an Embodin campsite, our canoes and a special wooden canoe donated by Brigadier Jock Crocombe, creating a vibrant showcase of Scouting heritage.
It was a truly memorable afternoon and evening full of friendship, laughter and celebration of everything that makes Bunya Park special.
Turning a Dream into Reality: Harry’s Sailing Adventure
Dreams do come true with dedication, perseverance and a little help from friends.
For Harry, a passion for sailing first began during the Ultimate Sailing Program run by Brownsea Water Activity Centre in 2023. What started as an exciting introduction to life on the water quickly grew into a dream of one day leading his own sailing expedition.
Fast forward three years and countless hours spent learning, practising and building his experience on the water gave Harry the skills and confidence needed to undertake his Scout Adventurous Journey. As part of the planning process, Harry took responsibility for organising and leading the expedition, developing his navigation, leadership and sailing skills along the way.
Of course, great achievements are rarely accomplished alone. Harry is incredibly grateful to the many volunteers from Brownsea Water Activity Centre who generously shared their time, knowledge and expertise. Their efforts were instrumental in refurbishing the Ultimate 18 trailer sailer, preparing it for the journey ahead. Experienced mentors also provided guidance and support, ensuring risks were carefully assessed and managed throughout the expedition.
With all the planning complete, Harry and fellow Scouts Ethan, Lennox and Ollie launched from Brownsea at Sandgate and set sail across Moreton Bay to Scarborough before successfully completing the return journey. The expedition was a fantastic achievement that showcased not only their sailing abilities but also their teamwork, resilience and commitment to reaching a shared goal.
Could You Be Next?
If Harry’s story has inspired you, why not take the first step on your own sailing journey?
The next Ultimate Sailing Program will be held at Brownsea Water Activity Centre from 25-28 September. Whether you’re completely new to sailing or keen to build your confidence on the water, this is a fantastic opportunity to learn new skills, make new friends and discover where sailing could take you.
Who knows? In a few years’ time, you could be leading your own sailing expedition and turning your dreams into reality too.
“Huge thanks to the Brownsea team, my family, and my scout leaders—I couldn’t have done it without you! The highlights were touring a luxury yacht in the marina and watching the Riverfire fireworks from our sailboat in Moreton Bay. My next dream is to sail to Tangalooma to explore the wrecks and Moreton Island!” – Harry
Brownsea Boat Naming Competition – Winners
Congratulations to Parkwood Heights Joey Scouts – Orange Patrol for winning the Brownsea Water Activity Centre boat naming competition!
Thank you to the Kedron Wavell Community Grants Program, Seth Graham, Harry, Members of the Sandgate Yacht Club, Rover Scouts, the Brownsea Team and the Tuesday crew for supporting this effort.
Their winning name ‘Nautilus’, celebrates the rich heritage of Scouting and Sea Scouting. Nautilus honours Warington Baden-Powell, the eldest brother of Scouting founder Lord Robert Baden-Powell. Warington was a renowned sailor whose passion for seamanship and adventure helped shape the principles of Sea Scouting. He fitted his Canoe Nautilus with a sail and set off to explore the Baltic Sea.
The name ‘Diamond’ recognises Warington Baden-Powell’s 5-ton yacht, Diamond. It was aboard this yacht that Warington introduced his younger brothers, including Robert Baden-Powell, to sailing and life at sea. These experiences profoundly influenced Robert, who later credited those adventures with helping to shape the outdoor skills, teamwork, self-reliance and spirit of adventure that became central to Scouting. Warington later wrote Sea Scouting and Seamanship for Boys, laying the foundations of the Sea Scout movement.
Well done to the Orange Patrol for choosing one of the names that celebrate the adventurous spirit and maritime heritage of Scouting. We hope these boats inspire many years of fun, learning and adventure on the water!
