Brian Shea of Scouting New Zealand entertained us last week.
The scouting movement founded in 1908 in the UK quickly took root in this part of the Empire. A National Jamboree was held at Tahuna Park in the mid-1920s, with it seems the Rotary Club of Dunedin’s support.
Scouts is now one of the largest global non-formal education movements.
Its aim is to empower youth (5-26 years) through adventurous but educative experiences to make positive contributions to society. There is a philosophy of “youth-led, adult supported”.
That involves learning by doing, in small teams, having fun, at an age-appropriate level, largely outdoors.
Scouting is not now as its founder, Robert Baden-Powell envisaged, an organisation preparing boys for military service. Tying knots is no longer a core discipline. Scouting is trying to make itself fit for purpose in the 21 st century and aims to be inclusive and diverse. Nationally 6% of its membership are now female, but within individual troops the proportion of female participants is much higher.
Scout groups are divided into land, sea and air scouts.
Scouting has its challenges, many of which will be familiar to Rotarians: time, cost, public perception, the weight of tradition, the modern preference for digital engagement, and with its focus on outdoor activities, compliance with Health & Safety duties.
Funding at least within the Otago region is not a concern thanks to a joint venture between City Forests Limited and Scouts.
Wednesday at 5.30pm, situated in the Moray Place Carpark next to the Carnegie Centre (Lift or Stairs to Basement Level C). All those who'd like to go who haven't yet signed up please inform 
