Scout pioneers his Springbok Trail

James Treacher says the skills he was taught over the past decade have set him on the path to successfully attaining his award.

September 6, 2023

Jani de Beer 2 minutes read

Secured and anchored, James Treacher (17) confidently climbed to the top of his 9m-high pioneering project, attributing the structure’s stability to fine planning and teamwork.

At the beginning of the year, the Pinnacle College Rynfield learner embarked on the final leg of his Scouting career – his Springbok Trail.

The journey to this award will not only draw on a decade’s worth of Scouting skills but test the resilience, grit and endurance of this Ninth Benoni Scout.

Treacher has been part of the troop since the age of seven, systematically earning badges while gaining knowledge and skills which he would ultimately have to draw on to attain the highest rank in the movement.

James Treacher (17), of Ninth Benoni Scouts, climbs up onto his pioneering project as part of his Springbok Trail, the highest accolade in the movement.

“One of the tasks to be completed according to trail requirements is to build a pioneering structure which serves as a temporary camp for the candidate and their patrol,” said Treacher.

“At the beginning of the year, I submitted my plans and a scale model to ensure it met the necessary safety requirements before my patrol, the Kingfishers, and I set to work constructing it.”

Once approved, relying on his leadership skills, the troop spent 20 hours completing the build, which offered a 6m x 6m sleeping space at the base and a food preparation area, including a table, at the top.

“I decided to make the sleeping area at the bottom just in case someone sleepwalks. I do not want them falling from the top,” he said jokingly.

“This build required precision planning, and time management was of the essence. I also learnt that for a team to work effectively, you must manage personalities to achieve the best results.”

With his pioneering and legacy projects out of the way, the aspiring pilot is gearing up to face his next test in leadership and planning.

The structure measures 9m in height and was built by James Treacher and his Kingfisher patrol.

“I will be leading the Kingfishers on a hike at the end of the month, during which we will walk 40km in two days along the beach in Gqeberha,” he said.

“I have spent countless hours raising funds for this trip and must ensure we have all the provisions needed before our feet hit the sand.

“My school was generous enough to sponsor its bus and certified driver for the trip.”

Meticulously, Treacher listed all that was needed to make this a memorable adventure, his demeanour not being that of an average teenager.

“Scouting has taught me a great deal about a wide variety of things, from tying knots and making fires to costing and logistics, but the most valuable lessons are what you learn about yourself and those around you,” he said with pride.