Southern Wolves Scout Group opens to the community and inspires young adventurers

The Southern Wolves Scout Group, based at St Declan’s and Grace Trinity schools in Rietvlei Zoo Farm, has inspired young adventurers since April 2015.

Initially a private school-based group, the Southern Wolves decided in 2023 to open their doors to the community.

“We had so much interest from local parents that it just made sense. By going public, we could welcome more families, grow our numbers and expand the Scouting movement in our area,” explains Scout group leader Nick Rudling.

The group has 23 active Cubs and Scouts, supported by five warranted leaders. Their weekly meetings take place in the grounds of Rietvlei Zoo Farm, the perfect setting for outdoor activities, skill-building and environmental projects.

Fun, learning and giving back

One highlight for the group this year was a river clean-up at Kilpriver, led by Scout Linkin Rudling as part of his service award.

“I have been in the Scouts since 2016. I love being outdoors and helping the environment. The river clean-up was hard work, but seeing the difference we made was worth it,” says Linkin.

The Cubs also enjoyed a day at the Johannesburg Zoo Farm on August 2 during the Regional Cave Fun Day. They brought donations from the zoo’s wish list, including peanut butter, Oros, cereal and toys for the animals.
Scout troops and hunting teams set up activity bases to teach Cubs new skills.

According to Jesika Joubert, after lunch, they explored the zoo and discovered that the African wild dog’s lifespan is about 10 years in the wild and double that in captivity. They also learnt that the species is endangered.

“We returned home exhausted but happy after a day that was educational and fun,” she said.

Leaders who inspire

For Troops Scouters Heath and Pamela Jordan, keeping the Scouts motivated is an ongoing mission.

“Pam and I have been involved with leading the Scouts since January 2024. The most memorable event so far was the 2024 Quantiki at Arrow Park, where the Scouts camped and built a raft.

“We keep them engaged by making programmes exciting, giving them responsibilities and using their feedback and interests to make activities even more engaging,” says Heath.

Joubert, who helped transition the group from private to parent-run, believes that activities like the zoo visit connect young members with the world around them.

“It is all about helping them discover new things and appreciate the environment,” she says.

Why Scouting matters

For one of the parents, Avril Murray, the journey started when her son wanted to join Scouts.

“I have seen him grow as a person because of it. His interests have changed over time, but Scouts encourages him to learn new things in a fun environment with peers his age and older.

“Scouts is for ages 11 to 18, while Cubs is seven to 10. When you turn 11, you link from Cubs into Scouts,” she says.

Nick says the shift to a community-based group has brought diversity and more community involvement.

“It is a chance to make Scouting accessible to more young people,” he explains.

Join the adventure

The Southern Wolves meet every Thursday from 17:00 to 19:00 at St Declan’s.

“Scouting is for everyone. It is about friendship, fun and finding your own adventure,” Murray says.

To join, call Nick on 078 459 6147 or message the group via their Facebook page.