Scouts celebrates 40 years in Newcastle

In its 40th year, Seegers said 3rd Newcastle boasted 14 Cubs – made up of boys and girls aged from seven to 11 – and the same number of Scouts, comprised of youths between 11 and 14.

November 4, 2017

Bruce Douglas 2 minutes read

From tent pitching and knots to cooking, the 3rd Newcastle Scout Group is teaching vital life lessons to children.

For the past four decades, the 3rd Newcastle Scout Group has inspired love of the great outdoors.

Yet this organisation is about far more than tying knots and building camp fires.

Following in the footsteps of Lord Robert Baden-Powell, youths learn skills for adulthood, broaden their faith and understand loyalty and duty.

In that way, Cubs and Scouts help reclaim so-called lost characteristics.

Troop Scouter, Warren Seegers explained the organisation was about promoting a child’s advancement and encouraging leadership.

“In the beginning, it’s about participation and as they age, they take on more planning and administrative roles.”

In its 40th year, Seegers said 3rd Newcastle boasted 14 Cubs – made up of boys and girls aged from seven to 11 – and the same number of Scouts, comprised of youths between 11 and 14.

Those who progress can join a greater organisation in other areas.

And while the structure of Cubs and Scouts had adapted to modern times, at its core the organisation was essentially the same as 30-plus years ago.

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“There are many fun competitions, camps and we also host a survival camp.”

During the course of the year, 3rd Newcastle hosted a number of camps around KwaZulu-Natal, including the acclaimed BP Camp – one of the year’s highlights.

These camps are designed to teach Cubs and Scouts how to live off the land.

Seegers said the children were generally divided into pairs, and were tasked with crafting a shelter, making a fire and even hunting for sustenance.

Leaders were always on hand to watch over the children however.

“As Troop Scouter, I am primarily there to facilitate the process. Groups can run themselves and I give guidance and supervision, as well as training older Scouts to pass down knowledge.”

Those who are interested are typically asked to attend three meetings.

Seegers said it was important for the prospective Cub or Scout to be familiar with the procedure and be certain they could commit time to the organisation.

If they were willing to continue, the Cub/Scout would then purchase a uniform.

“There is a joining fee which is paid to Scouts HQ each year. Further we do our own fundraising for the upkeep of the hall, while the rest is covering costs.”

Seegers said the Cubs met on Tuesdays from 4.30pm each week, while the Scouts hosted meetings on Thursdays.

For details, call 072 329 1915.