It was also an extra special event for the Kempsey group because they reached their own 104 year anniversary. Christine Read, who is a former regional commissioner was there on Sunday to celebrate one of the oldest Scouting groups. 

“Kempsey came into the picture way back in 1914, we were one of the first,” Ms Read said. 

The former commissioner currently leads the 1st Kempsey Joey Scouts and while the whole group participated in the day, two of her members received the highest award Joeys can receive. 

“Many of the groups in our region reaffirmed their Scout promise on Sunday, we also saw Zoe Smith and Sebastian Fraser receive their promise awards, which is the highest honour that can be bestowed in the Joey Scouts,” she said. 

“It's really special, they were the first to ever receive the awards. We haven't had Joey scouts for a few years, but I started them up again.” 

“Scouting instils kids to respect people, be confident and well-rounded community members.” 

“It’s awesome for all kids, it lets them belong to a fun group where they can make friends and learn lifelong skills,” she added. 

Sundays celebrations also saw Darren Casey honoured for his 30 years as a cub scout leader.

1st Kempsey Scouts are currently recruiting leaders for all sections.

“We always need leaders, anyone over the age of 18 can join, they don’t need to have a child in the Scouts, all the training is provided,” Ms Read said. 

They are also looking for new members who are keen to take up the Scouting tradition. 

“We have our Joeys who are aged 5 to 8 and meet on Monday nights, then Cubs who are aged 8 to 11 and meet on Thursday nights, then finally Scouts who are aged 11 to 15 and meet on Wednesday nights,” Ms Read said. 

“Joining gives the children the chance to participate in camping, canoeing, hiking, bushwalking, learning first aid and so much more. Scouts are awesome.”

Anyone interested in joining or finding out more about this old and proud organisation should contact Jane Walsh on 0429150414 or check out the 1st Kempsey Scouts Facebook page. 

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