In June, Goshawks Patrol Leader Ethan Gilham received the Regional Commissioner’s Commendation award for his calm leadership during a traumatic incident on a hike he was leading last year. This is a rare award and well deserved – congratulations Ethan.
In April burglars broke open the side alley doors as well as two interior doors, and took a few items including some rechargeable lights. We have also had vagrants on the property a few times recently, and over the past few years have had at least two opportunistic intruders while the hall was occupied, so we are working on improving the security. We are currently getting quotes on electric fencing, and our unit leaders are also discussing hall security during activities, e.g. keeping the driveway gate and side gate closed except at the start and end of meetings.
At the annual Western Cape awards ceremony for adult leaders, several 1st Claremont Scouters received long service awards: 5 years for Maurits van Bever Donker (former Pack Scouter), Becca Hall (ADS), Emily Gammon (ATS), Daniel Le Jeune (Troop Scouter) and Junior Kathe (ATS), and 10 years for Sahil Patel (APS) including his time as Troop Scouter in another group. Pierre Hoffa (committee) received the Regional Commissioner’s Commendation, Judith Bishop (Den Scouter) received the Certificate of Merit and Ian Webb (SGL) received the Bar to the Medal of Merit.
1st Claremont is currently not just one of the strongest groups in the Western Cape, but also contributes a large number of the adult leaders who run many different regional events and training courses for Cubs, Scouts and adult leaders. This is a tradition our leaders can be really proud of.
Be a Meerkat leader!
The success of our group relies heavily on our volunteer adult leaders. We are currently looking for additional volunteers to run the Meerkat Den, our youngest age group, both to grow the current team and to plan for succession when current leaders step down. Leaders can be parents, grandparents, former Scouts, or other adults – it’s a rewarding role and training is provided, so please speak to Judith or Ian if you are interested in getting involved. There is more about us on our website and Facebook page.
Ian Webb
Scout Group Leader
