TOTS gets top marks from scouts

The picture-perfect setting of Wairoa Valley’s Gilbert Lodge was packed to the peripheries and brimming with adventure during the recent biennial Top of the South Scouts camp.

The event provided the children with opportunities to gain confidence, make new connections, and develop essential leadership and communication skills.

About 300 people, including children from five to 18 years old, as well as parent helpers and scout leaders, attended “TOTS”, which was held on 14-16 March.

The camp unified Keas, Cubs, Scouts and Venturers from across the top of the south, including Churchwood Park troop along with various Nelson groups.

The action-packed weekend featured 19 activity bases, including archery, rifle shooting, knot tying, first aid and raft building. The patrols smashed plates with a slingshot, launched a trebuchet and took had their pick of both a water and a mud slide.

Another unique and much-loved part of the camp was the opportunity for the children to create their own woggles or looped scarf holders – a significant scouting tradition.

Beyond the activities, the setting offered the intangible yet invaluable experience of being immersed in nature.

Justine McAllister, South Island general manager for Scouts Aotearoa, reckons the camp was very well-run.  “I take my hat off to the volunteers. Without them, we wouldn’t be able to offer these opportunities to our young people.”