1st Avoca Beach Scouts (www.avocascouts.com)

Scout Activities for Next Term and Anzac Day

2009-04-15T14:31:00.002+10:00

Dear Scouts,

Here is a quick update before we all take off on our holidays, so we can "be prepared" for next term!

Firstly, there is no scouts on tonight, Thursday 9th April, we finished the term last week with the ice blocking and BBQ.

Scouts will resume the first full week of the school term, so that's Thursday evening the 7th May at the hall.

We will have a meeting if possible on the Thursday beforehand with the Patrol Leaders (Phil and Tom) to map out the term program, but PLs only please, if available...

Now coming up in next term is an important event, the Region Rally. This is a great overnight, challenging, competitive camp and bushwalk and one for those up to it I would like to see some Avoca Scouts attend if possible. We haven't been for a year and the last patrol we sent in 2007 came real close (they did have a lot of fun though...) and would like to see an Avoca patrol make the the top twenty and get invited to the State rally this year, I reckon some of you guys could do it, you're good!

I can send you an application form for the Region Rally if interested and would like to see if we could form a patrol (or two!) to send, maximum of eight in each patrol. Note that with the term break, we will also need to send in applications as soon as we come back (possibly earlier, I'll confirm that), same week on the Friday, so this is the advance notice. I have sent out separate invitation letters to the Patrol Leaders so they know what's on.

Scouts, for the Region Rally you and your Patrol will be spending the weekend of the 23rd – 24th May hiking in the Wallaroo State Forest (North of Raymond Terrace, Newcastle), you will be relying on yourselves to find the bases, camping out in hike tents, cooking your own food and carrying everything with you that you and your Patrol needs for the week-end. It's self sufficiency, a bit tough, but a lot of fun camping and working together with hundreds of scouts from across the Hunter and Coastal region, many of whom you would have met at the Corroboree. At $12 camp fee for the weekend plus food, it's not an expensive activity...

It would be really good, if you could let me know soon by return email whether or not you may be attend this activity, so I can advise the numbers and start putting the patrols together. At this stage I do plan to attend as the troop leader.

Other things...

** Very Important** during the term holiday break we do have the Anzac Day dawn service at Terrigal memorial (next to the surf club) to which we have been personally invited in writing by the Terrigal-Wamberal RSL sub-branch, this is always a big event and one Avoca Scouts have always attended, it is early at 5.15am but very rewarding. FULL uniform please! This is a very moving and worthwhile service, to which you should also invite your family and friends to participate. At the end, breakfast at Maccas at Erina for all!

Also we have also been invited to participate in a memorial ceremony/service at The Palmdale Group's Greenway Park, Avoca Drive, Greenpoint where they need some people to raise the flag, (scouts are ideally chosen for this as we know how and we are really good community citizens...) this is at 11am, whether we do it or not will depend numbers I can get, it's optional but would be a nice gesture to do for the retired RSL folk and their families. This would be important if we could, as we will conduct the flag raising, but I do know people are also busy on Anzac Day.

Lastly, after a long Anzac Day, you're welcome to join me on Copacabana Beach for the last surf patrol of the season for fun and surf, as I will be on! Whew, what a day!

To help me with planning for these activities if you could please email me back when you can and indicate:

"I will attend (scout's name) or not the following:"

1. Region Rally (yes/no)

2. Anzac Day dawn service Terrigal (yes/no)

3. Anzac Day Greenway Park (yes/no) "

That would be appreciated.

All the best, have a great holiday, have fun and keep safe!

Musca.

Sunday Flying Activity - Reminder

2008-12-05T11:09:00.002+11:00

Here is some further information regarding the flying activities we are booked for this Sunday 7th December.

The final balance for payment is due on the day and must be collected before anyone can participate. Cubs are $53 (includes a model) and scouts, leaders, and other flyers are $49 in total. The amount payable on the Sunday is this less what you have already paid (deposit or full amount). Please bring the exact amount in cash for your balance payable on the Sunday as we will not have change.

The permission note previously provided, for all scout members who will be participating this MUST be completed, signed and brought along on the day. This is very important, if we have no signed parental consent form for all members under 18, you cannot fly, full stop. Parents please note if your cub or scout is car pooling with someone else then please make sure they have this note before they leave to avoid any disappointment.

For Security reasons full Scout uniform must be worn at all times as the course involves a lot of movement in and around the airport. If you do not wear this you will not be able to participate in some of the round the airport activiites. Non-members (parents/siblings/new-members) would need to accompany those groups in uniform only. For safety a high level of behaviour will be expected from all participants.

Please bring full packed lunch and morning/afternoon tea. Also bring all water and drinks. It can be quite hot out on the airport tarmac and you will dehydrate quickly, so please bring ample drinking water. There will only be limited/no facilities to purchase food or drinks, so best bring what you can. There are limited BBQ and picnic facilities available for those families that may wish to do that. Sunscreen and hats are essential, I would suggest bringing your scout hat/Avoca Beach cap as part of the uniform.

Cubs and scouts participating, please bring a notepad and pen.

Directions

Camden Airport may be reached by turning off expressway (M5) at the Narellan Rd Exit. Drive through Narellan, past golf course (on left) and turn right into Kirkham Lane (signposted to Airport), left into Macquarie Grove Rd, right into the airport. The Scout Centre buildings are last on the right before reaching the control tower. For us probably best go down the F3, take the M2 and then onto the M7. Allow about a 2 hour journey, although it may take a little less.

We must arrive by 8:30am sharp for all Air Activities.

I would strongly suggest car pooling to keep costs down.

Given the flight demand, movements etc. I would expect the day to end some time around 3-4pm.

It will be a great day, see you there!

Musca.

Scouts Activity Update for Week 13th Nov - 16th Nov

2008-11-13T17:19:00.002+11:00

Dear scouts,

Remember, NO scouts at the hall tonight, 13th November.

Activity is on this Saturday, 15th November for the walk to Pindar caves from Wondabyne station. It's about a 2 hour walk in and 2 hour walk out, plus breaks lunch etc.

Meet at Gosford station at 7.50am sharp. If you miss the train, tough, you've missed out, as not too many stop at Wondabyne!

Wear sensible hiking clothing, shoes and a hat. Bring comfortable day backpack with lunch, snacks, water etc. I would recommend at least 2 litres of water, more if you need more. Weather report is for showers, so wet weather gear, poncho etc. is essential.
Check your email for the permission note, you must bring it signed or cannot attend this activity. Email or ask me if you haven't got one.

We expect to be back at Gosford station at 4.10pm. Please arrange to be picked up.

Bring a compass if you one. I will also bring ours from the hall. Maps supplied.

There are plenty of good activities to be performed on this day in regards to compass work, map reading and use of a GPS all which counts towards your Scoutcraft and Pioneer campcraft badges.

Also on Sunday is the Gangshow information afternoon. If you wish to find out more out about Gangshow and try it out, then please go to the introductory session which will be held at East Gosford Scout Hall, 4pm-7pm on Sunday 16th November 2008. I would urge you all to attend, at least to see what its all about. It doesn't hurt to try. Wear uniform for this.

Musca.

Gangshow auditioning now!

2008-11-06T14:04:00.004+11:00

Avoca Cubs and Scouts (Leaders too!),

Now if you really want to join in on a fantastic activity where you can have a lot of fun and learn lots of drama skills, then I could not go past recommending the Gang Show crew. Of many of the worthwhile things you can get out of scouting, this is definitely one of them. I would certainly recommend you give consideration to being involved in this, it is definitely worthwhile. Please, I encourage you to do so.

If you wish to find out more and try it out, then an introductory session will be held at East Gosford Scout Hall, 4pm-7pm on Sunday 16th November 2008. I would urge you all to attend, at least to see what its all about. It doesn't hurt to try.

So for those of you that have not been to a past Gang Show performance and Avoca Beach always attends each year as a group, then read on.

Gang Show is an exciting and challenging activity for scouting youth members of all ages. It offers the opportunity to develop imagination within strict guidelines. It enhances leadership skills and particularly self confidence. Youth will develop better interpersonal relationships with people who are both considerably younger and considerably older than themselves. Young people who are naturally extroverts find an outlet for their talents, but the people who benefit most are the shy and introverted scouts who don't seem to have any particular skills.

Scouts Australia encourages the performing arts as part of its programming. Many Scouting members have received basic experience and moved onto bigger and better things by starring in a Gang Show. These shows give cast and crew vital confidence and experience in a variety of areas from acting and stage management to costume and set design.

“Melbourne Gang Show was a highlight for me as it gave me my thirst for performing,” says Shane Jacobson, star of the movie Kenny.

Writer, actor and comedian Dave O'Neil says: "Gang Show is where I got my first taste of showbiz!"

No don't be scared I encourage you to take up the challenge. Please go along on the Sunday (in uniform) to find out more, you have nothing to lose but plenty to gain!

If you need more information please ask me.

Musca.

We're Flying!

2008-11-05T11:09:00.003+11:00

Avoca Beach Cubs and Scouts are scheduled to attend the Scout Air Activities Centre flying day and course on Sunday 7th December 2008.

Details are:

For cubs, the Cub Level 2 Badge day is designed to be run in conjunction with a normal Activity Flying day. The cost for the course is $53.00 (including GST) per Cub with a deposit of $5.00 per person payable within 6 weeks. This covers a flight in the Scout aircraft, a model aircraft, and use of the Centre. Leaders and family members need only pay for their flight ($49.00, including GST) if participating in this activity. Should you have members wishing to participate in the badge course but not wishing to fly then the cost is $15:00 we do not recommend this as most young people need to feel part of the overall activity and take part in the flying experience.

For scouts, The cost of the course is $49:00 per scout, which includes GST, with a deposit of $5:00 per scout payable within 5 weeks of booking. Leaders, family members and friends are welcome to participate in the flying part of this activity, the cost for this is the same as for the Scout Badge Course.

See you there and lets take to the air!

See Musca for more details.

Scouts Hike to History

2008-10-28T14:46:00.000+11:00

Go scouts!

THE Leeton Scout troop has taken part in a hike to commemorate a piece of Australian aviation history.

On October 25, the troop completed a 17km hike in the rugged mountains of the northern parts of Kosciuszko National Park, commemorating the discovery of the wreckage of the Southern Cloud.

The disappearance of the airliner Southern Cloud on March 21, 1931 was Australia’s greatest air mystery.

The three-engined plane disappeared on a flight from Sydney to Melbourne and its wreck was not discovered until October 26, 1958.

Leaving Leeton on October 24, Scout leader Mark McDougal said 15 members of 1st Leeton Troop stayed at Base Cabramurra, the alpine facility of the Riverina Scouts located at Australia’s highest town.

After a Friday night hike and a good night’s sleep, the troop set off by car for the 25km trip to the vicinity of Round Mountain, where the hike commenced.

“We arrived at the wreck site and memorial, located at 1200metres, at 2pm and stayed for 20 minutes or so, contemplating Australia’s first air disaster that saw the loss of eight people, not found for nearly three decades,” Mr McDougal said.

“The photos of the cane and wicker passenger chairs of the cabin were particularly evocative.”

The Scout group chose the solitude of eve of the discovery anniversary to make the trek to avoid the commemorations that would take place the next day.

On the way back down, the group paused at the mountain hut of Bradley and O’Brien, a grazing hut built in the 1950s before the road between Cabramurra and Khancoban was built.

Travelling home on the Sunday, the Scouts stopped at the thermal pool at Yarrongobilly, which has become a firm favourite of the troops in any weather.

JOTI - This weekend!

2008-10-15T15:25:00.000+11:00

Dear Cubs and Scouts,

Looking for a bit of scouting following the break?

The look no further than your home PC!

Over this whole weekend is the Jamboree of the Internet, which scouts of all ages worldwide participate in and you can too.

If you have access to a PC with internet access, either at home, a friends place or in a public place, you can participate and it's free!

JOTI attracts a large number of Scouts who make contact with other Scouts through safe Scout Operated Inernet chat rooms, MSN, email, webpages, blogs etc. You can even use voice communication on the Internet. You can take part in JOTI as a group or individually at home.

For more information and details on how to register please go to: http://www.jotajoti.org and click on Register for JOTA-JOTI.

Once you have completed that process click on the tab for Join in! on the JOTI page at http://www.joti.org/en/index.html

My JOTI email address for this event is: musca@2008.jotajoti.org send me a message!

And you can catch me online using IRC with the nickname musca, if you do, say hi!

Establish an account, chat to other scouts online, send them emails, prove you participated and there will be a special JOTA/JOTI badge in it for you!

All the best and have a great JOTI !

Musca.

Clean Up taps scouts to boost awareness

2008-05-28T13:15:00.002+10:00

Organisers of the Clean Up the World campaign are tapping into the scout movement's 28 million members in 120 countries to boost their global cause.

Clean Up the World, a community-based environmental program, mobilises an estimated 35 million volunteers annually.

The program had enjoyed a strong relationship with the scouts for many years, Australian chairman Ian Kiernan said on Monday as he announced a new global alliance between the two movements.

"We recognise that with 28 million scouts worldwide, that this is an incredible potential source of volunteers.

"We are looking at seeing how many scouts we can get involved in the 120 countries we're involved in.

"We've had 35 million people last year volunteer for clean up the world, and hopefully with this strengthened relationship with scouts globally, we may see those numbers increase quite dramatically."

Volunteer participation had allowed the organisation to expand into broader environmental issues, including the Clean up the Climate strategy, Mr Kiernan said.

"We are able to do this because of the strength that's delivered to us through the volunteers."

Scouts Australia Chief Commissioner John Ravenhall said protecting the environment was a key part of the movement's ethos.

"We've been pretty strong on Clean up Australia and now this is a wider opportunity," he said.

"But it also gives us the opportunity to be an example to other national scouting organisations around the world."

Participation in clean up-programs was all locally coordinated by individual scouting groups, Mr Ravenhall said.

"We're putting water tanks in every scout group or scout hall in Australia, that wishes to have a water tank, so that's another commitment to the environment."

The Parliamentary Secretary for Social Inclusion and the Voluntary Sector Ursula Stephens said the alliance was seen as an important step in fostering volunteer participation across the country and the world.

"Officially, 5.4 million Australians over the age of 18 volunteer," she said.

"That's around 34 per cent of the adult population and they give a total of about 713 million volunteer hours."

Supporting the alliance was an important part of the Rudd government's social inclusion agenda to encourage more volunteering, Senator Stephens said.

Avoca Beach Scouts have always been strong supporters of the Clean Up Australia Day campaign conducting this jointly every year with the Lions Club from our hall for the Avoca Beach area. We're in!

Musca.

Anzac peace prize for Scouts

2008-05-23T15:03:00.000+10:00

The ANZAC Peace Prize, announced annually, is awarded by the RSL to ‘recognise any outstanding effort by an Australian citizen who has promoted the concept of international understanding and who, in so doing, has made a contribution to world peace.’

The RSL Anzac Awards Committee awarded the 2008 Anzac Peace Prize to Scouts Australia. 2008 is the Year of the Scout and marks the centenary of Scouting in Australia. The award of the ANZAC Peace Prize recognises the part that Scouting has played in the development of two million Australians over the past 100 years, both as individuals and as citizens.

Avoca Scouts Big International night

2008-05-20T15:22:00.001+10:00

Dear scouts,

For those that came to our Darkinjung dreaming experience (I think most of you), I trust you had a good time, I did!

Although I am not so sure if I really can make a decent meal out of Termites, they didn't taste too bad though...

This week on the calendar is our International Night for this Thursday night (22nd May) at the hall.

Now for this you have a bit to do, after all we're scouts, we make an effort...

You must come and represent any country of your choosing, the only exception being Australia, we're all Australians after all.

You choose the country you like, it does not have to be based on your heritage, ethnicity or anything else, just one you like, interests you and can get information on, perhaps you have visited it before, which might make it easier.

For your country of choice, you must:

1. Dress in something appropriate or representative of that country. It does not have to be national dress or anything like that (although can be if you want..) but just something that is representative of, or worn in that country. But please do not dress in anything dereogative, poor taste or perhaps offensive to that country (wrapping yourself in bandages and saying you come from China is definitely not acceptable at this point in time! I think you get the idea...).

2. Obtain information in regards to that country, history, background, population, language, geography, sports etc. together with any other interesting facts, humorous or otherwise and be prepared to present it to the group. Hint, there's lots of stuff on the internet.

3. Be prepared to do a skit, sing a song, play music or entertain us in some way (follow on from our entertainment night...) in regards to some cultural aspect or otherwise of your country of choice.

4. Bring food to share that is representative of your country. A national dish, a taste of the country, something to eat. Please bring enough to eat that will contribute as a meal. We will sit down together to eat it as a meal, so bring enough for all to share. If you all make an effort, this is dinner.

5. Anything else you want to do for your country, remember, your country needs you!

OK again the rules are, all countries except Australia are acceptable. You must genuinely make an effort and satisfy all four topics above. Please, if you are not willing to make an effort and be prepared to have a bit of fun, then give this night a miss and do not come. Also do not come if you don't bother dressing appropriately for your country either.

The work above forms part of badgework for learning about international cultures, so bring your green books for marking off. Again, no effort, no sign off.

There will be a prize for the best effort made and you will be voting for it.

Note that cubs aged 10 or higher I will also be inviting so they can see what scouts do and do a bit of linking. You are also welcome and encouraged to bring friends along, again provided they follow the rules above and above all make an effort.

It will be a great night, if you want it to be, cya globe trotters!

Musca.

Scouts offer a National Amateur Radio School

2008-05-19T12:47:00.003+10:00

Get your amateur radio licence and badge!

Scouts Australia is offering a school in Amateur Radio for youth and adult members of Scouting.

The school will be conducted in Melbourne over 5 days during the September school holidays, and hopes to attract Scouts from around Australia.

The school is modeled on a successful activity conducted in Perth last January, at which three Scouts earned their Foundation Amateur Radio License. Scouts of all ages who hold an Amateur Radio license may wear a special insignia on the sleeve of their Scout Uniform.

The idea of the school is to bring together Scouts from far and wide to learn new skills. The School aims to give participants a wide range of practical experience and on-air time as well as gaining the knowledge needed to pass the
exam.

One example of the practical application of theory at the January School was where each participant calculated lengths, cut and constructed a half wave dipole for 10 metres, then tested and tuned it using two methods, using a Transmitter and SWR meter, and by using an Antenna Analyser.

The course is being hosted by the Scout Radio and Electronics Service Unit in Melbourne, the same team who brought us the amazing ARISS contact during the Australian Jamboree in January 2007.

We’ve something to look forward to from the team that took Amateur Radio to the Jamboree.

We’ll keep you informed as the detail of the school is finalized.

Bob Bristow VK6POP

JOTA-JOTI Coordinator, Scouts Australia

Note, this information was provided by Bob Bristow, whom I had the pleasure to work with during the Australian Jamboree in 2007 in the internet cafe. Bob knows his radio stuff!

Musca.

Darkinjung Dreaming and Bush Tracker Experience

2008-05-14T14:20:00.006+10:00

G'day scouts and cubs,

Here's an update and further details on this weekends Dakinjung Dreaming activity.

Darkinjung Dreaming includes a walkabout through our natural bushland, discovering ancient Aboriginal engravings and paintings, mixing ochre into face paint and washing up with bush soap

Bush Tracker includes catching yabbies, learning how to track kangaroos and wallabies, trying out real bush tucker, learning how to get water from trees and hearing about how the Darkinjung people used bush medicine

Provisional Plan for the Day

(This may change according to conditions at the park)

13:00 Arrive at park, get organised, toilet break, quick lunch (self-catered).

13:30 Darkinjung Dreaming program begins

15:00 Short break: toilets etc.

15:15 Bush Tracker program begins

16:45 Program ends

17:00 Leave park

No food will be provided (other than that which you catch or find yourself!) so please have lunch beforehand. Drinks (hot and cold) and ice creams are available in the shop if required at cost.

Please ensure you do arrive by 1.00pm sharp (we won't wait!) so there is plenty of time before the start. You can see that it is a packed afternoon of activities.

Uniform optional, but please wear your Avoca scarf and sensible clothing suitable for walking around the bush in. I would suggest good shoes or boots and a sun hat. Also if the weather looks a little dicey bring rain gear. The activity goes ahead rain, hail or shine (well hopefully not too much hail...). Also bring a filled water bottle.

Overall cost is $15 per person, so if you have already paid the $10 deposit at the meetings last week, then please bring the balance of the $5 with you. Note that only those who have paid can attend the activity, the numbers are fixed. As this is an external activity, please bring your signed permission note with you. Additional copies will be provided on the day.

Cya there, Musca.

The location is the:

Australia Walkabout Wildlife Park
2375 Peats Ridge Road & Darkinjung Road
Calga NSW
Australia 2250

Phone: (02) 43751100
Website: www.walkaboutpark.com.au

Here's a map:

“Bush Experience” Weekend 17th/18th May

2008-05-07T10:37:00.000+10:00

Cubs and scouts,

Avoca Beach Scouts have put together a fantastic weekend of bush oriented activities for you to enjoy and whether you want to do it all or just part, its completely up to you!

Firstly the Gosford District scouts have put on a fun day at the reptile park on Saturday 17^th May from 9am to closing. There is a big reduction in entry fees and activities for badge work. Note this is run by Gosford district not Avoca Beach, cubs and scouts from all across Gosford will be attending; information attached. Once you have finished with the reptiles, it’s onto camping…

Avoca Beach cubs, scouts and their families will be camping at the Camp Kariong scout camp (directions attached) over the weekend, which is in close proximity to all the activities. This is great scout camping, in a full bush environment, but with all amenities close by and a campfire! Camp fees for the weekend are only $3 for one day/night per person, BYO food and camp gear. Arrive anytime you like during Saturday, after 9am. Depart Sunday afternoon. We will have the group BBQ for a Saturday evening feast and also for a hot breakfast on Sunday if you desire. Please advise if you are not attending with one of your family members and also if you do not have your own gear and require anything. For a list of what to bring (other than your own camp gear) see our website under the Library tab in the document “Packlist for a Camp”.

Then on Sunday following lunch its the Darkinjung Dreaming experience, indigenous Australian bush lore and tucker at it’s best! The plan for this is:

Meet at the corner of Peats Ridge and Darkinjung Rd, Calga

Time: 1.30 til 3pm Darkinjung Dreaming

3pm - 3.30pm Break ( bring your own drinks / food)

3.30pm - 5pm Bush Tracker Programme (face painting, bush tucker food, bush medicine, bush soap etc.)

Great activities for all ages, educational, bring your friends, bring your family!

If you intend to do the Darkinjung activity then we need to book now. Please bring $10 deposit for each person attending to the cub or scout meeting this week. Depending on the final numbers attending it is expected to cost no more than $15 per head in total for this activity. Note that any costs for the reptile park and camping are not required in advance, they are payable on the day.

For all members uniform is required for the Reptile park activity (see attached note), when arriving and leaving Camp Kariong (normal scout etiquette), but is optional for the Darkinjung activity on Sunday. Wear suitable clothing for walking in the bush for this.

So you choose how much or how little you wish to do, depending on your own weekend commitments, time and budget. Remember you can camp for just $3 plus food. There is no obligation or requirement to attend any or all of these activities, it’s up to you. But I am sure it will all be fun!

CU there, Musca.

Reptilian Scouts!

2008-05-07T10:20:00.002+10:00

Well scouts are not really reptiles, perhaps with the exception of a few old leaders...

But it's more a case of scouts meet the reptiles at the Gosford district scouts:

Family fun Day

The Australian Reptile Park

Saturday, 17^th May 2008

Cost: Under 3 years: free

3 – 15 years $ 7.00

15 years – adults $15.00

Concession: $ 8.00

This is a big reduction in cost especially for Scouting and their families and friends, so bring everyone for a fun day out!

Bring your own picnic lunch or buy from the canteen.

Please wear your uniform, hat, sunscreen, sensible walking shoes.

Apart from the great things to see at the Reptile Park, we will have several activities where youth members can work on some of their badge work.

See you there, Musca.

Anzac Day Dawn Service

2008-04-22T14:34:00.003+10:00

Dear cubs, scouts, leaders and parents,

I trust you are enjoying your holidays, even it has been a bit wet...

This Friday is Anzac Day of which the dawn service and marches have always been well supported by the scout association.
Avoca Beach Scouts has also been invited to attend and support by the Terrigal Wamberal RSL Sub Branch. Additionally as this is the Australian Centenary of Scouting and Year of the Scout, special mention will be made at the service of scouting's support over the years. Also remembering those past and present scouting members who have served in the armed forces over the past 100 years and indeed for those many scouts who gave their lives so we can enjoy the freedom we do now.
I trust where possible our members will support this purpose.

For the dawn service we meet at the Terrigal Police station (behind the shops at Terrigal) at 5am (yes, it's early...) for the march to the Terrigal memorial, next to the surf club for the service. The march will start at 5.15am sharp.

We need a member of both the cub pack and scout troop to carry their respective flags. Also representative members to lay a wreath/flowers to remember those members, scouts, who made the ultimate sacrifice; their lives.
Please feel free to bring flowers, weaths and a card if you wish to dedicate to those former scouts.
Full uniform for all members please.

Following the service we will retire to McDonalds Erina for a well earned breakfast!

I look forward to seeing as many as possible there, bright and early, permission note is on our website www.avocascouts.com in the Calendar section for the date of the activity, 25th April.
Please remember to invite all your family, friends and anyone else you can!

Also if you wish to, there is also a March and service in Gosford at 10.00am which I will be attending as well as many other scout groups from across the Gosford district. If you would like to also attend this and require more information please email or call me.

If you are away on holidays, then perhaps get up at dawn (it's worth it!) and perhaps find a local service in the area you are staying (check with the local RSL club), for sure there will be other scouts there so wear your uniform, or perform your own service to remember.

PS the good news, even after all this rain the forecast for Friday is fine, after last year, I hope so!

"Musca"

Another famous Avoca Beach scout!

2008-04-09T14:26:00.000+10:00

Hot on the heels of Matt and Richard Branson, Celine Stylianou too steals the limelight appearing in our local newspaper following the Central Coast fun day last weekend.

Matt meets famous ex-scout Sir Richard!

2008-03-31T13:43:00.004+11:00

Matt Douglass, one of Avoca Beach's scouts, wanted to meet Sir Richard because he was in awe of the man and he wanted to promote the 100 years of Australian Scouting. Sir Richard Branson was once a scout too. He did, scouts never give in!

Sir Richard Branson is one of Britain's most successful businessmen. With a commercial empire spanning entertainment, travel, drinks, retail, insurance and telecommunications there are few sectors which have not escaped the attentions of his famous Virgin brand. In Australia the Virgin brand is in the form of Virgin Blue Airlines; and Virgin Mobile (phones).

Richard has spent his life challenging the status quo, innovating and striving for success. His parallel career as an adventurer has seen him enter the record books in hot air balloons, speed boats and more attempts are planned. Richard says about Scouting:

"Great fun, great adventures. Lots of outdoor activities which I love. Experience of leadership. Never could learn how to tie a knot though!"

Matt, you've got one up on Richard, hopefully you have learnt to tie your Scoutcraft knots!

Join the Scouts......

You never know where it might take you .....

Sir Richard Branson was once a scout !!

We Want You !

2008-03-24T22:56:00.002+11:00

No not scouts, (although we could do with a few more...), but parents.

As our current parent supporters group committee is now retiring, some members having served admirably for up to ten years, all committee positions now fall vacant and must be filled immediately if 1st Avoca Beach Scouts is to continue successfully. We ask for your support.

Our Group Committee is an essential part of the 1st Avoca Beach Scout Group. It is comprised of a group of caring parents that work to support the uniformed Leaders running the affairs of the group in practical ways like keeping the hall maintained, collecting fees, paying the bills, assisting with the organization of activities, social events and raising funds to meet the Group's ongoing expenses.

The Group Committee usually meets once a term for a one hour meeting where most of the business is conducted. It’s serious stuff keeping the wheels turnin’ and the lights-a–burn’n. The harsh reality is though our parent supporters can enjoy a pretty good social life just by being involved. Scouting is for children, but it is their parents as well as caring adults who give the youth scouting. All our Leaders and committee members have volunteered their time and talents to enable the scout program to be delivered to our youth members.

Our Annual General Meeting is scheduled to be held on the 2nd April and it is essential we fill the important committee positions of Chairman, Secretary, Treasurer, Hall Hirer and Fundraising/Job Week Co-ordinator by that date. There are also other roles available, but these are the important positions to be filled for our group to function. The work involved in these positions is not onerous and I can provide a full description of the roles and responsibilities together with all assistance and support needed.

If these important supporter roles are not filled for 2008, then our group would need to close as it cannot function without the input provided by these positions.

PS at any time we are also ALWAYS looking for leaders. A few new scout leaders at the moment would certainly not go astray. For the ultimate challenge and fun, be a leader!

Please support us.

Rob “Musca” Milne – Group Leader, 1st Avoca Beach Scouts

Family Surf Camp – Weekend of 15th & 16th March

2008-03-12T13:32:00.001+11:00

On the weekend of the 15th and 16th March 2008 is our family surf camp. This is a great opportunity for all families of cubs and scouts to get together, relax and have fun, on the beach!

All Avoca Beach cub and scout families, parents, children, relatives and friends are not only welcome to attend, but encouraged!

Please note that whilst we may conduct some activities like hiking or boating, supervision of the behaviour and care of all children will be, at all times, the sole responsibility of their parents or carers. Note that this camp site is immediately adjacent to an un-patrolled surf beach, which at times can be quite dangerous for swimming and surfing. All children should only enter the water with the approval of and supervision by their parent or carer. Leaders will not be supervising this weekend, they need a break and will be relaxing too!

The camp is held at the Glenrock Scout Centre located right on the beach in the Glenrock State Conservation Area, Off Burwood Road, Kahibah, Newcastle.

Camping is outdoors. There are no shops in camp, but it is in close driving proximity for milk, bread, ice and gas etc. to Dudley and Kahibah. Supermarket facilities are available in Charlestown (5km away). Town water supply is provided and there are male/female septic toilets, and hot showers. There is a weekend onsite duty warden. Camp activities in the Conservation Park include swimming, canoeing, beach fishing and excellent hiking on marked trails around the park on the Yeulerbah Walking Track, part of the Great North Walk.

You will need to BYO everything for outdoor camping and cooking. No facilities or resources will be provided by Avoca Beach Scouts, other than bringing the group BBQ. Please plan and bring everything your family will need. Open fires are permissible in the designated fireplaces, but would depend on any fire restrictions on the day. No pets/animals allowed, leave them at home (but not your scout!).

Camp fees are free for all Hunter and Coastal registered scout members (cubs, scouts & leaders – membership has its privileges!) $14.60 per person, per weekend for all others (no exceptions!) and will be collected on the Saturday afternoon, please bring the correct amount and change. This is the same as to whether you arrive Friday evening or Saturday. Arrival is anytime after 5.00pm Friday (please check in with Nicole at the warden’s house) and departure before 4.00pm on Sunday.

This is an official scout camp and regional training facility, there will be members from other groups and possibly the invited public too; we wish Avoca scouts to be an exemplary example of the scouting community. Poor behaviour or disregard of the camp rules will result in the offenders being asked to leave. Please advise your children of this. Full scout uniform should be worn by all members when arriving and leaving the camp; which is normal scout etiquette at all official scout camps.

I look forward to seeing you there and have fun !

“Musca"

Scout Day at the Easter Show, Sat 29th March

2008-03-04T14:16:00.000+11:00

If you are thinking of going to the Easter Show this year, then as you know this can be an expensive experience, here is an opportunity to save some money...

All Youth Members, Leaders, and their families are invited to celebrate 100 years of Scouting in Australia at the Royal Easter Show on Saturday March 29, 2008. Purchase your tickets through Scouts and you will receive a 25% discount.
Come along on the day and join in the Grand Parade at 1 pm, as well as experience FREE Scout activities at the Overflow. To be eligible, tickets must be purchased between February 18 and March 14, 2008.

Discounted Ticket Prices:
Adults $24.00
Children $16.10
Concession $19.10

All tickets are ShowLink tickets. As well as Show entry, ShowLink tickets include return travel on CityRail, Sydney Olympic Park Major Event Buses, regular ‘blue and white’ Sydney Buses and Sydney Ferries. ShowLink is not valid on premium bus and ferry services or private buses.

Child includes children aged 4 – 16 years, and school children 16 – 18 years with a ROA School Pupil ID (Form 202) or School Transport Pass. Children 3 years and under have free admission.

Concession includes holders of a Tertiary Concession Card, NSW Seniors Card or Pension Card.

To be eligible for this offer all tickets have to be centrally purchased through our group. We would send in one group order for all required tickets to Scouts Australia, NSW. Note that while we must centrally order the tickets, you are free to attend the show as you wish to on the day, no need to go together or do a joint group activity, of course you can if you wish to add to the experience! The Easter Show Grand Parade is a century old show tradition and it would be a great honour to attend. Again all scout members can join in this special Centenary event if they wish to and it would be great for the kids, but there is no obligation to do so. Don’t forget to wear your uniform for it!

The closing date to purchase the tickets is on the 14th March and we would need to have the money in on that date. So if you are interested and you wish to take advantage of this offer we would need to have the money into the group by the 12th March to allow time to send it in. This will be the closing date for us. So if you are interested get your orders in now!

All the best,

Musca.

Cub swimming Wednesday and Clean Up Australia Day Sunday

2008-02-26T22:15:00.002+11:00

Dear Cubs and parents,

This Wednesday on our calendar is our swimming night.
We will be swimming at the Peninsula Leisure Centre, 243 Blackwall Road, Woy Woy from 7pm-8.30pm.
This is a lot of fun and also an opportunity for those who need to get swimming badges or achieve higher levels for those that already have them.
Double the fun, invite your friends!
Permission note for this activity is on the website, under the calendar tab for the date of this activity, please bring it with you on the night.

Cost for those swimming is $2.90 for those aged 5 - 9, ages 10 - 16 is $3.50 and above 16 is $4.80.
Non-swimmers/spectators is $2.20.

Also this Sunday is Clean Up Australia Day which is being conducted at the Avoca Scout Hall by the Lions Club from 9am - 11am.
Scouts, as both a community and an environmentally oriented organisation, are always keen to pitch and help. This is great a way for our kids to be involved in a community project. We hope to see you there. I believe that, depending on numbers, the Lions Club may be putting on a BBQ afterwards.
Permission note also on the website.

Next week, Wednesday 5th March is a hall night.

Lastly, advance notice for our Glenrock family surf camp to be held on the weekend of the 15/16th March, reserve your calendar now, don't miss this one !

For further information see our website at www.avocascouts.com

Thanks and see you there,

Musca.

PL Activity at scouts tonight (21/2) is Canoeing !!

2008-02-21T10:01:00.001+11:00

Dear scouts (and parents!),

The patrol leader's chosen activity for this Thursday night is, Canoeing!!
Please see the permission note for this activity on the Calendar under the date of this activity, please print and bring it!
Please note to bring clothing for swimming and don't forget those old, or water shoes. No water shoes, no canoeing... (also likewise with the permission note!).
Bring a towel and a spare change of dry clothes, I believe uniform is always dress suitable for any fine scout activity, but not mandatory for this night.
Mozzie repellent is a good idea too.
Note we are starting at 6.30pm and ending at 8.30pm to allow for good light for most of the activity. But this ends at 8.30pm sharp so please arrange to be picked up by then. Us scout leaders really enjoy scouting, but we also love to go home too, preferably early on some nights...
Note if weather is bad this activity is off, will send email accordingly and put a note on the News Blog on the website if it is off. Then the week's activity will still of course be the BP Bash, see below...

This weekend is also the annual BP (Baden Powell) birthday celebration, which this year being the centenary of scouting in Australia, is going to be a big "bash" event being held at Richley Picnic Area, Blackbutt Reserve, New Lambton, Newcastle. There's a flag parade at 9.00am and following that fun activities all day including flying fox, bungee, water slide, rope bridge etc. until 3.00pm. Best of all it's free! Bring a picnic, bring your family, bring your friends have lots of fun. But please come if you can, I don't want to be the only one holding Avoca's flag for the parade, that's what scouts are for... Definitely a full uniform activity this one, but you can bring a change of clothes for later if you wish.
Details also on the website under calendar.

Hope to see you there!

All the best,

Musca.

Great time at the Slamboree!

2008-02-18T15:38:00.000+11:00

Avoca Scouts and cubs had a great time at last Saturday's Slamboree activity. Bad luck the Razorback's lost, but it was so much fun, who cares!
We were the only group to go from Gosford District and about the largest single group attending across the whole Hunter and Coastal region as well!
Thanks Scouts Australia for putting this on, we loved it!

Musca.

We Want You !

2008-02-11T17:37:00.000+11:00

......and your friends

At ‘Scouting Central Coast’

An open day weekend across April 5th & 6th at Mingara club oval Tumbi Umbi.

Come along and bring your friends to show them what scouting is all about.
Rope bridges, crate stacking, craft activities, ballista, grass skiing and much more and all the activities are free. We even have a Scout BBQ if you get hungry.

Ask your Leaders for more information, mark it on your calendar and we will see you there!!!

Slamboree's on again!

2008-01-21T22:17:00.000+11:00

Remember the great fun we had two years ago?
It's back...

SLAMBOREE 2008

Saturday 16th February 2008

Slamboree is on again!
16 February 2008

Join hundreds of other NSW Scouts to watch the final game of the NBL season: Sydney Razorbacks take on the Melbourne Tigers at the Sydney Olympic Park Sports Centre! There will be plenty of pre game activities and the chance to mingle with the Razorbacks post match.

Date: Saturday, 16 February 2008 Venue: Sydney Olympic Park Sports Centre

Cost: $25 per head

What your ticket price includes:

- Special pre game Entertainment and activities
-1x Ticket to the West Sydney Razorbacks vs Melbourne Tigers
-Pre game sausage sizzle snack
-Post game Activities
-Slamboree collectors cloth badge
-Autographed Razorback poster and giveaways
-A chance to sit on the bench with the players

Activity

*Check in opens 2:00pm

*Pre game activities start 2:00pm

*Pre game sausage sizzle snack will be served at 5:00pm

*Doors to Sydney Olympic Park Sports Centre open 5:30pm

*Check in closes 6:00pm

*Game Starts- Game Concludes 7:30pm-9:30pm

*Post game entertainment 9:30pm-10:30pm

Musca.