A new $1.6 million Scout hall has opened in Kurrajong, providing a permanent home for local Scouting activities and a space for community workshops and events.
The Hawkesbury District Community Scout Hall was officially opened on Saturday, 26 September, by NSW Government spokesperson for Hawkesbury Peter Primrose MLC, alongside Scouts, their families, volunteers and community representatives.
Funded by the NSW Government through the Western Sydney Infrastructure Grants Program, the facility will host the weekly meetings of 1st Grose Vale Scout Group, supporting activities, practical skills, leadership development and adult leader training.
“The hall’s revitalisation will enhance its role as a vibrant social gathering place, supporting everything from an exciting youth program to adult Leader training and community workshops,” Mr Primrose said.
Scouts NSW chief executive Karen Twitchett said the investment would benefit both young people and the wider community.
“We’re incredibly grateful for the support of the NSW Government in making this important project a reality,” Ms Twitchett said.
“This Scout Hall will create a lasting legacy for the Hawkesbury community, providing generations of young people with a welcoming space to connect, develop new skills and thrive.”
The hall will also be available for community use, extending its purpose beyond Scouting and providing another venue for local gatherings.
Scouts NSW chief commissioner Bel Howell said a dedicated meeting place gave young people opportunities to build confidence and friendships.
“A Scout Hall is a place where young people can try new things, challenge themselves, discover what they’re capable of, and find a place where they can belong,” Ms Howell said.
“This new hall at Kurrajong provides Scouts with a dedicated space to build friendships, develop leadership skills, confidence and determination, and create lifelong memories.”
The opening brought together representatives from 1st Grose Vale and 1st Oakville Scout groups and the Hawkesbury River Rover Scout Unit.
Ms Twitchett and acting Greater Western Sydney Region commissioner Matt Thompson attended, along with Member for Macquarie Susan Templeman, Member for Hawkesbury Robyn Preston, Hawkesbury Deputy Mayor Nathan Zamprogno and Councillor Mike Creed.
Scouts NSW has almost 15,000 youth and adult members across the state. Its programs cater for young people aged five to 25, using a youth-led, adult-supported approach to develop leadership, resilience and practical skills through adventure and challenge.
Further information is available through the 1st Grose Vale Scout Group website or Scouts NSW.
Source: Scouts NSW.
Photo caption: Hawkesbury Opening. From left: Susan Templeman MP; Ken Barnes, group leader, 1st Grose Vale Scout Group; Matt Thompson, acting region commissioner, Greater Western Sydney Region; Ethan McLean, Scout, 1st Oakville Scout Group; Karen Twitchett, Scouts NSW chief executive; Connor McLean, Joey Scout, 1st Oakville Scout Group; Vincent Bertolla, Cub Scout, 1st Oakville Scout Group; Peter Primrose MLC; Robyn Preston MP; Hawkesbury Deputy Mayor Nathan Zamprogno; Councillor Mike Creed; and Scott MacCormick, Rover Scout, Hawkesbury River Rover Scout Unit.
