Banksia Scout Amy Harlow is the first recipient in the Hibiscus Coast District to receive the Australian Scout Award (ASA), with the award also the first ASA presented in the Central Coast Region.
Amy first joined as a Scout at Mackay City Central Group in April 2019, before moving to Banksia Scout Group in May 2022. It was then that she made the decision that she was determined to achieve the Australian Scout Award.
Over the next nine months, Amy focused on the Outdoor Adventure Skills which comprised of skills in Campcraft, Bushcraft and Bushwalking. Lastly, she concentrated on achieving the required tasks in the Special Interest Areas, which are optional for youth to explore new interests and are encouraged to achieve a high standard. These areas include Innovation and STEM, Growth and Development, Creating a Better World, Environment, Adventure/Sport, and Arts and Literature.
Amy was required to complete her Stage 5 in Bushcraft, Bushwalking and Camping, achieve a minimum of ten advancements in Outdoor Adventure Skills areas, complete six Special Interest Awards, complete Milestone 3 (requiring youth to lead four activities), she also was required to attend a Leadership Course and an Adventurous Journey.
For her Adventurous Journey, Amy planned and led a group on a three-day, two-night hike through Eungella visiting the diggings and Crediton.
Amy said it was an amazing hike and everyone enjoyed it and made unforgettable memories and stronger bonds with each other. It is the friendships she has made that she has found most rewarding from her time as a Scout.
The Australian Scout Award was presented at a special ceremony in Rowallan Park, attended by Region Commissioner Dougal McWhinney and District Commissioner Katrina Hoare, as well as Amy’s parents, youth members and leaders from the Banksia Group and the Mackay Rover Scouts.
Amy chose Scout Leader Joanne Hamilton (Rikki) to present her with the ASA Badge, as she was instrumental in guiding her along her scouting journey. Rover Scout Matthew Vella (Minke) on behalf of the Scout Unit, presented Amy with a gift on achieving this auspicious award.
Amy thanked her leaders and her parents for the assistance and encouragement leading to her achievement, and she has now advanced to the Venturer Scout Section and is continuing to make strides in her progression.
Contributed by Mary Wallace
Amy Harlow with her parents
Amy Harlow with the leaders who have helped her along her journey in scouting
Photos supplied
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