Speeches
Sunday, 20 September 2026
Scouts SA Annual Awards Ceremony 2026
As Chief Scout, I am delighted to join you for this annual awards ceremony.
I extend a particular welcome to those who have travelled a long way to be here.
Over the past five years it has been my privilege to present these awards and celebrate the remarkable achievements of young people and the dedication of adult volunteers.
As my term as Governor comes to a end in a fortnight, it is an opportune time to reflect on my interactions with the Scout movement.
I have always been inspired by how Scouts has enabled young people to gain confidence, develop resilience, and become leaders in a rapidly changing world.
I found these qualities firsthand throughout my time as Governor, whether at the Centenary of the Fullarton Park Scouts, the Rose Park Scouts Open Day or at these Award ceremonies.
Scouts has a rich tradition dating back to 1908 in South Australia, a year after the movement was founded in England by Lord Baden-Powell.
While the activities and challenges have evolved over time, the core values of Scouting: respect, integrity and service, have remained constant.
On a personal level, as a young child, I had a taste of the skills young people gain through such an organisation by becoming a Brownie, a part of Girl Guides.
I can still remember how to tie a slip knot, granted the easiest of knots, and is a reminder that the skills and experiences gained in youth often stay with us for life. And come in extremely useful at times!
I am sure you will find aspects of your Scouting experiences equally useful.
To the scouts here today, I encourage you to be confident that what you do matters and to be proud of your achievements.
Every skill you learn, every challenge you take on, every friendship you make helps shape who you are.
As a scout, you have sometimes stepped out of your comfort zone. You have thrived or found ways to meet challenges head on or drew on the cooperation of others.
As you navigate life you will draw on this resourcefulness time and time again. I encourage you to continue to be curious and adventurous.
Receiving an award is not the end of a journey. It is a milestone that recognises what you have achieved and opens the door to new opportunities and adventures.
Alongside that, I want to acknowledge and thank the volunteers and leaders who create the environment for you to learn and to grow.
You play a vital role in delivering quality experiences for our young people.
Through your commitment, Scouts SA can evolve and continue to provide meaningful opportunities for young people across our community.
Several of you here today have provided distinguished leadership over decades. Thank you for your dedication, commitment, and service.
The strength of the Scouting movement rests with people like you.
Again, congratulations to all the award recipients.
Through your leadership, service and example, whether as a Scout or Adult leader, the movement will continue to inspire, motivate, and encourage active citizenship.
And we are strengthened as a community because of it.