Special Interest Matter - 1st Tamar Sea Scouts - 60th Anniversary
- Nov 7, 2023
- 3 min read
Tuesday 7 November 2023
1st Tamar Sea Scouts - 60th Anniversary
[11.32 a.m.]
Ms ARMITAGE (Launceston) - Mr President, I welcome our new Usher of the Black Rod, Craig Muir, a new face at the table. I am sure you will do a wonderful job.
Many times, I have wandered along the boardwalk at the Seaport in Launceston. Whilst I have noticed the Sea Scouts building, I had never been in. I also recall the terrible floods late last year that seriously damaged their pontoon, which has made life a little more difficult for them. It is my understanding that the Launceston council is hoping to expedite repairs to their pontoon as soon as possible. The repairs are reasonably complicated and require external engineering and marine specialists. Nevertheless, their spirits have not been dampened.
It was an absolute joy to celebrate the wonderful journey of the 1st Tamar Sea Scouts, together with the members for Rosevears and Windermere. Many other parliamentary, local and federal members also were there.
In marking their 60th anniversary, we are not just commemorating a number; we celebrate the countless lives that have been touched, the friendships that have been forged, and the incredible adventures that have been embarked upon.
The Scout Association of Australia aims to nurture the physical, intellectual, social, emotional and spiritual development of young people, helping them to become responsible citizens in their local, national and international communities. It is a mission that 1st Tamar Sea Scouts have wholeheartedly embraced over the past six decades.
Back in 1963, originally formed as the 18th Launceston, they quite literally set sail on this extraordinary scouting adventure, which has since become an integral part of the Tasmanian landscape. Thousands of Tasmanians, both past and present, have been part of this scouting journey, growing and learning along the way.
On Saturday, 28 October, the Tamar Sea Scouts hosted their grand 60th anniversary dinner, an evening filled with laughter, memories, good food, and a chance to hear stories and form enduring friendships and celebrate their shared history.
On Sunday, 29 October, the 1st Tamar Sea Scouts threw open the doors of the scout hall for an exciting open day. Together with many other members of the community, I went along to witness their rich history in action, with their Joey, Cub, Scout, Venturer and Rover sections, showcasing their talents and skills.
The hall was abuzz from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., offering us all the chance to enjoy a barbecue, coffee, and ice cream on site. Kids, young and old, had the chance to participate in scouting activity demonstrations and some delightful face painting. I know that this celebration holds a special place in the hearts of all scout members.
It was wonderful to see the welcoming of a new life member who has dedicated over 40 years of their life to the club. Allan Butt's story is a testament to the enduring spirit of scouts, where individuals come together to learn, grow, have a great time, and give something back.
The 1st Tamar Sea Scouts has been growing stronger since the challenges brought by COVID-19. In fact, they proudly stand as the second largest group in the state. As parents seek activities that are not screen-based, they offer an exciting and active alternative. Scouts instil essential life skills, capabilities and competencies in our young people, skills they will carry with them throughout their lives. It is all about having fun, learning new things and staying active.
I did not know that the scouts are also a registered training authority, offering a diverse range of courses from bushwalking to sailing and more. With nearly 40 000 members across Australia, they are part of a nationwide movement, helping children discover the joy of the great outdoors and new skills. In Tasmania, they might be a bit smaller, but their enthusiasm is boundless. Joey leader, Stephanie Forrester, beautifully highlights the fact that scouts offers a unique social opportunity beyond traditional sports. For those who want to get active, engage with others, and have a tonne of fun, scouts is the perfect choice.
In sharing the celebration of 60 years of adventure, growth and camaraderie, I congratulate all who have been involved in this six-decade-long journey, and look forward to what is in store over the coming years.
