Leadership Through Adventure Fund

In December 2024, a group of six Venturer Scouts and two Leaders embarked on a transformative journey through New Zealand’s harshest conditions, braving snow, hail, wind, and rain. Their perseverance was rewarded with breathtaking views, stunning landscapes, and encounters with remarkable wildlife. This unforgettable adventure, planned and Led by Patrol Leader Philip as part of his Adventurous Journey, was made possible through the generous support of the Dick and Pip Smith – Leadership Through Adventure Fund (LTAF).

The Patrol members all from the same Scout Group, which allowed for smoother preparation and efficient communication, fostering a strong sense of unity within the team.

The journey began early in the morning, with the Patrol departing from Melbourne International Airport at around 3am and landing at Queenstown International Airport at approximately 11am (NZDT). Once in Queenstown, preparations for the hike were the primary focus: navigating to the accommodation, a local backpackers’ lodge, shopping for essentials, and packing gear for the trek. The following morning, the Patrol made their way to the start of the famous Routeburn Track via shuttle bus, while the accompanying Leaders explored the local area around Glenorchy.

The Routeburn Track, one of New Zealand’s renowned Great Walks, is known for its stunning landscapes, diverse weather conditions, and awe-inspiring vistas. The Patrol also tackled the Greenstone Track, offering a variety of new and exciting experiences. They hiked through alpine and snowy environments, enduring gale-force winds along the way. These challenges required the Patrol to work together, and the sense of achievement was immense as they were rewarded with spectacular scenery.

After the hike, the Patrol made the most of their time in Queenstown, participating in several thrilling activities, including riversurfing, cycling, and the Luge. The Luge ride involved taking a gondola to the top of a hill and racing small go-carts back down, while riversurfing – one of Queenstown’s unique activities had the Patrol surfing grade 2 and 3 river rapids on boogie boards, a truly unforgettable experience.

This journey provided each member of the Patrol with an opportunity to advance their Personal Development as well as their Outdoor Adventure Skills, particularly in camping and bushwalking. For Patrol Leader – Philip, this was also a key part of his Adventurous Journey, helping him fulfill another requirement toward his King’s Scout Award.

The Patrol achieved several milestones, including “I Statements” for stages 9 (Leadership) and 7-8 (Participation in the Journey). They also added 80 km to their Walkabout Badge. Leadership in Scouting, with the guiding principle of “Youth Leading, Adult Supporting,” played a central role in the success of the journey, and the group’s ability to push themselves physically and mentally was evident throughout.