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Program Conference 2020

BIG Think-IN Program Conference Agenda

Our Program Conference is being held from 16th – 18th October to explore all the big ideas and opportunities for Scouting. Join us as we Think Big – IN by registering for one or more sessions that will be sure to energise and excite.

 

Each year the National Youth Program Team of Scouts Australia brings together the leading change agents, youth and adults, of each Branch to network, share ideas and generate new ones. This year, 16th – 18th October 2020, we’ve moved it online, and brought it direct to your home so everyone can participate – young people and adults alike – to Think Big – In!

It can be accessed anywhere you have a device connected to the internet.

During the weekend, there will be over 40 sessions running, ranging from creative arts, youth leadership, sustainability, adult training and development and international perspectives. We’ll even be joined by international guests!

 

Conference Schedule

 
Friday 16th October

20:00 AEDT – Opening Ceremony

 

 

Saturday 17th October

09:00 AEDT – The Asia Pacific Region of WOSM

10:00 AEDT – Spiritual Development and Dialogue in Scouting

10:00 AEDT – Vocal Techniques with Adelaide Gang Show

11:00 AEDT – Way better than school: the Scout Method’s role in enabling learning

12:00 AEDT – Growing Scouting is Essential

12:00 AEDT – Scouts4SDGs and the SDG Challenge

12:00 AEDT – Physical Acting with Whitehorse Showtime

14:00 AEDT – Navigating Scouts | Terrain

14:00 AEDT – Rover Scouts – Program Q&A, Workshops and Beyond!

14:00 AEDT – Creative – Creating content for the Stage with Whitehorse Showtime

15:00 AEDT – STEM in Scouting

16:00 AEDT – Gender Diversity in Scouting

16:00 AEDT – Purpose behind the Program

17:00 AEDT – What can Scouts Australia Institute of Training (SAIT) do for you?

Program conference Two Scouts Sitting Watching Laptop
 
Sunday 18th October

09:00 AEDT – The Role of the World Scout Committee in Scouting today

09:00 AEDT – Item development with Adelaide Gang Show

10:00 AEDT – Environment: A bit like a duck…

10:00 AEDT – Adventure and challenge: it’s not just about Outdoor Adventure Skills

10:00 AEDT – Music and Lyric writing with Strzelecki Showtime

11:00 AEDT – Reasonable adjustment for the Achievement Pathways

11:00 AEDT – Special Interest Areas – endless opportunities and success stories

12:00 AEDT – How do we meet youth member’s needs through adult training?

12:00 AEDT – One Program | One Journey: making it work across five sections

13:00 AEDT – Dance (for beginners) with Whitehorse Showtime

14:00 AEDT – SCENES – Scout Centres for Excellence in Nature, Environment and Sustainability

15:00 AEDT – Oh no, it’s not another risk assessment

15:00 AEDT – Singing (for beginners) with Whitehorse Showtime

16:00 AEDT – Earth Tribe – the new WOSM Environment Programme

17:00 AEDT – Scouts for SDGs – what can you contribute towards Agenda 2030

19:00 AEDT – Trends for the Youth Programme to 2030

Friday 16th October

Opening Ceremony

Join National Commissioner Youth Program, Nigel Reece, and the team as we kick of Scouts Australia’s 2020 Program Conference – the Big Think In!

Saturday 17th October

09:00 AEDT – The Asia Pacific Region of WOSM

Presented by J. Rizal C. PANGILINAN, Regional Director, Asia-Pacific Region

This presentation is about the Asia-Pacific Region of the World Organization of the Scout Movement

About the Presenter

JR, as he is known, graduated with a Bachelor of Science, Agricultural Education degree and Master of Arts unit. He is married to Marilyn and blessed with three daughters all in medical fields. He started working as an Agricultural Technologist, Teacher, Philippine Army, and Philippine Coast Guard. He has served Scouting as Scout Executive while with Education Department, Asia-Pacific Director for Programme, BS Philippines Operations Executive, Director Field Services, Assistant Secretary General, Operations and Secretary General. Received international Scouting awards from countries of World Organization of the Scout Movement. In 2013 JR was appointed APR Regional Director, covering 29 countries of the WOSM with 171 member countries.

10:00 AEDT – Spiritual Development and Dialogue in Scouting

Presented by Ross Tutin, BC International, Scouts Queensland

As Scouts, you’ll meet and work with a whole range of Scouts with different beliefs and spiritual perspectives. Some people aren’t too sure about how to approach this. This presentation will introduce you to spiritual development in the Scouting program and explore how this is a valued part of our education program.

About the Presenter

Ross Tutin is the Unit Leader of the Spiritual Development Working Unit and a Global Consultant for the World Organisation of the Scout Movement (WOSM), as well as the Branch International Commissioner of Scouts Queensland. Ross has participated in Interreligious and Dialogue for Peace activities for Scouts over many years including the 5th World Scout Interreligious Symposium in 2017 and the 24th World Scout Jamboree in 2019. He has experience in leading and advising program teams that have improved the spiritual development program including the Youth Program Review, Branch Adviser and Leader for Spiritual Development in Queensland and Victoria.

10:00 AEDT – Vocal Techniques with Adelaide Gang Show

Lets get back to basics and learn the essentials of vocal techniques. Learn how to take care of your voice and unlock your full potential. Nervous about facing a room full of people and singing aloud? Well the beauty of this session is that you can learn these skills from the comfort of your home! Gain these important skills and the confidence to take your singing to the next level (and those auditions)

11:00 AEDT – Way Better Than School: the Scout Method’s Role in Enabling Learning

Presented by Dylan Hunt and Steve Tyas, YPRCT, Scouts Victoria

The Scout Method is how we do Scouting, and more specifically, how Scouting enables learning in a changing world. We all know that Scouting complements formal education, but what is it about the Scout Method that makes learning so engaging?

About the Presenters

Dylan is a strong advocate for a Scouting experience with young people at the centre. His roles have spanned three Branches and two countries. He has played a key role in the development of the youth program, and was the primary author of the program handbook. Dylan has worked at the Scouts Australia National Office and spent a number of years travelling with Scouting as a youth member. Dylan applies his in-depth knowledge of the Scouts Australia program as Assistant Group Leader and Venturer Scout Leader in Melbourne.

Steve has been a member of Scouts Australia’s program team for the last decade. A Scout Leader, former Scouts Australia NYC Adviser, and the current Vice Chair, Asia-Pacific Region Programme Subcommittee, Steve is passionate about the Scout Method and how Scouting can shape the education of young people. In his spare time, Steve is a dad and a primary school teacher.

12:00 AEDT – Growing Scouting is Essential

Presented by Elston Hynd AM, Deputy Chief Commissioner, Scouts Australia

The intent of this session is to highlight that growing Scouting is “everyone’s” responsibility and that the growth can be in all facets of the Program we offer. In particular I want to focus on the WOSM strategic intent and the goals we have set ourselves and the actions being taken. This said, it will also be an opportunity for others to share their ideas and success stories.

About the Presenter

Elston has contributed over 40 years service to Scouting locally, nationally and internationally. Currently, he is:

  • Deputy Chief Commissioner – Scouts Australia
  • Chair of the National Adults in Scouting Committee
  • Member of the Asia Pacific Regional (APR) Scout Committee
  • Membership Growth Coordinator for Scouts Australia to the APR

His most recent appointment was the National Commissioner Adult Training and Development and he remains a member of the National Training Team as a Leader Trainer.

Elston is passionate about ensuring Scouting is Inclusive, Challenging, Fun and Adventurous and is a strong advocate for Youth Leading their program supported by Adults. He thinks Strategically and acts Operationally and has contributed to many changes in Scouting at a National level for over 10 years and has a keen focus on the growth of the Movement.

12:00 AEDT – Scouts4SDGs and the SDG Challenge

Hosted by Patrick McCormick, Assistant National Commissioner – Sustainability, Scouts Australia and Calista Beck, Better World Commissioner, Scouts ACT

Learning from experiences in tackling the Millennium Development Goals, countries, organisations and leaders from around the world worked together the develop the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) – focusing on key areas that we need to tackle to deliver a more sustainable world by 2030. As Scouts we are committed to tackling the SDGs as part of the #Scouts4SDGs movement – both through our program and embedded in our other practices. Scouts Australia has developed the SDG Challenge – each year, youth and adults will worth together in project patrols to address their selected SDGs.

About the Presenters

Passionate about sustainability and community leadership, Patrick has worked across the public sector leading programs that empower people with environmental knowledge and help address our sustainability challenges. Patrick’s love the for environment and supporting others to grow as leaders has carried through his studies, work and leadership roles in Scouting (joining the movement 30 years ago as a Cub Scout). Working with his teams to build our inaugural Scouts Australia Sustainability Strategy, Patrick is keen to see everyone join the #Scouts4SDGs movement to help create a better world.

Calista was previously the Assistant Chief Commissioner for Youth Development and is currently the Better World Commissioner for Scouts ACT. On the international front, she has worked closely with the World Organisation of the Scout Movement as a contributor to the Messengers of Peace Guidelines on Programme & Network, as well as being a team leader in the WOSM Better World Tent at the 2017 World Rover Moot in Iceland. Her major focus at the moment is working to help youth members be active global citizens and contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals with Scouts Australia as a formal partner of the goals.

12:00 AEDT – Physical Acting with Whitehorse Showtime

Presented by Em Meades, Director, Whitehorse Showtime and Zoe Clarke, Rehearsal Team, Whitehorse Showtime, Scouts Victoria

Explore the use of physicality when performing on stage with the team from Whitehorse Showtime. This session will see participants will explore use of facial expressions, understanding physicality through the use of basic puppets, and the power of physical storytelling before applying those skills.

About the Presenters

Em is currently the co-Director of Whitehorse Showtime having previously been a Deputy Director, Production Team Member and Cast member. She is also a Performing Arts Activity Leader within Scouting. Having studied theatre when she left school, Em has experience in amateur theatre groups and semi-professional performances. Through both Scouting and Girl Guiding she has put together and delivered numerous performing art program. Passionate about making theatre fun workshops with Em guarantee a fun and practical way to engage with performing arts and apply that learning to any area of theatre.

Zoe is a Rover with Mullumbimba Rovers, a supportive Crew of Camberwell Showtime and she has also been involved in Whitehorse Showtime as a member of the Rehearsal Team this year. She is natural creative and student of sculpture with a background in performance, theatre, and puppetry. Zoe has spent the last 2 years diving into the craft of puppetry and performance. She has performed puppetry in the most recent Due West Festival in collaboration with a Melbourne Puppetry Company. Zoe is dedicated and excited to share this passion and skill of puppetry with others like she has done in the past.

14:00 AEDT – Rover Scouts – Program Q&A, Workshops, and Beyond!

Hosted by the National Rover Council

This session will be in two parts: a Q&A with subject matter experts, and a series of workshops and presentations on topics ranging from mental well being at events, to diversity & inclusion, to breaking down barrier between sections – YOU choose which you want to attend!

Participants will get an opportunity to go beyond the horizon and explore areas of the program they’ve not been very involved with before, through workshops and presentations. Our subject matter experts will be able to answer how some elements of the program fit into the Rover Scout section.

About the NRC

The National Rover Council (NRC), first formed in 1979, is the governing body of Rover Scouts in Australia. The NRC represents the interests of Rover Scouts and each of the Branch Rovers Councils at a National Level, aiming to develop and support the Rover Section in Australia.

14:00 AEDT – Navigating Scouts | Terrain

Presented by Tom Bettison and Clair Udy, Program Support Team, Scouts Australia

Scouts | Terrain is our new digital system. Members (youth and adults) should come along to this session to understand the key Scouts | Terrain features that will help them, their Unit and Group. We want Scouts | Terrain to make it as easy as possible for youth members and adults to work together. It’s about how to use these features, and how they work, but also about what new, different or exciting opportunities can be leveraged from Scouts | Terrain.

About the Presenters

Tom is an energetic member of the Youth Program Review Coordinating Team, and the Program Support Team. He’s been involved in Scouting since being a Joey Scout, has been a section Leader for a number of youth sections, and is currently a Rover Scout. Recently, Tom has been supporting the development and implementation of Scouts | Terrain and the new youth program.

Clair has been a Scouting member for 19 years and currently holds a range of roles across Scouts Australia, including supporting the development and implementation of Scouts Australia’s Youth Program and Scouts I Terrain. Clair is actively involved in Scouts NSW transition and implementation.

14:00 AEDT – Creative – Creating Content For Stage with Whitehorse Showtime

Presented by Em Meades, Director, Whitehorse Showtime and Zoe Clarke, Rehearsal Team, Whitehorse Showtime, Scouts Victoria

From brainstorm to dialogue – learn the basics of how to make creating great content fun for theatre. Participants will engage in practical and fun brainstorming processes, gain a basic understanding of story telling and building techniques and start to work on pieces bringing all of this together.

About the Presenters

Em is currently the co-Director of Whitehorse Showtime having previously been a Deputy Director, Production Team Member and Cast member. She is also a Performing Arts Activity Leader within Scouting. Having studied theatre when she left school, Em has experience in amateur theatre groups and semi-professional performances. Through both Scouting and Girl Guiding she has put together and delivered numerous performing art program. Passionate about making theatre fun workshops with Em guarantee a fun and practical way to engage with performing arts and apply that learning to any area of theatre.

Zoe is a Rover with Mullumbimba Rovers, a supportive Crew of Camberwell Showtime and she has also been involved in Whitehorse Showtime as a member of the Rehearsal Team this year. She is natural creative and student of sculpture with a background in performance, theatre, and puppetry. Zoe has spent the last 2 years diving into the craft of puppetry and performance. She has performed puppetry in the most recent Due West Festival in collaboration with a Melbourne Puppetry Company. Zoe is dedicated and excited to share this passion and skill of puppetry with others like she has done in the past.

15:00 AEDT – STEM in Scouting

Presented by Kate Lehane, Kieran Lim, Shelby Canterford & Vanessa Hodgson, STEM Commissioners/Leaders in/from ACT, Victoria, NSW and WA.

STEM is an integral part of Scouting. Examples include the mathematics of catering quantities and navigation, the science behind water purification, the technology of lighting and communication equipment in a Gang Show, and the engineering of pioneering. Hands-on activities are one of the most effective ways to get youth engaged and interested in STEM. The strength of Scouting is the hands-on practical programs that they deliver according to the “Learning by Doing” ethos of the Scouting organisation, within a Plan > Do > Review methodology. STEM in Scouting builds upon an already naturally inquisitive audience of young people; and provides the opportunities to build excitement, influence career aspirations, and aim to foster pure and simple inspiration in science discovery and innovation. Special Interest Areas (SIAs) enable youth members to plan, do and review their own topic of interest. Particularly exciting is the introduction of the STEM & Innovation Special Interest Area in recognition of the importance of skills of the future!

About the Presenters

The four presenters will provide their perspectives in running STEM programs in Scouting. Kate Lehane is Scouts ACT’s Branch Commissioner – STEM & Innovation, where she leads the SciScouts program. Dr Kieran Lim was previously State Leader STEM in Victoria, who has moved to the ACT and is now part of the SciScouts team. Shelby Canterford is a professional human geographer and Regional Commissioner – STEM for Scouts NSW South Coast & Tablelands Region. She is currently preparing a team for the FIRST Lego League. Vanessa Hodgson is Scouts WA’s Branch Leader – STEM, and recently delivered the highly successful Scouting@Home STEM Camp.

16:00 AEDT – Gender Diversity in Scouting

Hosted by Wombat Lyons, State Commissioner Diversity and Inclusion, Scouts Victoria

Supporting gender diversity can be a difficult task. Wombat Lyons (State Commissioner – Diversity & Inclusion) will take you through what all the terms mean and the best practice for acceptance and inclusion of gender diverse young people. Transitioning is a pretty personal process, and we have members of our community affirming and expressing their gender identities, and the Scouts Australia experiences shows, there are stack of different ways to do that. This session is not intended to be a debate the nature of gender diversity. In a fast changing gender landscape, this conversation will give you background information for your local discussions.

About the Presenter

Wombat is the current State Commissioner Diversity and Inclusion Scouts Victoria with a background in Youth Work.

16:00 AEDT – Purpose Behind the Program

Presented by Peter Fowler and John Clarke, YPRCT, Scouts Australia

Why is it so? Why do we have Patrols in all the sections? Why is there Milestone achievements? Why why why? Know and understand the thinking behind the program and how everything is interlinked, no one part can ever be silo’d. There’s method in our madness. This session focusses on breaking down and understanding the purpose behind the program and its elements.

About the Presenters

Peter is currently a Scout Leader in a large Unit in the eastern suburbs of Melbourne. He joined the movement as a Cub Scout and hasn’t left, boasting a number of (now) former section commissioners as his leaders along the way. Peter’s involvement at the local level has remained his number one priority, despite also filling the roles of Scouts Australia’s National Youth Council Adviser and National Commissioner Youth Program in the last decade. Professionally, Peter is a draftsman, and these skills have brought us theCrate at AV2015 and AJ2016, and then the Program area at AJ2019. Peter has been one of the designers and architects behind each of these creations. Peter has been a Jamboree Troop Leader at two of the last three Australian Jamborees, and is one of the key architects behind the Scouts Australia youth program.

John’s involvement in education and Scouting are extensive. He has been a Program Director at Jamborees, a sectional Branch Commissioner, National Commissioner Youth Program and is a school principal. John also has a background in counselling and welfare, and with experience in education in Australia and North America, he is continuously exploring the trends and expectations of 21st century learning, and is one of the key architects behind the Scouts Australia youth program.

17:00 AEDT – What Can Scouts Australia Institute of Training (SAIT) Do For You?

Presented by David Cossart OAM, Deputy Principal, Scouts Australia Institute of Training

Discuss opportunities for youth and adult members to achieve nationally recognised vocational education and training (VET) qualifications and statements of attainment through active participation and achievement in the youth program or adult Wood Badge program.

About the Presenter

David is Deputy Principal and a senior volunteer trainer and assessor for Scouts Australia Institute of Training, Registered Training Organisation No 5443. In this role he provides leadership to paid and volunteer staff and develops training and assessment material and assesses candidates for Leadership & Management, Outdoor Leadership, Creative Industries and Training & Assessment. In recent years, David has delivered training and undertaken assessments in Taiwan, Timor Leste and Myanmar for youth and adults in the Asia-Pacific Region on behalf of the World Scout Bureau. He is also a member of the National Training Committee and Branch and National Councils. David is currently a consultant to the World Organization of the Scout Movement in training and governance.

Sunday 18th October

09:00 AEDT – The Role of the World Scout Committee in Scouting Today

Hosted by Andy Chapman, Vice Chairperson, World Scout Committee

This presentation will give an overview of the role the World Scout Committee in Scouting today. Topics covered will include the World Organization of the Scout Movement (“WOSM”), World Scout Conference, Services to National Scout Organizations (“NSO’s”), and World Events & Programs.

About the Presenter

Andy Chapman is Vice-Chairperson of the World Scout Committee, the main executive body of the World Organization of the Scout Movement. He was elected a member of the World Scout Committee for the 2017-2020 triennium at the 41st World Scout Conference in Baku, Azerbaijan. Andy has been involved in scouting since he joined Cub Scouts and later earned his Eagle Scout rank. He has served as a volunteer for the Boy Scouts of America on the local, regional, and national levels.

09:00 AEDT – Item Development with Adelaide Gang Show

Ever Wondered how we go from an item idea to a full stage musical? Join Adelaide Gang Show as we spill the secrets and techniques used on how we go from “this would be cool” to “That was Awesome” and create our shows.

10:00 AEDT – Environment: A Bit Like Being a Duck…

Presented by James Lehane, Branch Commissioner – Environment & Rover Advisor (Lake Ginn Rover Crew), Scouts ACT

Adults in Scouting can be a little bit like ducks – all cool, calm and collected on top, but those legs can be working pretty hard behind the scenes to make some big activities happen for the youth members. Making sure the whole ‘youth-leading’ mantra is realised takes some skill, experience and the ability to listen, ask the right questions and supporting youth members to achieve what they want – in the background but close enough to step in to guide and advise if or as required. This presentation aims to break down three Case Studies of advising and mentoring youth members across the projects, which, no so surprisingly, just happens to fit the whole Plan> Do> Review> cycle.

About the Presenter

James Lehane is currently Scouts ACT’s Branch Commissioner – Environment, where he has guided and mentored youth members across the ACT to pursue various different projects and activities since 2016; opened many eyes pointing out threatened species during spotlight walks and so much more. With a background in environmental law and science, James spent around 15 years working in environmental law enforcement, including a short stint coordinating a network of nearly 100 environmental law enforcement and regulatory agencies across Australia and New Zealand.

10:00 AEDT – Adventure and Challenge: It’s Not Just About Outdoor Adventure Skills

Presented by Emma Watson & John Clarke, Scouts Australia

Adventure and challenge looks and feels different for each individual, so how can we step outside our boundaries, broaden our own horizons and support youth aged five to eleven to embrace and experience adventure? Join us as we explore different aspects of the program and how these can be facilitated to broaden all of our horizons!

About the Presenters

As a Cub Scout Leader, with a keen interest in the outdoors, Emma is passionate about adventure. She has lived, worked and been Scouting across two Branches, worked with multiple sections, and been part of Branch, national and international Scouting activities, events and teams. As a member of the Scouts Australia program review and development teams, Emma strives to ensure a young people are at the centre of what they do, and that what they do is reflective of their interests. With a background in sports, coaching, education and leadership, increasing adventure in the experiences of Joey Scouts and Cub Scouts is something she is continuously striving to improve.

John is a member of the National Team and currently a member of the YPRCT. He has been involved in program review and development in many capacities across South Australia and Scouts Australia. John is a former Branch Commissioner Joey Scouts, been involved in multiple Branch and national major events, and is currently a primary school principal in Adelaide.

10:00 AEDT – Music & Lyric Writing with Strzelecki Showtime!

Presented by Justin Mercer, Director, and Stephen Perry, Musical Director –  Writing, Strzelecki Showtime, Scouts Victoria

Want to write lyrics that say something? Tired of the same old songs? Learn how to tell stories through songwriting. By choosing music and song types, you can build a character or to drive a story. Hear how Strzelecki Showtime writes an original 2 act musical every year.

About the Presenters

Justin is employed as a Primary School Teacher in Gippsland. He has been involved in Strzelecki Showtime for over 20 years and has seen the show transition from revue style to story to completely original score and dialogue. Over this time he has been involved in writing 17 completely original two act musicals. As Director and previously Assistant Director, Justin understands the importance of passing on the skills to producing original content. Producing original content is an integral part of our Show and he looks forward to sharing some of our process.

Stephen has been involved in Strzelecki Showtime for over 25 years, starting out as a ‘helper’ before he was old enough to go on stage, treading the boards for 6 years and taking on various creative and backstage roles ever since, including helping to write a new original musical each year. He has been Musical Director for Writing since 2011, and loves helping the writing team bring their ideas to life. Stephen usually writes music on the piano, but also plays guitar in the Showtime Orchestra every year. He has learnt so much from being a part of Strzelecki Showtime, and he hopes he can help others develop their creativity and explore their passion in music and theatre.

11:00 AEDT – Reasonable Adjustments for the Achievement Pathways

Presented by Clare Hanley, National Adviser Diversity and Inclusion, Scouts Australia, & Karl Lingard, Branch Commissioner (Diversity and Inclusion), Scouts Queensland

Scouting is welcoming to all, regardless of gender, sexuality, race, religion or abilities. This session focuses on reasonable adjustments in the achievement pathways to enable young people with disabilities to access Scouting, as far as reasonably possible, to the same level as young people without disabilities. The guiding principle throughout the Program should be that young people are being challenged and progressing on their personal journey, while having fun.

About the Presenters

Clare Hanley is the Scouts Australia National Adviser Diversity and Inclusion. She has a breadth of professional experience in diversity and inclusion, having previously worked with migrants and refugees in Melbourne to ensure they received equal access to Victorian mental health services, and supporting inclusion of people with disabilities in international development programs. Clare has previously been a Venturer Leader in ACT and Victoria, and was a member of the Victorian Branch Executive Committee (BEC) from 2017-2019.

Karl Lingard is the Branch Commissioner (Diversity and Inclusion) in Scouts Queensland. He has been a member of the Movement for over 12 years, in multiple roles. Karl commenced with Robertson Scout Group, located on Brisbane’s Southside, where he held the roles of Assistant Scout Leader, Scout Leader and Leader in Charge. In 2014 he was appointed as an Assistant Leader Training and in 2015 appointed Region Commissioner, Brisbane South Region. Then in 2016 he commenced a full time role with Scouts Queensland as Development and Support Officer (RDSO) and stepped down as Region Commissioner. In this role he has had the pleasure of helping establish new Scouting Groups, including the Buddha Light, Muslim Crescent, and Nursery Road Special School Scout Groups. He was then appointed as a District Commissioner, Archer District, Brisbane South Region which included culturally diverse groups including Brisbane’s two Chinese Scout Groups and a Coptic Church Scout Group. Karl accepted the role of Branch Commissioner (Diversity and Inclusion), October 2018.

Luke McIvor Portrait
Rebecca Beer Smith Portrait

11:00 AEDT – Special Interest Areas – Endless Opportunities and Success Stories

Presented byJenna Denley, YPRCT – Scouts Australia, Assistant State Commissioner – Outdoor Adventure Skills Leader Support – Scouts Victoria; Luke McIvor, YPRCT and Rover Scout, NSW; Rebecca Beer-Smith – Branch Commissioner Special Interest Areas, South Australia & Joey Scout Leader, Flagstaff Hill Scout Group

Session Overview

The Special Interest Areas are a key part of the youth program and Achievement Pathways. Excitingly, they provide endless opportunities for our youth members to explore the things in the world that matter the most to them. Come along with us as we delve deep into how we make the Special Interest Area’s a success story for Scouting. There’s endless opportunity for our young people in this space, so how do we make the most of them?

About the Presenters

Jenna is a member of the YPRCT and currently the Assistant State Commissioner – Outdoor Adventure Skills – Leader Support with Scouts Victoria. She is a strong advocate for having young people at the centre of what they do and has helped to facilitate the personal growth of young people through the Scouting program by empowering them to focus on the activities that matter most to them. She has been both a youth and adult member of Scouting in three Branches and taken on leadership roles (and been a keen participant!) in Branch, national and international Scouting events and activities. Outside of Scouting you will find Jenna working in rural communities as a Paramedic Team Manager, playing in the Victorian High Country or training and competing on the athletics track.

When not on another adventure with his local Rover Scout Unit, Luke’s helping the team bringing Scouting into the 21st century. A real believer in Scouting at the local level, he’s seen the power of the Special Interest Area’s to empower a young person’s Scouting journey. Since championing the introduction of the new youth program into his Unit, the members are now achieving more than ever before, and more engaged with the opportunities available.

Rebecca hails from South Australia where she is just wrapping up the role of Branch Commissioner – Joey Scouts, while concurrently activating the South Australian SIA team as the Branch Commissioner – Special Interest Areas. Involved in many facets of Scouting over the years, from Gang Show and Site Director at SPLAT AJ2019, Rebecca feels the Special Interest Areas ooze potential in so many ways for our youth, and is passionate to see their interests shine. Actively involved on the Training Team and as a Joey Scout Leader, Rebecca loves seeing Adults and Youth alike gain everything they can out of their Scouting experience.

12:00 AEDT – How Do We Meet Youth Member Needs Through Adult Training?

Presented by Tahlia Batters, Deputy National Commissioner Adult Training and Development, and Dougal Mayor, National Commissioner Adult Training and Development, Scouts Australia

The question has been asked, and your guess about the answer is as good as mine! Do our youth need to follow the adult pathway to achieve? How does adult training support leaders in meeting the needs of youth members? Come along to find out more!

12:00 AEDT – One Program | One Journey: Making it Work Across Five Sections

Presented by Dylan Hunt, YPRCT, Scouts Victoria

This session has something for people driving the program in any of the age sections! We’ve gone from 5 separate section programs to one program delivering a consistent journey across 20 years. Join this session to get into the guts of what’s behind all that, and how the same program is meant to work for 5 year olds, 15 year olds and 25 year olds. Having trouble trying to understand how to make youth leading work for your Joey and Cub Scouts, or adult supporting for your fellow Rover Scouts? Not quite sure what this symbolic framework stuff’s all about? Find out how to pitch the program right for your age section in this session.

About the Presenter

Dylan is a strong advocate for a Scouting experience with young people at the centre. His roles have spanned three Branches and two countries. He has played a key role in the development of the youth program, and was the primary author of the program handbook. Dylan has worked at the Scouts Australia National Office and spent a number of years travelling with Scouting as a youth member. Dylan applies his in-depth knowledge of the Scouts Australia program as Assistant Group Leader and Venturer Scout Leader in Melbourne.

13:00 AEDT – Dance (For beginners) with Whitehorse Showtime

Presented by Olivia Bridger, Rehearsal Team, Whitehorse Showtime, and Cat Thurbon, Rehearsal Team, Whitehorse Showtime, Scouts Victoria

Have fun and get moving by learning how to warm up, some classic Showtime moves and put together a dance by the end of the session. Participants will learn how to warm their bodies up before dancing, some classic and basic dance moves, and a simply choreographed dance through participation.

About the Presenter

Hello! My name is Olivia and I have been involved in Scouts since 2009. In my scouting time I have participated with Melbourne Gangshow, Camberwell Showtime and Whitehorse Showtime. Outside of my Scouting experience I have had over 20 years of calisthenics experience. This workshop is going to go through some ways to warm up properly, learning some basic and classic show moves, and then we are going to learn a dance.

Hey! I’m Cat Thurbon, I’m 18 and a member of the Whitehorse Showtime Rehearsal Team. I have only been in Scouts Vic since November of 2019 but have been involved in Guides and Whitehorse Showtime for a much longer time. I have been part of Whitehorse Showtime since 2011 working in various aspects of performing arts including cast, writing team, rehearsal team and tech teams. I danced at Louna Performers Dance School/Dance Fitness Victoria for 10 years and have been a part of multiple school productions and Whitehorse Showtime. I will be hanging out in the Dance and Singing workshops so come have some fun!

14:00 AEDT – SCENES – Scout Centre for Excellence in Nature, Environment and Sustainability

Presented by Annette Cook, National Adviser – Environment, Scouts Australia & Jarrad McDonald, Branch Commissioner Environment, Scouts Queensland

WOSM developed the Scout Centres of Excellence for Nature and the Environment (SCENE) about three decades ago, recognizing scouting properties that offer our members the opportunity learn more about environment in a natural setting with good environmental practices. The world youth programs have evolved over time to further support environmental education and tackling the Sustainable Development Goals; in turn SCENE program has adapted to add Sustainability and become SCENES. This session is an opportunity to learn more about the SCENES program, get a glimpse at some of the participating centres around the world, and explore how you could adapt the principles behind SCENES to a location near you.

About the Presenters

Annette’s journey as an environmental educator began when she first began teaching environmental science in the early eighties. Later she completed a Masters’ of Environmental Science at Monash University. Environment activities have featured in each of her Scouting roles. Key achievements include:

  • Successful grant applications for environmental education and revegetation
  • Partnership with Regent Honeyeater Project
  • Presenting at scout conferences for SCENES and environmental education

Annette is essentially an educator with a love of the natural world who seeks to help others to learn how care for the environment in which we all live.

Jarrad McDonald has been in the Scouting movement for 28 years from Cubs to the leader role he has today. He has been Branch Commissioner for Environment for Queensland Branch for the past 5 years working with my team based at Eprapah to incorporate environment into the new program. In his day to day life, he is a high school marine science teacher. His goals are to continue to develop passion for the environment in our youth through experience and interaction with nature.

15:00 AEDT – Oh No, It’s Not Another Risk Assessment

Presented by Erica Halliwell, District Leader – Scouts and Victorian Scout First Aid Service (Trainer), Scouts Victoria

You don’t have to be an expert or professional to make a risk assessment. We can do it, make it part of your planning.

About the Presenter

Erica is a Scout Leader, District Leader Scouts, and First Aid trainer in Victoria. She has been in Scouting for 27 years, 15 as an adult member. Professionally, she is an Information Systems team member for a Government TAFE. Her passion is making Scout Safe for Scouts.

15:00 AEDT – Singing (For Beginners) with Whitehorse Showtime

Presented by Olivia Bridger, Rehearsal Team, Whitehorse Showtime, and Cat Thurbon, Rehearsal Team, Whitehorse Showtime, Scouts Victoria

Learn how to take care of your voice, some simple techniques and how to sing a song in this workshop all about the instrument we were all born with (for beginners). Participants will learn how to use their voice, including breathing, diction and rhythm exercises, before putting together all of these skills to learn a basic but fun song to sing together.

About the Presenter

Hello! My name is Olivia and I have been involved in Scouts since 2009. In my scouting time I have participated with Melbourne Gangshow, Camberwell Showtime and Whitehorse Showtime. I have been singing my entire life (in and out of Scouting) and hopefully I can share some skills with you this session about how to take care of your voice and learn some new techniques and warmups. Then, we will use these skills to learn a song by the end of this session.

Hey! I’m Cat Thurbon, I’m 18 and a member of the Whitehorse Showtime Rehearsal Team. I have only been in Scouts Vic since November of 2019 but have been involved in Guides and Whitehorse Showtime for a much longer time. I have been part of Whitehorse Showtime since 2011 working in various aspects of performing arts including cast, writing team, rehearsal team and tech teams. I danced at Louna Performers Dance School/Dance Fitness Victoria for 10 years and have been a part of multiple school productions and Whitehorse Showtime. I will be hanging out in the Dance and Singing workshops so come have some fun!

16:00 AEDT – Earth Tribe – The New WOSM Environment Program

Hosted by Simone Haider, Branch Commissioner – Environment, Scouts NSW and Jack Leighton-Jones, Branch Leader Environment and Sustainability, Scouts WA

Earth Tribe is the new WOSM environment program. It was launched in June 2020 on World Environment Day. Earth Tribe has evolved from the World Scout Environment Program and has been upgraded to include the Sustainable Development Goals. It offers scouts a range of levels and areas of environmental concern in which to engage in learning about their environment and pathways to action.

About the Presenters

Simone is the State Commissioner Environment for NSW while currently studying a Masters of Conservation Biology with a focus on Sustainability and Education. Previously, she has completed studies in Conservation and Land Management and Biology. As a leader of Youth for 10 years, she has experienced program delivery in all sections, achieving a Rover and a Scout Woodbadge over the years. Driven by her passion for Scouting and the Environment, Simone plans to bring Environmental Education to as many youth as possible, to help them find their own passion for nature.

Jack Leighton-Jones and I’m the Branch Leader for Environment and Sustainability for Scouts WA. My day to day life is events and coordinating events, looking at how we can make events more sustainable and more environmentally friendly. My passion for the environment started when I first joined Cub Scouts back in 2006, earning my World Environment Badge. My role as the Branch Leader for Environment and Sustainability is to provide Environment and Sustainability training, activities and guidance for members of Scouts WA. I am excited to be presenting at the National Program Conference. We are officially now in the decade of the SDGs and it’s now time we need to act if we want to make the change by 2030. I am looking forwarding to exploring the SDG challenge with you and newly launched Earth Tribe environment initiative by WOSM that was launched on World Environment Day.

17:00 AEDT – Scouts for SDGs – What You Can do to Contribute to Agenda 2030

Hosted by Mori Cheng, Youth Advisor to the World Scout Committee

The presentation will focus on the latest development of campaigns on Scouts for SDGs and the related work that youth are doing around the world. Participants will learn about different perspectives on Scouts for SDGs and to design and develop campaigns that could be initiated in the local community.

About the Presenter

Mori involved in various parts in Scouting, including both the governance in the Asia Pacific Region and the World level. With his expertise in youth engagement and sustainable development goals, Mori is able to share his experience in these fields. Outside scouting, Mori is a trainee solicitor which works on corporate transactions and litigation.

19:00 AEDT – Trends for the Youth Program to 2030

Join Sarah Rita Kattan and Hany Abdulmonem from the World Organization of the Scout Movement (WOSM) as they look towards 2030 and what trends may apply to the youth program on a global level.

About the Presenters

Hany is the current Global Director, Scouting Development at WOSM, having previously been the Youth Programme Director in the Arab Region and globally for Scouting over the last decade. Hany brings a wealth of experience to his roles and has been the staff lead on many educational initiatives during his terms at the World Scout Bureau. Hany currently spends his time between Adelaide and Kuala Lumpa, Malaysia.

Sarah is a member of the World Scout Committee, and for the last three years has been instrumental in the Educational Methods element of the WOSM Triennial Plan. Sarah is actively involved in Scouting in her home country of Lebanon, where she is joining us from for this session.