Leadership Through Adventure Fund 

The patrol was made out of three Venturer Scouts from South Australia and two Venturer Scouts from Victoria, where some of them first crossed paths during Venturer24 earlier in the year. Despite their different backgrounds and varying level of hiking experience, they share a common passion for adventure.

The adventure began at the Horsham Scout Hall, where some members of the patrol met in person for the first time. After finalizing their preparations by dividing the group gear and getting a good night’s rest, the patrol was ready to tackle their exciting four-day expedition. They set off from the starting point at Roses Gap, eager to explore the beauty of the Grampians Peaks Trail together.

The Grampians Peaks Trail offers a diverse and ever-changing landscape, featuring towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, serene lakes, and dense bushland. Each day brought the patrol breathtaking scenery and new challenges, testing their physical and mental endurance as they progressed on their journey.

Throughout their expedition, the patrol gained much more than physical endurance—they grew in all the SPICES (Social, Physical, Intellectual, Character, Emotional, and Spiritual development). They deepened their appreciation for the natural world and expanded their horizons, discovering what is truly possible.

The journey also reinforced the value of relationships, as they reconnected with old friends and forged lasting bonds with new peers. One of the highlights Lincoln shared was “On the third day of our journey, we encountered other Scouts hiking the trail. This meeting reminded us, our Scouting community connects with one and another. These interactions, along with the beauty surrounding them made our journey even more memorable”.

Leadership also played a crucial role in making the expedition a success, with the patrol fully embracing the “Youth Leading, Adults Supporting” approach. The patrol took full responsibility for setting up the camp, preparing their meals, managing water and more, which not only ensured a smooth expedition but also built trust and teamwork within the group.

One of the key challenges the group faced was managing risks throughout the expedition. From selecting the right group dynamics to managing water refills and navigating flooded paths, the Venturers had to think critically and make quick decisions to keep the journey on track.

Lincoln the patrol leader reflected “This expedition was unlike anything I’ve done before; it pushed me in ways I never thought it would.” His words capture the true spirit of Scouting—a journey of growth, challenge, and discovery that left an indelible mark on everyone who participated.

The Grampians Peaks Adventure was more than just a hike—it was a powerful demonstration of Scouting connections and the adventurous spirit that drives young people to explore the world around them. This expedition provided opportunities for personal and collective growth, showcasing the positive impact Scouting has on young lives.

Supported by the ‘Dick and Pip Smith Leadership Through Adventure Fund,’ this journey was planned, led, and completed by five young Venturer Scouts from different states, all united by their love for the outdoors, adventure, and the desire to push their limits.

This article was bought to you by patrol leader and National youth ambassador Lincoln from Scouts SA.

Dick & Pip Smith Leadership Through Adventure Fund (LTAF) was launched in July 2022 by Dick Smith to provide grants to youth members or project patrols to undertake activity skills and leadership training, adventurous journeys and expeditions.

If you are planning your adventure for next year and you would like to find out more how LTAF can assist financially to the adventure, download the LTAF Application Form and email LTAF@scouts.com.au.

More photos from the expedition