Scouts, stories & snow
The best of #OutsideIn25 this winter
There’s nothing quite like camping in winter. The warmth of the campfire, the mist when you leave your tent in the morning, and the hearty meals all combine to create fun and memorable experiences.
Over the last few months, Scouts across Australia have proved that adventure doesn’t hibernate in winter – it thrives! The outdoors takes on a new beauty in winter, offering a unique backdrop for different activities, exploration and reflection. Campfires become more than just a flickering flame – they bring warmth, light, and a place to gather, cook, and connect.
Winter also challenges Scouts in new ways. It teaches us to prepare thoroughly, layer wisely, and embrace the elements with confidence. Whether it’s learning how to pitch a tent in the rain or mastering the art of cooking in cold conditions, winter camping builds skills that last a lifetime.
Putting their #OutsideIn25 goals into action, Cub Scouts from Gracemere Scout Group in Queensland recently had an unforgettable time camping at Cania Gorge. They enjoyed a scenic bushwalk, experienced some amazing close-up bird encounters, and wrapped up the weekend with a splashing good time on a waterslide.
One of the Cub Scouts, Hayley, took a leading role in planning the camp, which incorporated Outdoor Adventure Skills progress across Camping, Bushwalking and Bushcraft. Few things bring a Unit together like a shared adventure – where bonds are built, leadership is strengthened, and Scouts shape their own experience from start to finish.
Meanwhile in July, a number of Venturer Scouts from South Australia headed interstate for a memorable snow experience in Victoria’s High Country. While staying at the Bogong Rover Chalet, they built on their Outdoor Adventure Skills through a choice of Alpine activities, which included cross-country skiing, snowboarding, tobogganing, and building snow shelters.
All participants were able to try something new, with Ash from Gawler Scout Group describing it as ‘a unique adventure for everyone’. ‘Chalet life saw everyone branching off into Project Patrols, bouncing between them depending on what the groups were doing,’ explains Ash.
On a larger scale, 350 youth members from Scout Units across Western Australia gathered at the beginning of August for Operation Nighthawk. This annual event saw participants undertake a night bushwalk, where they challenged their skills at activity bases that they navigated between by the glow of their torches.
Operation Nighthawk showcased the strength of the Patrol System, with Scouts working together, making decisions, and supporting one another throughout the night’s challenges (which included a lot of rain!). This event is one of countless opportunities which support Scouts to be independent and step outside their comfort zones in the outdoors.
As we pack away some of our thermal layers and look toward spring, let’s continue the #OutsideIn25 fun: the joy of shared experiences, the thrill of discovering nature in all seasons, and the personal growth of overcoming challenges.
Article by Nick Molnar
Deputy National Commissioner – Youth Program
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