International Scouting
16th World Scout Moot – Portugal 2025
In July to August 2025, 372 Australian Rovers and Leaders took part in the 16th World Scout Moot in Portugal. Portugal welcomed over 7,500 scouts from over 100 countries to the largest World Moot ever and the first since 2017 due to the cancellation of the 2021 World Moot that was to be held in Ireland.
The main theme of the event was “Engaged” as participants (Rovers aged 18-26) were challenged to engage with the world around them. This was achieved through 120 Paths (similar to expeditions in Ventures and other Moots) held all over Portugal that went for 6 days starting from the Opening Ceremony location at Parque Tejo in Lisbon before everyone reunited at the Main Site of Buçaquinho Park just south of Porto. The final day of the event was spent in the beautiful city of Porto where the closing ceremony was held and everyone said goodbye to their new and old friends from all over the world.
As part of the contingent, 94 Australians participated in a 10 day Pre Tour of Spain and 66 in a 10 day Post Tour of Morocco. Pre tour highlights included the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, the Holy Grail in Valencia, Alhambra in Granada before culminating in a Flamenco Show in Seville. Post tour highlights included Hassan II Mosque, the Royal Palaces in multiple cities, the inspiring Atlas Mountains and a camel ride to a Sahara Desert camping experience.
“World Moot 2025 was the most wonderful time filled with new friendships, amazing memories, and fun-filled adventures. Personally, I was lucky enough to participate in a path that went to Madeira, an island about a 1.5hour flight from Lisbon! There we got to engage with local rovers, the island’s beautiful environment, and the other members of my path! At main site, the fun continued with epic dance parties, great activities, and lots of fun! Overall Moot 2025 was an awesome experience! ” shared by Lily, Rover Scout from Queensland.
“As full on as it was, I had an amazing time attending the World Scout Moot in Portugal as International Service Team and the Post Tour in Morocco! It’s a privilege to have the chance to meet, work with and learn from Scouts and communities from different cultures and parts of the world. The experience could be very chaotic and exhausting but it is certainly not a time I look back on negatively. Thank you and well done to our Contingent Management Team!” – Georgia – International Service Team, Scouts Victoria.
Brent from Scouts WA shared, “WSM 2025 in Portugal was an unparalleled adventure and one of my most cherished Scouting experiences. From singing songs with Rover Scouts from around the world to exploring the historic Roman town of Chaves, every moment was filled with discovery and connection. Back at the main camp, we shared stories, tried new activities like archery and bubble soccer, and formed friendships that crossed continents. I’m grateful for the experience, which allowed me to truly engage with the world and create memories that will last a lifetime.”
Given the hiatus in World Moots, it was fantastic to be able to provide the opportunity for a new generation of Australian Rovers to experience such an event. Being able to meet and understand cultures from all over the world will help mould young adults into global citizens.
I cannot thank Nick and the rest of my team enough for their support and commitment throughout the planning and execution of the contingent.
Steven Shephard
Australian Contingent Leader
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