Scouts LEAP23

Scouts Queensland Chief Commissioner, Mr Geoff Doo; Vice-President, Professor John Pearn AO; Kennedy Region Commissioner Mr Ernie Blunt; Chief Director of LEAP23, Mr Brendan Wilson; Camp Directors Mr Brad Pledge and Mr Peter Digweed; the Scouts Queensland Branch team; Patrol Leaders; Venturers and Scouts; welcome all. 

And a special hello to those joining us via Teams from Townsville – it is great to have you with us virtually today. 

I begin by acknowledging the Traditional Owners of the lands and waters around Queensland and pay my respects to Elders past, present and emerging, and to any First Nations people joining us today. 

It is with great pleasure that I stand before you today as Chief Scout and Governor of Queensland as you embark on the extraordinary journey that is LEAP23.  

I am told that over the next five jam-packed days of adventure, you will find yourselves paddling in canoes and kayaks and skilfully navigating through unknown territories. You will test your coordination on a rope adventure course and sharpen your archery skills creating memories that will last a lifetime. 

Of course, so much of the magic happens beyond the activities themselves, where you will cook for yourselves and create patrol gateways together, learning new and different skills along the way. 

I would like to express thanks to the leaders and supporters who have helped organise LEAP23. You give so selflessly of your time and effort, embodying the power of service that is so critical to the Scouting movement. You are wonderful role models to the young people who will grow so much through this wonderful experience you have planned for them. 

I wish you all the very best for this year’s camp. May you seize every opportunity, overcome every obstacle, and find new friendships at every hop, step and jump along the way. 

I look forward to shortly touring the campsites and seeing more of what is in store for you all. 

Thank you.