Kallangur Scouts find a place to call home

Kallangur Scouts are settling into their new home after five years of using temporary accommodation – and they can’t wait to show it off to the community at their grand opening.

Group leader Kerry “Kalori” Skillington said it had been a tough time for the group, which lost about half its membership in that time.

But he said they were thrilled to be in the $722,000 centre purpose built with Moreton Bay Regional Council and Federal Government funding at Murrumba Downs.

“We had been at Duffield Rd since the 1970s and when we had to leave that site we went to Petrie and then we were fortunate to get something closer to home at John Oxley Reserve,” Mr Skillington said.

“But it wasn’t fit for purpose and only had a small area indoors.

“There were many nights we had to cancel because of threats of storms or rain.”

Community connections

Mr Skillington said the joeys, cubs, scouts and venturers who were part of Kallangur Scouts were delighted with the new facility.

“A scout doesn’t require a lot of equipment, but just being able to have a sizable indoor space to run programs rain, hail or shine will make a big difference.

“For us it’s fantastic and we have a big open space and plenty of grass area.”

With the precinct also home to the State Emergency Service, Mr Skillington said it was a great opportunity to forge community connections.

“We’ve already spoken to the SES – it’s fantastic to be visible.

“Part of the scouts program is to give back to the community, so we do really hope we can work with them,” Mr Skillington said.

Join the fun

The Kallangur Scouts’ grand opening runs from 9am-1pm on Saturday, February 12 at their new premises at 9 Ogg Rd, Murrumba Downs.

There will be equipment demonstrations, a sausage sizzle and the chance to sign on to the group.

Mr Skillington said parents could offset the cost of membership with Fair Play vouchers.

“Nothing kids do is inexpensive, but we like to think we provide good value in our programs,” he said.

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