New Scout den worth the wait

Deception Bay Scouts finally have a new den to call home after almost two years of waiting.

The move has been a long time coming, after a termite infestation forced the scouts from their home early in 2019, then in January the builder working on the new den went into liquidation.

Work began on the $385,000 George St building in June, and now the scouts have started moving in.

Leader Adam Black says the group is delighted with its new home, after relying on the generosity of other community groups for accommodation.

“It’s been a long process – we’ve had two mayors involved,” Adam says.

“Moreton Bay Regional Council has been fantastic for getting it done.”

Patience pays off

Mayor Peter Flannery says the group has been patient while waiting for their new home.

“These children and young adults were left without a place to gather and do what they love best, after termites destroyed their old scout den,” Mayor Flannery says.

“That’s why I am very pleased to usher a new era for Deception Bay Scouts to play, grow and learn valuable life lessons.

“Scouts have long been a wonderful contributor to our community by building young leaders for the future and this is just a small way we can help them on their way.”

All the mod-cons

Councillor Sandra Ruck (Div 5) says the scout den includes a spacious kitchen, meeting room, storeroom and amenities, and is disability accessible.

“Deception Bay Scouts have been forced to do things a little differently due to coronavirus, so that’s why we wanted to make sure their new home had everything they needed to thrive,” Cr Ruck says.

Adam says group, which includes Joeys, Cubs, Scouts, Venturers and Rovers, is planning an official opening for February.

Call for leaders

In the meantime, Adam says they are looking for more leaders with a sense of adventure who enjoy working with children, as well as volunteers for the group’s committee.

“I describe Scouts as a youth-led, adult facilitated organisation,” he says.

“It’s like a team sport for individuals – the journey is very individual – they are getting the same awards, but for different things.”

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