Now the newly appointed group leader of 1st Kyabram Scout Group, Diana’s journey began when her daughter joined as a Joey Scout, sparking an interest in the skills, friendships and opportunities Scouting could offer.
“I come from a family where we never went camping or anything, so I wanted to teach my daughter how to camp and all these life skills we learn through Scouting, like being independent,” she said.
But as her daughter became more involved, Diana also found herself drawn to the opportunity to help other children learn and grow.
She started out as a Joey leader before moving into Cubs alongside her daughter, eventually stepping up to take on the group leader role.
Diana said watching young Scouts develop confidence and independence through activities such as camping was among the most rewarding parts of the role.
“Young kids like seven or eight years (old), they know how to pack their bag, they help with the tents and sometimes they help with the food,” she said.
“I have seen people where they come very young and then when they become Cubs from Joeys, they are so independent.”
Last month’s Scouting camp further cemented her passion, with seven Kyabram Cub Scouts joining about 3500 children and 1000 volunteers for four nights of camping and activities.
Diana said seeing thousands of young people come together was inspiring and reinforced the sense of community within scouting.
In her new role, she hopes to create more opportunities for Kyabram members, including excursions beyond the town, while keeping activities affordable for families.
Having moved to Kyabram from Melbourne six years ago, Diana said giving back to the community that had welcomed her was a major motivation to take up the leadership role.
“Kyabram has given me a lot. It’s a very good community, with very good neighbours, everyone smiles at each other and it’s very family oriented,” she said.
“To give the community something back, that’s my satisfaction.”
16°C