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I was absolutely delighted to be given the opportunity to speak on an occasion of such importance as this but to be asked to actually present Zoe with her award is an absolute honour.
Tonight, we recognise the achievement of an outstanding young lady that has had an impact on each and every one of us.
Zoe is here tonight to receive scouting's highest award. The Queen's Scout Award, which has been gained by Zoe, represents the height of excellence in an organisation already known for its high standards. The work and effort Zoe has displayed in fulfilling the requirements of this award is admirable. I know that there was plenty of hard work but that there was also a good supply of fun mixed in with everything Zoe was doing. The work Zoe has done in helping out with scouting activities other than her own, especially among the younger members is to be commended. Zoe has always displayed an innate ability to organise an activity at the drop of the hat even when it was not her night to do so. As Zoe’s first Venturer leader I am very proud of her. She exemplifies the commitment, determination, inventiveness, self-reliance, kindness and thoughtfulness of what we have come to expect in our scouting way of life. I would also like to acknowledge those who have encouraged and mentored her along the way; other scouting leaders, community members and of course her parents. I commend all those who have helped nurture Zoe’s interests in the community and her ability to help others. Zoe you can go out into your community and show people that you are a real achiever and possible even one of their future leaders. I hope that you will go on to become an adult leader and pass on to another generation the skills and ethical base you have learnt. Although some aspects of Venturering have changed over the years, the basic aims and values of our organisation have continued to guide young Australians. You will discover later on the practical rewards you have gained and I hope at that time you remember back to the fun times you had here at 2nd Toowoomba. I hope that as you receive your award tonight you are thinking of new ways to spread the message about scouting and in particular Venturering. The 4 sections of the Award Scheme are Community Involvement, Adventurous Activities, Personal Growth and Leadership Development these are all geared to ensuring that those who have reached the top in scouting are exemplary representatives both of scouting and our society.
Congratulations to you on achieving such a prestigious award I am sure you will live up to the high standards of leadership and be the example expected of award winners in Australia. I would encourage you to practise what you have learnt throughout your scouting life, and, whenever possible, impart this wisdom to others. It has been one of life’s great pleasures to have been a small part in what has been an amazing Venturering life and I wish you continued success in both your personal and professional endeavours.
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