Queen of the Scouts

By Mara Pattison-Sowden
JENNY Walter has become the first woman in the last 20 years to earn her Queen’s Scout Award at Yarra Junction Scout Group.
The 18-year-old has juggled a hectic VCE schedule while organising hikes, volunteering and learning new skills.
She was awarded her Queen’s Scout badge, the highest award in Scouting, at a celebration two weeks ago and has also been recognised in a state ceremony at Government House.
“I can’t imagine a life without Scouting,” she said.
“It’s been guiding me along and is constantly there.”
Jenny began Scouts at the age of five, when her dad was a leader. She has progressed through the age groups and will soon begin Rovers.
“It’s changed me, I’ve become more confident from it,” she said.
Jenny said she came out of her shell when one of the leaders went overseas, and she was organising the weekly activities.
Her Queen’s Scout had many pursuits to complete, including organising a two-day hike in the Grampians, constructing a native garden at her old primary school in Don Valley and volunteering at Yarra Junction’s Koha Community Café.
She also learned new skills such as Irish dancing, archery and learning how to swim, as well as debating topics on various teen issues.
Jenny is aiming towards a career in portrait photography, and is currently being taught by her brother while finishing her schooling at Upper Yarra Secondary College.