Scouts and cubs in doubt

By Dion Teasdale
CUBS and scouts in Healesville face an uncertain future with dwindling numbers threatening the 83-year history of the group.
Healesville cubs and scouts are down to 14 members across the club’s three program groups, the lowest numbers in a decade.
Heather Vainoras, scout and cub leader said the decline in numbers at the Healesville group was in line with a decline in participation across the state.
“I think a lot of people in general have forgotten we are here, or are just not aware of what the cubs and scouts are all about,” she said.
“Also, I don’t think a lot of people know that girls are now welcome to join. In fact, we’ve been co-ed for the past 20 years or so.”
Ms Vainoras, who is known as an ‘Akela’ in cub and scout circles, fears the Healesville branch will be forced to close within the next six months unless more youngsters join.
“The Yarra Glen group folded a few years ago, and there are other groups in the area also struggling to attract numbers, and I’m worried we’ll fold soon,” she said.
“What we need are kids and their parents to come down and check us out and throw their support behind what we are doing.”
Healesville cubs and scouts run three weekly age group based programs – a joeys group for 6 to 8 year olds, a cubs group for 7 to 11 year olds and a scout group for 10 to 14 year olds.
The club used to run a group of Adventurers, for 15 to 18 year olds but that program ended a few years ago because of a lack of interest.
“I think part of the problem with dwindling numbers is that kids are just so busy these days,” Ms Vainoras said.
“There are lots of sporting activities and music lessons that cubs and scouts have to compete with.”
Ms Vainoras said participating in joeys, cubs and scouts offered children and their parents unique learning opportunities.
“We offer the chance for kids to learn a lot of life skills. There is a focus on outdoor education and recreation, on things like health and first aid, bush survival skills and safety around the home,” she said.
“We provide a non-competitive environment and encourage the kids to do things to best of their ability. We play games, do craft, go on camps and excursions and even get to do things like scuba-diving and archery.” Healesville joeys and cubs meet Wednesdays from 7pm to 8.30pm and Scouts meet Thursdays from 7pm to 9pm. Anyone interested can call Ms Vainoras on 0409 007 351.