General News
4 February, 2025
Horsham Scouts thrive at AJ2025
Four participants from Horsham were among the 12 Wimmera Scouts, Venturers and leaders who attended the 26th Australian Scout Jamboree (AJ2025).
The event, held in Maryborough, Queensland, from January 6 to 15, brought together more than 10,000 participants from Australia and abroad.
The Horsham contingent comprised one leader, one Venturer and two Scouts, who joined Scouts from countries such as New Zealand, Canada, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and South Korea.
Alongside them, five participants from Rainbow and three from Warracknabeal proudly represented the Wimmera.
Travelling by bus from Warracknabeal, 10 Wimmera participants departed early on January 5 and returned home on January 17.
Leaders and Venturers were encouraged to take the bus, ensuring a smooth journey to the campsite.
Two Wimmera participants along with more than 200 self-contained units of Scouts and leaders made the campsite come alive, creating endless opportunities for fun and growth.
The AJ2025 site resembled a small city, complete with a concert arena, activity zones, a marketplace and even a media hub.
Horsham leader Andrew North, who served as a unit leader for 34 Scouts, described the event as an “absolutely incredible experience".
Mr North highlighted the personal growth and resilience developed by the young members.
“They push their limits and achieve their goals,” he said.
This was Mr North’s third Australian Scout Jamboree, adding to his global experience, which includes attending the World Scout Jamboree in South Korea in 2023.
“Each event teaches you something new: different Scouts, different kids and different weather,” he said.
This year marked the first time Venturers, aged 15 and 16, were invited as program participants, joining Scouts in the action-packed program designed to enhance physical, emotional and social development.
The jamboree proved to be not just a camping event but a journey of personal and collective growth, leaving lasting memories for all involved.
Mr North emphasised the importance of Scouting in building life skills, resilience and friendships beyond local communities.
For the Wimmera participants, AJ2025 was not just a camping event but a transformative journey of growth and adventure.