Local girls at camp with guides from all over world

LOCAL Girl Guides took part in Ireland’s biggest ever international Girl Guide camp, which took place in Rockwell College, Cashel, Co Tipperary from July 30 to August 6.

The Guides from Bray and Greystones were among 1,800 Girl Guides taking part in IGGNITE2017, which attracted Girl Guides from as far away as the US, Canada, New Zealand, Australia, Malaysia, Georgia, the Philippines and St Vincent and the Grenadines as well as England, Scotland and Finland.

The girls camped under canvas (despite the weather) and took part in a wide range of games and activities designed to help them develop valua- ble life-skills.

‘ The girls had a fantastic experience, trying out all sorts of team-building activities as well as enjoying fun and friendship with girls from around the globe,’ said camp chief Jenny Gannon.

Activities included water obstacle courses, kayaking, horse-riding, build- ing rafts and rockets.

The girls also enjoyed playing quidditch as well as drama, music, body confidence, yoga, meditation and coding workshops.

‘ There was a serious side to camp too,’ said Jenny.

‘We partnered with Trócaire, Concern, UNICEF and Irish Aid to help the girls learn about the Sustainable Development Goals and how to stand up for refugees and to advocate for gender equality.’

Irish Girl Guides welcomes new members from the age of five and adult volunteers from the age of 18.

For more information go to irishgirlguides.ie.