Scouting thriving in Kanturk area
SCOUTING in Kanturk came under the spotlight last weekend as 32 new Cubs and Beavers were invested at an event in the Edel Quinn Hall, attended by their families and friends.
Scout leader Ben McAuliffe said preparations for the event began well before Christmas when the young boys and girls started their journey, learning their promise to scouting and their community, scouting principles, the wonder and enjoyment of nature and the importance of the outdoors.
Kanturk Scout Group Leader, Frank Mulcahy, welcomed all the parents and relatives to the celebration and, after outlining the format for the evening, began investing the large group of new beavers and cubs.
The strength of a Scout Group can be measured by the quality of its leaders, and the 13th Cork Scout Group was delighted to welcome Sara O’Toole, Amanda Hogan Higgins, Helen Lofts O’Dea & Janet Heeran as Scouters to continue their Wood Badge training.
The evening was made exceptionally special when Regional Commissioner Steven Mangan and Assistant Commissioner John McCarthy presented Wood Badge Beads and a certificate to Leader Ben McAuliffe in honour of his commitment to the Kanturk Scout Group since 1979.
Steven spoke of Ben’s commitment to the group down through the years, his involvement in the different sections from cubs, scouts and venture and his leadership qualities.
He emphasised how Ben selflessly gives his time to local and regional activities thereby allowing the youth of Kanturk and district to fully embrace the enjoyment of scouting.
Ben thanked founding members Pat Flavin, Don Fitzgerald and Timmy Lynch for starting him on his journey as a Scout Leader in 1979.
“I’m delighted to be involved with such a determined group of leaders and parents in bringing the scouting ethos to the community in Kanturk. I also thank those who were unable to attend for their commitment and dedication in putting local scouting on a strong footing ,” he said.
Later the children showcased their many innovative projects and entertained everyone with music and song while the adults enjoyed a cuppa.
Scouter Janet Heeran delighted everyone with a lovely poem she penned about Ben’s achievements and tributes were paid to the local Men’s Shed Group who prepared ‘ knot boards’ which the cubs use for practising their knotting and rope-work.