Sea Scouts bouncing back

The Paihia Sea Scouts are bouncing back.

Four years ago there was only a handful of hardcore Scouts; now there are 38 participants spread over Keas (5-8 years, aka the anklebiters), Cubs (8-11 years) and Scouts (11-14 years).

Assistant group leader and Scout section leader Rob Galley said the last spring and summer terms had been “cracking”.

“Our Scouts have sailed and bivvied, cooked food, burnt food and eaten it.

“The Cubs have camped, sailed, rowed, kayaked and swum, and all this time the Keas were busy sharing, caring and discovering.”

Now the Sea Scouts have received a windfall in the form of a bequest from George Hansen, who endowed $14,000 for a replacement cutter, to be named Rawinia.

“I understand it was George’s wish to give money to an organisation that would be training our young people in rowing, sailing and seamanship within the Bay of Islands,” Rob said.

The Paihia Sea Scouts meet on Monday (5.30-7.30pm), the Cubs on Tuesdays (5.30-7.30pm), and the Keas on Wednesdays (5.30-6.30pm). They are always on the lookout for more leaders. Phone Rob Galley on (022) 624-1231