- Published:
- Thursday 22 August 2024
Two kilometres long, three metres high and with eighteen different obstacles, an upgraded adventure course at Gilwell Park delivered by Scouts Victoria and the Allan Labor Government will be an adventure centrepiece for young people.
Minister for Youth Natalie Suleyman and Member for Monbulk Daniela De Martino, today announced the opening of the extended and improved state-of-the-art adventure course, constructed at the Scouts Victoria campsite at Gilwell Park in the Dandenong Ranges.
The Labor Government has invested more than $300,000 in the adventure course as part of the commitment to build, upgrade or refurbish Scout Halls and other facilities across Victoria. ‘The Gauntlet’ upgrade - which took six months to design, plan and construct features obstacles made of cargo nets, vaults, ropes, pine logs, tyres, climbing frames, landing pads and other challenges.
Accessing scouting activities supports young people’s positive development and the upgraded course will be used by thousands of young people every year when they visit the Gilwell Park site.
Scouts Victoria is one of the state’s largest youth organisations and has a membership base of more than 19,000 young people and 5,000 adult volunteers. The number of young people participating in scouting activities has grown by 30 per cent in the last 10 years.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Youth Natalie Suleyman
“Scouts Victoria has a rich history of fostering teamwork, community and leadership skills – and we are proud to partner with them to help young people develop leadership skills and a genuine sense of community spirit.”
“This upgraded course will help young Victorians develop physical and problem solving skills, but also provides a source of exercise and fun”.
Quote attributable to Member for Monbulk Daniela De Martino
“We’re delighted to deliver this upgraded state-of-the-art adventure course not only for the Dandenong Ranges community, but also young people across the state and indeed the nation who can visit the course, have fun, gain important skills and make new connections.”
Quote attributable to Chief Commissioner of Scouts Victoria Rod Byrnes
“We are immensely grateful for the Victorian Government’s support. As we officially declare this improved and extended adventure course open, we're reminded of the power of partnership and community in creating new opportunities that allow youth to thrive.”