By Russell Bennett
MONTROSE stalwart Alice Keogh’s involvement with the Guides movement was acknowledged on Australia Day with a well-earned certificate of recognition.
But it was praise she found hard to accept – much more willing to share the accolade with those close to her.
“It was fantastic,” she said.
“It was really lovely to get the certificate and it’s such an honour to be recognised for doing something you love, but it’s about the support network – all those who have helped me.”
Ms Keogh brought a close group of friends along with her to Yarra Ranges Council’s Australia Day awards ceremony at Burrinja in Upwey.
“It was lovely,” she said.
“Just a great honour.”
Ms Keogh’s involvement with hills Guides spans more than 30 years.
Billanook Ward councillor Tim Heenan praised the achievement, and like Ms Keogh, was quick to refer to her support network.
“Thirty years is a mammoth amount of time,” he said.
“It’s a real team effort and she was well supported by others.”
Ms Keogh has volunteered as a Guide leader since 1979, teaching young girls skills they can take with them throughout their daily lives. She was also district leader of Mount Evelyn for about 15 years, looking out for other leaders across the area and making sure they received top-notch training.
Ms Keogh is now a region training co-ordinator and recently received a centenary award from Guides Victoria for her services to the movement.
The Mail reported last year on a certificate of appreciation she received from Governor -General Quentin Bryce.
Ms Keogh said the turnout at an afternoon tea in her honour last August humbled her.
She described the function as “a huge thrill” and said it was the most memorable moment in her time with the Guides.
“The sheer amount of Guiding represented by all the people in that room was just amazing,” she said.
“A lot of women enjoy Guiding, and I’m one of them.”
Ms Keogh said: “It was just lovely that so many people, so many other leaders came and helped me enjoy the moment.”
Cr Heenan was there to help celebrate Ms Keogh’s contribution.
“She’s always been there for the girls as a type of mother, teacher, big sister,” he said.
“She has taught everything from survival, to camping, to life skills to girls all over the place and this area has been so lucky to have her.”
