Brigades lead the way

By Paul Pickering
A NOVEL fundraising initiative has been devised by a Boronia-based youth group to allow 40 future leaders of the foothills to attend an upcoming national development camp.
The Boys’ Brigade 33rd Vic Boronia, a leadership program run by the Boronia Baptist Church for boys aged six to 18, is hoping that the proceeds of an online auction will fund its largest ever representation at the Pan Australian Camp.
Every three years, Boys’ Brigades from across the country converge for the 10-day camp last hosted in Sydney in 2005.
In January 2008, the camp will be held at Phillip Island and will provide a unique opportunity for Victorian brigades to participate.
Brigade officer Phil Lang said: “It is a wonderful opportunity for boys to further their development in life skills such as organisation, leadership, teamwork and be further challenged on spiritual issues.”
While the brigade is always keen to have as many of the boys as possible attend, Mr Lang said the $800 cost can be too much for some families.
The Boronia brigade’s solution to the problem has been to introduce a sponsorship program where boys are asked to raise 10 per cent of the cost through carrying out chores in their local communities, while the remainder of the balance will be raised via an online auction.
“The idea was if we take the financial stress out of it for families, it opens it up for more boys to participate,” Mr Lang said.
So the brigade has set about raising $32,000 via community sponsorships and the sale of donated items.
Bids are currently being made for a digital camera via a link to eBay on the brigade’s website.
Other items that have been donated include a reverse cycle split-system air conditioner, an industrial vacuum cleaner and a scuba diving instruction course.
Mr Lang and company captain Chee Nyui have begun the considerable task of approaching local businesses that may be willing to donate items or services.
Despite the long road ahead, both men are confident that the value of the program will more than justify their efforts. Auction items can be viewed at the brigade website www.bba33vic.org.
Donated items will be accepted by Mr Lang on 0412 250 477 or Mr Nyui on 0408 500 713.