Forging ahead

MAKING the most of a monster raffle, Gembrook Scout Club has been named the third highest fundraiser in a state campaign to raise money for the 21st Australian Jamboree in January.
More than $350,000 was raised by groups across the state including six Hills Scout clubs from Belgrave South, Cockatoo, Emerald, Ferny Creek, Kallista and Gembrook.
Hills Scouts groups raised a total of $14,990 while Gembrook was ranked as the third highest fundraiser having collected $9750.
Scouts Australia’s Victorian chief commissioner Alston Park said it was a record result for the Scouts’ annual raffle but that the lessons learned by young people were just as valuable.
“Thousands of these Scouts attending the Jamboree in January will be there because they have helped earn their own way.
“Through efforts like the Victorian Monster Raffle – and local efforts like sausage sizzles and other events – Scouts learn how to set goals and achieve them,” he said.
The Jamboree is to be held at Elmore near Bendigo from 2-13 January.
More than 12,000 scouts and leaders from around Australia and overseas will attend the $11 million event.
Gembrook Scout Club held sausage sizzles and sold raffle tickets to family and friends in a challenge to raise the most money.
Scouts Australia awarded an $1000 voucher to the club that raised the most money from the monster raffle.