Victoria Minister for Youth Affairs Ryan Smith

Brad Battin Gembrook MLA

$440,000 Upgrade To Gilwell Park Scouts Centre

Victor P Taffa

Minister for Youth Affairs Ryan Smith and Member for Gembrook Brad Battin today announced that Scouts from across the state will benefit from improved facilities and a new high ropes course at the Scouts Activity Centre Gilwell Park.

Minister for Youth Affairs Ryan Smith said the $440,000 upgrade to Gilwell Park was in addition to the Victorian Coalition Government’s $4 million investment over four years that would upgrade Scouts Victoria and Girl Guides Victoria facilities across the state.

“The Victorian Coalition Government’s Scouts and Guides Facilities Grants Program will allow Scouts and Guides groups across Victoria to apply for funds to replace or upgrade ageing facilities.” Mr. Smith said.

Member for Gembrook Brad Battin said the funding would provide his local community with a first-class facility that all Victorians could use.

“Scouts and community groups from across Victoria frequently use the Gilwell Park site for conferences, training programs, school and youth camps and outdoor activities. This funding will enable Scouts Victoria to build a high ropes adventure course, flying fox and climbing wall, as well as renovate kitchen and bathroom facilities.” Mr. Battin said.

“In addition, the grant will also fund the purchase of safety harnesses, helmets and equipment for people with special needs so they can safely enjoy the activities.”

Chief Commissioner of Scouts Victoria Bob Taylor said it was fantastic the Victorian Government had recognised the importance and benefits of Scouting and Guiding in today’s society and was providing funding to assist in upgrading Scouts facilities across the state.

“Our adult leaders put in more than half a million volunteer hours a year providing activities to develop the intellectual, social, physical, spiritual and emotional needs of young people.” Mr. Taylor said.

For further information on the grants program please visit www.youth.vic.gov.au www.vicscouts.com.au or www.guidesvic.org.au

Brad Battin Gembrook MLA