BOY SCOUTS

Hokitika Guardian, 29 December 1927, Page 4

BOY SCOUTS

(Contributed.) The Scouts in camp at Gladstone have, like other sections of tile community. taken full advantage ot the fine weather and are putting in a most enjoyable time. The camp occupies an ideal spot on the- seaward side ol the lagoon, and is reached by a suspension foot bridge. On arrival of the morning trains from both Greymouth and Hokitika, on Monday, the scene became a busy one in pitching tents, unpacking gear and in making ready for the eight days under canvas. Eight large and roomy tents with flies complete are required for the 55 scouts present, who are arranged in patrols under their leaders. .Scoutmaster \V. I). Butcher is in (barge of the camp, and he with Seoiimaster Albert Sutherlad. Allen Maty and Mr J. .Mann (tlie last-named being in charge of rationing and cm.king) soon had the routine of the lamp ruiiiiinr sinoalhl\. All rise at '!„•!() a.m. and hieaklast in the Hall nearby is at 8 a.m. Parade for inspection of patrols and tents is held at !). A ( 111 a. in. some kind of organised scouting, such as signalling, ambulance or other work occupies an hour, after which swimming in the lagoon under supervision. Lunch is at 12.1 K). At 2 o’clock patrols again parade for work' such as tracking, relay races, following a trail, etc., again occupying an hour or thereabouts. If time permits further swimming is allowed belore tea at 5..211. Alter tea various games, such as tug-of-war, camp fires, etc. keep all interested until the call to retire, when till assemble, and the day is ended with a short scout prayer by the Scoutmaster. Hot coffee and biscuits is served at 8.511. Lights out at 10 p.m. when the camp is quickly silent, sunk in the sleep induced by the healthy out-of-door life. 8o far the camp has been quite healthy and free from accidents of any kind. A couple of the younger hoys became seized with a longing for home after the second day and were duly dispatched by ‘train, otherwise the whole are enjoying things to the utmost. Those called on to do fatigue duty in the kitchen readily respond while at intervals all hands turn out to replenish the fuel supply, of which there is plenty close handy on the beach. As a change of weather appears approaching, all tents have been well secured and trenches dug around them to enable the best provision for contingencies. To-day (Wednesday) is visitors’ day hut unfortunately the train service is not so convenient from this end. On Thursday

afternoon it is proposed that all the scouts march to Greymouth and back, spending as much time as is permissablc in the town.