SCOUT MOVEMENT IN N.Z.

Press, Volume XCI, Issue 27670, 28 May 1955, Page 2

SCOUT MOVEMENT IN N.Z.

Target Of 50,000 Members

MORE LEADERS WANTED (New Zealand Press Association) WELLINGTON, May 27. The aim of the Boy Scout Movement in New Zealand was to raise a total membership of 50,000 boys, said the Dominion Chief Scout (the Governor-General. Sir Willoughby Norrie), opening the new scout headquarters in Vivian street, Wellington, today. “This will depend on whether we can obtain the services of more trained leaders—both men and women—on the uniform side, and we also need the support of even a greater number of lay workers to assist our local associations and group committees,” he said. The New Zealand Scout Movement hoped to reach its target of 50,000 boys and £50,000 before its jubilee in 1958, said Sir Willoughby Norrie. “With these new headquarters and the organisation firmly established, I feel the secretariat will be able to give its full attention to plans for development—a fitting climax to the first 50 years of scouting in New Zealand,” he said. The problems affecting the youth of the Dominion had been brought to the forefront of public oninion during the last six months, and he regarded these events as a challenge to scouting, said his Excellency. “I hope the challenge will be accepted, and that even greater efforts will be made to carry out the aims of the movement.” he said. “We aim to develop good citizenship by forming character, by training boys in the habits of observation, obedience, and self-reliance, and also loyalty and thoughtfulness for others. “Scouting, in common with all other youth organisations, stands today in need of leadership, and I appeal once more to men and women who have the welfare of the youth of New Zealand at heart to come forward and offer their services in youth leadership,” said Sir Willoughby Norrip.