THE SCOUT MOVEMENT

Otago Daily Times, Issue 23704, 11 January 1939, Page 8

THE SCOUT MOVEMENT

The International Scout Jamboree at Bradfield Camp, Sydney, appears to have been a conspicuous success from its inception to the scenes of enthusiasm recorded at its close. As a demonstration of the high-spirited yet judiciously restrained energy resident in upwards of ten thousand youths, assembled in happy fellowship, it may well have been remarkable. Those responsible for the organisation and preparation for a gathering on such a scale are entitled to every credit for their achievement. They will find their chief reward, no doubt, in the thought that the vitality of the Scout movement has been demonstrated and promoted by their efforts, and in their sustained confidence in its real value as an international influence for good. The Sydney Jamboree has been reasonably acclaimed as an impressive symbol of the manner in which the Scout movement has, throughout troubled years, not only stood fast by its faith, but has grown in strength and influence. A reaffirmation of the admirable principles of the Scout Law by the contingents of the many countries represented will not have been but a vain and passing gesture. The Boy Scout organisation is far-flung. Fifty countries, in addition to the many parts of the British Empire, have their Scout Associations, linked up by the International Bureau. The boys of to-day will be the men of to-mor-row. Their instruction and experience as Scouts, and not least their participation in such meetings as that which has just concluded in Australia, must have a permanent effect in contributing to their education for citizenship and in moulding their character. The Jamboree, it is claimed, demonstrates by precept and example how harmony can be achieved by the exercise of goodwill. The venerated founder of the movement, Lord Baden-Powell, while not present in person at Bradfield Camp, was surely there in spirit. His words to the previous International Jamboree were —“ You Scouts have assembled from all parts of the world as ambassadors of goodwill, and you have been making friends, breaking down any barriers of race, of creed, or of class. That surely is a great Crusade.” The spirit of the Scout movement offers a model for a wider adaptation; it is based on the finer sentiments and impulses of human nature. The privilege afforded the hundreds of New Zealand Boy Scouts who participated in the Australian gathering has been one which many of their elders will have envied them. They should return the richer in many ways for what must have been to them a memorable experience.