Cub Visit

On the evening of Saturday 24th April, Iain and I were welcomed to the St John's Wood Cub Scout Leadership Camp. Extra hands were needed as a dozen or so 7- to 10-year-olds were cooking over a fire.

Firstly, we were introduced to everyone and the Cubs were told the plans for the night. We all went for a walk along the creek and collected firewood. Since it had been raining that day, much of the wood was slightly damp. There were some sticks with ants crawling over them, so Iain bravely carried them back. Four fires had to be lit, so four groups laid out the firewood in a pyramid style, while others prepared damper or cut potatoes.

The rain held off and the damp firewood was ablaze, four fires were warming four grills. The potatoes in a billy of water were placed on the grill first. Then the sausages were added, followed by a billy of peas in water. Despite several fires almost burning out, and one fire with flames half a metre high, each group managed to cook everything safely and have a nice meal.

Just as the rain started again, a Vietnam veteran arrived to talk to the Cubs. He was part of the Infantry and was injured in Vietnam. I believe he was there for one to two years. They seemed to somewhat enjoy his speech, and liked asking questions at the end to find out more information. He kindly stayed for damper with the Cubs.

As the rain clouds moved away, the Cubs, two of the Leaders, Iain and I walked to the other side of the creek to a large open park to play Spotlighting. This was the first time I had ever heard about the game, but seemed to be a favourite amongst the Cubs. Some Cubs were spotted every time, and some had clever strategies. After one game, they begged for another.

We walked back to the hall where Iain and I received a Cub-style 'Bravo' and lots of hugs! We left them to finish the rest of their overnight leadership camp. I think the Cubs appreciated learning with us two Rovers, as we were older but not too old, and the Leaders appreciated the extra hands needed around the fires.

- Rachel -