A 30-kilometre hike cross-country from Geurie to Dubbo in three days has shown the determination and skills of a teen who has received a top award for Scouts.
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Will Jameson, 15, organised the expedition and completed it with five peers, ensuring they packed lightly but with all the food and equipment they would need.
The hike built on the campcraft and leadership skills and community involvement Will had obtained as he worked towards the Australian Scout Medallion.
On Monday night his efforts were recognised with the conferring of the honour, the highest available to Scouts aged 11 to 15 years.
In a touching moment Will received the medallion from his grandfather, Allen Cameron, a decorated former Scout who knew the mettle required.
A student at St John's College, Will said it was emotional time for both of them.
"I finally achieved it. . . I'm proud of myself," he said.
Watching on were Will's family, Dubbo mayor Mathew Dickerson, fellow Scouts and his Scout leader who sang the 15-year-old's praises on Tuesday.
"As a person, I always call him the nicest boy in Australia," Anne Standish said.
"He's a really good role model. . . determined and he shows perseverance, and patience with the younger Scouts."
On Tuesday as Will prepared for a trip to Government House in Sydney to receive a certificate to accompany his medallion he offered a special thanks to "Anne, who has been with me the whole journey" and his family.
He has moved on to Venturers, the Scouting movement stage for 15 to 18-year-olds, and looked forward to more challenges and time in the outdoors.
