A Scout from Dubbo who always puts his hand up to help others has received special recognition.
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Joel Taylor, 12, was awarded the Region Commissioner Scouts Bunyip Award 'for being the Scout truest to the Scout Promise and Law'.
He was chosen for the honour from the 93 Scouts members from across the region attending the recent Golden West Bunyip Camp.
Scouts region commissioner Gavin Arnold presented the award and was full of praise for the 12-year-old, who he works with every week at the 1st Dubbo Scout Group.
"He's a fantastic young gentleman who does nothing but tries to assist everyone and is always willing to put up his hand to help anyone who wants any help," Mr Arnold said.
"And he's always got a smile on his face and is just a fantastic young lad."
The award presented to Joel was handcrafted by two leaders, rather than purchased, helping to make it all the more special.
It was made to represent the badge of the world organisation of the Scouts movement.
Joel was a Cub Scout before moving up into the Scouts section about 18 months ago.
Bunyip is the annual regional camp and is a friendly competition for Scouts.
This year it was held at Minnamurra, between Dubbo and Narromine, and was attended by Scouts from Dubbo, Mudgee, Orange, Portland, Kandos and Parkes.
They participated in a number of stands including basic Scouting skills like fire-lighting, construction, first aid, Mr Arnold said.
"As well as some fun activities like we had a blacksmith who came out and they made billy-holders to put over the fire and a whole range of activities like that," he said.
"We had a fantastic feedback from the camp, not only did they participate in some friendly competition, but they also managed to get a lot of their work recognised and sign-off on their badge work as well.
"And they get to interact with Scouts from across the region."
Mr Arnold reports the Scouts movement, which is open to boys and girls from as young as five years who are attending school and up to 25 years, has been growing at Dubbo.
It was for young people who wanted to "get outdoors and learn some life skills".
"It's fantastic to see the youth of Dubbo getting involved and watching them grow and develop into our future leaders and future citizens," Mr Arnold said.
"It's really pleasing to see and I hope people can see the benefit of supporting their Scouting movement."
For further information about joining the 1st Dubbo Scout Group contact David Power 0409 818 560 or email 1stdubboscouts@gmail.com