Section Reports — 1st Portstewart Scout Group
Cubs – Report by Section Leader Karen Hunter
Karen provided a detailed overview of a very active and rewarding year within the Cub section. The programme included a mixture of skills-based activities, outdoor learning, and community engagement. Highlights of the year included a visit to Coleraine Police Station, a session at the local climbing wall, a community litter pick around Portstewart Promenade, and an indoor Cub sleep-over which was a particular success with excellent behaviour and participation from the young people.
Karen noted the high level of commitment shown by the Cubs in their badge work. Four Chief Cub Awards were presented during the year — a significant achievement demonstrating sustained effort over time — with a further four Cubs due to receive their award in the near future. This was commended as evidence of the strong programme and the enthusiasm within the section.
She expressed thanks to assistant leaders Karen Elliott and Dave Bustard, along with all parent helpers who contributed throughout the year. An open invitation remains for parents to consider joining the leadership team to build future capacity. The report concluded to warm applause from those present.
Beavers – Report by Section Leader Jaz
Jaz reported excellent numbers in the Beaver section, with nine new Beavers joining this year, bringing the section to full capacity. Young Leaders Holly and Patrick were thanked for their consistent support and leadership development.
In total, 243 badges were awarded across the year — evidence of consistent attendance, participation and progress in core skills. The Beavers enjoyed a busy social calendar, including a summer fun day, Halloween celebration, St Patrick’s Day activities and a Christmas party. External visitors included St John Ambulance and representatives from the PSNI, which provided valuable educational engagement.
Parents were thanked for their support throughout the year, and Jaz noted that additional parent helpers or new leaders would allow the section to sustain and potentially expand. The Beaver section report was met with applause.
Scouts & Explorers – Reports by Bjorn O’Brien and Bob (Explorer Leader)
Bjorn O’Brien gave a brief outline of the year’s activities within the Scout Troop. The section is currently preparing for the forthcoming Scout Camp at Peter Thompson Hall, Castlerock, which will provide outdoor skills development and team-building opportunities.
Stuart Cullen offered formal thanks to the newly appointed Explorer Leaders, James and Bob, who have taken on leadership responsibilities within the senior age group.
Bob then provided a short report on the Explorer section, speaking to the strong sense of friendship and continuity that Scouting provides as young people move through the older
sections. This year’s programme included a series of hikes at Portballintrae, Binevenagh and Crawfordsburn, alongside survival nights and practical skills sessions. He emphasised both the personal development and the retention benefits of the Explorer programme. This report was also met with applause.