Guiding News
A GIRL GUIDES NSW, ACT & NT NEWSLETTER
A Note from the Editor
Welcome to edition three of our organisational newsletter for all Adult Members, Trefoil Guild Members, Staff, Junior Leaders, and Youth Advisory Committee Members with Girl Guides NSW, ACT & NT. With an average of 72% of readers using a phone to read this flipbook, and just 19% of you using a desktop, we’ve published this edition in a format to fit most smartphone screens.
Continuing to honour this publication’s mission of only delivering news, updates, and articles that matter to our audience, we again have published contributions from all corners of Guiding.
And on that note, if you have a Guiding good news story to tell, I’d love to learn more about it! Get in contact on my email below.
Thanks again for being a part of our Guiding community, and happy reading!
Jamie Shepheard (he/him) Senior Manager, Digital, Marketing & Communication jamie@girlguides-nswactnt.org.au
State Commissioner from the
From the State Commissioner
Hello Sisters in Guiding,
Welcome back to Term 4! We have an exciting term ahead, especially with JOTA/JOTI. This event gives our youth members the chance to connect with not just other Guides around the state but also make connections at a national and international level. It is also fabulous that many regions are taking the warmer weather and longer days as an opportunity to camp, which will provide the girls interested in attending the 2025 Bush to Beach Australian Jamboree with valuable nights under canvas.
Recently, Kirstyn, Rachel and I have had the pleasure of attending several award ceremonies, celebrating members who have dedicated an incredible number of years of service to Girl Guides NSW, ACT and NT. Congratulations to everyone who received an award, whether it was for a year or an incredible 60 or 65 years of service – your commitment is truly appreciated!
I am also pleased to announce two new appointments: Virginia Brown as the State Outdoor Lead and Felicity Riddle as the State Learning and Development Co-ordinator. Congratulations!
However, we are still seeking members for a few other key roles:
• State Young Women’s Lead (a role for a member aged between 18 and 30);
• State AGP Lead; and
• Chair of the Water Activities Committee.
There are also openings on several Board Committees, including the:
• Finance, Audit and Investment Committee;
• Governance, Nominations and Remuneration Committee; and
• Membership Strategy Committee.
If you or someone you know is interested in helping lead our vibrant community of volunteers, we’d love to have you join us! You will find more information about t hese roles on the Girl Guides NSW, ACT & NT website under Opportunities and on pages 8–11 of this newsletter. We would strongly like to encourage young women as well to apply for all these positions and help us shape the future of Guiding.
Lastly, I’d like to give a special thank you to Chesne Jones, who is retiring after many years as State Archivist. Chesne, we deeply appreciate your dedication and service in this important role.
Let’s make Term 4 a fantastic one And Keep that Guiding light shining brightly!
Jo Tonon (she/her)
State Commissioner sc@girlguides-nswactnt.org.au
Girl Guides Learning Has Officially Launched!
We are thrilled to announce that the much-anticipated Girl Guides Learning platform is now live! As part of Girl Guides Australia’s (GGA) ongoing commitment to enhancing learning and development, we, at Girl Guides NSW, ACT & NT have transitioned from the previous eGuiding portal to a more streamlined, flexible platform designed to meet the evolving needs of our Gui de Leaders and Volunteers.
In our email on 6 August, we shared details of this exciting transition, outlining how the new platform would offer shorter, more accessible courses with innovative features like micro-credentialing, digital badges, and virtual events. We also reminded users to complete any ongoing eGuiding modules by September 15, ahead of a two-week training break for data migra tion.
We extended the training break slightly to better align with the end of school holidays, ensuring that our Guide Leaders and Volunteers had the time and space to relax during the spring break. As a result, Girl Guides Learning officially went live on Thursday, 10 October, allowing everyone to ease back into learning at a more convenient time.
What to Expect with Girl Guides Learning
Now that the platform is live, here’s what users can expect:
• User FAQs are now available on the GGA website to help you navigate the new platform.
• Anyone who completed modules in eGuiding now have single sign-o n access to Girl Guides Learning. Log onto My GuideBook and you’re auto-magicall y logged in to GGL.
• All other Adults in Guiding who haven’t completed modules in eG uiding will also receive their login details via email.
We are excited for you to explore the new platform and take advantage of its enhanced features. Thank you for your patience and enthusiasm as we make this transition. We’re confident that Girl Guides Learning will provide a more enriching and flexible exper ience for all. Happy learning!
Join the Team for Jamboree 2025: Your Chance to Lead, Create, and Inspire!
Jamboree 2025 is less than a year away! Below are some fantastic opportunities for you to be part of this unforgettable event—we’re looking for passionate and dynamic individuals to join our team in key positions that will shape the Jamboree experience. Are you ready to make a difference? Check out the roles below and see how you can contribute to this amazing adventure!
Contingent Leaders - Lead the Way!
Are you a born leader with a knack for communication and organisation? We need enthusiastic State Liaison/Contingent Leaders to guide our participants through every step of their Jamboree journey. You’ll be responsible for managing travel arrangements, creating state-specific materials, and ensuring smooth coordination before, during, and after the event. If you have leadership experience and strong communication skills, this is your chance to step up and inspire others!
Take the lead—apply today and help make Jamboree 2025 a success !
Program Team Members - Set the Stage for Excitement!
Do you love creating memorable experiences? Our Program Team is vital to bringing the magic of Jamboree to life! We are looking for creative and organised ind ividuals to be:
Opening and Closing Ceremony LICs: Help design and execute engaging ceremonies that kick off and conclude the Jamboree. From organizing MCs and performers to managing tech support, this is your chance to set the tone for the entire event!
14+ Expedition LICs: Develop thrilling expeditions for participants aged 14 and up! Whether it’s theme park visits, kayaking adventures, or bike tours, you’ll design experiences that push boundaries and inspire. Up to 14 expeditions will be offered, with a maximum of 30 participants per expedition. If you love planning exciting activities, this is the role for you!
Bring your creativity and event management skills to Jamboree 2025—apply to be part of the Program Team today!
Catering Team Member - Fuel the Fun!
Are you organized and detail-oriented? Join our Catering Team to ensure our participants and staff are well-fed and energised! As a Catering Team Member, you’ll coordinate with suppliers, manage pricing and delivery logistics, and collaborate closely with the catering team to keep everything running smoothly. You’ll report to the Catering Team Manager and play an integral role in planning meetings and weekends.
Help us keep everyone nourished and happy—join the Catering Tea m!
Medical Centre Administration Team Member - Support Our Health Heroes!
Looking to make a difference behind the scenes? Our Medical Centre Administration Team is crucial to ensuring the health and safety of everyone at Jamboree 2025. As an administrative team member, you’ll manage records, handle supplies, assist with check-ins and check-outs, and support the medical team in emergencies. Strong organisational and communication skills are a must, and previous medical administration experience is a plus.
Be a vital part of our team’s well-being—apply for the Medical Centre Administration Team today!
Got Questions? We’ve Got Answers!
If you have any questions about Jamboree 2025 or the roles available, check out our FAQs on the
website or email us directly at Jamboree@girlguides-nswactnt.org.au. We’re here to help and can’t wait to hear from you!
Don’t miss this chance to be a part of something extraordinary—apply now and help create the adventure of a lifetime at Jamboree 2025!
Let’s make Jamboree 2025 an unforgettable experience together!
International Opportunities with Girl Guides Australia (GGA)
The online session will be held on Sunday, 2 November 2024 at 3.30 pm (NT—ACST), 4pm (ACT & NSW—AEDST) and will run for about an hour.
For those interested please register your interest by emailing accyoungwomen@girlguides.org.au, including your full name and that your a Member of Girl Guides NSW, ACT & NT.
A link will be provided to those who register the Friday before the information session.
If you have any questions, or would like more information please email Laura Ives Hicks (Assistant Chief Commissioner (Young Women)) at accyoungwomen@girlguides.org.au
Girl Guides Australia International Travel Opportunities Information Session
The GGA International Coordinator and the Assistant Chief Commissioner (Young Women) will be hosting an online information session on opportunities for Members to travel with Guides. The session will hear from Girl Guides across Australia who have had a variety of experiences traveling with Guides.
From volunteering at a World Centre, attending an International Jamboree, participating in the Juliette Low Seminars or Helen Storrow Seminar,and more, there are so many ways to explore the globe though Guiding!
Swiss Splendour: Geneva’s Culture + Alpine Escape
11 January 2025 – 21 January 2025
Escape the Australian summer heat and experience the magic of “winter” in the Swiss Alps. Our Chalet is an ideal location to enjoy the snow (tobogganing and cross-country skiing) and to delight in the breathtaking alpine views.
Discover Geneva – visit the UN offices, enjoy a day tour to Mont Blanc and surrounds, and an excursion to Gruyeres Village where you will tour the town and savour the tastes of local cheese and chocolate.
(NB this package does not include downhill skiing or snowboarding).
How much: Cost and payment schedule will be displayed on the Girl Guides Australia website at www.girlguides.org.au
What’s included:
• Return airfares from Sydney to Geneva
• Airport transfers, accommodation, breakfasts and tours (incl. lunch) in Geneva
• Transport to Our Chalet
• All-inclusive accommodation, meals,
What’s NOT included:
• Domestic return travel to Sydney
• Lunch on the first day and evening meals in Geneva
onsite activities & programme at Our Chalet
• International scarf and badge
• Contingent t-shirt and cap
• Travel insurance
• Any independent sightseeing (where applicable)
• Personal spending money, snacks, passports and visas
Who : Adult Members of Girl Guiding in Australia
Contingent – limited spots, 10Members only!
(Enquiries for the role of Contingent Leader welcomed)
Applications : go to www.girlguides.org.au/international-opportunities/swiss-splendo ur-genevasculture-and-alpine-escape/ DO NOT APPLY THROUGH GIRL GUIDE TRAVELLER
Closing date: 17 November 2024
Questions? : may be asked of the GGA National Coordinator – International Joy Ord by email at international@girlguides.org.au.
Committee Positions with Girl Guides NSW, ACT & NT
Join Our Dynamic Committees and Shape the Future of Girl Guides NSW, ACT & NT!
Are you passionate about making a difference in the community? Do you have a keen interest in governance, finance, or membership strategy? Now is your chance to contribute your skills, knowledge, and experience to help guide the future of Girl Guides NSW, ACT & NT by joining one of our three key Board Committees.
We are currently seeking dedicated individuals to fill vacancies on the following Committees:
• Finance, Audit and Investment Committee
• Governance, Nominations and Remuneration Committee
• Membership Strategy Committee
This is a fantastic opportunity to get involved, develop your professional skills, and contribute to the growth and success of an organisation that empowers young girls and women.
Finance, Audit and Investment Committee
This committee plays a vital role in ensuring the financial health of Girl Guides NSW, ACT & NT. As a member of the Finance, Audit and Investment Committee, you will:
• Assist in maintaining the integrity of financial reporting and d isclosures.
• Help safeguard the organisation by ensuring robust internal controls.
• Oversee investment strategies and policies.
• Work closely with external auditors to ensure the highest stand ards of accountability.
• Play an active role in identifying and addressing potential fina ncial risks.
• If you have a background in finance, accounting, or auditing, th is is the perfect committee for you to leverage your expertise while supporting a mission-driven organisation.
Governance, Nominations and Remuneration Committee
This committee ensures that Girl Guides NSW, ACT & NT has the leadership and governance structure needed to thrive. As a committee member, your responsibilities will include:
• Ensuring the Board is composed of suitably skilled and diverse individuals.
• Supporting the appointment of new Directors and overseeing their induction and development.
• Guiding succession planning for key leadership roles, including the CEO and senior staff.
• Providing insights on remuneration and compensation strategies for Directors and executives.
If you are passionate about leadership, governance, and people development, your skills will make a significant impact here.
Membership Strategy Committee
This committee focuses on growing and engaging our membership. As a member of the Membership Strategy Committee, you will:
• Provide strategic direction on brand and marketing initiatives.
• Lead the charge in developing digital strategies to enhance the member experience.
• Drive growth initiatives, partnerships, and networking opportun ities that will elevate the organisation’s profile and reach.
If you have experience in marketing, branding, or digital strategy, this is an exciting opportunity to help shape the future of Girl Guides and expand our influence.
Why Join a Committee?
Joining one of these committees is more than just a volunteer position – it’s a chance to be part of something bigger. You will:
• Make a difference: Your work will directly contribute to the success and sustaina bility of an organisation that positively impacts girls and women.
• Expand your professional network: You’ll collaborate with passionate, like-minded individuals from diverse professional backgrounds.
• Develop new skills: Gain valuable governance experience that will enhance your leadership and strategic capabilities.
• Represent the voice of youth: We are committed to including at least two members under 30 years old on each committee. Your insights and fresh perspectives are needed!
Terms of Appointment
Committee members are appointed for an initial two-year term, with the possibility of extension for up to six years in total. This ensures continuity while allowing for fresh perspectives to be introduced regularly. We also offer flexibility, with options for temporary leave of absence and the potential to re-apply after a year’s break following the completion of your term.
Apply Today!
Don’t miss this unique opportunity to play a key role in the governance and strategic direction of Girl Guides NSW, ACT & NT. If you are ready to contribute your skills and join a dynamic, purpose-driven organisation, we encourage you to apply for a position on one of these committees.
For more information and to submit your expression of interest, please visit our website
Together, we can continue to empower and inspire the next generation of girls and young women. Join us today and be part of something extraordinary!
Exciting Leadership Opportunities with Girl Guides
NSW, ACT & NT!
Are you ready to step up, lead, and make a lasting impact in Girl Guides NSW, ACT & NT? We have several key leadership positions, offering you the chance to play a pivotal role in shaping our future. These leadership roles are your opportunity to inspire, support, and make a real difference in the lives of girls and young women across the State.
We are currently seeking passionate and committed individuals t o fill the following leadership roles:
• Young Women Lead (for members aged between 18 and 30)
• Australian Guide Program (AGP) Lead
• Chair of the Water Activities Committee.
These positions are not only vital to the success of Girl Guides NSW, ACT & NT, but they also offer a unique opportunity to hone your leadership skills, expand your network, and make a meaningful impact.
Young Women Lead
Are you a young woman between 18 and 30 who is passionate about empowering others and championing youth leadership? The State Young Women Lead role is designed to elevate the experiences and opportunities for young women within Girl Guides NSW, ACT & NT.
As the State Young Women Lead, you will:
• Enable leadership and empowerment: Through programs and strategies, you will lead initiatives that help young women thrive, both in and outside of Guiding.
• Investigate and promote pathways for leadership: You will work to create and highlight opportunities for young women to develop leadership s kills and take on new roles within the organisation.
• Amplify our Mission : Your work will directly contribute to our goal of inspiring a nd enabling young women to reach their full potential.
This is a transformative opportunity to drive change and advocate for the voices of young women. If you are passionate about leadership and empowerment, we encourage you to apply!
Australian Guide Program (AGP) Lead
The State AGP Lead will take on a critical role in shaping the delivery and growth of our core program across the State. In this role, you will:
• Lead a dedicated team : You will manage a group of committed volunteers and work closely with teams across various Regions to enhance program delivery.
• Collaborate for success: You’ll align program objectives with the State Strategic Plan and national Guiding goals, ensuring consistency, innovation, and impact across all regions.
• Make a lasting impact: Your leadership will ensure that the Australian Guide Program remains vibrant, engaging, and relevant for Guides across NSW, ACT & NT.
This is an exciting leadership role for anyone passionate about program development and strategic growth. If you are ready to lead a team and shape the future of Guiding, this is the perfect opportunity for you!
Chair of the Water Activities Committee
Are you passionate about outdoor activities, especially those on the water? The Chair of the Water Activities Committee is responsible for overseeing and promoting the use of our State Water Activities Centre, RTS Tingira.
In this role, you will:
• Manage the operations of RTS Tingira: Oversee the property’s operation and ensure it remains a hub for water activities for Guides and other permitted users.
• Pr omote water activities: You will plan, organise, and implement a range of waterbased activities, ensuring they are safe, fun, and educational.
• Support and advise Regions: You’ll offer guidance to Regions on water activities, ensuring safety protocols and opportunities are consistently maintained across the State.
If you have experience or passion for water activities and outdoor leadership, this role offers an exciting opportunity to lead a vibrant team and contribute to the outdoor adventure experience for our Guides.
Why Take On a Leadership Role with Us?
These leadership positions offer much more than just a title. By stepping into one of these roles, you will:
• Develop your leadership skills: Gain valuable experience leading teams, managing programs, and driving strategic initiatives.
• Make a difference: Your efforts will directly support the growth and success of Girl Guides NSW, ACT & NT, benefiting countless young women and girls
• Join a supportive network: You will work alongside other committed and passionate leaders, expanding your professional network and making lifelon g connections.
• Be part of something bigger: Whether it’s through empowering young women, enhancing our programs, or promoting outdoor water activities, you’ll have the chance to leave a lasting impact.
Apply Now!
We invite you to take the next step in your Guiding journey by applying for one of these rewarding leadership positions. Whether you’re passionate about youth leadership, program development, or outdoor activities, we have a role that matches your skills and interests.
For more information and to submit your expression of interest, please visit our website
Join us today and help shape the future of Girl Guides NSW, ACT & NT! Together, we can inspire the next generation of confident, capable, and empowered women.
Gone Home
Bethany Lennox (McGeachie) 1990-2024.
Bethany joined Singleton Junior Guides when she was 6 and made her Guiding journey through the movement gaining her BP award. She had a break and then returned as a Leader of Muswellbrook Junior Guides. Bethany's Guide name was Butterfly and like her name everywhere she went and the people she touched she left happiness. Bethany passed away unexpectantly and it was an honour to have mentored Bethany through her Guiding journey from that first day in Junior Guides to receiving her Leader appointment. Bethany will watch over her husband Phil and sons Tristan and Jonah.
Jo Tonon
outdoor Lead from the
From the Outdoor Lead
When submitting an OUT01, the LiC needs to confirm if all adults assisting with the activity/camp, meet our organisation’s compliance requirements. The LiC also needs to indicate that she has done this, by email, when submitting the OUT01.
Some adults may not have completed our compliance requirements. Depending on the activity and how many times they have assisted with a Girl Guide activity, they may still take part. There are no issues with this, but write it in your email.
It is not the responsibility of staff at Guide House to rush or shorten the compliance process so that Ongoing Volunteers can attend an activity/camp.
Virginia Brown Outdoor Lead outdoor@girlguides-nswactnt.org.au
From the Sustainability Lead
from the SustainABILITY
Lead
Do you want to help protect the Great Barrier Reef?
You can help reef managers prioritise areas for protection by participating in this citizen science project. By using your computer/device to look at an image and determine by multiple choice what type of coral is highlighted. It is very easy and don’t be frightened of making a mistake as each image is analysed five times by five different people. Your dashboard will track how many images you have analysed. Please send me an email of how many photos you have analysed so I can keep track of how much we are contributing to this project. I wonder which Member, Unit or District can analyse the most images? Maybe also share what badge or part of a badge yo u are using this activity for.
Find out more at:
• the Great Reef Census website, and
• this Citizens of the great Barrier Reef YouTube video
Thanks for doing your bit for our environment.
Janice Johnstone
Sustainability Lead sustainability@girlguides-nswactnt.org.au
From the Inclusion Lead inclusion Lead from the
‘Every time someone steps up and says who they are, the world becomes a better, more interesting place.’ - Captain Raymond Holt, Brooklyn Nine Nine
Autism Awareness Training with Sue Larkey
On September 29, Northern Sydney hosted Sue Larkey at the Chatswood Girl Guide Hall to run an Autism Awareness Training, focused on supporting Guides with diverse needs in our Units. This training was funded by a Club Grant, which allowed free attendance for Girl Guides Members.
Sue Larkey offered an incredible amount of valuable information and strategies, and all attendees left with a couple new additions to their toolkit. Some of the simple yet effective strategies Sue offered included:
1. 5 Minute Warnings . As a high teacher, I LOVE providing five minute warnings to my students, however I hadn’t considered their use at Guides (silly, I know!). When completing an activity, to allow all Guides to access and complete the activity to the best of their ability, provide a five minute warning when preparing to wrap up and move on. This will allow Guides to wrap up without feeling rushed, and let others get started.
2. Chatty And/Or Movement Breaks . Many of us provide movement breaks in our units for Guides to move around to stimulate those who get a bit fidgety or antsy. If you don’t already do this, give it a go! A ‘chatty’ break can also be beneficial for those Guides who need to talk, rather than move.
If you are interested in more information and resources, please access the ‘Sue Larkey’ website , or listen to her podcast, aptly named, ‘The Sue Larkey Podcast.’
A big thank you and BRAVO to Allison Capetta, Region Manager of Nothern Sydney, for her organisation of this fantastic training.
Mental Health Awareness Month: October
As many of you may be aware, October has been named ‘Mental Health Month.’ This provides an opportunity for organisations and governments to raise awareness regarding the importance of caring for our own and others’ mental health.
Whilst many individuals view caring for mental health as something to do when your mental health gets bad, in recent years there has been a push for around the clock care of one’s mental wellbeing.
This month is the perfect opportunity to educate our Guides, our friends and our families, around caring for our mental wellbeing. This could include:
• Conversations around emotional regulation. What does the term ‘emotional regulation’ mean? How can we tell when we are becoming disregulated? How can we recognise our triggers? How can we recognise and identify our emotions, and r egulate these?
• Recognising and identifying negative emotions . We all experience lots of different emotions, negative and positive. Being able to identify our different negative emotions, eg. irritation or anger, sadness or agitation, allows the opportunity to verbalise to others how we are feeling, and soothe these emotions when we experience them.
• Identifying important organisations. It is important to know that help is ALWAYS out there. Australia has access to some incredible organisations to assist in caring for our mental health, including Headspace, Batyr, the Butterfly Foundation, the Black Dog Institute, Kids Helpline, and Lifeline.
• Dopamine Menus. You may have seen these on Instagram or Tik Tok! ‘Dopamine Menus’ invite individuals to create a ‘menu’ of activities that help them feel better when they are down and need a pick me up. Ideally, these activities are completed on a regular basis to ensure time is made for enjoyable and leisurely activities.
I encourage you to make time for one of these discussions, or simply ask someone, ‘ How are you, really?’
Mardi Gras 2025
This time of year is usually when we begin preparing for Mardi Gras Fair Day and the Mardi Gras Parade. Unfortunately, Girl Guides NSW, ACT & NT, has been unsuccessful in our application to march in the 2025 Mardi Gras Parade.
We will still be hosting a stall at Mardi Gras Fair Day in February 2025, so if you are interested in helping out at this fantastic community event, please express your interest when Expressions of Interest open.
THANK YOU for your continued support of inclusivity and acceptance in Girl Guides. SO MANY Guides benefit from the safe spaces that are provided in Units, Distric ts, and Regions due to the hardwork of our volunteers.
Julia Becker
Inclusion Lead inclusion@girlguides-nswactnt.org.au
From the Property Manager
property Manager from the
Whether it’s ensuring our beloved Tingira boatshed is restored to its full glory, renewing our insurance to keep everything safe and sound, or preparing for upcoming grant opportunities, there’s a lot happening behind the scenes. We truly appreciate your continued support, and with your help, we can ensure our properties remain welcoming and well-maintained spaces for all to enjoy. Here’s what you need to know!
RTS Tingira Boatshed Update
As many of you are aware, the boatshed at Tingira has been closed for several months due to structural concerns. We are pleased to inform you that repair work is scheduled to begin at the end of October. These repairs are necessary to ensure the boatshed is safe and structurally sound, allowing us to fully support programs and activities at Tingira.
We anticipate that the repairs will be completed just before Christmas, with the aim of having the boatshed open and ready for use by March 2025. We appreciate your patience during this time and are excited to see the boatshed return to full functionality.
Property Insurance for 2025
With the renewal of our property insurance coming up in December, we’ve already begun working with our brokers to ensure a smooth process. This insurance covers buildings, contents, trailers, and watercraft, and we need your assistance to ensure all assets are appropriately covered.
This month, Districts and Campsites will receive an email requesting the following information:
• A list of buildings and structures on your property
• The amount (in $) of contents cover you require (with a high-level asset list to be completed)
• The amount you wish to insure for business interruption (e.g., lost revenue from hall hire)
• A list of trailers and other vehicles requiring cover
• A list of watercraft needing insurance
Region Managers will be copied on this correspondence. Please note that the Association will only insure assets we have confirmed knowledge of, so it’s crucial that you respond promptly. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to the Property Team
Upcoming Major Property Grant Rounds for 2024
Two significant annual government grant rounds are opening soon, and we want to ensure everyone is prepared to make the most of these opportunities. Community Building Partnership (CBP) are expected to open mid to late October. These grants provide excellent funding opportunities for Guide properties in NSW, and typically, the application window is quite short—about a month from the time the grant opens. There have been changes made to the Crown Reserves Improvement Fund (CRIF) by the NSW Government this year.
Community Building Partnership (CBP)
As in previous years, the Property Team will run an Expression of Interest (EOI) process to determine which projects will be supported for submission. If your District or Campsite needs upgrades or repairs, now is the time to:
1. Start gathering quotes;
2. Prepare a brief story about the work you want funded and why; a nd
3. Collect letters of support from local MPs, councillors, or community members.
We’ll circulate details on CBP dates and the EOI process as soon as the round opens. Information will be shared on the website, our socials, and via emails to Region Managers to distribute to Districts. Please remember, all CBP applications must go through the centralised EOI process, regardless of project size.
Also, note that the compliance status of halls and campsites will be considered when determining which projects to support. Please ensure your test and tag, fire safety checks, and reports are up to date and submitted to the Property Team.
Crown Reserves Improvement Fund (CRIF)
Changes to the CRIF program this year mean that Girl Guides properties are unlikely to be eligible to apply for this round.
The CRIF 2024/25 grant round has just been announced. The terms of this grant round are very different to previous years.
The CRIF programme is a NSW Govt programme that provides financial support for the maintenance, improvement or development of Crown Reserves. This grant round is only available for Girl Guides properties in NSW for which Guides are the Crown Land Manager.
Grants open on Monday 21 October, and close on Friday 22 November. Successful projects will be announced in May 2025. Projects must be completed within 12 mo nths of receipt of funds.
Girl Guides properties are unlikely to be eligible to apply for the 2024/25 general grant round because of the terms of this round, including:
1. This grant round is targeting a smaller number of highly utilized reserves with projects that will have high community impact.
2. As part of the application, annual visitation numbers must be given, with supporting evidence. Under 10,000 visitors per annum gives a score of 0 for 40% of the application assessment process. None of our Crown Lands properties would currently have annual visitor numbers at that level.
3. The minimum grant amount is $100,000 for this grant round. A $100,000 + project is a large project that would require months of planning, obtaining quotes, and probably getting planning approvals. To our knowledge, there are no shovel ready projects of this scale for any of our Crown Reserve properties.
It’s not completely doom amd gloom with CRIF news. There is also a pest and weed eradication grant round for applications from $500 to $200,000. We could potentially apply for this for some of our larger Crown Lands properties such as the campsites – but the application requires very specific information, including self-assessment of the application again st specific legislation.
Because of the revised nature of the grant round this time, the EOI process will only be open from Monday 21 October to 9am Monday 28 October. Please email grants@girlguides-nswactnt.org.au with the following information:
1. A description of the project, including the current state of the property (please include photos) and the desired outcome;
2. A brief description of how the project will have a significant c ommunity impact;
3. Any plans or drawings that have been prepared for the project;
4. Evidence of annual visitation numbers for 2022, 2023 and 2024 to date, and a breakdown of Guides usage/visitation numbers and non-Guides usage/visitation numbers;
5. Quotes for the works; and
6. Details of any funds to be contributed by the District or Regio n towards the project
We will contact Districts/Regions to discuss their projects as and when we receive any EOIs.
Please note, the Association will not support any applications that are submitted directly.
Got Questions?
If you have any property-related queries or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at propertyadmin@girlguides-nswactnt.org.au. We are here to assist and will do our best to address your needs.
Thank you for your continued support and dedication. Let’s work together to ensure our properties are safe, functional, and ready to serve our communities!
Barbara Cuthbert Property Manager
In Event News
JOTA-JOTI
Event News in
JOTA-JOTI starts today! Steps to register and participate in JOTA-JOTI World Scouting Activities are available in My GuideBook, here.
There was some confusion regarding which JOTA-JOTI events require approval by the Outdoor Lead. To clarify, any day or overnight event where Scout Members will be physically present alongside Girl Guides Members must receive approval from the Outdoor Lead. Online and radio interactions with Scouts are considered low-risk activities and do not require Ou tdoor Lead approval.
As always, any Girl Guides-only camp approvals should be submitted to your ROAC through the usual process. If you have any questions regarding outdoor activities, please contact your ROAC.
Dolphin Day – Last Call for Registrations
A friendly reminder that registrations for Dolphin Day close this weekend, on 20 October. This year’s event features a special guest, Diver Dave, from Diver Dave’s Ocean Adventures ! There are only a few spots left for Saturday’s Dolphin Day . Once these are filled, a wait list will be available on the event’s webpage. If there is enough interest from the waitlist, we’ll o pen a second Dolphin Day on Sunday.
Oarsome Day Cancellation
Unfortunately, Oarsome Day has been cancelled by the Water Activities Committee. The focus has shifted towards enhancing camping skills and helping participants gain nights under canvas, especially as part of their preparation for the Australian Jamboree in 2025.
Water Courses – Term 4 Registrations Open
Registrations are now open for the Trefoil 3, and Adult Canoe/Kayak course. Additionally, we’re offering a Stand-up Paddleboard (SUP) training session for $10 per person. This is available for those with current Trefoil 3 Boating Canoe Kayak or Conduct/Assess/Instructor Canoe Kayak qualifications. As more Units request paddleboarding activities, the Water Activities Committee recommends that all Leaders with the above qualifications undergo this training, either through this session or with a reputable external provider, before taking Youth Members paddle boarding as Activity Leaders.
Way to Go Alpine Hiking
We’re excited to announce the launch of the Way to Go Alpine Hiking series! The first training session will take place in the ACT from 1–3 November, with another hike planned for late November to help participants further develop their hiking skills.
For more information on any of these events, please visit the What’s On page or feel free to contact me with any questions or concerns on the email address below.
Lydia Morris Event Manager events@girlguides-nswactnt.org.au
In celebration of International Day of the Girl 2024, we are thrilled to be running a Youth Member Competition with the exciting theme… ‘The Future I Dream of.’
Youth Members (ages 5–17) are invited to create an artwork that showcases their dream! Using any medium that speaks to them –think paints, pencils, natural minerals like dried flowers and leaves, recycled materials, or even digital design.
Prizes will be available, and artworks will be judged on their creativity & originality, artistic skill and the strength of the message they convey.
All designs must be submitted by midnight on 8 November 2024.
For more details, visit the Member’s Update in My GuideBook, here
Youth Members can enter the competition by filling out the competition entry form and uploading a pdf, jpeg, or png of their artwork online!
Thanks for reading!
If you have feedback, or wish to make a contribution, please se nd an email to communications@girlguides-nswactnt.org.au.