Guiding News
A GIRL GUIDES NSW, ACT & NT NEWSLETTER
A Note from the Editor
This edition of the Girl Guides NSW, ACT & NT newsletter highlights key updates, strategic initiatives, and upcoming events that are set to shape the organisation’s journey in 2025 :
Leadership: Messages from State Commissioner, and Chief Commissioner with focus on growth and role modelling.
Finance : Bharti Desai is the new Treasurer. Changes to the Guiding Support Fund.
Property : Building reports in progress. Safety. Efficiency. Better upkee p.
Recruitment : “Ready Steady Recruit” campaign. Clear steps. Big impact.
Branded Promotion : ProShop. Order anytime – powered by VistaPrint.
Learning : Digital platform updates. Earn badges. Enhanced training.
Events : a new year of Guiding adventure awaits.
Tribute : Honoring Judy Button. Lifelong Guiding legacy.
Overall, this edition encapsulates a year of transformation, growth, and renewed energy as Girl Guides NSW, ACT & NT continue to empower girls and young women while enhancing organisational operations for the future.
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 S isters in Guiding,
Welcome back to an action-packed year of Guiding which includes Bush to Beach Jamboree . The team are working very hard to produce a once in a lifetime experience for our Youth Members. Registrations close at the end of March so now is the time to make sure you have checked in with Guides aged 10 - 17 if they have commenced their registration or if they need help completing it.
As you welcome back the girls, please take the time to set expectations for Units, discussing your Unit rules. These should include positive behaviour statements for example, Be kind and respectful to others, Help clean up at the end of an activity etc.
Youth sized shirts are now available and ready for purchase. Suggest if parents are looking for navy pants, skirts, skorts etc look at where school uniforms are being sold to purchase affordable items. Please wear your uniform with pride and as an example to others with correct shirt and navy bottoms with enclosed shoes for meetings.
Looking at the program for the term ahead, consider the activities the girls have chosen to do and do they fit into the Guiding fundamentals of the Australian Guide Program, is there a good balance and variety to keep everyone engaged and interested.
This year I would like to focus on membership growth and would love to hear what you are doing in Districts to retain and build up numbers in Units. Is it the quality program, dedicated enthusiastic Leaders, outdoor opportunities, collaboration between Districts or Regions to create amazing camps and events? Why are you a Member of this inspiring organisation that advocates for empowering
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women? What do you tell others when they ask? I tell them, Girl Guides has been a safe place for me to grow and develop as a young woman. It has been supportive with mentors while I learnt skills I use outside of Guiding and now have the amazing opportunity to lead. I have a network of women who have become lifelong friends, there are so many opportunities to grow while having fun. The best part is being that mentor to other women especially young women and to see them flourish as empowered, confident people achieving their goals.
Aim High, Look Wide, Look Wider Still!
Yours in Guiding
Jo Tonon (she/her)
State Commissioner sc@girlguides-nswactnt.org.au
Empowering Financial Leadership:
Welcoming Bharti Desai as Treasurer at
Girl Guides NSW, ACT & NT
Girl Guides NSW, ACT & NT are excited to share some inspiring news as we step into 2025 with renewed energy and commitment. Our Board has appointed Bharti Desai as the new Treasurer , effective from our Board meeting on 6 February 2025 . With a distinguished career spanning not-forprofit, government, and commercial sectors, Bharti brings a wealth of expertise in finance, strategic leadership, and operational excellence.
A PROVEN LEADER IN FINANCIAL GOVERNANCE
Bharti is a seasoned executive known for her commercial acumen and robust financial management. Her extensive experience includes:
• Leading financial operations and corporate functions.
• Serving as second-in-command to CEOs and providing secretariat support to Risk, Finance, and Audit Committees.
• Managing contracts, overseeing HR functions, and driving successful technological transformation projects.
• Preparing NFP Board papers and contributing to sustainable growth initiatives aligned with strategic priorities.
In addition to her impressive track record, Bharti is a member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors (AICD). She is passionate about leveraging her skills to enhance financial governance and ensure that our organisation remains financially sustainable as we continue to empower girls to discover, grow, and lead.
A STRATEGIC ROLE FOR A DYNAMIC FUTURE
In her role as Treasurer, Bharti will be responsible for:
• Keeping the Board updated on financial, property, and audit matt ers.
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• Overseeing the preparation and auditing of our annual financial statements.
• Ensuring that robust financial policies are developed and implemented to support our mission. Bharti’s appointment comes at a pivotal time. As we embrace the challenges and opportunities of the new year, her expertise will be instrumental in reinforcing the financial foundations that allow our volunteers and staff to focus on what matters most—empowering girls.
A UNIFIED VISION FOR GROWTH
Board Chair Sue Belling emphasises that every stakeholder plays a crucial role in our success. “Volunteers are the fuel that powers Girl Guides, and our operational staff are the engine room making sure our processes and systems work effectively. With Bharti joining our team, we are well-equipped to start 2025 refreshed and enthusiastic,” Sue shared.
JOIN US IN WELCOMING BHARTI
I invite all Members, Volunteers, and Staff to extend a warm welcome to Bharti. Whether you see her at a committee meeting, at Guide House, or at our Annual General Meeting in May, let’s show our support as she embarks on this important journey with us.
At Girl Guides, we believe every girl deserves the chance to explore who she is and shape her future. With leaders like Bharti Desai on board, we are confident in our continued ability to empower and inspire the next generation of leaders, creators, and changemakers.
Dear Leaders, Volunteers, and Staff,
From the State Commissioner Chief Commissioner from the GiA
Dear Leaders, Volunteers, and Staff,
Happy New Year and welcome to 2025! As we step into this exciting new year, we celebrate the incredible impact you continue to have in the lives of girls and young women. Your passion, dedication and leadership are what make the Girl Guides movement so powerful, and I am so grateful for the vital role you each play in shaping the girls of today and leaders of tomorrow.
Happy New Year and welcome to 2025! As we step into this exciting new year, we celebrate the incredible impact you continue to have in the lives of girls and young women. Your passion, dedication and leadership are what make the Girl Guides movement so powerful, and I am so grateful for the vital role you each play in shaping the girls of today and leaders of tomorrow.
This year promises to be one filled with positive challenges, learning opportunities, and moments of growth. As we embark on this journey together, let’s keep inspiring each other and the girls we guide, encouraging them to be confident, passionate, and brave in everything they do.
This year promises to be one filled with positive challenges, learning opportunities, and moments of growth. As we embark on this journey together, let’s keep inspiring each other and the girls we guide, encouraging them to be confident, passionate, and brave in every thing they do.
We have so much to look forward to in 2025. Whether it’s planning exciting adventures, creating memorable experiences, trying new things, or making a difference in our communities, your efforts will continue to build a supportive, empowering environment where every girl can thrive.
We have so much to look forward to in 2025. Whether it’s planning exciting adventures, creating memorable experiences, trying new things, or making a difference in our communities, your efforts will continue to build a supportive, empowering environment where every girl can thrive.
Thank you for your unwavering commitment, your tireless work, and for always leading with heart.
Your leadership shapes not just the Girl Guides of today, but the future of tomorrow. I look forward to hearing all about your adventures as I attend events around the country or see you at the Jamboree later this year.
Thank you for your unwavering commitment, your tireless work, and for always leading with heart. Your leadership shapes not just the Girl Guides of today, but the future of tomorrow. I look forward to hearing all about your adventures as I attend events around the country or see you at the Jamboree later this year.
Let’s make 2025 a year to remember!
Let’s make 2025 a year to remember!
Yours in Guiding,
Yours in Guiding,
Helen Reid Chief Commissioner, GGA
Helen Reid Chief Commissioner, Girl Guides Australia
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SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS
Girl Guides Australia (GGA) is reviewing the Code of Conduct, and we invite you to share your thoughts via a short survey – see link below. I welcome input from everyone, Adult Members, Volunteers and Staff.
The Code of Conduct sets the standards of behaviour expected of all adults participating in Girl Guiding in Australia. It is designed to ensure that all Adult Members, Volunteers and Employees of Girl Guides Australia (GGA) and State Girl Guide Organisations are aware of their obligations and responsibilities. It is important that the Code is easily understood and meets the needs of our organisation and the adults who are expected to abide by it.
The Code of Conduct
Review of the Code of Conduct Survey
Survey will be available until Friday 21st February so please take a few moments now to have your say.
property Manager from the
From the Property Manager
UPDATE ON THE PROGROUP BUILDING CONDITION REPORTS AND ORGANISATIONAL REVIEW OF ALL PROPERTIES
As part of our ongoing efforts to ensure sustainable operations and enhance the quality of our Guiding locations, we are pleased to share an update on the progress of the Progroup building condition reports and the comprehensive review of our properties. This initiative is a key component of our 2023–2026 Strategic Plan, designed to streamline property management, reduce administrative burdens, and focus resources on environments that best support our core Guiding activities.
WHERE ARE WE UP TO?
Distribution of Reports and Summaries by Region
• Distribution Status
All Regions have received the Progroup building condition reports for individual Halls and Campsites. These detailed reports have been sent to both District Managers and Region Managers for their review. Additionally, comprehensive Region summaries and recommendations for all properties have been forwarded to Region Managers, who are now in the process of reviewing them and providing feedback to the Property Team.
• Upcoming Deliverables:
The Region summaries and recommendations for properties will be presented at the Board’s March and April meetings.
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UNDERSTANDING THE PROGROUP REPORT CATEGORIES
The Progroup reports categorise action items into four distinct levels to help prioritise our maintenance and compliance efforts:
• Category 1: Urgent work (safety or compliance issues)
• Category 2: Work that poses no immediate health, safety, or compliance risk but should be completed within 12 months
• Category 3: Tasks that are not urgent and can be completed when funds become available
• Category 4 : Actions to be included in a regular compliance schedule
It is important to note that while some items are marked as Category 1, such as obtaining an AFSS for every property, these are not necessarily being assessed as immediate priorities. Instead, we will develop tailored maintenance plans in collaboration with each District and campsite alongside the Property Team.
WHAT DO WE KNOW SO FAR?
After reviewing over 200 building condition reports, we have observed several key trends:
• Positive Findings:
Some Halls and Campsites are well utilised and have benefited from consistent maintenance over the years.
• Areas for Improvement:
A significant number of properties are ageing, with some showing notable deterioration due to a lack of maintenance.
In cases where there is minimal Guiding activity, properties tend to be in poorer condition, highlighting a correlation between usage and upkeep.
• Compliance Issues:
There are widespread compliance gaps, particularly in areas such as fire safety and the testing and tagging of electrical equipment. continued over page
WHAT DO I NEED TO DO NOW?
For All Involved Parties:
• Annual Checklist Update:
The annual Property Maintenance Checklist is no longer required, as the Progroup reports have replaced it.
• Repairs and Maintenance:
There is no immediate expectation for Districts or Regions to undertake the repairs and maintenance identified in the reports. Decisions regarding which properties to retain, invest in, or divest will be made at the March Board meeting, where funding for repairs and maintenance will also be addressed. We recognise that not all Districts have the available funds to cover these costs immediately.
• Ongoing Reporting:
Any new damage or repair issues that occur after the Progroup inspections should be reported to the Property Team promptly. If immediate action is needed, the Property Team will collaborate with the relevant Districts to address the issue.
• Future Maintenance Planning:
Following the March Board meeting, the Property Team will work with Districts, Campsites, and Regions to develop a 2–3 year maintenance plan for each property slated for retention. This plan will be informed by the Progroup reports and can also support future grant applications.
Grant Applications:
Please refrain from applying for property-related grants until after the March Board meeting, when a coordinated strategy will be in place.
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WHY ARE WE DOING THIS?
This strategic project has been undertaken to:
• Enhance Sustainable Operations:
By consolidating and simplifying our property portfolio and management practices, we aim to achieve long-term sustainability within Girl Guides.
• Reduce Administrative Burden:
Streamlining property management processes will relieve Managers, Leaders, Members, and Volunteers from the complexities of maintenance and compliance, allowing them to focus on delivering outstanding Guiding experiences.
• Focus Resources on Core Activities:
By directing our financial, Volunteer, and Staff resources toward properties that support active Guiding for girls and young women, we are reinforcing our commitment to our core mission.
• Create Safe and Welcoming Spaces:
Ultimately, our goal is to ensure that all our properties are safe, functional, welcoming, and compliant, providing optimal environments where Guiding can continue to thrive and grow.
Thank you for your continued support as we work through these important changes. If you have any questions or need further information, please feel free to reach out to the Property Team.
Barbara Cuthbert (she/her) Property Manager
barbara@girlguides-nswactnt.org.au
Ready Steady Recruit: A Guide to Growing Girl Guides in 2025
Felina French (she/her) | Membership Development Officer
felina@girlguides-nswactnt.org.au
INTRODUCTION
Girl Guides NSW, ACT & NT is gearing up for an exciting state and two territory-wide youth recruitment campaign during Terms 1 and 2 in 2025. With Guide House supported advertising and access to centralised and consistent promotional resource, we aim to maximise participation by holding as many recruitment events as possible on the same weekend. The primary event is scheduled for April 5 & 6, designed as an ‘Open Day at the Hall,’ but Districts may choose alternative formats like ‘Bring a Friend’ or ‘Give Girl Guides a Go.’
This year’s focus is clear: GROW! To achieve this, careful planning, engaging activities, and strategic follow-ups are essential. Here’s a step-by-step guide to executing a successful recruitment drive.
STEP 1: PLAN FOR GROWTH
To begin, Districts should assess their current membership, youth capacity, and recruitment goals. Hosting a District Leaders meeting is crucial to aligning efforts. When planning, consider:
• Identifying a suitable venue for the event (Hall, shared space, or outdoor setting).
• Setting a date and time, ideally aligning with the coordinated State and two-Territory initiative.
• Informing your Region Team of your plans.
• Organising a library display to promote the event.
• Preparing for Patrol Leader elections and structuring Patrols.
Timeline for Success:
6 Weeks Before the Event (Week of 24 February)
• Hold discussions with your District Leadership Team. continued over page
• Secure a venue and book the Hall.
• Inform the Region Team about your plans.
• Plan Patrol Leader elections and set up Patrols.
5 Weeks Before the Event (Week of 3 March)
• Update District Overview documents.
• Assemble New Parent and New Girl Packs .
• Design promotional materials using Canva ( posters, flyers , invitations, newsletter notices).
• Gather input from Guides on engaging activities.
4 Weeks Before the Event (Week of 10 March)
• Contact schools and out of school hours care (OOSH) services to arrange visits and include event details in newsletters .
• Finalise the program for the Open Day.
• Recruit additional Leaders, Junior Leaders, or parents to assist.
3 Weeks Before the Event (Week of 17 March)
• Clean and organise the Hall, ensuring a welcoming environment.
• Arrange library displays and distribute promotional materials .
• Boost social media engagement —post invites on Facebook, encourage families to share, and use relevant hashtags.
2 Weeks Before the Event (Week of 24 March)
• Conduct school or OOSH talks.
• Personally invite past inquiries who haven’t attended yet.
• Display banners and posters in local shops, community centres, and the Hall.
• Encourage Guides to invite their friends.
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1 Week Before the Event (Week of 31 March)
• Prepare all necessary materials for the event.
• Ensure all Leaders and volunteers are briefed on their roles.
STEP 2: HOSTING THE RECRUITMENT EVENT (5 & 6 APRIL)
On the big day:
• Set up the Hall to create a warm, engaging atmosphere.
• Ensure all participants wear neat uniform.
• Create a welcoming and informative experience for visitors.
• Collect visitor contact details through a sign-in sheet or QR code.
• Distribute information packs and Term 2 programs.
• Engage new attendees with fun activities , such as making a ‘Good Turn Mouse.’
STEP 3: FOLLOW-UP & RETENTION
During the Holidays
• Send follow-up emails to families who attended, thanking them and providing additional details about the first meeting in Term 2.
Week 1 of Term (Starting 28 April)
• Start meetings on time and warmly welcome visitors.
• Use name tags to help with introductions.
• Integrate visitors into Patrols and play ‘getting to know you’ games.
• Provide new girl and parent packs .
• Follow up with attendees who do not return.
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Week 2 of Term (Starting 5 May)
• Host a New Parent Information Session.
• Invite parents to attend a Support Group meeting.
Week 3 of Term (Starting 12 May)
• Ensure all new Members are recorded in the database.
• Follow up with families who have not yet completed membership forms.
• Inform the District Manager and Region Bookkeeper about new Members.
STEP 4: THE ACTIVITY HOOK (WEEKS 8–10 OF TERM)
An exciting event towards the end of the term encourages new Members to commit fully. Consider:
• A Unit camp
• A sleepover
• A boating day
• A hiking trip By requiring membership for participation, this activity cements engagement and strengthens retention.
CONCLUSION
Through structured planning, engaging activities, and thorough follow-ups, Ready Steady Recruit aims to significantly expand Girl Guides in 2025. By aligning with Guide House coordinated promotional efforts and hosting well-organised recruitment events, Districts can create a welcoming and inspiring experience for new Members. Let’s make this year a resounding success
Let’s grow Girl Guides together!
Introducing ProShop: Your One-Stop Online Store for Girl Guides Branded Products
Jamie Shepheard | Senior Manager, Digital, Marketing & Communication
jamie@girlguides-nswactnt.org.au
In 2023, we proudly launched ProShop—our dedicated online store designed to cater to all your print and promotional needs. In partnership with VistaPrint, ProShop makes it easy to order official Girl Guides branded items—from Hall Signs and Banners to a host of other essential products—anytime you need them, without the constraints of traditional office hou rs.
ACCESSING PROSHOP
To purchase Girl Guides branded merchandise, you must be logged in. If you serve as a Region or District Manager, your account might already be active. In 2023, we sent out invitations to District Manager shared inboxes using your Microsoft Office 365 email (e.g., FirstName.LastName@girlguidesnswactnt.org.au). Although these original invites have expired, setting up a new account is simple. Just complete the account setup form to request a new invitation for your District, Region, Camp Site, Guide Hall, or any other group. Our Digital, Marketing & Communication Team will promptly email you a new invitation.
NEED ASSISTANCE?
For any questions or issues related to ProShop—be it general inquiries, order complications, or artwork concerns—the VistaPrint support team is ready to help. They are available from 8am to 8pm AEST, Monday through Friday, at:
Email: anzinternalcare@vistaprintcorporate.com
If you're planning a bulk order or need a custom item that you noticed on VistaPrint but isn’t currently continued over page
available on ProShop, please contact the Girl Guides NSW, ACT & NT Digital, Marketing & Communication Team directly. We’re committed to working with you to find the b est solution.
LOOKING FOR A SPECIFIC PRODUCT?
If there’s a product you’d like to see in ProShop or an item that requires Girl Guides branding, get in touch with Jamie at Guide House:
Email: jamie@girlguides-nswactnt.org.au
All new product requests will follow our standard approval process to ensure quality and consistency with the Girl Guides brand.
GET STARTED TODAY!
If your account is already set up, explore ProShop right away and enjoy the convenience of selfservice ordering 24/7. Visit us at:
girlguidesnsw.ourproshop.com.au
Embrace the ease and flexibility of ProShop for all your Girl Guides branding and promotional needs. Happy shopping!
from the
Adult National COORDINATOR
Changes to ALQP Leader, District Manager and Region Manager Passports AND requirements for State Offices
Late last year the Passports were updated regarding the change from modules to activities in the Girl Guide Learning system. At that time some updates were made regarding the Induction Meeting with District Manager (DM), Region Manager (RM) or State Commissioner (SC) (page 9) of all Passports for trainees.
The requirements to tick off the ‘Member Administration’ has been removed as every State Girl Guides Organisation (SGGO) is required to have that information as part of the onboarding for membership as part of our Chid Safe Child Friendly (CSCF) requirements. The requirement to send that page into the State Office has been removed as the only information on that page now related to the Onboarding which is completed at a local level.
In summary
• The Induction meeting (page 9 of each Passport) will no longer be sent to State Offices
• There is no longer any requirement to have the Induction Meeting recorded for a trainee to apply for a training
• There is no longer a requirement to have the Induction Meeting recorded for the Qualification and Appointment to be processed
CHANGES TO REGISTRATION FOR LEADER AND MANAGER TRAINING
Over time it has been noticed by some SGGOs and GGA that there is a delay in approving Leaders
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and Managers in Training to attend the LQ/MQ Training Workshop. This has caused glitches in the capability of GGA to make sure our volunteer trainers receive vital information to ensure the smooth running of the training workshop and offering best outcomes for our trainees. It has also been highlighted that the current process creates some bottlenecks i n office processes.
To manage both these issues the application form for both Leaders and Managers in Training has been amended.
In the part of the application form which stated, ‘I have completed (or will have completed) the following’, and then goes on to list the Girl Guide Learning Activities the part in brackets has been removed ‘(or will have completed)’.
This means now that each Leader or Manager in Training will have completed the modules before they register and thus will be easier to manage from the State Office end and mean that GGA will be able to meet deadlines to get crucial information to Trainers.
Yours in Guiding
Sarah Neill (she/her)
National Coordinator- Adult
outdoor Lead from the
From the Outdoor Lead
If you have any questions or concerns about anything I’ve written- let me know or ask your Region Outdoor Activity Consultant (ROAC). No question is too small to answer. It’s a new year and time to get organised. A few things can make your activities in the outdoor easier.
ADM 27
Ask your families to complete the form electronically at the beginning of the year, keep it electronically, and you’re set for the year. You can email a copy if a Guide is attending a camp/activity with a different District or Unit. Ask families to include a second contact number- just in case the primary parent/guardian is out of town and you have a Guide waiting to be picked up from a Unit meeting.
OUT01
When you send an OUT01 to your ROAC, please structure the subject line to include name; activity; date. eg VBrown-canoeing-10 April. This allows your ROAC and me, to manage our in boxes and make sure we respond to more urgent requests quickly.
Let’s have a great 2025 in the outdoors!
Virginia Brown (she/her)
Outdoor Lead
outdoor@girlguides-nswactnt.org.au
In Event News
Event News
JOTA-JOTI
Mardi Gras Fair Day
Mardi Gras Fair Day is this Sunday 16 February at Victoria Park, Camperdown. We’d love you to visit our stall and say hello as we celebrate and connect with our community on this vibrant day!
It’s time to take to the water with Trefoil 1 & 2 Canoe/Kayak/Row courses
It’s not too late to register for these courses being held on t he first weekend of March. Registrations close 16 February. It’s a perfect opportunity to gain the skills you need to compete at Regatta.
Pre-Regatta Challenge
Are you going to Regatta? Have you joined the Facebook group? If not, you might be missing out on being the first to hear important information like details of th e Pre- Regatta challenge. Check out the event page for further information.
Pre-Junior & Junior Guide Adventure Camp – Jumble in the Jungle
Registrations are coming in fast for this Pre-Junior & Junior Guide Adventure Camp, coming up in March. Are you brave enough to take on Jumble in the Jungle? Don’t miss out on this adventure which promises an unforgettable experience for our young Guides. Check out the new Challenge Valley video on the event page to see what it’s all about. We can’t wait to see you there!
Dragon Skin
Senior Guides, Olaves and Adult Members are invited to the Scouts event, Dragon Skin 2025. Experience in lightweight hiking is a must for this 4-night hiking competition. Youth Members
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should check with their Unit Leader or the Leader in Charge if they are unsure if their level of experience meets the requirements for this event.
Queen’s Guide Webinars
If you’re in Senior Guides, or are a Leader or parent of someone in Senior Guides you may have heard about the Queen’s Guide Award. Want to know more about it? Youth Awards Coordinator, Ashleigh Hansen, will be running two information sessions. Monday 17 March will be aimed at providing an overview of the award and supporting new awardees to get started. Thursday 27 March will be focused on supporting current awardees with any questions that may have arisen, as well as going over the process to submit their work. Head to the What’s on page for more details .
Looking forward to seeing you at an event or course soon!
Lydia Morris (she/her) Event Manager events@girlguides-nswactnt.org.au
Gone Home
Judy Button
Judy has been involved in Guiding all her life, holding many positions. Barraba as a Leader, Peel Division Leader, a State Trainer and many Region positions with Northwest Inland Region. Her final role was a part of the Burrabaroo Campsite Committee in Tamworth. Judy will be remembered for her smile and always a kind word.
GIRL GUIDES LEARNING IMPLEMENTATION AND UPDATES
The Girl Guides Learning (GGL) project team are pleased to announce the successful implementation of GGL across Girl Guides NSW, ACT & NT, Tas, WA, SA, Qld, and Vic. This marks a significant step forward in enhancing digital learning experiences across our organisation.
ACCESS AND USER GROUPS
All learners will have student-level access and will be grouped according to their location. Staff members will belong to a designated ‘Staff’ group, while admin staff will have manager-level access. Additionally, Guide House Learning Management System (LMS) administrators will hold super adminlevel access, ensuring seamless oversight and management of the platform.
ENGAGEMENT AND RECOGNITION
Learners can now earn digital badges upon completing online activities, fostering engagement and motivation. They can also provide feedback on their learning experience through a star rating system.
REPORTING AND CONTENT UPDATES
The reporting system will remain consistent, with Super Admins having the ability to generate and schedule reports as needed. In Phase 1, GGL will include 14 GGA National activities, and all eGuiding history has been successfully transferred to the new platform.
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ENHANCED VIRTUAL LEARNING & ONGOING DEVELOPMENT
To support virtual learning, MS Teams will be integrated into GG Learning for seamless online sessions. A survey is currently underway to help determine priorities for the next national content release. Additionally, monthly project meetings will continue to track progress and ensure alignment with organisational goals.
TRAINING & SUPPORT
Ongoing customized training is available for staff, Members, and Volunteers, covering MS Teams and SharePoint to support effective collaboration and learning.
Stay tuned for further updates as we continue to enhance Girl Guides Learning!
Help Wanted!
Guide House are looking to recruit an assistant accountant.
Please contact cfo@girlguides-nswactnt.org.au for a job description if you are interested.
Changes to the Guide Support Fund
Kathy Chalmers | Chief Financial Officer
cfo@girlguides-nswactnt.org.au
To ensure fair and sustainable distribution of financial support, the Guide Support Fund model has been improved for 2025. These changes aim to prevent early exhaustion of funds and provide equitable access throughout the year.
In 2024, the fund’s $50,000 annual allowance was nearly depleted by May , leaving no support available for Members renewing in the second half of the year. To address this, a monthly allocation system has been introduced, and eligibility criteria refined.
BACKGROUND
Established in 2020 to assist Members facing financial hardship during the pandemic, the Guide Support Fund has provided crucial support to Youth Members , Young Adults , and Leaders in covering membership fees.
A review conducted in February 2024 confirmed the growing need for financial support due to rising cost-of-living pressures. The review also highlighted the importance of sustaining the fund while ensuring fair distribution throughout the year.
KEY CHANGES FOR 2025
1. Monthly Allocation of Funds
To prevent early depletion and ensure fair access:
• The $50 , 000 allowance will be distributed monthly , based on the percentage of membership renewals expected that month.
• Any unused funds from a month will be redistributed across the remainder of the year.
2. Updated Eligibility Criteria
To maintain fairness and prioritise those in need:
• Not available for new memberships.
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• Available only for Youth Members aged 5-17 in NSW, ACT & NT .
• Can only be accessed once every three years , beginning 2025.
• Applicants may only receive support for 50% of the membership fee .
• Members eligible for government vouchers must apply those funds first.
• Only available for annual renewals (not for those choosing to pay monthly when their renewal is due in 2025).
3. Clear and Transparent Process
• Applications will be accepted from the 1st of the month that a renewal is due.
• Applicants will be notified of funding decisions by email.
• Claims will be assessed without preference , and eligibility will be based on financial need (e.g., ill health, low income).
• Certain reasons, such as saving for a holiday or participating in other activities, will not be considered valid criteria .
• Approvals will be handled confidentially , without requiring approval from local Region or District Managers.
These changes to the Guide Support Fund will allow more Members to access financial support throughout the year, while keeping the fund financially viable for the future while ensuring a fairer and more sustainable model from 2025 onwards .
The Great Outback Treasure Hunt
The Paroo Shire Council has extended an invite to Girl Guides to participate in The Great Outback Treasure Hunt, a thrilling two-day adventure taking place on 5 and 6 of April 2025. This is a chance to explore the stunning landscapes of South West Queensland, tackle outback-inspired challenges, and compete to win $10,000 for your Unit!
Starting and finishing at the iconic Cunnamulla Fella Statue, the Treasure Hunt combines team-building, fun, and community spirit. Teams navigate through puzzles, tasks, and activities, all while experiencing the rugged beauty and unique history of the Paroo Shire.
Event Highlights:
Dates: 5th–6th April 2025
Location: Paroo Shire, South West Queensland
Prize: $10,000 for the winning team
Registrations Close: 1st March 2025
Normal Girl Guides activity approval process to be followed.
If you have feedback, or wish to make a contribution, please send an email to communications@girlguides-nswactnt.org.au.
