Harwood Honours

Geraldine & Gerald Receive Australia Day Honours

Anually on Australia Day, we recognize those who have greatly contributed to our communities and environment. 2023 celebrates 1,047 Australians.

Tasmania celebrates fellow Scout legends, Gerald and Geraldine Harwood.

This year’s Australia Day saw scout members Gerald and Geraldine become members of another highly esteemed group, the highly respected Order of Australia.

Interviewed on WIN News Tasmania, Geraldine’s involvement, and ambassadorship of Tasmania’s NDIS, comes after a lifetime in a career of helping others. “As an individual we can be recognised and that’s fantastic, I’m really proud. But I’m also proud of everyone else along the way”.

A week after Geraldine received her email regarding the achievement, Gerald received his award, earning the medal of the Order of Australia (OAM). Gerald has been involved in the Don River Railway for years, despite living across the other side of the state. Along with his passion for the steam, Gerald’s dedication to various organisations goes above and beyond.

Their shared passion for Scouting and infinite personal time dedicated to it, has seen them being highly commended by both their local Hobart Group and the wider Tasmanian community. They both noted how the confidence and skills youth gain through Scouting is extremely powerful, influencing their way of thinking and decision making. As Gerald points out, “It’s probably the first time ever they’ve been able to do something their parents can’t do!

Scouts Tasmania is so proud to have such amazing individuals in our organisation, ones whose valued commitment to the group, has been recognised.

We hope the Harwood’s can be an inspiration to interested families and youth members who wish to become future leaders and helpers. From all of Scouts Tasmania, congratulations Gerald and Geraldine - we thank you for your incredible dedication.