Lakeside Pakenham Scouts groups will be united at one "base camp" with the opening of a new hall thanks to the support of the Andrews Labor Government, with matched funding from Scouts Victoria.
On the grounds of the Pakenham Lakeside Primary School, the new hall will allow local scouts who have been split across two sites to come together to connect with their communities, learn new skills and forge new friendships.
Work on the hall, which started last September, has finished and the facility was officially opened today.
The funding is part of the Labor Government's pledge to build, upgrade or refurbish Scout Halls across Victoria.
The Victorian Budget 2023/24 contributes significantly towards the redevelopment and upgrade of another six Scout Halls in South Frankston, Bannockburn, Deer Park, Bundoora, Sandown and Eltham.
Scouts Victoria is one of the state's largest youth organisations and has a membership base of more than 20,000 young people and 5,000 adult volunteers. The number of young people participating in scouting activities has grown by 30 per cent in the last 10 years.
Scouts Victoria has a rich history of fostering teamwork, care for community and leadership skills among young Victorians.
Accessing scouting activities supports young people's positive development and growth by creating opportunities for them to work with others, tackle challenges and lead in their communities.
As stated by Minister for Youth Natalie Suleyman
"We're proud to support the construction and upgrades of scout halls to ensure scouts across the state can participate in activities that enrich their knowledge and foster community connection."
"Scouting helps young people develop leadership skills and provides a genuine sense of community spirit."
As stated by Member for Pakenham Emma Vulin
"The new Lakeside Pakenham Hall is a place for scouts to come together, to make lifelong friendships and to learn all sorts of skills."
