13 January 2017
MEDIA RELEASE – For immediate release to Scoop

National Scout Regatta Success

The 28th National Scout Regatta on Porirua Harbour was a huge success with around 590 youth and volunteers taking part with a fleet of 80 boats.

19 contingents representing 27 Scout Groups from across New Zealand from Whangarei to Bluff and a small group from Australia came together for the triennial event.

“Iron Duke Sea Scouts from Nelson won the Jellicoe Trident, the top award at the Regatta which was first presented in 1924,” said Regatta Media Officer, Daniel Koehler. “50 years had passed since Iron Duke Sea Scouts last held the trident in 1967.”

“The youth, aged 10 to 18, took part in nine days of sailing, rowing, kayaking and seamanship events”, said Mr Koehler. “We were made to feel very welcome in Porirua.”

“The National Regatta is an amazing showcase of nautical and boating skills”, said Sarah Turnbull, SCOUTS New Zealand’s Acting Chief Executive. Sea Scouting has been part of SCOUTS New Zealand’s programme since 1909.

A large fleet of 80 boats, including sea scout cutters, sunbursts and powered patrol boats, saw action on the water. “Many residents commented on the spectacular view saying it was the most boats they had seen on the harbour in years,” said Mr Koehler.

Regatta Chair, Randall Pavelich, said “the local community had come onboard with the event, including generous support from Porirua City Council and Titahi Bay Intermediate School providing campsite facilities.”

“An estimated 15,900 meals were made by a team of amazing volunteers to keep our youth well feed and energized throughout the event,” said Mr Koehler. “Any excess food left over was donated to the Salvation Army to help those in need.”

The Scouts also got the unique opportunity to visit the National War Memorial to pay their respects at the last post ceremonies and explore the Great War Exhibition.

Regatta Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NationalScoutRegatta/

About SCOUTS New Zealand

As New Zealand’s best-known youth organisation, SCOUTS New Zealand offers 15,000 plus young people a programme full of new adventures, outdoor experiences, personal challenge and leadership opportunities that will set them on a pathway of lifelong success. Supporting both girls and boys in almost 400 communities across New Zealand, SCOUTS’ national programme focuses on the outdoors, community, personal development and new experiences, equipping 6 to 26-year olds with life skills such as problem-solving, team work, leadership and citizenship, supported by over 5,000 trained and accredited volunteers.

Sea Scouts is a branch of SCOUTS New Zealand and is based on a fun programme involving water activities.

www.scouts.org.nz
0800 SCOUTS

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