Well now its time to ask for outside help. We have fundraised as much as we can since taking over this group five years ago when it was scheduled for closure. As a new team we spent the first three years paying off debts we were left with and raising money to refurbish the kitchen and toilets which were un-usable. We are on our second round of work to make the main hall warmer and tidier, but a problem with a fan heater getting stuck on for a week has meant a huge electric bill which has wiped out our spare funds.

Our group offers all elements of scouting to the local community from age 6 through to 18 and is also home to the District Guide Shop and is used for training of young leaders and team rehearsals for Gang Show.

Our scouts of all ages need this facility and the life experiences that Scouting offers. For many of our young people, scouting is the highlight of their week. It is a place to see their friends and express thenselves in a truly open and honest environment. Here at 5th/9th our young people gain the skills they need, not only for outdoor exploration and fun, but for lIfe. They learn to work together and to think of others; to be part of a growing movement and to really make a difference in the world as well as in the local community.

This is why we need your help to keep this fantastic opportunity open to the next generation of young people in the Melbourne area Our hut is our home, our scouts are family, we need your help to fix it up and make it worthy of the wonderful young people that we have. They deserve better surroundings (although they never complain).

Whatever you can give will be gratefully received by the young people and the inspiring leaders at 5th/9th Chelmsford.

Scouts - Do Your Best