Manx Scouting News

2nd Onchan Beavers Learn to Fudge it

2011-12-08T22:50:00.001Z

The 2nd Onchan Thursday Beavers have recently visited The Original Manx Fudge Factory in Ballasalla. There was much excitement, even before the trip began! The visit started with a demonstration of fudge making – the Christmas Fudge - which included almonds, cranberries and cinnamon as well as the sugar, cream, butter and condensed milk – I think! The Beavers were then invited to sample some of the different types of fudge produced in the factory – the parents and Leaders seemed to enjoy this part too! Favourites included the Belgian Dark Chocolate and the Manx Butter and Cream. We also tried some Manx Mint Cake, which was particularly nice.

Once the tasting session had finished the Beavers were able to see chocolate lollies being made and everyone got their own lolly to take home. After some juice the Beavers went shopping and brought some boxes of fudge, bars of Mint Cake and some more Chocolate Lollies. We then headed back to the Scout Hall – luckily not to giddy on sugar!

1st Malew Scouts Construct an Oojamaflip

2011-12-08T22:22:00.001Z

The Scouts of the 1st Malew 'Viking' Troop Scouts had to stretch their skills in a different direction than usual. Recently they were challenged to construct an 'Oojamaflip'. Construction consisted of using anything they could find around the Scout Hall, the only limit being their imaginations.

The plans for the 'Oojamaflip' in question were taken from a poem by Paul Bright. The poem can be used by every section from Beavers to Network and in fact was used as a part of the selection procedure for the Scouts attending the World Scout Jamboree.

You get some amazing results, give it a try!

LECTURE ON LICHENS

2011-11-27T13:04:00.001Z

For those of you who enjoy the outdoors and our uplands in summer or winter this is a chance to learn about one of the most unusual organisms on the planet.

On Friday, 2nd December at 7.30 at St. Marks Church Hall there will be a illustrated lecture on the lichens that we are likely to see on the many walks we undertake as scouts.

Lichens are amazing organisms. When the leaves are gone from our trees lichens remain brightening up the day. They need clean air to grow and provide a monitor of clean air quality. Lichens have a symbiotic relationship between a fungus and an alga, in other words each organism needs each other to survive.

When on walks all leaders , explorers, and scout network should be familiar with our environment and this is an exciting evening that should not be missed.

This is not a scout only event and the cost is £10 per person which includes supper.

Please telephone the organisers telephone 823788 this week since bookings are low and the lecture could be cancelled.

Guy Thompson
Island Scout Network Commissioner

A Visit to the Legislative Buildings

2011-11-26T14:27:00.001Z

Cubs from the 1st Marown Cub pack visited the Legislative Buildings in Douglas. The visit was both fun and informative.

Cubs & Beavers Learn About Their Faith

2011-11-22T22:22:00.001Z

The Cubs & Beavers of 1st Ballaugh visited St German's Cathedral as part of their My Faith badge. Some of the Cubs got dressed in garments of the church and carried a cross & candles. The group were led on a procession to the Alter where they all sang a song and listened to a reading by one of the Cubs. A highlight of the evening for 3 Cubs & 1 Beaver was ringing the bells.

Chaplin Margaret Burrow and James McGowan (Curate) were there to meet the group. Both spoke to everyone, answering questions and gave a short tour of the Cathedral.

1st Ballaugh also welcomed 4 newly invested Beavers.

1st Malew Honour Remembrance Sunday With Two Recognitions

2011-11-22T22:09:00.001Z

On Sunday, 13 November the 1st Malew Scout Group paraded at the Scout Hall in Ballasalla to join with the local community to remember and pay their respects to all those who died in the first and second world wars and from 1945 to the present day. The group had the pleaser to be joined by Mr. Chris Harris, the Regional Commissioner and Mr. Peter Young, the Island Commissioner.

Prior to attending the church service, and the wreath laying, Mr Harris presented Doreen Douglas (one of their Cub Scout Leaders) with her 20 years service award.

Congratulations Doreen!

1st Malew Scouts Report to Police Station

2011-11-21T00:05:00.001Z

Scouts from the 'Viking' Troop of the 1st Malew Scout Groups worked toward their Community Challenge badge with a visit to the Port Erin police station. The scouts did a 're-enactment' of the Black Hole of Calcutta with all 26 Scouts in one cell. Unfortunately, much against the leaders wishes, the Scouts were later released.

Another highlight of the visit was the enrolment of the troop's latest member Rosie in one of the cells. The Troop was please to welcome Rosie's father to participate in the brief ceremony.

A special thanks goes to PC Dave Higson who kindly organised and conducted the tour (thanks Dave).

A Visit to the Douglas Lifeboat Station

2011-11-20T23:58:00.001Z

About 3 years ago Mark Atherton, a leader from 5th Douglas, visited the Douglas Lifeboat Station with his group and went onto become a station volunteer. Recently he gave his group a tour of the station. Split into groups they watched a video about lifeboat rescues & fund-raising and had an in-depth tour of the lifeboat itself. The members showed great interest in the Lifeboat Service, with many questions about the boat and operations.

Special thanks go to Tony (the lifeboat mechanic) for arranging the visit.

The Douglas station has crew meetings on Sunday Mornings, with launches at 9 am fortnightly, and Thursday evenings. The station welcomes visits from members of the public as well as pre-organised groups.

Cubjam 2013 - Gilwell Park

2011-11-20T23:52:00.001Z

The organisers of Cubjam2013 have decided that the theme for the event should be...Pirates! Bookings are now open for those contingents who would like to join the fun at Cubjam 2013 and their new pirate themed website is now up and running. Planning is on course for contingents to set sail for the next week long camp open to all Cub Scouts to enjoy at Gilwell, 25-31 May 2013.

The aim of Cubjam is to offer Cub Scouts from across the UK the opportunity to join together for a week of “jamboree” style fun, reminding them that they have much in common with each other – no matter their background or where they are from. Cubjam aims to give them a taste of the adventure that lies ahead in years to come. The wide range of activities offered during Cubjam help the Cub Scouts learn new skills, try new experiences and make new friends. The location also means it is a great way for parents to give their children a bit of freedom to gain their independence in a safe environment.

For more details check out the Cubjam 2013 website.

A Busy Evening for the Cubs at 1st Rushen

2011-11-20T23:39:00.001Z

The Cubs of the 1st Rushen pack learned the importance of Remembrance Sunday while in the same evening enrolled 8 new members into group.

As part of their preparations for Remembrance Sunday, the Cubs each created a poppy and they were all posted on the group's notice board. And with the upcoming church parade, they were taught how to correctly iron their own neckerchiefs (one less job for their parents now).

The highlight of the evening was the enrolment of 8 new members into the group at one time.

Come meet with the Regional Development Service

2011-11-06T14:47:00.001Z

If you’re a Leader, you are invited to attend a Friday evening on the 11th November to meeting with Peter Hodson & Pamela Tompsett from the Regional Development Service to look at adult engagement and to have your say on Scouting's Vision Towards 2018 locally.

The Regional Development Service provides direct advice and support to Groups, Districts and Counties throughout England and BSWE, working on the development and growth of Scouting in local communities.

The meeting will run from 7.00 pm to 9.00 pm at 1st Rushen Scout HQ in Port Erin and all Leaders are invited.

Please email Peter Hodson, who is the Regional Development Officer for the North West (which includes the Isle of Man) to let us know you are coming.

Thanks from Jay Thompson

2011-10-27T20:52:00.001+01:00

From the 22^nd of October I, Jay Thompson will be away working for the UK Scout Association as a Scout Ambassador in the South Pacific nation of Tuvalu. For the next 9 months I will be living and working on the island of Funafuti to support the growth and development of Scouting and making it sustainable along with another Scouter from Essex.

I would like to thank all the people who have given me support in the last 6 months. I would like to thank all the leaders and Scouters who have come forward with badges and little gifts to take to give to the Scouts and Scout Leaders. They will be greatly appreciated.

On my return next July I will be willing to come to Scout Groups and talk about what I have been doing. Also while I am out there if there are any requests for useful information if you were going to use it for a badge or project just let me know and I will do my best to assist.

While I am away I will be using this email: jaybthompson@msn.com

I also have a blog at: http://www.getjealous.com/jay2tuvalu.

If your interested subscribe and when it is updated it will let you know.

Yours in Scouting,
Jay Thompson

Rushen Cubs gets a boost

2011-10-27T20:49:00.001+01:00

With a new leadership team at Rushen Cubs the group decided to have it’s first (for a long time) indoor camp in their Hall. On the 14^th of October fourteen Cubs and six leaders met at the hall on a dark October night. The camp kicked off with a brisk night walk finding plenty of scary looking ells in the rivers and playing games on the beach.

After getting back to the hall we had a chip supper and a film night, the Jungle Book, of course! In the morning we got the bus to Castletown for our annual fundraiser in the Community Centre for Castletown fair. The Cubs took turns on the stall and rotated between that the park and rope games in trees .

The Cubs did very well raising over £200 pounds for the Cub Pack’s funds so we can buy equipment and do more activities. After the fair we went swimming in the local pool.

The weekend was enjoyed by all and it proved it is a bright future for Rushen Cubs.

1st Malew say bon voyage to Jay Thompson

2011-10-27T20:47:00.001+01:00

Thursday 21st October saw 'Viking' Troop of the 1st Malew Scout Group say "goodbye" to their Junior Leader Jay Thompson who is going to help set up Scouting on the Pacific island of Tuvalu. Jay has been right through the Group and is currently taking out his leaders warrant .

Everyone at 1st Malew wishes him success in his adventure and a safe return in nine months time.

A busy night at 1st Malew

2011-10-18T00:00:00.002+01:00

On Thursday night the 'Viking' Troop of the 1st Malew Scout Group had a busy night when Scout leader Roger enrolled not one, but five new Scouts.

There was only just enough room to get everyone around the Troop flag (which was presented to the group by the mother of its founders, Elgie Jefferson, on the groups 50th anniversary back in 1938.)

Left to right: Flag bearer LIam PL, Joseph, Isaac, Illiam, Josh, Robert & Josh Flag bearer Lurence APL.

A warm welcome to all of you at 1st Malew from all of us here at manxscouts.com.

JOTA/JOTI Unfortunately Cancelled

2011-10-09T23:25:00.001+01:00

Due to circumstances beyond control of either the Scout Association – Isle of Man and the organisers of the JOTA/JOTI event here on the island we will not be able to participate this year.

We are sorry that the event has been cancelled for this year and will be working to participate again next year.

JOTA/JOTI Parent Form Available Online

2011-10-06T20:52:00.001+01:00

The permission forms for the Jamboree on the Air (JOTA) & Jamboree on the Internet (JOTI) are now available in the downloads page. The event is on the weekend of 15 & 16 October at the TT Grandstand in the Peter Kneale Press Centre.

Plan to come down over the weekend (or better yet, both days!) and make contact with other Scouts around the world via radio or the internet. There are also plans to share your experiences live on the manxscouts.com website.

Tuvalu – South Pacific

2011-10-05T19:32:00.001+01:00

Hello,

My name is Jay Thompson. I am in Scout Network, a Scout Leader with 1^st Malew and formerly a Southern Explorer.

I have, with two others, been selected by the UK Scout Association to be a Scout Ambassador for the Association and as their Regional Development Officer will travel to Tuvalu via Korea, Australia and Fiji, meeting Scouts on the way. Once in Tuvalu we will be responsible for adult leader training with the object of developing scouting in the region. We leave in October and return home in August 2012.

In order to promote scouting both on the Isle of Man and in the UK, I am requesting woven badges, group names, woggles and neckers so that I may give these out as souvenirs.

In return for this and upon my return home, I would be pleased to visit your group and give an illustrated talk.

Please contact me by email: jaybthompson@msn.com or text: 466306.

Thanks,

Jay Thompson

YOMP This Weekend

2011-09-30T21:02:00.001+01:00

A reminder to those who are participating that YOMP Leg 3 is this weekend.

Sunday 2. October 2011.
Start
Crosby Football Ground
Finish
The Sound Café Car Park
Approximate Distance
14.3 miles.

Jubilee Badges

2011-09-30T20:53:00.001+01:00

2012 marks the Diamond Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II. The Scout Association - UK have designed a badge to that can be worn, from now, celebrate the occasion. The badge goes on the left side above the World crest.

There is no charge for the badge, they have been allocated according to each groups census figures, and can be collected for each Scout Group, Explorer and Network unit. There will be extra available soon at £1.00 each.

The Scout Shop is open Sat. 10 - 12 and 2 - 4 pm. and
Tue. 5.30 - 7.30 pm.

JOTA & JOTI 2011

2011-09-30T20:38:00.001+01:00

This year’s Jamboree on the Air (JOTA) & Jamboree on the Internet (JOTI) will be held on 15-16 October. It will take place at the Peter Kneale Press Centre (TT Grandstand). Refer to the flyer for details.

JOTA and JOTI is an annual event in which around 500,000 Scouts and Guides from all over the world make contact with each other by means of amateur radio and the internet. The event allows you to build friendships with Scouts in other countries and to find out more about their civil and scouting life. Often, these contacts last for years.

Beaver’s 25th Anniversary Challenge

2011-09-25T13:04:00.001+01:00

To celebrate the foundation of Beavers 25 years ago Bev Hewson, the AIC for Beavers, has set the Silver Anniversary Challenge for the island’s Beaver Colonies. The challenge is to incorporate activities based on the word 'SILVER'.

So far 1st Malew have chosen to:

S - Super hero suits (made from newspapers)
I - Intergalactic space backpacks
        (made and decorated by the Beavers)
L - The Three Legs Challenge
V - Voltage - A shocking visit by the MEA
E - Experiments,
        blowing up balloons using vinegar and baking powder.
R – Rockets,
        launching home-made rockets
        using water and air pressure.

We’d love to hear what other groups have planned for the Silver Anniversary Challenge.

Awards Night at 1st Malew Beavers

2011-09-25T12:50:00.001+01:00

On Thursday evening Bev Hewson, the Beaver’s AIC, presented the Colony with their trophy and certificates.

Investiture at 1st Malew

2011-09-20T22:40:00.001+01:00

On Thursday evening 'Viking’ Troop enrolled their latest member Callum.

To keep things "running sweetly" three of the Patrols made different sweets namely, Royal icing fleur-de-lis, chocolate truffles and marzipan fruits. patrol number four kept up a constant supply of pop corn to keep everybody fuelled up!

A memorable (and sticky) night had by all.

Commonwealth Youth Games Closing Ceremonies

2011-09-12T13:23:00.000+01:00

Due to the adverse weather forecasting of strong winds, Guides and Scouts will not be needed for the CYG closing ceremony this evening (Monday). We've been asked to pass on thanks from the CYG organisers for all your help and assistance at the opening ceremony.

World Scout Jamboree

2011-09-08T01:17:00.001+01:00

Let me pass on a big thank you for the hard work on this project from the Scout Association. You all know who you are. We couldn’t have been there without your hard work.

They are currently collating clippings for this and more are coming in each day, If you have seen coverage that hasn’t been clipped by the usual mechanisms please send me through links/scans or hard copies through the post and I’ll be sure to pass them on.

Here’s some links that they’ve passed on to us.

Commonwealth Youth Games

2011-09-07T17:07:00.000+01:00

Those Scouts who have signed up for duties at the CYG ceremonies are requested to attend the NSC bowl this evening (7/9/11) at 6.00pm to undertake a full technical & dress rehearsal, obtain passes and further details. Scouts can be picked up at 9.00pm.

Greg Alford (488445) will be in attendance, co-ordinating between the Scouts and the organising committee.

Scout & Guide Shop

2011-09-02T08:30:00.001+01:00

The Scout and Guide Trading Post has moved to the ground floor of Cunningham House and will be re-opening on Saturday September 3rd.

Opening hours are Saturday 10.00 am - 12.00 noon and 2 - 4 pm.
If you have any queries or would like to place an order in advance of visiting the shop please e-mail scoutshop@manx.net
The shop is staffed by volunteers. If you, or if you know of someone who can spare two hours per half term, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Gilwell Reunion Quickly Approaches

2011-08-27T01:24:00.001+01:00

As you will be aware, next weekend (2-4 September) Gilwell Reunion will be taking place at Gilwell Park. Many of you have already responded to let me know you’ll be attending and will be popping over to the communications marquee between 10am and 2pm on Sunday to say hello. If any of you are coming and haven’t already been in touch please do come and find us on the training ground, it would be great to put some faces to names. Myself and the rest of the team will also be around the site on Saturday; feel free to email me if you’re free to meet up.

Have a great Reunion weekend- I look forward to meeting you!

All the best,

Caroline Raw

Internal Communications Executive The Scout Association

Chasms Cafe Re-opens

2011-08-16T18:26:00.004+01:00

Scout Networking is all about adventure, fun and challenges. Which in the last few months have been wide ranging and diverse. However it was on the 10th of August that Network threw together two of its favourite ‘F’ words, ‘fun’ and ‘food’. This was for the creation of a new tradition that all hope will become an annual event. This was the Extreme Dining challenge. The idea came about some months ago when planning the summer activities. Where could you have a formal dinner that would be challenging but at the same time possible. The possible aspect of this ruled out a fair few of Lissy’s ideas involving planes sea gulls and lawn mowers... We came to the conclusion that the best place would be down by the Chasms due to the obvious remote and beautiful location and with the comedy value of there being the old derelict building of the Chasms Cafe which had not opened in the last 50 years.

In fear of confusing the concept of dining with having a picnic Network ensured it was a formal dinner by having two tables, chairs, candelabra (complete with candles), table cloth, and full set of cutlery. The food was also to a high standard, for starters mint and pea soup, followed by a full roast dinner and then for desert a homemade cake, finishing with a selection of cheeses complete with board. Of course with a formal dinner you have to dress appropriately. So all the men were in suits (and a top hat) and Lissy was in bright pink prom dress.

In the last six months Scout Network has come a long way and the extreme dining challenge can be marked not only as one of the highlights of the year but also a as a first official event for Paul in his new role as Island Scout Network Leader.

If you would like to get into contact with Network please email Guy Thompson, Island Scout Commissioner Network chil@manx.net or Paul Ellison paul@iomnetwork.net Island Scout Network Leader.

The 85th Gilwell Reunion in September

2011-08-07T13:40:00.001+01:00

The 85th Gilwell Reunion 2011 is taking place on the weekend of 2-4 September and the Internal Communications team will be there. If you’re attending please let me know as we would love to catch up during the weekend and have an opportunity to introduce ourselves. If you’re not yet attending, the weekend will be a great opportunity to touch base and chat through some internal communication issues, so please do think about booking a place.

Caroline Raw
Internal Communications Executive
The Scout Association

Cubs 5-a-Side Football Funday

2011-08-07T04:56:00.001+01:00

The football funday was held in Laxey on Sunday, 24 July, 2011. A great day was had by all.

New Manx Grand Prix Forms Now Online

2011-08-07T04:40:00.001+01:00

The Parental Agreement form & the Race & Practice Schedule are now available in the Downloads section. A reminder that all youth members need to bring in a fully completed Parental Agreement Form on their first day of attendance at the grandstand (or they will not be able to attend).

We also received some information from Caroline Etherington, the Manager & Race Secretary of the Manx Motor Cycle Club Ltd.

“As we have been granted the one hour earlier road closure for our first race day on Sat 27 Aug with the roads closing at 1700hrs, we would like the Scouts to perform their usual race day duties on that day and we will provide drinks and refreshments for them. However they will not be required to distribute refreshments to various Grandstand departments on that day, only on Mon 29 Aug, Wed 31 Aug & Fri 2 Sept. There will be a garlanding ceremony on Sat 27 August immediately after the race which is scheduled for approximately 1905 hrs and the other three race days at 1150 hrs and 1445-1500 hrs.”

Check the Race & Practice Schedule in the Downloads section for the full schedule.

22nd World Scout Jamboree 2011 in Sweden

2011-08-07T04:17:00.001+01:00

Here the Scouts are a Ronaldsway preparing to head off to the 2011 World Scout Jamboree. There is also brief views of two of the unit at the end of this YouTube video.

Why not check out the other videos of the jamboree on the UK Scout Association YouTube channel.

Three Legs Challenge – 10 July 2011

2011-07-27T19:54:00.001+01:00

2^nd Onchan (Thursday) Beavers have just completed the 3^rd and final leg of the Three Legs Challenge. Eight Beavers turned up for the walk from Crosby to Braddan. The rain held off for most of the walk but unfortunately we got caught in a heavy shower as we approached Braddan. Luckily most of us were prepared with rain jackets! The Beavers completed the walk in about an hour and a half – a great effort. Five Beavers have now completed all three legs of the challenge – so very well done to Robert, Luke, Joshua M, Thomas and James.

Beaver Sports Day

2011-07-27T19:52:00.001+01:00

On 25 June 2011 the 2^nd Onchan (Thursday) Beavers took part in the Beaver Sports Day - held last month at the Island Cub Camp in St John’s. With a strong team of twelve Beavers, two weeks of training, perfect weather conditions and the expert guidance of past champion Leaders - Steve and Lee, 2^nd Onchan (Thursday) Beavers came in a fantastic FIRST! There were a few technical problems regarding skipping ropes and space hoppers, but the Beavers were able to overcome these difficulties and take the trophy.

Very well done to Torin, Aaron, Bradley, Scott, Joshua J, Adam, Alexander, Thomas, Joshua M, Rhys, Haydn and Ben – a great result!

TT TALK - 7 July 2011

2011-07-27T19:47:00.001+01:00

2^nd Onchan (Thursday) Beavers recently had a visit from their very own TT Rider – Richard ‘Milky’ Quayle! Milky Quayle, a Beaver parent, talked to the Colony about his experiences of racing in the TT. He showed them some of the equipment used for racing – helmets, gloves, leathers & boots – both old and new - and the Beavers were allowed to try some of these items on for size! Everyone was very excited about the racing bike. Milky Quayle explained some of the important features of the bike and showed the Beavers how to keep a low riding position when racing. The highlight was probably the famous TT Trophy which Milky Quayle won in the Lightweight 400cc race in 2002. The talk finished with a few noisy revs as Milky Quayle started up his motorbike! This visit also meant we could complete our fifth SILVER challenge -the letter R for racing!

Older Boys Cub Camp

2011-07-27T19:38:00.001+01:00

Over the weekend 22^nd – 24^th July 2011, we took 6 Cubs on a special goodbye camp to end their time in Cubs before they all move up to Scouts. The idea of the camp was to work towards the Silver Challenge Badge which is the highest badge they can earn while in Cubs. We all met on Friday at the Scout Hall, the Cubs were not aware what we were doing or where we would be staying during the weekend. After a quick briefing we told the Cubs they must use the route card provided and walk to where we would be staying that night, the Cubs were dropped off at the bottom of South Barrule car park with Rob and Akela, the Cubs navigated there way up the hill and back down again. It was when we were in the plantation the Cubs twigged onto the fact we were staying at Watertrough Cottage. Once we arrived at Watertrough, the fire was well underway and we roasted marshmallows over an open fire, it was getting late so all the Cubs went to bed and were soon asleep.

The next morning everyone was up at 7am, and a quick bite to eat for breakfast and then getting eaten alive by the midgies we tidied up Watertrough and headed back to the Scout Hall for a game of basketball. It was time for kayaking at Ballakermeen High School where we had games of kayak polo, water polo and swimming races, it was very nice to get clean and have warm showers. Everyone was getting hungry so we stopped off at Nobles Park for lunch, where we had lunch and played in the park. We then set off to Silverdale Park, where we played Danish Long Ball and had a Ice Cream. It was time for dinner so we went to Port Jack Chippy and had dinner which went down very well with all the Cubs, we then told them where we would be staying that evening, they were all very intrigued when we told them we were going to Druidale. We arrived to Druidale and set up Camp, the Cubs found a couple of rope swings and had a fantastic time on the swings, we had a camp fire, and all huddled around the fire, talking about their time in Cubs and what they have enjoyed and didn’t enjoy. It was getting dark so all the Cubs headed to their tent and were soon fast asleep.

The following morning we had a lie in and were up about 7.30am, soon after Akela was up most of the other Cubs were awake as well. We cooked breakfast over an open fire and the bacon and sausage baps were great. All the Cubs loved there breakfast and commented that we should do this more often, we cleared up the site and then headed back into Onchan where we had some races using the Go Karts, we played on these for about an hour racing around the car park. It was getting near lunchtime, so hot dogs and pizza was eaten for lunch which went down well with the Cubs, it was then time for a team talk because it was time for the all Island Cub Football. We travelled to Laxey where we met with the other Cub Packs including our other fellow Cubs in the Snaefell Pack. We did very well by winning every game in the group stages, then thrashing the Malew Cubs in the Semi Finals, then in the final we were again Douglas Cushag where we beat them 5-0. A big well done to the Manannan Cub team for winning the trophy for Onchan which will go on display in our trophy cabinet at the Scout Hall. After the football competition we met the Sunday Beavers in Laxey and joined in with the BBQ and games, to finish the weekend Akela treated the Cubs to an Ice Cream for doing so well over the weekend. All the Cubs were picked up by there parents at the Scout Hall in Onchan.

Thank you to all those Cubs who made the Leaders weekend really enjoyable, we wish you well in Scouts and we shall see you all soon.

31 July 2011 – Additional photos

Snaefell Cubs at Ard Whallan

2011-07-27T19:29:00.001+01:00

On Friday 15^th July Snaefell Cub Pack met to hold a camp at Ard Whallan Outdoor Education Centre. The cubs arrived at 19:30 on Friday night and were briefed about the weekend and allocated rooms and work groups. After this the cubs got changed for our evening activities. We completed a short hike to St Luke’s before locating the Old Tynwald site Letterbox. After this we had a treasure hunt around the church where lots of letters were hidden which we found and then unscrambled them to find a name. Back at the house we had hot chocolate and biscuits in the Viking Longhouse with Alex’s magic with the fire and some ghost stories and jokes. The cubs then headed off to bed and fell asleep reasonably quickly; something the leaders were glad of.

On the Saturday the cubs were up early for breakfast before room inspection and then our morning activities. In their work groups the cubs rotated around three bases; the low ropes course and cheese crane, archery and fire lighting and marshmallow toasting. After lunch we split into two groups and did some orienteering for our Map Reader’s Badge and some backwards cooking before swapping around. After this we had a juice and biscuit break and then got changed for the assault course. All the cubs raced around the assault course to try and get the fastest time. The fastest cub then raced Alex around the assault course and ultra competitive Alex lost. This meant the cubs were allowed to pour and big bucket of water over his head. The cubs then had some free time to get changed and shower before dinner. After dinner while Andrew and Amanda set up for our film the cubs went and did some problem solving challenge bases whilst getting bitten by lots of midges. Once the film was set up we hurried back in doors got changed and settled down for our film. Half way through, the cubs were very lucky to have some delicious homemade chocolate cake that Amanda kindly made which went down a treat. As most were very tired and starting to fall asleep, even some leaders, we had a quick hot chocolate before going to bed. The cubs were asleep very fast and had to actually be woken up the next day.

On Sunday, the rain set in, and after scrumptious bacon and egg baps we had inspection and then headed out in the rain for the wet assault course. Cubs were challenged to take a cup of water around the course trying not to spill any water, few returned with any water left. Alex did not join in this time except to soak Andrew when he got stuck in netting at the end with his own water gun. The cubs then went and dried off and got changed into their uniforms and packed their bags before lunch. Once cleaned up the cubs moved their bags out of their rooms and sat down for a camp debrief, thoughts on the camp and prizes. At 14:00 the cubs were picked up having totally enjoyed their weekend.

Over the weekend Alex was assessed for his Night’s Away Permit and a big thank you must go to the leaders Andrew, Amanda and Chris for their help and support over the weekend and to Anne for visiting to assess the camp; a big thanks must also go to the cubs themselves who were very well behaved over the weekend. Well Done. Snaefell Leaders are now starting to think about our next camp.

Alex Armstrong ACSL

Scouts off to Sweden for the World Jamboree

2011-07-27T18:52:00.001+01:00

These are the lucky Manx Scouts who were off to the World Scout Jamboree Sunday 24. July. They will be spending a few days in Denmark, before going onto the Jamboree Site in Sweden.

Chief Scouts Gold Award

2011-07-23T10:38:00.001+01:00

On Thursday 14^th July 2011, 1^st Douglas Scouts presented their First Chief Scouts Gold Award, since the new badges

Peter Young was invited down to present the award to Glenn also to see the presentation was Anne Atkinson Group Scout Leader & Neil Simpson Scout Leader along with the rest of the leaders and Scouts.

It has taken Glenn nearly three years to complete the award.

The Island Scout Camp

2011-07-12T20:02:00.001+01:00

The Island Scout Camp was held in Peel over the 8. – 12. July 2011 and nearly every island troop was in attendance with numbers exceeding expectation with 78 scouts enjoying good weather (for once)

On the Thursday night some Leaders, Explorers and Scouts spent a couple of hours putting up the large 40 foot marquee and eight Patrol Tents along with numerous hike tents on the Dept of Education and Children land to the rear of Peel Town Commissioners camp site off the Poortown Road.

The remaining tents were erected on Friday evening when the Scouts arrived, activities commenced with a camp opening ceremony and flag break carried out in wonderful conditions at Corrin’s Folly, to the backdrop of a beautiful sunset. Back at camp everyone was provided with hot chocolate and biscuits before heading off to bed at around 23:00.

Saturday morning up for 7.30 breakfast and following tent inspection, various on and off site activities were allocated by ticket to scouts

Activities included Mountain Biking, Sea Kayaking, and Kayaking, Backwoods activities, Pioneering, Climbing Wall and Swimming.

Activities on site for backwoods included preparing (gutting and filleting) freshly caught fish and cooking on an open fire along with axe and saw work. All groups enjoyed various activities with the team from the DEC climbing wall being kept particularly busy, with scouts swapping after an hour with the swimming group. By noon every one was ready for lunch.

Ticketed activities were repeated in the afternoon and despite mechanical breakdowns with the mountain bikes all went well with the bikers uncovering a secret store of 24 cans of pop on the railway line just what was need at the turnaround point.

Tea time had the kitchen in full swing with pasta bolognese be served at lightning speed with some scouts ( and leaders) having thirds and fourths.

Following the evening meal, the Scouts spent a couple of hours taking part in a Treasure Hunt around Peel upon return the Island Commissioner had arrived on site, the camp fire was underway very quickly with visiting 2^nd Cork Scout troop leading the camp fire singing and an excellent time was had by all followed by hot chocolate with presentations to the commissioners followed by much and badge and necker swapping.

We finished the evening by turning the marquee into a cinema with the popcorn for the Scouts while they watched a ‘long’ movie. After the movie it was straight to bed and all tents were soon very quiet. On the Sunday morning, surprisingly very few Scouts were up and about at 07:30. The sun was again out and after breakfast and Tent Inspection the Scouts took advantage of the dry weather and took down their own tents.

Activity bases were set up around the camp site and scout challenged to undertake 20 tasks from changing a trailer wheel, to making a stretcher and catching an non flying animal!!. After lunch the scouts were able to try the obstacle course erected by the pioneering team whilst the rest of the tentage and equipment was packed away by the leaders and transported off site, before we held a formal Camp Flag down and invested a 2^nd Onchan and eight 1^st Douglas and scouts, along with two 1^st Ballaugh (James and Robert) who moved up the Explorers (well done everyone), before heading off home for about 15:00.

The Leaders were again impressed by the behaviour of the Scouts on camp and so were the nearby resident who commented how well behaved and quite they were!!! Thanks must go to all the Leader and Explorer Scouts and helper who put such a lot of work into making the camp a great success, oh and the weather!

Trevor Denning AIC Scouts

PS as usual I have a collection of lost property and will send photos etc to all leaders in an effort to reunite with owners.

Here are some additional photos.

Explorers Attend the Pre-Tynwald Governor's Garden Party

2011-07-05T21:43:00.001+01:00

Mike Southall and the explorers were invited up to the Governor’s house for the pre-Tynwald garden party. They were there to represent the scouts for their hard work on the grandstand scoreboard.

Cub 5-a-Side Football Fun Day Registration

2011-07-05T21:34:00.001+01:00

The registration form is available for the Cub 5-a-side Football Fun Day on the downloads page.

When:	Sunday, 24 July, 2011 2:15 Kick-off
Where:	Laxey AFC football pitch Glen Road, Laxey
Deadline for registration:	Saturday, 9 July, 2011

2011 MGP Form & Notes

2011-07-03T22:43:00.001+01:00

The MGP form is now available, together with the Leader's and Parent's notes, on the Downloads page. The MGP Form must only be completed and returned by leaders, not youth members. The deadline is 13 August 2011, late forms WILL NOT be accepted.

All youth members will also need to bring in a fully completed Parental Agreement Form (not yet available) on their first day of attendance at the grandstand.

MARBLE RUN CHALLENGE

2011-07-03T16:46:00.001+01:00

30 June 2011

2^nd Onchan Thursday Beavers took up the challenge from Santon Beavers - and along with other Beaver Colonies on the Island - met at Douglas Beach to try and build the best Marble Run.

Conditions were perfect and all the Beavers had a great time. Prizes were awarded for the best decorated and the best designed Marble Run. Whilst 2^nd Onchan Thursday Beavers didn’t win they built some fantastic sand castles.

Many thanks to Santon Beavers for organising the event and bringing the juice and biscuits.

First Pictures of the Island Cub Camp 2011

2011-06-30T00:11:00.001+01:00

The Island Cub Camp is finished for another year. I’m sure there are still people unpacking or just trying to recover from another great weekend.

TT 2011

2011-06-30T00:01:00.001+01:00

2011 was not only the 100 year of the mountain course, but also the 100 year of Scouting’s involvement in the TT. Well done to all of you that were there this year.

Yomp - Section 2 this Sunday

2011-06-29T23:37:00.001+01:00

Section 2 of the Yomp Challenge for 2001 is Sunday, 3 July. Yomp is a hiking challenge during 2011, open to all Isle of Man Scouts, Explorer Scouts, Network Members and Leaders to walk from the Point of Ayre in the north of the Island to the Sound in the south of the Island. The hike is done in 3 easy sections (Section 1 was completed 3 April). Check more details on the Yomp Challenge.

Section 2 is mainly hill walking:

Start: Sulby Primary School (SC381944).
Start Time: 10:00 am
Finish: Crosby Football Ground (SC325793).
Approximate Distance: 10.6 miles.
Route Map for Section 2
GPS GPX File for Section 2 (save as)

Scout Association AGM

2011-06-29T12:55:00.002+01:00

The Scout Association AGM will be held on 12 July at Malew Scout HQ, Mill Road, Ballasalla. The visiting speaker will be Chris Harris, the Regional Commissioner NW. Everyone is welcome.

Great Resource for Keeping Records

2011-05-31T14:08:00.001+01:00

Online Scout Manager is a management system that makes life as a Scout Record Keeper much simpler. The system allows a Leader to manage badge records, programmes, attendance and much more with a few simple clicks. The programme was only launched in Easter yet has been a massive hit among Scout Leader’s prompting more than 160 users to register.

The system is free and simple to use and allows a Beaver, Cub, Scout, Explorer or Group Leader to manage all their necessary records in one place. The site has everything integrated; the attendance register is integrated with the programme and badges, simply mark those who were present in an evening, and optionally allow the system to update the related badge records.

SMS Text messages can be purchased and then sent to Scouts kept on file and Leader access allow other leaders to view or edit badge records, programmes or planning depending on the level of access you choose. One of my highlights of the programme is that records can be exported to ‘pdf’ format allowing a leader to keep hard records if necessary. Plus once a member has left and moved onto another section or unit, as long as that section/unit is also registered the member’s data can be transferred electronically.

The website is designed by a software developer from one of the largest IT companies in the world and is backed up daily, encrypted and sent to a remote backup server weekly. The connection to the site is encrypted with many security features, which ultimately means the information is safe; all records are kept and can be deleted under the Data Protection Act. Personally I believe this site is revolutionary in keeping scout records and its only real weakness is that it requires the Internet to operate and therefore may not be accessible during meetings however I feel the programme is not necessary to have for a meeting as programmes etc can be exported to ‘pdf’ format and printed. For more information, a trial period and registration visit: https://www.onlinescoutmanager.co.uk/

Review by Alex Armstrong ACSL

Party in the Park

2011-05-31T11:13:00.001+01:00

Around one hundred Beavers, Cubs and Scouts from 2nd Onchan took part in our 50th Birthday celebrations at Onchan Park on Sunday 29. May 2011. Onchan Commissioners kindly provided all our members with a ‘Passport’ which allowed everyone to go on the parks attractions free of charge. The Group also bought everyone an ice cream. Luckily the weather was warm and sunny and everyone had a great time.

Our next Birthday event is a Group Social on the 17. July 2011 for invited guests, followed by a Group Camp at the Crossags, Ramsey over the 23. – 25. September 2011.

Cubs at Ardwhallan

2011-05-31T09:37:00.001+01:00

On Monday 30th May 2011, instead of a normal Cub Meeting 2nd Onchan’s Manannan Cub Pack met at Ardwhallin Outdoor Pursuits Centre, all Cubs made use of the assault course where we had races between each other, timed relay races and also a water cup challenge where they had to get a cup of water around the assault course without spilling any of the water, we also used the low ropes course as well where the Cubs had to work their way around several obstacles. The afternoon finished with a game of Danish Longball before all Cubs and Leaders setting off home.

2nd Onchan Manannan Cubs Ramsey Camp

2011-05-31T09:24:00.001+01:00

Over the weekend of 27. – 29. May 2011, twenty one Cubs & five Leaders went to Ramsey for a weekend of fun and adventure. On Friday Night after a short briefing we set off from Ramsey Grammar School and hiked up towards Albert Tower, once we have reached the top, all Cubs went through the Promise & the Law and they all did very well as they remembered it word for word.

We then set off down towards the hairpin and the heavens opened, we all got pretty wet. We played a few Wide Games before the final descent into Ramsey, we made it back at the Scout Hall at approx 9.30pm and decided to show a film on the big screen. It was then time for bed, after a couple of hours all the Cubs were settled, and the Leaders could finally get to sleep too.

It was a very early start the next morning with all the Cubs awake at 6.30am and consequently the Leaders were up a minute later, after breakfast and inspection we walked to Mooragh Park where we all played in the park. The main activity for the day was the Venture Centre which all the Cubs were looking forward too, once at the Venture Centre we split into two groups, where activities included abseiling, archery and air rifle shooting. For lunch it was hot dogs and soup which was engulfed down by the Cubs as they were all starving. After lunch it was time to go on the Assault Course, all the Cubs had a fantastic time and managed to get very wet with the help of Akela and also very muddy too. Luckily enough most of the Leaders managed to stay dry which we were very pleased about. It was then time to leave the Venture Centre and after saying a big thank you to the Instructors, we headed back to the Scout Hall in Ramsey. After dropping all kit and bags off we walked to the Rugby pitch and played football and cricket, soon after this, dinner arrived and we all sat down to have our chippy tea. After dinner it was time for bowling at the Sure strike in Ramsey, all Cubs enjoyed the bowling and some of the Cubs scores were very impressive, we were due to go and play Danish Longball after bowling but unfortunately it was raining so we all headed back to the Scout Hall and watched a couple of films, where all Cubs fell asleep during the second film.

The next morning all Leaders had planned a lie in but oh no, the Cubs were awake again at 6.30am so Leaders didn’t manage to have much of a lie in. It was time for Breakfast and Inspection, shortly after this all the Cubs packed all their gear away and then got themselves ready for Raft Building on the Mooragh Park Lake, the Cubs split into two groups and made great rafts, after completion of the rafts it was time to race them on the lake. The winning team were the Cubs that managed to get their raft all the way around the boats and then back to the side and then de-assemble there rafts. All Cubs managed to stay dry which didn’t go down well, so they were all allowed to jump into the lake afterwards, it was then back to the Scout Hall to get dry and warm again, it was time for lunch and a chat about how they thought the camp went, to the Leaders delight all the Cubs had a fantastic time. After a quick tidy of the Scout Hall all the Cubs then walked to the bus station to catch the bus to Onchan to join the rest of the group in the 50th Birthday Celebrations. On the bus a few of the Cubs slept while Akela and Mark travelled back to Onchan with all the gear from the weekend. Once we arrived in Onchan we joined in with the celebrations and made use of the various attractions at Onchan Park including the motor boats, bumper boats, tennis and golf. The weekend then finished with everyone having an Ice-Cream and going home with their parents with smiles on their faces.

Watertrough Cottage Working Party

2011-05-25T14:50:00.001+01:00

Members of Onchan District Explorer Scout Unit spent the day at 2nd Onchan’s Bunkhouse Watertrough Cottage on the 21. May 2011, giving the place a good tidy and a coat of white paint on the internal walls. Further work will hopefully be done over the next few months.

Onchan Civic Sunday

2011-05-25T14:26:00.001+01:00

Cubs and Scouts from 2nd Onchan, together with members of the Onchan District Explorer Scouts attended the annual Onchan Civic Sunday Parade on the 22. May 2011. Luckily the rain shower a few minutes before the Parade started stopped and the Parade went ahead in sunny weather.

Beavers Three Legs Challenge

2011-05-23T16:50:00.001+01:00

2nd Onchan Thursday Beavers have just completed the second leg of the Three Legs Challenge. Eleven Beavers turned up for the walk from St John’s to Crosby – that is an impressive turnout and looked like the most Beavers from any one Colony. So a big thank you to the Beavers and parents for supporting the event. Despite some inclement looking weather – the rain held off and it was a lovely morning. The Beavers completed the walk in about an hour and fifteen minutes – a great effort. This also meant we could complete our second SILVER challenge -the letter E for exercise!

Beavers Visit the Coastguard

2011-05-23T09:15:00.001+01:00

2nd Onchan Thursday Beaver Scouts have already started their challenge with the letter V. They have recently made a visit to the Harbour Control Office in Douglas. The Beavers spent some time in the office looking at the various cameras around the Island’s harbours, finding out information about tides and wind speeds in the Irish Sea, as well as looking at the radar screen showing the different vessels around the Isle of Man. The Beavers then spent some time with the Isle of Man Coastguard looking at the equipment they use to perform a range of coastal and inshore rescues.

Network – New Identity & Necker

2011-05-23T09:10:00.001+01:00

Network now has a new identity! Look out for us at all the Island Events. After much discussion, mock-ups, graphics, emails, more discussion, more graphics we now have changed our name from Isle of Man Scout Network to Scout Network Ellan Vannin. Our necker is purple with a black and white edge with accompanying white graphics . This will look great when tied with the friendship knot since we won't have an official woggle. Our colours for our non-uniform gear will be purple and graphite, so you'll be sure to notice us! Thanks to all our members for their hard work in getting us this far!

Guy Thompson – Network Commissioner

TT Passes Sent Out

2011-05-19T15:36:00.001+01:00

TT Passes have been sent out to all Groups and Units that applied for them in time. Again there has been a large number of applications to work on the TT Scoreboards, so some restrictions have been put in place. Scouts with a White Pass are asked to attend every day. Scouts with Blue Pass are asked to attend on Saturday and Monday only and Scouts with a Yellow Pass are asked to attend Wednesday and Friday only. All youth members must bring along a fully completed Parental Agreement Form which can be found here.

Coffee Morning

2011-05-18T08:38:00.001+01:00

The Scouts who are heading off to the World Scout Jamboree in July are holding a Coffee Morning on Saturday 28. May 2011, from 10:00 to 12:00 at the Promenade Methodist Church, Loch Promenade, Douglas. Please come along and support this event. Admission £1.00.

Scouts Gain Canoeist Badge

2011-05-16T16:13:00.001+01:00

Five Scouts from 2nd Onchan’s Moddey Dhoo Troop (David H., Sean L., Sam L., Sam M. and Adam E.) gained their Canoeist Activity Badge during a training weekend in Ramsey over the 14. – 15. May 2011. The Scouts spent two days training on Mooragh Park Boating Lake and stayed overnight in the 1st Ramsey Scout Hall. The weather could have been better as it was mostly overcast with a stiff breeze and the odd shower thrown in too.

Website Developer Sought

2011-05-10T10:31:00.001+01:00

This Website is ten years old this month and the same person has been it’s sole developer over that time. It has evolved to around seventy pages of information on Scouting for the Island. At the end of May the Developer will be stepping down. The Scout Association is looking for someone to take on the challenge of developing a new site for Island Scouting. The domain of www.manxscouts.com and a comprehensive hosting package is available. This is obviously a purely voluntary position. If you are interested please email scouts@manx.net

1st Malew Beavers Swim up to Cubs

2011-05-10T10:09:00.001+01:00

On Monday 9. May 2011, at 1st Malew Scout Hall, Beaver Scout Leaders Kevin and Lorraine Bott, said farewell to three Beavers Scouts: Ffynlo, Peter and Robert, who swam up to join the Cub Pack for their first Grand Howl.

Mullin Y Cartey

2011-05-09T12:00:00.001+01:00

Mullin Y Carty is a small Scout Camp SIte near to Ballasalla. On Tuesday 24. May 2011, starting at 6.30pm a working party will be on site to give the place a tidy up. All Island Explorer Scouts, Network Members, Leaders (and parents) are welcome to turn up and laid a hand. If you are able to bring along equipment such as petrol brush cutters then even better. Please see the map below for location details.

Cubs Three Legs Challenge – Part 2

2011-05-09T10:15:00.001+01:00

The second stage of the Cub Scouts Three Legs Challenge was held on Sunday 8. May 2011. Around thirty Cub Scouts plus assorted Leaders, parents and dogs, gathered at Glen Wyllin outside Kirk Michael, on quite a wet morning. The route followed the coastal footpath along the beach to Glen Mooar, then along the disused railway line to German Halt. By this time the wet weather had been replaced by bright sunshine and strong winds. The path continued along the old rail line to St. Johns, with most groups finishing at around 2pm. The total distance walked was 7.5 miles.

Viking Troop News

2011-05-06T09:56:00.001+01:00

Thursday night at Mill Road, Ballasalla saw the Scouts of 1st Malew’s Viking Troop, preparing four different meals on Trangias as part of their ongoing work towards the Expedition Badge.

Patrols made porridge, beans and cheese, scrambled eggs and pasta.

Great care was taken as each Patrol had to sample each others creations.

We also enrolled our latest member to the Troop Maddie C.

2nd Onchan Manannan Cubs Cycle Hike & Wide Game

2011-05-03T15:20:00.001+01:00

On Monday 2. May 2011, 2nd Onchan’s Manannan Cub Pack made use of the BMX Track at South Barrule Plantation. The Cubs spent a couple of hours in the plantation on the track, the Cubs didn’t find it too difficult and they all had a great time. After this we had juice back at Watertrough Cottage before taking part in a small treasure hunt followed by a few Wide Games in the plantation. The Cubs were also given a task to find the biggest tree in the plantation to win a Easter Egg about after 10 minutes, Alex found the biggest tree and won a Easter Egg.

Jamboree Unit Camp

2011-05-03T10:50:00.001+01:00

Over the holiday weekend of 28. April – 1. May the Manx Scout World Jamboree Unit 2011 were the hosts to 29 Scouts and 3 Leaders from the Cheshire part of our contingent.

We all camped out at Glenlough, Union Mills, where (apart from the strong winds) we were blessed with blue sky and sunshine.

The four Patrols had a variety of activities over the two days including making their own butter to go on Manx Bonnag (made by our own Josh 'C. along with the fabulous chicken stir fry)

We also had the climbing wall on site, bivouac and water filter construction, a walk from St.John's to Peel, a tour of the House of Manannan and most importantly an ice cream at Davison’s.

At the request of our guests, Carolyn Help, came to the camp on Saturday evening and taught everyone Manx dancing.

Lots of other fun and games, songs and marshmallows around the camp fire were also had.

Sunday came round all to quickly and we all went to see our friends away home. Nobody wanted to leave and it was like trying to separate Velcro to part the two groups.

We are all very much looking forward to meeting up again at Manchester Airport for our trip to the WSJ in Sweden.

On a personal note, I would like this opportunity to offer my sincere and heart felt thanks to all my Scouts and their parents who put so much thought and hard work into making our guests so welcome. Without them it would not have happened.

Also my thanks go to 1st Douglas and 2nd Onchan Scouts, Onchan District Explorers and Southern Explorers who, although not directly involved in the Jamboree turned up at Glenlough to help us set up camp on the Thursday evening.

The willingness to help even when not asked is what Scouting is all about and it makes me proud to be a small part of Manx Scouting (apologies for missing out 1st Douglas in the first version of this report).

Roger Birtles Manx Scout World Jamboree 2011 Unit Leader.

Cub Scouts at Camelot

2011-05-03T10:16:00.001+01:00

On Saturday 30. April 2011 around 140 Manx Cub Scouts and Leaders attended a day trip to Camelot Theme Park. The day started very early for everyone with all the Cubs meeting at 6.15am at the Sea Terminal to catch the boat to Liverpool, the boat left on time but the journey was very rough, with most of the Cubs feeling very unwell. Once we arrived in Liverpool we travelled on Coaches to Camelot Theme Park. Once we arrived at Camelot Theme Park we all split into groups for the day, we all met for lunch while we watched the jousting. Most of the Cubs went on all the rides and the most popular ride seemed to the Log Flume and also the Ghost Train. At 4.30pm it was time to get the coach back to Liverpool where the Manannan was waiting. The journey back was great and not as rough as earlier on in the morning, with most of the Cubs watching a film in the Cinema on the boat. Back at the sea terminal all Cubs were picked up by parents at 9.30pm, all the Cubs and Leaders had a fantastic time.

Report by Andrew Galka

AIC / GSL Meeting

2011-04-28T13:59:00.001+01:00

There will be a meeting at Cunningham House on Wednesday 4. May 2011, for all Assistant Island Commissioners, Group Scout Leaders, Leaders in Charge and Explorer Scout Leaders. The meeting starts at 18:00.

Manx Scout Band Launched

2011-04-27T08:50:00.001+01:00

The Manx Scout Band held its launch weekend recently. A full report will appear here soon.

St. George’s Day Parade & Service

2011-04-26T09:44:00.001+01:00

The annual St. George’s Day Service was held in Laxey on Saturday 23. April 2011. Unfortunately the weather was pretty damp in the early afternoon and a decision was made to hold the service inside in the Working Men's Institute rather than on the Washing Floors Garden. It was also decided that only the flags would parade. It was pretty cramped inside the institute. There were a few grumbles that the the occasion is getting a bit stale and the organisers should look at changing things for next year.

St. George’s Day

2011-04-23T09:40:00.001+01:00

Today is St. George’s Day. St. George as well as being the National Saint of England is also the Patron Saint of the Scout Association. Here on the Isle of Man St. George’s Day will be celebrated by all members of the Scout Association with a Parade and Multi Faith Service which will be held in Laxey. Further details can be found here.

Water & Electricity Visits

2011-04-21T16:14:00.001+01:00

2nd Onchan’s Thursday Beavers recently had a visit from the Water & Sewerage Authority. Aisha and Matthew - who incidentally use to be a Beaver at 2nd Onchan many years ago - explained the water cycle to the Beavers and how clean, safe water made its way to their taps. They gave each of the Beavers an activity book, pencil and ruler. An informative evening which the Beavers seemed to enjoy.

Last month we had a visit from the Manx Electricity Authority. This again was very interesting and the Beavers were able to see how electrical circuits could be connected and broken using themselves in the process! They also explained about the sub-stations on the Island and showed the Beavers the different types of electrical cables they used, including an example of the cables found in the Irish Sea.

Scouting Iphone App

2011-04-21T14:19:00.001+01:00

My Badges is The Scout Association’s official badge app and is now available for iPhone and iPod Touch users. Ideal for quick reference at meetings or camp, it contains the requirements for every badge and award in the UK 6-25 programme.

Fantastic features: The Scout Association’s first smart phone app is perfect for volunteers, parents and young people alike. It contains a host of features to make Scouting easier wherever you happen to be, including:

Requirements for every badge and award in the UK 6-25 programme (any changes to badges and award requirements will automatically be sent to your iPhone or iPod Touch)
Ability to track personal progress
Promise and Law for all ages (including all permissible variations)
Interactive badge position diagrams
Ability to share email and SMS links to scouts.org.uk (iPod Touch - email only)

Great graphics: With images of every badge, participating in the programme is now easier and more fun for all Scouts. Mums and dads will also be pleased with the badge positioning facility – now there’s no need to guess.

Orienteering Competition

2011-04-21T11:33:00.001+01:00

An Orienteering Competition for all Island Scouts, Explorer Scouts, Network Members and Leaders is being held on the 1. May 2011. The venue is Ballaugh Plantation and the event starts at 14:00. Further details can be found here.

Map showing the area of the Orienteering Competition.

Click on map for a larger version.

The Last Two Months

2011-04-14T08:42:00.001+01:00

Well, Network has now been running for about two months and you might be wondering what we've actually achieved in that time.

The answer is, almost surprisingly, quite a lot. Starting any organisation (even a branch of an organisation) is a slow and often cumbersome business, and considering this, we've done rather well.

The Facebook Group is active, and allows for all online members to IM one another, as well as being a lively place for discussion and event planning. All Network events are now being organised this way, as it allows the members to be updated and reached far more efficiently.

We have not only chosen a Chairman and Social Secretary, had quite a few of our members send off their CRB forms (email Guy if you'd like one), but Ellan Vannin Scout Network will soon have their own bank accounts, and have been selected to organise and oversee the Tynwald Day parking (along with several others, notably the Island Explorers). On top of these things, we've also had three meetings, one of which went well enough to get us into the newspaper.

The Name-tags are soon to be ordered, we have all the necker designs too, and they'll be ordered towards the end of this month.We have also been spotted by the Scout Network magazine, and they are doing an editorial on us in the upcoming supplement.

The Future

By the end of April, we intend:

For the neckerchiefs to have been ordered, if not delivered.
For the Name-Tags to have arrived.
To have invested our first members.
To have at least one more large meeting, excluding the Gilwell visit.
To have Network posters in each Scout Hall and secondary school.
To hopefully have a shiny new Network Leader.

If you feel I've missed anything, or have any ideas/plans of your own, please please contact Luke Brammer (luke.brammer@msn.com), Lissy Corlett (aliciacorlett@live.co.uk) or ISNC Guy Thompson. I promise you now we don't bite (much).

Many thanks, and hopefully I'll be seeing most of you in the near future.

Report by Luke Brammer

Yomp – Section One Completed

2011-04-04T08:51:00.001+01:00

The first Section of Yomp was held on Sunday 3. April 2011, with about fifty Scouts, Explorer Scouts and Leaders taking part. The start was at the Point of Ayre and went along the coast to Rue Point and then along winding country roads and footpaths to finish at Sulby Primary School. Distance walked was 11.4 miles and the weather was fine and sunny. The next Section of Yomp is on Sunday Sunday 3. July 2011. Further details can be found here.

Groups that didn’t manage to join in the mass start on Sunday are more than welcome to complete the Section on any other day in April.

Staged Swimming Badges

2011-04-02T17:24:00.001+01:00

2nd Onchan Scout Group hired Ballakermeen School Swimming Pool on the afternoon of the 2. April 2011, for their annual Swimming Badge Session. The following Cubs and Scouts gained their badges:

Stage 1

Jo C. – Manannan Cubs

Stage 2

Lewis B. – Manannan Cubs
Thommaz B. – Manannan Cubs
Cameron M. – Manannan Cubs
Thomas C. – Snaefell Cubs
Will M. – Manannan Cubs
Matthew R. – Manannan Cubs
Thomas G. – Snaefell Cubs
Luke H. – Snaefell Cubs
Josh R. – Snaefell Cubs

Stage 3

Daniel M. – Manannan Cubs
Luke SM. – Manannan Cubs
Josh H. – Snaefell Cubs
Freddie Q. – Phoenix Scouts
Alex M. – Moddey Dhoo Scouts

Stage 4

Alex C. – Phoenix Scouts
Macklin W. – Phoenix Scouts
Harry W. – Manannan Cubs
Luke P. – Manannan Cubs
Josh R. – Manannan Cubs
Liam S. – Moddey Dhoo Scouts
Joe B. – Manannan Cubs
Alex C. – Moddey Dhoo Scouts

Stage 5

Oliver M. – Phoenix Scouts
Eliot S. – Phoenix Scouts

New Section for Old Scouts

2011-04-01T09:31:00.001+01:00

The Scout Association has announced today that they are launching a new Section called ‘Codger Scouts”. This is for old people who are young at heart and want to give Scouting a go. The Codger Section is for both old men and old women over the age of 85, who would like to give Camping Abseiling, Kayaking and other exciting activities a try. All new members of the Codger Section must have parental permission to join.

TT Forms Now Available

2011-04-01T09:02:00.001+01:00

2011 marks one hundred years of the Isle of Man TT Mountain Course, so we are expecting lots of Cub, Scouts, Explorers and Network Members helping us run the Grandstand Scoreboards during this years TT Races. Forms are now available to download from here. Leaders should ensure that all members are given a copy of the Information note and the Parental Agreement Form (PAF). It is very important that the PAF is bought along on the first day of attendance. Youth members will not be permitted to stay without a fully completed form. A strict closing date of the 14. May is in force. Late entries will not be accepted.

Commitment Award for 2nd Onchan Members

2011-03-30T08:59:00.001+01:00

As part of 2nd Onchan’s 50th Birthday Celebrations, the Group is setting up a new Award. It’s basically a Commitment Award and will be presented to Scouts just before they move up from the Scout Section and into the Explorer Scouts and therefore are leaving 2^nd Onchan, but continuing their Scouting.

To gain the Award you must:

Be a member of 2^nd Onchan Scout Group as a Scout.
Have been both a Beaver Scout and a Cub Scout (not necessarily in 2^nd Onchan)
Are intending to move up into the Explorer Scouts.

The Award is a metal Pin Badge and is not an official uniform Badge, but it is hoped that the badge will be worn by our ex members on their Explorer Scout Uniform. It is also intended to be a memento of their time in the Group.

St. Georges Day - Information

2011-03-29T14:04:00.001+01:00

Below is the information for the forthcoming 2011 St. George’s Day Parade, to be held in Laxey on Saturday 23. April, 2011.

St. George’s Day is the only occasion when members from all sections: Beavers, Cubs, Scouts, Explorers and Network meet together to reaffirm their promise. This is made by everyone in the Scout Movement, both current and previous (once a Scout, always a Scout). All members should be smartly dressed in full uniform with the Neckers neatly pressed and remember to bring money for the collection.

All Scouts will assemble near Laxey Fire Station, parade along Mines Road, cross the busy road with the assistance of the Police, down Captain’s Hill and through the footpaths onto Laxey Washing Floor, where the service will take place. Parents should not take part in the parade, but are welcome to view the parade along the route and from the many observation areas above the Laxey Washing Floor.

Please do not park anywhere near Laxey Fire Station or along Mines Road since this will not only cause problems in the event of an emergency, but also parked cars will spoil the parade. There are lots of car parks available around Laxey.

There are public toilets available near to the fire station assembly point and at the MER station after the event.

2.00 pm Parents to drop off children along Mines Road, where they will be directed by Parent Marshals in high viz jackets and members will be directed to the assembly area behind the fire station.
2.30 pm Parade commences.
2.45 pm Parade assembles on the Washing Floor
3.00 pm Service starts
3.30 pm Parade dismissed by Island Commissioner and parent pick-up

If you have any queries, please contact your Section Leader.

Scouting Article in Manx Press

2011-03-29T13:28:00.001+01:00

A full page article on 2nd Onchan’s 50th Birthday and Scouting on the Isle of Man, appeared in the Manx Independent last week. You can now read the article online here.

1st Douglas Cubs – Edible Rafts

2011-03-23T08:56:00.001Z

1st Douglas Cushag Cub Pack spent their Pack Night this week making, testing and enjoying edible rafts. They used their Scouting skills to lash together breadsticks with strawberry laces. Once the framework was made they tied on chocolate coated mini rolls. Then came the test - to see if they floated! If they did (which they all did) the Cubs were allowed to eat their good work.

Voluntary Youth Organisations Registration

2011-03-21T13:27:00.001Z

The Department of Education and Children appreciates that there are many adults in our community who, through their voluntary commitment, are making a positive contribution in the lives of young people. DEC maintains a register of voluntary youth clubs and organisations and although registration is entirely voluntary, we are hoping to bring on board as many organisations as possible with a view to offering some help (see below) and we also know that networking, sharing resources and ideas can often help, especially some of the smaller groups. We are updating the register and a copy of the appropriate form is enclosed. Please note that the ‘numbers’ section requires the number in each school year, and not ages. Year 6 is the top class in primary schools for instance. Please return the completed form to this office (address on form).

Youth clubs and organisations that are registered with the Department’s Youth & Community Division:

Receive details of training opportunities eg:safeguarding (child protection), organising activities and trips (inc risk assessments), working with groups and challenging young people;
Receive details of youth activities organised by the Department; events and activities for your group to join in eg: Wet ’n’ Wild in Ramsey Pool, outdoor activities and team challenges;
May hire Department-owned schools and youth centre facilities at a reduced rate, subject to appropriate hiring conditions;
Are eligible to apply for financial assistance. Sports and Arts organisations are referred to the Isle of Man Sports Council or Isle of Man Arts Council in the first instance.

The registration Form can be downloaded here.

Kayak Polo Competition Results

2011-03-19T18:03:00.001Z

The annual Kayak Polo Competition was held at Ballakermeen School Swimming Pool on the 19. March 2011. This competition is open to all Island Scout Troops, Explorer Units and the Scout Network. Each team played four games over the three hour competition. The winners were Team 9, 2nd Onchan ‘D’ (Oliver M., Eliot S. & Chris W.) who also won the event last year. The full results are shown below:

1st Team 9: 2nd Onchan D
2nd Team 16: Mixed Explorers B
3rd Team 7: Scout Network
4th Team 13: 2nd Onchan G
5th Team 5: Mixed Explorers A
6th Team 6: Douglas Explorers
7th Team 2: 2nd Onchan B
8th Team 14: 2nd Onchan H
9th Team 12: 2nd Onchan F
10th Team 11: 1st Douglas A
11th Team 8 2nd Onchan C
12th Team 1: 2nd Onchan A
=13th Team 10: 1st Arbory A
=13th Team 10: 2nd Onchan E
=15th Team 15: 1st Ballaugh
=15th Team 4: 1st Arbory B

The organisers were pretty pleased with the numbers attending, however it would be great if more Island Scout Troops joined in.

Scout Network Newsletter

2011-03-18T09:23:00.001Z

We have lots of events planned for the next month taking us up to St Georges Day. Our data base is growing and we have fifteen signed up members and as summer comes along and school exams finish more should join us.

Network Members have set up their own facebook page and Jay and Luke are the contacts. The page is a forum for contact and chat so all prospective and existing Network Members are encouraged to join.

Remember, if your between 17.5 years and 25 you can join Network but can't be invested until after your 18th birthday.

Some of our members already have their warrants which include the CRB check. Network Members who have just turned 18 need to fill in a CRB form and I have copies so please contact me and I'll pop one in the post. For those of you who help as Young Leaders and are turning 18 you still need the CRB check.

We now have a few necker designs and unless we get a few more in you will have to decide on what we have, the final design will then be submitted to the IC for approval. Members decided on the Cub walk to make our own so that will be a challenge in its own right! We also need to decide upon shoulder tags which will say MANX NETWORK.

Nobody has been invested yet and this is becoming a priority but before this can be done the CRB check needs to be completed. You also need a adult shirt available from Cunningham House for about £20.

Our next event is the Kayak Polo at Ballakermeen baths at 2.00 this Saturday so lets have a good turnout and put a team together

Guy Thompson - Island Scout Network Commissioner

Jamboree Unit Weekend

2011-03-18T09:18:00.001Z

Over the weekend of 4. – 6. March 2011, The Manx Scout Jamboree Unit flew to England where we met the rest of the Cheshire Unit they will be attending the 2011 World Scout Jamboree in Sweden with.

By the time we arrived at the Bispham Hall Scout centre on the outskirts of Wigan it was dark and no one appeared to be there!

However, on entering the building we found the hallway decorated with bunting and lined on both sides by the Cheshire Scouts who cheered us and carried our rucksacks in for us. (now we know what it must be like to be a film star making an entrance)

Within 10 minutes (No exaggeration!) you would have thought we had known each other for years.

During the course of the weekend we started to work in the Patrols we will be in in Sweden.

Activities included High ropes, shooting, grass sledging crafts and designing and choosing Patrol names and cooking in our Patrols.

The weekend flew past with little sleep but a great deal of fun and our parting was as moving as our arrival.

During the May Bank Holiday, we look forward to playing host to the Cheshire Scouts at a camp at Glenloch where we hope to show what a beautiful and diverse place the Isle of Man is.

Manannan Cubs Visit to the Life Boat Station

2011-03-15T14:05:00.001Z

As part of the Local Knowledge Badge, twenty eight Cubs from 2nd Onchan’s Manannan Pack went and visited Douglas Life Boat Station on Monday 14. March 2011. During the visit the Cubs were shown all around the station and got to go on the Boat, where we were shown all around the different parts of the lifeboat. After this we were shown a small documentary on what they do at the life boat station. Many thanks to the guys at the Life Boat Station for showing us all around.

2nd Onchan Manannan Pack at Eary Cushlin

2011-03-14T14:56:00.001Z

Over the weekend 11. – 13. March, twenty two Cubs, four Leaders and one dog, from 2nd Onchan’s Manannan Cub Scout Pack, went to Eary Cushlin. On Friday night after a brief talk we went for a nice walk up Cronk Ny Arrey Laa, we actually didn’t make it all the way up as the weather wasn’t too brilliant and most of the Cubs were very tired, we made it about ¾ of the way up the hill.

Back at Eary Cushlin we had a few games of Pictionary and a Quiz. It was then time for Supper and Bed, it was about 3am when all the Cubs were asleep, the next morning was a early start with everyone up by 6.30am, after Breakfast we had room inspection, and the Cubs had free time where they played football and made Dens around Eary Cushlin, we then went into Onchan for a game of Laser Blast. After Laser Blast we had lunch in Onchan Park and then went swimming at the NSC where all the Cubs had fun on the slides and by splashing Akela. We then went back to the Scout Hall for some games and a Chippy Tea. We entered two teams in the Super Splash competition where we did very well. The other Cubs stayed at the Scout Hall and watched a few films and played some games in the Scout Hall. We arrived back at Eary Cushlin at 10pm where we watched another film before everyone headed to their rooms. Sunday morning was a early start for Akela who was up at 7am while the other Leaders were still asleep, after Breakfast and Inspection we did some Bivouac Building in the plantation and a treasure hunt. It was then time for lunch, after lunch we awarded prizes and converted all points into sweets. We finished of the weekend with a few Wide Games. Everyone had a fantastic weekend and all the Cubs had good things to say about the Cub Camp.

Yomp Section 2 – Change of Date

2011-03-14T14:25:00.001Z

To avoid a clash with the Bay Festival, the second Section of Yomp has been moved from the 19. June 2011 to a new date on the 3. July 2011. Further information on Yomp can be found here.

Rope Available

2011-03-14T10:58:00.001Z

A quantity of old climbing rope has become available. This will be cut into lengths so it can’t be used for climbing, but maybe okay for use in knotting and pioneering. If your Isle of Man Scout Group or Explorer Unit would like some of the rope, please send and email to scouts@wm.im

Scout Super Splash

2011-03-13T09:42:00.001Z

The annual Scout Super splash was held at Ramsey Swimming Pool on Saturday 12. March 2011. The Cub and Scout Teams took part in six team races over the two hour event.

The winners of the Cub Section were 1st Marown and the winners of the Scout Section were 2nd Onchan Phoenix ‘A’ Team.

1st Marown Cub Scouts winners of the Cub Scout Section

2nd Onchan Phoenix Scouts ‘A’ Team winners of the Scout Section

Note to Island Scouters: The organisers of Scout Super Splash were disappointed by the very low turn out at this years event. Only ten teams took part and four of those were from one Group. If all Island Groups don't start supporting this event, then it stands a good chance of disappearing.

Shelterbox

2011-03-11T15:29:00.001Z

Shelterbox is busy sending survival boxes to the earthquake and tsunami hit areas in Japan. They also helped with the earthquake that devastated Christchurch in New Zealand last month. In 2009 Shelterbox and the Scout Association formed a partnership to help raise funds for this innovative charity. Shelterbox has a special page on its Website for Scouts. To see how your Group could get involved click here.

Join the UK Programme Support team

2011-03-08T10:54:00.001Z

Are you enthusiastic about making Scouting even better for young people? Do you want to get involved in making change happen?
Can you conduct research, create resources, come up with ideas or communicate with people? Have you got knowledge or experience that you can share?

We are looking for volunteers to be part of national project teams for 2011/12, working on a variety of topics within the UK Programme Team. Whether you’re interested in adventurous activities, weekly Scouting, short term support or long term development there’s an opportunity for you to be involved. Specific project work can range from rewriting factsheets or a young person’s handbook to reviewing the entire programme or developing a new adventurous permit system.

More information can be found online on the programme team project positions and also on joining the UK Programme Support Team.

Cub Scouts Three Legs Challenge

2011-03-07T09:14:00.001Z

The first Section of the Cub Scouts Three Legs Challenge (little brother to the Three Legs Challenge) took place on Sunday 6. March 2011. Around 65 Cub Scouts, together with Leaders, parents and assorted dogs, walked over two of the Islands Long Distance Footpaths, the Bayr Ny Skeddan and the Heritage Way. As the first part of the walk went along the cliff edge from Glen Maye to The Raggart, just outside Peel, safe walking instructions were given out to the young walkers and marshals were positioned along the path to keep an eye on everyone. At the Raggart everyone stopped for lunch before continuing along the old railway line to St.Johns. Luckily it was a fine sunny day and just about perfect walking conditions. There are two more walks to do to complete the Challenge. The next one takes place on the 8. May 2011.

1st Ballaugh Observatory Visit

2011-03-07T08:46:00.001Z

1st Ballaugh Cubs & Scouts visited the Isle of Man Astronomy Association Observatory on the 4. March 2011. Although Friday was cloudy the volunteer staff, Dave Storey and Mark Henthorne, at the observatory gave us an excellent lecture on the universe and showed us many photographs and items from their computer. The software on their computer was the best money could buy and were able to show us what we could see in the sky at night had it been clear. They were able to zoom in on many of the planets along with how the stars and constellations got their names. The Cubs and Scouts fired lots of questions at Dave and he was able to come back with very interesting answers. At the end of the visit Dave presented the Cubs with their Astronomy Badge.

Car Boot Sale

2011-03-02T08:36:00.001Z

1st Douglas Scout Group are holding a Car Boot Sale at their Headquarters on Demesne Road, Douglas, on Sunday 6. March 2011, from 14:00 to 16:00. Tables (inside) are £5.00. Phone Sharon on 467465 after 18:00 for details.