Fourth Benoni Air Scout is a Springbok Scout

“This award teaches you to be organised and focused.”

Bridgette Matthewson (18) of Fourth Benoni Air Scouts, was recently awarded the Springbok Scout Award.

Bridgette Matthewson (18), of the Fourth Benoni Air Scouts, recently attained a Springbok Scout Award – the highest honour achievable by a Scout in South Africa.

The Morehill resident explained that the completion of all requirements for the Springbok award must occur before the applicant’s 18th birthday.

Bridgette Matthewson with Craig van der Bank, who presented her with the Springbok Scout Award.

As part of the award, Bridgette had to plan and complete a set of rigorous challenges that included performing 40 hours of community service, organising and running a hike, cooking a three-course meal over a fire and serving it to a group of guests, building a construction project and presenting a discussion on ‘mutual agreement’ to a Scout troop.

Bridgette joined the Fourth Benoni Air Scouts as a Cub in 2007 and her journey towards a Springbok award was an exciting challenge.

ALSO READ:

Support Rotary’s soft toys drive

The St Dunstan’s College learner said she is grateful to her leaders, family and friends for believing in her and supporting her through this journey.

“I am very proud of myself; it was a tough journey but this journey taught me that I can achieve anything I want to,” said Bridgette.

“This award teaches you to be organised and focused.”

Bridgette said by being a Scout you learn important life and leadership skills, team building and get to experience unique outdoor adventures.

“Scouts learn how to make good choices and to take responsibility for their actions so that they are prepared for their adult life as independent persons,” she said.

Bridgette Matthewson (second from left) with fellow Scouters and some of her mentors. They are (back, from left): Colleen Reid, Barry Neuwerth, Shane Gardiner and Gavin Lewis. Front: Chris Jackman, Neil Gerber, Chris Turner and Craig van der Bank.

One of the highlights of her Scouting career was completing a 10-day Patrol Leader Training Unit leadership course.

Bridgette said accomplishing the Springbok award would have not been possible without the support of all her Scout leaders and leaders from other troops, fellow Scouts and everyone who helped her with all the activities.

Scouts and Cubs hand over a wooden plaque to congratulate the Fourth Benoni Air Scout’s newest Springbok Scout, Bridgette Matthewson (middle).

“Anyone can become a Scout – just to find a Scout group, fill in all the necessary documents and start enjoying all the adventures!”

Follow us on these platforms:

Like our Facebook page and follow us on Twitter.

For news straight to your phone invite us:
WhatsApp: 079 431 1217
Instagram: benonicitytimes.co.za

For more #hyperlocal news at your fingertips, visit Boksburg Advertiser, Springs Advertiser, Brakpan Herald, African Reporter and Kathorus Mail.