Proud moment for gritty Scout at unveiling of chapel project

Proud of the successful completion of his legacy project, Bartholomew says he is relieved not having to prepare another hamburger.

January 17, 2024

Jani de beer 2 minutes read

After assembling and installing 37 new benches made of recycled plastic timber, Kevin shared the successful completion of his legacy project with fellow scouts, family and friends.

Donning a hairnet and catering gloves, Kevin Bartholomew (17) of the Ninth Benoni Scout Troop, Lakefield, has become a regular sight at markets and entrepreneurs’ days, using hamburgers as currency.

Cooking, stacking and serving, the Atlasville teen lured hungry patrons to his stall for nearly a year to raise funds for his Springbok Trail legacy project, the highest ranking within the Scouting movement.

For the past 11 years, the School of Achievement learner has diligently attained various badges in preparation for the trail, which marks his final chapter as a Scout.

On January 13, members of the troop and the Scouting fraternity, family and friends gathered at Arrowe Park’s Scout grounds in Lakefield to celebrate the unveiling of Kevin’s project.

While many lapped up the rays during the festive season, the Calisto troop lent a helping hand, assembling and finally securing 37 recycled plastic timber benches at the open-air chapel.

“I elected to replace the existing wooden benches at the chapel as a means of giving back to a facility that has been integral in my development as a Scout and person,” said Bartholomew.

“The previous benches were installed nearly 50 years ago, and over time, eroded.

Kevin Bartholomew, of the Ninth Benoni Scout Troop, pictured in August last year, on one of the rotten chapel benches at the Arrowe Park Scout grounds.

“We use this space to celebrate our founder Lord Baden Powell’s birthday on Baden Powell (BP) Sunday, but it is also a quiet space where we can reflect on our personal growth.”

Recapping on process, Kevin made light of the mammoth task, joking that he had spent more money than he had ever seen and made use of equipment bigger than himself!

Under his guidance, troop members spent four weekends assembling the benches and another four days completing the installation.

“I didn’t realise how many screws are needed to build a single sturdy bench – nor did I know that mixing 1.8t cement equates to at least two weeks at the gym,” he joked.

“However, seeing the final product fills me with immense pride, knowing that the skills I learnt through Scouting equipped me with the knowledge to see it through to the blistering end.”

Offering a blessing to commemorate the event, Reverend Dr Johnathan Goosen, of the First Boksburg Scout Group, said the benches bear greater significance than offering comfortable seating.

“This creates a space in nature where Scouts can meet with a higher power to grow spiritually, as well as within oneself,” said Goosen.

Reverend Dr Johnathan Goosen of the First Boksburg Scout Group, delivered a blessing on the competed project.

He further commended Errol Treacher, troop Scouter, for mentoring Kevin throughout his Scouting journey, which ultimately contributed to him growing into a well-rounded young man.

The chairperson of the Arrowe Park Scout grounds, Geoff Londt, thanked Kevin for his investment in the grounds.

“Arrowe Park is a jewel and asset to the Scout movement and it is inspiring to see members taking responsibility for it,” said Londt.

“Each new development opens the grounds to greater opportunities.”

Looking at the plaques fixed at the end of each bench containing the names of neighbouring troops, businesses and individuals that contributed to his fundraising, Kevin’s face lit up as he thanked everyone for their contribution towards the completion of the project.

“None of this would have been possible without the assistance of those who believed in my vision,” he said.

“I hope every time a Scout makes use of this facility, they will be reminded that everything is possible through faith, grit, and determination.”