A lot of debate and speculation has arisen lately regarding what is happening with the local Scouts/Guide hall in Short Street.

I have been reluctant to wade into this debate until more information and perhaps an outcome was known.

Scouts have been operating in Grenfell for some 90 years and the land and buildings were generously donated to both the local groups for the youth of Grenfell.

I have been a cub leader in Grenfell for nearly 40 years and I too have an emotional attachment to what the hall represents and understand what it means to the community.

Scouts receive a tremendous amount of support from all of the community and I would like to acknowledge that support and say thank you.

Local organisations, businesses and individuals have always supported Scouts in Grenfell and without this support we would not be where we are today.

We have such a long history in Grenfell when other groups in surrounding towns like Cowra have folded due to lack of support, members and leaders.

As has been noted in previous letters the properties legal ownership sits with Scouts NSW and a deed of agreement is held between Scouts NSW and Guides NSW regarding what happens to the proceeds in the event of a sale.

The proceeds are distributed 50/50 between both Scouts and Guides. 

The local groups were approached in November 2017 by TAFE NSW to ascertain if both groups would be interested or open to the proposition of selling the land and building.

In response to the letter by TAFE NSW a joint meeting was held between both groups where it was decided that as a collective we would be open to an offer of sale. 

In saying we were open to the prospect of selling the current premises was with the view to both groups relocating to somewhere in Grenfell, still central and building a brand new facility, a brand new hall without big maintenance or asbestos issues.

This would enable the group to utilise more of our fundraising on the cubs and continue with the great activities and camps we run.

The only way a sale would have the Scouts support is if sufficient money was received from the sale to enable this relocation and building to happen.

One option is that council may allow use of available land on which to build a new building and this would also be welcomed by the group.

In the unlikely and unwelcome event that Scouts and Guides in Grenfell ever fold this would allow the facility to remain with the Council and the community. 

An offer to purchase the property has been received by Scouts NSW however this was not accepted and as far as I am aware negotiations are still continuing.

Scouts NSW are aware of the conditions of our support and have advised us that they hold the same view with regards to the sale and rebuilding in Grenfell.

As with all commercial negotiations it is assumed that TAFE NSW would also be looking at alternative sites.

I welcome a new TAFE learning facility in Grenfell and I believe any services that can assist our youth and perhaps all of the community should be embraced.

 A new multi-million dollar learning centre that perhaps may encourage or support our youth in staying in the local area or just providing another avenue for learning cannot hurt the Grenfell community.

1st Grenfell cubs are thriving and currently have 20 members which is a wonderful achievement for our small community.

At our recent family welcome night – barefoot bowling, we had a terrific turnout of cubs, parents and families with a great night had by all.

The cub major camp this year is hopefully a trip to the snow so another great camp to look forward too.

Wherever the cub pack end up calling home I can assure you that we will remain within Grenfell and look forward to many years ahead.

Howard Hughes

Cub Scout Leader (CSL)

1st Grenfell Cub Scouts

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