19 October 2021
Published 08 June 2020
Deception Bay Scouts will have a new home to look forward to once COVID-19 restrictions ease after having to adapt to more than just a virus.
Moreton Bay Regional Council contractors Murphy Builders broke ground on a new $385,000 scout hall at 18-24 George Street this week.
Mayor Peter Flannery said this was a big win for the group who has been patient in waiting for their new home.
“These children and young adults were left without a place to gather and do what they love best, after termites destroyed their old scout den,” Mayor Flannery said.
“That’s why I am very pleased to usher in what will be a new era for Deception Bay Scouts to play, grow and learn valuable life lessons.
“As a former Australian Army soldier I see the similarities in the values these young scouts will learn here and those values will set them up for life.
“Scouts have long been a wonderful contributor to our community by building young leaders for the future and this is just a small way we can help them on their way.”
Councillor Sandra Ruck (Div5) said the scout den will include all new facilities once completed, including kitchen, meeting room, store room and amenities as well as being disability accessible.
“Deception Bay Scouts have been forced to do things a little differently due to coronavirus, so that’s why we want to make sure their new home has everything they need to thrive when they are able to come back,” Cr Ruck said.
“Council had organised a temporary place for the scouts to continue their operations at Deception Bay North Primary School once their old den was knocked down, but then COVID-19 hit.
“I’m told they’ve since been keeping in touch with their members by operating online challenges and activities.
“It shows the impressive resilience scouts have in our region and I’m delighted Council could deliver this project.”
Scout leader Adam Black said he can’t wait to see the new den once it is complete.
“It was devastating for us when the old den was knocked down due to termites, so it will be a massive relief when we’re able to move in,” he said.
“I have five kids who have all been involved with the scouts so I will be particularly thrilled, but it’s great to see that all the kids will finally have a place to meet once again.
“I want to thank Council for supporting us through tough times and setting us up for many years to come by building our new home.”
Construction is expected to take 17 weeks to complete, weather permitting.