Funding for the shed was provided largely by a Federal Government Volunteers Grant Program, which was designed to “help existing volunteers and encourage new people to volunteering”.

Guiding is voluntary in every sense of the word: adult leaders give their time to help girls and young women to work towards the Guide mission statement of growing into “confident, self-respecting, responsible community members”.

Currently, Bowral offers Guiding to girls across all age ranges from 6 to 18 years.

Three of the four units are now full and have waiting lists of girls who would like to join.

With numbers at an all time high, more adult volunteers to run groups are desperately needed.

Bowral Guides are looking for women over 18 in the community who would like to be a good role model for girls, or simply don’t want girls to miss out on the fun they had.

Adult membership offers fun and friendship, leadership opportunities, skills development and the satisfaction of challenging yourself and stretching the boundaries.

Training and support is offered in the form of workshops, publications and by initially working alongside a guiding partner.

Additional leaders are currently needed for all age groups but most urgently, for the Junior Guides (7-10years).

Sadly, this unit will be closed in the next few weeks if new leaders are not found.

First Bowral is the oldest and largest Guide unit in the Bowral District and is made up of a delightful group of girls who are developing a range of skills.

For those who are interested in finding out more about volunteering to become a leader, contact Bowral Girl Guides Support Group president Meredith on 4861 2861 or Bowral Girl Guides District Leader, Cathy on 4862 2863.