The WSJ is a worldwide youth camp that occurs every four years.
This year it will be held in Saemangeum, South Korea.
Attended by more than 50,000 Scouts and Scout leaders from across the globe, the aim of the camp is to give Scouts an opportunity to engage in cultural exchange, enhance their social abilities and create life-long friendships.
Venturer Scout Ethan, 15, who attends St Joseph’s College in Echuca, said it was going to be an unforgettable experience.
“The long-term benefit of this fantastic opportunity is the sights we will never forget, the friendships we will make and the memories we will remember forever,” he said.
“It allows us to explore different cultures and embrace diversity by being put into a totally new environment.
“I am slightly nervous but I’m also feeling excited to develop a new perspective on a different culture. I just hope I get to learn a bit of the language while I’m over there.”
Venturer Scout Xavier, 15, said he felt both nervous and excited, as it had been more than six years since he last went overseas.
The Kyabram P-12 student said it was all starting to feel very real now.
“We’re now in the process of planning for the trip and going through our final packing list,” Xavier said.
The WSJ has a wide range of onsite and off-site programs planned for the Scouts, who have the option of taking part in rafting, ziplining, food and culture hubs and much more.
Ethan and Xavier have worked tirelessly to successfully secure their place on the trip.
They were required to undertake an application process during which their Scouting history was considered, including their participation in activities and camps as well as their leadership roles within the community.
Despite balancing school and part-time work, both boys have remained dedicated to Scouting, which speaks to their impressive work ethic.
They have both given up their time on countless occasions to help out at community events such as Australia Day ceremonies and the Kyabram Tastes and Tunes Festival.
Kyabram Freemasons, Echuca Moama Apex Club, Echuca Rotary, Scouts Victoria and Campaspe Shire Council have rallied behind the boys, pledging financial support to assist with the costs of the trip.
1st Kyabram Scouts group leader Jesse Mitchell was grateful for the tremendous support they had received.
“We were blown away by the support and donations being offered as we know how hard it is to fundraise as a small community organisation,” Ms Mitchell said.
“The boys aren’t just representing Australia, they are representing Kyabram and all the local organisations that have supported them.”
The 1st Kyabram Scouts will be giving thanks to those organisations at their annual report and awards night on Wednesday, September 6.
After learning of Ethan and Xavier’s trip abroad, Ms Mitchell said other Scout members had started to develop an interest in attending future world jamborees.
“This is really good for our Scouting community as our youth are becoming more engaged and committed,” she said.
Ethan and Xavier will be embarking on their adventure with the rest of the Australian contingent on Friday, July 28, and will be returning home on Sunday, August 13.
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