A SURVEY OF ROVER SCOUTING IN VICTORIA

IN THE BEGINNING.
"The Rover brotherhood has been organised all over Great Britain and in the British oversea States. It has also spread to many
foreign countries."
(Rovering to Success, p. 210.)
For those attending the Rover Moot at the Pan Pacific Jamboree at Yarra Brae, Wonga Park, it has been considered of interest to
issue a brief summary of Rover Scouting in Victoria since its inception. Various experiments have been tried through the years,
and though Rovering in Victoria is a very small part of World Rover Scouting, our experiences may make a basis for comparison
with trials made elsewhere, of the various aspects of Rovering. The official beginning of the Rover Scout Section of the Scout
Movement was marked, says "Gilcraft," in "Rover Scouts," by the issue in September, 1918, of a pamphlet called Rules for Rover
Scouts.
Earlier, in 1914, the Scouts' Friendly Society, as a Brotherhood of Old Scouts, was formed with these objects in its prospectus:
(i)
To keep ex-Boy Scouts in touch with each other and the Movement;
(ii)
To preserve the Scout Ideal of Good Citizenship;
(iii)
To attract to the Movement young men who had not been Scouts, and to give them opportunities for service to their
country.
The outbreak of war in 1914 delayed developments, but in January, 1917, the Chief Scout was interested, and a few months later a
more definite scheme was drawn up, based as follows :
(i)
How to retain Older Scouts under good influences;
(ii)
What to do with Scouts returning from war service to work with the old Troop;
(iii)
What to do with youths of sixteen and seventeen wishing to learn Scouting, but not with much younger boys.
After Commissioners and Scouters were consulted, and experiments made with "Senior Scouts," "Service Scouts," and "Scouts of
Commerce," "Rules for Rover Scouts" was issued in September, 1918, and so Rover Scouting came into being. Gilcraft says, "The
next step was the issue of Notes on the Training of Rover Scouts, in two parts, in April and November, 1920. The most
interesting and important change made was the raising of the minimum age from 15 to 17.
The publication by the Chief Scout of Rovering to Success in November, 1922, was the next development of major importance.
The book was for young men themselves, to inspire them with the Spirit of Rover Scouting, and to teach them how to live as
distinct from how to make a living. It was not planned as a text book of activities for Rover Scouting. Rover Scouting came to
Victoria about 1921-22, when the first formal mention of it occurred.
The first Commissioner for Rover Scouts was Mr. A. L. Shattell, the total crew membership at the time being 81. During his
tenure of office, Mr. Shattell presented a Shield to the Rover Section for Annual Competition among Rovers for best hiking, the
first contest taking place in 1923. It was known as the Matthew Evans Competition, as a memorial to a notable Rover Scout of
those days. Mr. T. Russell acted as Commissioner for Rovers for a brief term. Mr. A. E. Currey was appointed Rover
Commissioner about 1923-24, and served in that capacity until 1930.
In 1927, during the term of Lord Somers as Governor and Chief Scout of Victoria, a 10 -day hike for First Class Scouts, in which
Lord Somers joined, was planned to Mt. Wellington, in North Gippsland, and the following year a similar trip to Mallacoota Inlet,
with the Chief Scout, took place. On account of experience as a mountain walker, and as an official of the Melbourne Walking
Club, an invitation was given me to assist with the organisation of both parties, also a subsequent Chief Commissioners' Hike
from Lake Mountain to Rubicon, and in 1927 to manage the Matthew Evans Competition Hike; and those activities brought me
into Rover Scouting.
My appointment as Rover Commissioner dated from early in 1930, subsequent to a visit to Great Britain with the Australian
contingent to the Coming-of-Age jamboree at Arrowe Park, Birkinhead, England. In making the appointment, the late Mr. C. A.
Hoadley, then Chief Commissioner, asked me to build up particularly the outdoor side of Rover Scouting, and to use experience
gained as Secretary of the Melbourne Walking Club and Committee Member of the Ski Club of Victoria for that purpose.
My knowledge of other aspects of Rovering was very limited, though I had been a Boy Scout in Northern Victoria in 1908, a
Rover Scout in 1922, and member of a Rover Crew of four, which, after the fashion of those days, had no Rover Den, and met
only for outdoor activities. Little was known anywhere of Rovering at that time, and progress had to be attempted by methods of
trial and error, and by building on obvious successes.
On the outdoor side there was little activity among Rover Crews, and interest was mainly centred on the Annual Competition
organised by Headquarters for the Matthew Evans Shield. Endeavours were made to bring the Crews together more often for

social and outdoor activities, and lantern lectures were given to arouse enthusiasm in hiking and skiing. Programmes for the
indoor meetings of Crews were generally insufficient in purpose and interest. Crews met on club lines with the Rover Leader as
President, the Scribe as Secretary, and the Rover Mate fitting in somewhere. The tendency was for Crews to be social clubs rather
than training organisations, as they should have been. How to find the right type of programmes was the problem.
The training of Rover Squires for Investiture was very indefinite, and varied with every Crew, while some had no system at all.
Older Scouts could go to the Scout shop and purchase Rover Insignia, and wear them as Rovers without any Squire Training and
Investiture. In 1932 that position was rectified.
THE ROVER FIXTURE CARD.
"Rovers are a Brotherhood of the Open Air and Service, They are Hikers on the Open Road and Campers of the Woods."
(Rovering to Success, p. 210.)
As a first step, interest was developed in outdoor activities by organising a series from Rover Section Headquarters, to bring the
Crews together quickly to go out on hike routes unknown to them, led by specialists who knew the mountains well, to provide
interest and adventure. Ski-ing, one of the finest of mountain activities, was instituted; surfing and rock climbing introduced;
working bees to Gilwell Park, included later, and social activities, lectures, added to bring Rovers together to build up
comradeship and develop co-operation. This was difficult at first as Crews were, and still are, reserved and shy on being brought
into the wider circle of Rovering for the first few occasions.
In the July, 1930, issue of the "Victorian Scout," a list of outings and social gatherings was issued for the ensuing six months, and
so was launched the first Rover Fixture Card. Trial for two years with train transport for hikes proved unsatisfactory because
routes were well known. Motor furniture vans were then substituted to cater for outings in the little known big hills further out,
and fixture cards were printed and issued to each Rover. Attendances immediately leapt up.
As finance for vans was involved, starters had to book at the Association's office, and lodge deposits to cover their seats; for even
with Rovers, though promises are pleasing, payments are preferable. The Rover H.Q. Staff arranged transport and other details.
Since those days, Fixture Cards of centrally organised activities have been arranged each year, and issued to each member of the
Rover Section, by the Rover H.Q. Staff, which has grown considerably, and makes all arrangements. Hike organisation was
evolved to ensure the safe return of each individual. In the eighteen years of handling, no one has been lost, nor has had any
serious accidents. Distances travelled by van vary from 100 to 200 miles in two-day week-ends, and longer with a Monday
holiday. Fares are kept to a minimum, and over 2,000 per annum is handled annually by the Treasurer of the Rover Section in
fares and deposits. A charge of 6d. per head for each one taking part in outings has been made in the last few years. With the
exception of small surpluses over costs of outings, it is the only form of revenue the Rover Section receives. From it is paid the
cost of fares of Fixture Leaders and their Rover Mates, who explore the routes of their Hikes beforehand.
The cost of Fixture Cards has been borne in the last few years by well-wishers: Messrs. Kodak Pty. Ltd. and Stockland Press Pty.
Ltd., to whom we are much indebted. Mr. C. Wright, who has handled all our transport for some years, gives us considerate and
efficient service. The largest party handled by buses numbered 240, and travelled in eight vans and some cars over 300 miles to
and from the Grampians in Western Victoria at Easter, 1948, to a combined Moot with Rover Commissioner R. Oaten and other
Commissioners and twenty South Australian Rovers. Each day the buses transported parties to and from starting and finishing
points of hike routes.
At the beginning of 1948, Fixture Card activities were reduced by 50 per cent., mainly on account of work for the Jamboree at
Wonga Park, and in the latter half of the year practically all have been eliminated for that reason. The Fixture Card for 1949 is
available at the H.Q. of the Rover Camp for those who desire a copy. In pre-war years when Crews flourished in Geelong,
Bendigo, Ballarat, Castlemaine, and Yallourn, provision was made for outings to contact all those country Crews. We plan to link
up with the Castlemaine and Yallourn Crews in 1949.
The annual trip to the Geelong County Camp at Anglesea still takes place in the month of January, when about 150 travel 140
miles to and from the Coast to meet Geelong Rovers, and do a spot of surfing. About 1936 the Rover Leaders' Advisory Council
decided that each Rover and Squire should complete a minimum of six week-end outings in each year-two hikes, a week-end ski
trip, and a working bee - or a total of four to be as per Fixture Card. A footnote on the Card makes these requirements clear. They
are not expected to come out on more, as their all important Crew activities should absorb a number of week-ends, together with a
few district doings. In that way their group activities are not superseded by Fixture Card outings, but are assisted. In many Crews,
owing to lack of numbers, transport, and finance, their Rovers could not possibly get to the areas which are served by Fixture Card
Outings. Group activities are the proper set-up, but they need some bigger set-up as a form of support in case they fall down on
their job of retaining the Rover's interest.
This scheme of centrally organised activities was started to arouse out-door enthusiasm. Since then it has grown with an equally
important object, i.e., to help in holding the interest of Rovers in the Movement, against the attractions of outside clubs which are
centrally organised to provide similar activities for both sexes. At the start of the scheme in 1930, Walking and Ski Clubs and

other bodies were very few. Now they are numerous, include men and women, and have no particular code like the Scout Laws
and Promise to live to, and require no particular uniform, consequently we are steadily losing a few to their ranks.
To hold Rovers we must be able to make them feel that their activities compare favorably with what they can get outside the
Movement. We are doing that here up to a certain point. Why want to hold them? Obviously, unless they are held, and only while
being held, can they receive the ethical and practical training which is so valuable to them. The argument that we need quality and
not quantity in numbers is open to question. I believe we need the quantity in order to improve their quality. The quality are
generally the enthusiasts who would stick to Scouting in any case. The quantity have to be held by some attractive means to
improve their standards while in association with the quality.
The view that the individual who has remained in Scouting until about 17 has received most of the training he needs, is very
doubtful. The extra few years in Rovering can be most helpful at the Rover stage of life, and numerous letters from Rovers in the
last war proved to me the value they placed on their Rover training. It is felt that Rovering should have an active and vigorous
policy to hold its members, and not merely be passive in hoping, for the best. Losses from the ranks of Rovering can be expected
due to transfers of residence, occupation and for study, etc., but many Rovers can be kept if all Groups and Commissioners are
determined on forming Crews and retaining as many as possible.
Although we have gone some distance in providing attractive activities in Victoria, we could go further if circumstances
permitted, and employ paid executives to organise their activities, and transport parties for hiking, ski-ing, etc., by aeroplanes and
helicopters. There would be little doubt then about interesting and holding Rovers attention.
SKI-ING.
"Oh, have ye seen Monaro, In samite robes of snow, When down her hills of Winter, The swift ski -runners go? 'Ere Summer's
magic changes The blue Australian ranges From Drake to Omeo!"
(E. J. Brady).
Among all the outdoor pastimes that humanity can enjoy, that of ski-ing in the mountains is undoubtedly the finest. The
exhilaration of a swift downhill run, the thrill of fast turning in powder snow, the grandeur of the sunlit snow mantled landscape,
the fascinating shapes of the softly-falling snow crystals, and the glitter of freshly-fallen snow by sunlight or moonlight are some
of the beautiful things that enthrall the skier in the realms of King Frost. I remember a friend and others, notorious for their lack of
an ear for music, who were always provoked into delighted songs at the end of an exciting downhill run - songs definitely joyful
but certainly not tuneful. Such is one of the inspiring effects of ski-ing on the common man.
As an outdoor activity for Rover Scouting, it is unparalleled. It provides entirely new experiences and supplies a store of fresh
knowledge of snowcraft, weather lore, finding the way, touring and camping, and has the power of holding its devotees
indefinitely.
In 1929/30 lantern lectures aroused interest among Crews, and on Sunday, 3rd May, 1931, the first class of instruction in ski -ing
on grass was conducted at Mooroolbark. The Melbourne Walking Club loaned skis and Members Robinson, Gibson, Vanderstoel,
and Broad assisted as instructors. The Melbourne "Argus," of the 4th May, 1931, contained a photo. of the then unique form of
ski-ing. Of the group present, A.C.C. R. Driver and myself are the only ones actively in Scouting now.
On the 25th July, 1931, the first week-end ski trip to Mt. Donna Buang, near Warburton, 50 miles from Melbourne, was held.
Sixty-five Rovers took part, including some from Ballarat and Mornington, and they slept the night on the asphalt floor of the
Alpine Hotel garage. The Melbourne "Herald" of that date reported the trip, said there was no snow, and that the disappointed lads
would hike to the Acheron Gap. The next step was the development of 7- and 14-day ski tours on the Bogong High Plains in the
Victorian Alps.
The first Rover party of four made the crossing in 1932. The minute book of the Rover Leaders' Advisory Council contains a
laconic and historic extract from the Annual Report for 1932/33: "Two skiing trips were made to Donna Buang. In addition, a
Rover party crossed the Bogong High Plains on ski early in September."
To encourage ski-ing, stocks of old skis, bindings, and stocks were acquired, and loaned to Rovers at extremely cheap rates, and
that policy is still followed. Blue prints and instructions how to make skis were and still are issued. Hundreds have made their
own, some excellent, others not so good, but all satisfying to their users who made them. A special skiing uniform was adopted,
based on customary skiing garb, and consists of long dark blue trousers and scout belt; green flannel shirt with long sleeves and
collar; the Group scarf; normal Rover badges and shoulder knot, peaked ski cap, with tenderfoot badge in front and R.S. hat bar
above it. Parties have been arranged every winter to the Bogong High Plains for 7 or 14 days, and for week -end ski-ing to Mts.
Donna Buang (4,080 ft.), Lake Mountain (4,800 ft.), and the Baw Baw Mts. (5,140 ft.). As interest was growing in snow areas,
provision had to be made for buses there.
From 1932 to 1939 Bogong parties used the Government Hut at Mt. Cope, and in the late 'thirties Wallace's Hut nearby as well.
At Warburton, from 1931 to 1936, parties camped in garages and old buildings. In 1937 we secured an old four-roomed cottage on

Brisbane Hill, Warburton, at the nominal rental of 1 /- per week per annum, and used it for accommodating weekend parties until
1943, when it was pulled down.
In 1937 negotiations were opened with the lessee (Mr. Greenwood) of Wallace's Hut, for permission to share it with him. They
were almost concluded when the State Electricity Commission took over the hut, but repaired it, and later restored it to the lessee.
We then purchased the iron roof and chimney from the S.E.C. to avoid their removal from the Hut, so now have an interest in the
building. The organisation of parties to the Bogong Chalet is a considerable job. The single journey of 300 miles involves 171
miles by rail and 85 miles by service car, with a stop overnight at Omeo, thence 32 miles by service car, 7 miles on foot with pack
horses, and finally 2 miles on skis on the second day. All arrangements for transport, accommodation, food in the Chalet, pack
horses, etc., are made from the Rover Section H.Q., as they are more effectively handled by those who know the entire set-up.
Applications and deposits of 5 are lodged by the end of February, so that food and stores can be ordered and packed on horses up
to the Chalet before the snow begins to fall at the end of April. Those accepted must have qualified by completing three outings on
the Fixture Card in the 12 months prior to the closing date. A 14-day trip formerly cost about 7/10/- over all, but now costs
between 9 and 10 all inclusive. Rovers from other States are invited, and the 1947 parties contained Deputy Chief
Commissioner P. Fooks, and Commissioners Gerner and Ward from South Australia, and Rovers from Tasmania and New South
Wales. Christmas parties are organised to visit there for hikes and work. The last two have been able to enjoy summer drift ski-ing
between hikes and odd jobs.
Those who take part in these outings become members of a re-union body known as the Alpine Rover Crew, which holds
occasional social gatherings in Melbourne. Parties in the Chalet form a Rover Camp. From Flagbreak and Prayers in the morning,
all wear ski-ing uniforms, but change into ordinary Crew uniforms, with shorts, for Flagdown and Prayers at night. The building
will accommodate 30 very comfortably, and such a party would be divided into four Crews. Every man in the Crews has a specific
job each day, which changes next day, and he rises by daily steps up the ladder of promotion to Rover Mate, then the following
day drops down to Pilgrim with his corresponding numbers in the other Crews. The duties of Pilgrim involve disposal of slops and
rubbish, emptying W.C.'s, cleaning latrines, bathroom, etc. Each Crew in turn takes charge of the Chalet for a day, and its Rover
Mate becomes the Rover Leader of the day Inspection takes place at 9.15 a.m., and the duty roster changes over immediately after.
Parties are able to get at least six hours' ski-ing per day, receive instruction in ski-ing, go on tours, and at night in the building play
games and hold Camp Fires. Qualified Austrian ski teachers have been engaged since 1938, when Ted Rauchberg instructed. From
1939 Wal Parker, and in the latter few years, Kurt Weiss, also have officiated. Under their tuition, novices soon ski with style, and
understand the technique of ski-ing.
THE BOGONG ROVER CHALET.
In 1937-38, a site was selected for a Rover Hut on the Bogong High Plains, and a fund opened among the Crews. Donations, and
Life Memberships at 5 each, were secured by Crews and individuals, and by the end of 1938 about 250 was in hand. Brigadier
Mockler-Ferryman, a British Army Officer, now in Budapest, became interested in Rovering, accompanied the 1938 party to the
Bogongs, and subsequently gave a munificent donation of 300 sterling to the fund to enable a larger hut to be built for the future.
Plans were altered and, in February, 1940, the building was commenced. Rover Leader Bert Rudd and his three assistants,
working 12 hours a day, completed the erection in five weeks, having to load pack horses and sledge timber from the nearest road
two miles away, in the process of construction. The building, of weathered iron and Murray pine flooring, cost 700, and was paid
for completely within one month of completion; and so the Bogong Rover Chalet, a dream of many years, became an established
fact. Situated at an elevation of 5,300 ft., it is 51 ft. long on the ground floor, and 18 ft. wide, and contains a ski room, indoor
latrines with running water, and W.C.'s, a wash room, two cold showers (with emphasis on the cold), mostly to look at; two
shower containers fed by hot water from a Mallee Heater; a drying room, main living room (24 ft. x 18 ft.), with water laid on to
two sinks, wood store, two store rooms, main fire place and cooking stove. The dormitory upstairs measures 28 ft. x 18 ft. The
Chalet is heated throughout by wood stoves.
Recently we purchased a garage building from the S.E.C. from its nearby weather station, now closed. At Easter, 1949, a big
working party will hand carry the timber to the Chalet and re-erect it there.
Mr. R. W. Wilkinson, a former President of the Ski Club of Victoria, and a Walking Club member, accompanied two parties to the
Bogong (in the late 'thirties), and took a keen interest in the building plans. Unfortunately, he passed away in May, 1939, before
the building came into being. Mrs. Wilkinson asked me to convey his ashes to the Bogongs, to be scattered there. Her wishes were
carried out in the snow at an appropriate ceremony in September, 1939. During the winter of 1947, a bronze plaque, designed and
made by R.S.L. Roy Clark, in memory of Mr. Wilkinson, was affixed to a rock face on the highest point of the Rocky Nobs
Range, his favorite viewpoint, where his ashes were scattered, and unveiled at a suitable ceremony.
The Chalet and Wallace's Hut are covered by ample insurance policies. Precautions to guard the Chalet from internal fires and
from bush fires are taken, and Mr. Tony St. Elmo, who lives at Falls Creek, 2 miles away, takes a friendly interest in the building,
and visits it regularly to ensure it is in good order. Rent is charged to users, except Life Member Crews and individuals, and
double rates are collected from non-members of the Movement. Monies thus collected form a fund for maintenance and additions.

The Chalet is well situated for its purpose - for ski and hike tours. It is built on slopes facing to the south, which receive a
minimum of the sun's rays, consequently the snow surfaces are usually cold and in good condition for ski-ing. The depth varies
from 4 to 6 ft. for 5 months of the year in a normal winter, and deeper in a heavy winter. In summer, a delightful little creek flows
past the back door to join the larger Middle Creek at the foot of the slope. The low alpine shrubs are usually in sweet scented
blossom, and wild flowers of many varieties bloom on the slopes. The upper windows give a splendid view easterly over the
Omeo country to the mountains of the Upper Murray and the border, which bring to mind some rather appropriate lines, again by
E. J. Brady, a lover of Gippsland: The miner from his but of bark looks out on hills of snow, That billow to the border-line away
from Omeo; Dark gullies walled by mountains steep, and Gippsland gorges grim, Where forest shadows lie at noon, the picture
make for him.
We have been careful to maintain good relations with all the people with whom we come in contact, and that vital necessity is
impressed on Rovers in the parties, and cannot be too strongly stressed. The Victorian Railways and Haylocks Service Cars have
been most helpful. The Hilltop Hotel at Omeo induces permanent boarders to vacate their rooms on the nights of our visits - surely
a very friendly gesture - and the Fitzgerald family have packhorsed our gear and stores for 16 years.
The occupants of the nearby S.E.C. weather observation station, Mr. Romuld, and offsider, Joe Holsten, and their predecessors,
likewise Stan and Mrs. Trimble, and Tony and Mrs. St. Elmo, have been very good friends through the years. Contacts with
officials of the State Electricity Commission who control the whole region, as part of the great Kiewa Hydro-Electric Scheme,
have been very cordial, and we have been very well treated by them.
THE WARBURTON MEMORIAL ROVER CHALET.
Meanwhile at Warburton, search was being made for a site to erect a Memorial Chalet to commemorate those Rovers who
sacrificed their lives in the Second World War. A utilitarian form of Memorial had been discussed which would contain a record of
those who had paid the supreme sacrifice, and which would give accommodation for younger Rovers and Squires engaged in
hiking and ski-ing or week-ending in Warburton.
Early in 1945 a block was inspected one and a half miles from Warburton along the main road to the summit of Mt. Donna Buang,
and finally purchased. Later an adjoining block was also acquired and the two total nearly two acres of land. In the meantime an
appeal to all Crews and Groups had been made for funds for the Memorial, with provision for 5 Life Membership for Crews and
individuals. The response was generous, and by the end of November, 1945, over 110 was in hand. Plans were drawn up for a
commodious building 60 ft. x 3 0 ft., and application was made for a permit to build the first quarter, a structure 30 ft. x 15 ft.
When permission was received, working parties set to work immediately, and cleared the scrub off the land, excavated the site for
the building and made initial preparations.

By May, 1946, the framework of the building was up; eight working parties had been on the job since January, and 222 was in
hand; a particularly friendly response. At the back of the two blocks flows the big O'Shanassy Aqueduct, one of the main feeders
of Melbourne's water supply; and, with permission from the Melbourne & Metropolitan Board of Works, it was tapped and water
piped down to a tank at the rear of the Chalet.
By May, 1948, the first quarter of the building was practically completed, the long delay being caused by building restrictions, and
inability to obtain materials. In addition, a roofed cooking shelter and proper sanitary conveniences had been erected. The building
was used by ski-ing parties in the winters of 1947-48.
Every stick of timber and every brick and article in the structure has been carried uphill by hand from the road. Nearby lives an
old friend of mine in the person of Mr. J. Larkin, the Government overseer for the roads in that area. Mr. and Mrs. Larkin take a
personal interest in and keep a watchful eye over the Chalet. during our absence. Now that building restrictions are eased, and
when the Jamboree has come and gone, a fresh start will be made in 1949 towards getting the next section completed. In the
meantime funds are getting very low, and an appeal is made to Crews for fresh efforts in this direction. During the Jamboree,
facilities will be provided at the H.Q. of the Rover Camp to receive donations.
ROVER LEADERS' ADVISORY COUNCIL.
Prior to 1932, a form of Rover Council existed, to deal with the affairs of Rover Scouting, but on the 7th December, 1932, a
change took place. At a special meeting on that date a Rover Leaders' Advisory Council was constituted by the then Deputy Chief
Commissioner, Mr. Anderson, to which every Crew could send its Warranted Rover Leader as representative and at which country
Rover Crews could be represented by proxy. Its functions were to advise the Chief Commissioner, through the Rover
Commissioner, on all aspects of Rovering, and to meet at Headquarters. It met quarterly for years, until it decided on three times a
year, and that is the present practice, with special meetings when required. The Council has been most useful as an advisory body.
It has been the practice to call about three conferences per annum of Assistant Commissioners and District Rover Leaders on the
Headquarters and District Staffs. Their experience and advice have been most helpful to the Rover Commissioner.
DISTRICT ROVER COUNCILS.
Through the years, as the number of Crews increased in Districts, there were formed District Rover Councils, with the District
Commissioner as President, the Senior District Rover Scouter as Chairman, and the Rover Leader and Rover Mate representing
each Crew as members. Their functions are to arrange purely District Rover activities, with a limit of four or five per annum, to
avoid overcrowding each Rover's personal programme with Crew, District, and Headquarters' doings. They do not take any action
in the internal arrangements of any Group Crew.
THE FRANKSTON JAMBOREE - THE HIKES AND ROVER MOOT.
Preparations for the Jamboree and Hikes occupied a great part of 1934. A squad of unemployed Rovers was engaged to carry out
many of the preparatory arrangements, but volunteers were regularly at the site at week -ends giving help. The Hikes which
followed the Jamboree proper involved special organisation. Rovers, as Hike Leaders, had to be trained, and 108 passed through
three courses for tuition and selection. Hike routes had to be decided on and covered thoroughly by the Leaders taking parties over
them. A contact squad specially chosen was trained to establish communications by telephone, car, and mostly per boot, with each
party by night. Mapping parties were in the bush for months, and a large map, covering the enormous area of the hike region, was
prepared at Headquarters by Rovers and printed. A booklet giving all sorts of interesting information on the area was written by
specialists and printed. A field headquarters and hospital was established at Powelltown, and bush-fire watchers were located on
Mts. Donna Buang and Spion Kop to look for outbreaks, in which event special vans held ready would have brought out the
nearest parties.
At the Jamboree, a Rover Camp was established, and Rovers staffed the various essential services required, and fed in a central
mess. For the subsequent hikes, twenty-five four-day and twelve two-day parties, all on different routes, and totalling 750 boys,
left Frankston by special trains for the Warburton-Powelltown Ranges. Each boy was presented with a jamboree map and booklet.
Mail was delivered to the parties and a special hike mail stamp affixed by the contact squad. Except that fourteen boys went to
hospital with minor bruises and blisters, there were no serious illnesses or accidents.
Every party converged on Gilwell Park, Gembrook, the main training centre of the Association, by bus and foot on the last night
for a Grand Camp Fire, at which the Chief, Lord Baden Powell, was present. The Jamboree and the Hikes gave a great impetus to
Rovering, and the conduct of the hikes by Rovers, as Leaders, was an outstanding success. The Staff of Rover Scouters who
organised them did a marvelous job. Following the Hikes, Rovers returned to Frankston, and a one-day Rover Moot was held
there at which talks were given by prominent citizens.
A Rover Club was formed at Headquarters a few months prior to the Jamboree to provide a place in Melbourne for visiting
Rovers. It was staffed from the Rover Camp and carried on subsequently. An international night held in the Rover Camp during
the Jamboree proved to be a particularly inspiring gathering. Representatives from all contingents, Commonwealth and overseas,
were present, and gave impromptu and friendly talks. When the time came to depart, everyone felt that he had taken part in a
delightfully rare and unique experience.

In his reminiscences of the Frankston Jamboree, B.P. referred to the Hikes as the biggest series organised outside the Army. An
award of the Silver Acorn to the Rover Commissioner was undoubtedly his recognition of the excellent part played by the Rover
Section in the Jamboree and Hikes.
Endeavours were made to organise a series of Hikes for this Jamboree, but the preparatory work required at Wonga Park did not
permit the withdrawal of Rovers for training as Hike Leaders until July, when it proved to be too late to complete arrangements.
HUT SERVICE SECTION.
In 1936, a scheme known as the Hut Service Section, was instituted to give Crews a particular stake in the out -of-doors, and
provide a service to scout and other hikers, by establishing a chain of unattended youth hostels in the forested mountain ranges of
the Warburton-Powelltown Districts.
About 20 huts at abandoned sawmill sites in those hills, with the approval of the Forests Commission of Victoria, sawmill and
private owners, were taken over and allotted to volunteer Rover Crews for maintenance. Ballarat Crews maintained a hut in the
Pyrenees. The huts were within easy distances of each other, consequently were used frequently by parties of Boy Scouts and
other walkers. Conditions of allotment to Crews required:(a) Proper maintenance of huts by a minimum of quarterly visits; (b)
Supply of visitors' books, firewood, and some utensils, and the erection in the huts of the canvas notices issued to the Crews as
an authority; (c) Attendance at quarterly meetings to report progress to the Chief Warden. Mr. C. E. Hulme, Assistant Rover
Commissioner at Headquarters, was appointed Chief Warden, with a Rover as Secretary.
The scheme worked very well and many grateful references were made in the Visitors' Books. Unfortunately it ended with the
destruction of most of the huts in the great fires of 1939. The only survivors are the two dilapidated huts in the bush on the upper
side of the road above the Cement Creek turntable, 5 miles from Warburton. Many of the Crews kept their huts in excellent order,
and walked long distances in a week-end to do so. Our relations with the Forests Commission of Victoria in this and other
schemes have always been most happy, and Forest Officers have been very helpful at all times.
UPPER AGE LIMITS.
1936 saw the institution of an upper age limit of 25 on Rover Scouting, and the reasons for that may be of interest. Experience had
shown that most of the Rovers and Scouters had received the maximum of their training by 23, but remained in Crews for
companionship and social activities, for further years, and tended to upset the functions of Crews as training organisations. Age 25
was therefore fixed to allow ample margin. Those affected by the upper age limit were fine types who had good service to their
credit in Crews and at Frankston Jamboree, and many of whom were Scouters. The age clause was applied for no other reason
than to make way for younger lads who would not enter Crews while the older men were present.
Opinion generally in the Rover Section, at first decidedly cool, had later become definite that Rovering was intended for young
men preparing for manhood; that it covered the period between youth and maturity; that it had its greatest training effect in the
individual's Squire and early Rover training; and that the training effect began to weaken as the Rover grew older, and formed his
own outlook as he progressed towards maturity. It had become obvious by 1936 that Crews should have three sages (it is
interesting to note that new Rule 257 in 1947 P.O. & R.. now confirms that viewpoint generally) as follows: (i) Squires, from
16-17, in training for Investiture at 17 plus; (ii) Rovers from 17 plus, in training after Investiture, up to age 23-25; (iii) Older
Rovers segregated after completion of training and attainment of maturity.
Investiture before 17 was never permitted, the view being that to retake the Scout promise from the viewpoint of a man, the Squire
should be 17. Scouter Rovers of the Cub and Scout Sections obviously fitted into the three stages mentioned above, while the
Rover Leader was vitally concerned with the first two in particular. The G.S.M. and Commissioner were interested in all three.
Opinion in Rovering is that Scouters should receive their Rover training as members of Crews, but preferably before they become
Scouters, otherwise they should be restricted by the age limits arranged for the Crews. The position of the Rover Leaders who are
in charge of Crews and of G.S.M.s who are in charge of groups is not affected by questions of age limits, as they are leaders of the
Crews and not members.
Experience had shown that the presence in Crews of older and matured young men and Scouters had the following adverse effects
(1) Undue emphasis was placed on social activities and less on training;
(2) Rover outdoor activities were dropped in favor of social activities;
(3) Crew programmes were framed to suit the older Crew members rather than the younger;
(4) Unmatured young men in the Crews would rarely give their views in discussions in the presence of older matured young men;
(5) A few younger men entered Crews, but the majority would not enter from the Troops.
The reasons for the above are fairly obvious, so no explanations are necessary. Until the latest issue of P.O. R. (1947 edition),
there was no rule to specify when Rover Training had completed its purpose. Rule 272, which deals with the third or service stage
of Rovering, is therefore of interest, as it states that the Rover will move up to the Service stage at latest by his 25th birthday. That
confirms action taken here in 1936.

In Victoria, experience now would appear to indicate that most Rovers have completed their training by age 23, and in that case
may move on to the third or Service stage earlier.
THE RUCKSACK CLUB.
After the close associations between Rovers in 1934-3 5 at the Frankston Jamboree in the Jamboree Hikes led by Rovers, and in
the Rover Club, many of them remained in Crews until the middle and late twenties as Rover Mates, etc., to maintain their
personal associations, and so prevented younger fellows from holding office.
In 1935-36, it became apparent that an upper age limit would have to be imposed. Eventually, in deference to all opinions, age 25
was fixed, as mentioned previously, to allow a safety margin. Subsequently, it became obvious that some organisation should be
created to which the older Rovers who wished to retain their contacts could move. Few old Scout organisations were functioning
at the time, and in any case these older Rovers wanted a show where they could retain their particular associations built up on the
outdoor side of Rovering.
Preliminary discussions took place and on the 20th May, 1937, a meeting of those interested was called. The seventeen who
attended formed a Club, elected office-bearers, drafted a constitution and rules, fixed an annual subscription, drew up a
programme of outdoor and social activities, decided to affiliate with the Association as an Old Scout Club, designed a badge, and
adopted the name of the Fleur-de-Lys Club.
The Rover Commissioner became President, Messrs. C. E. Hulme (Asst. H.Q. Commissioner) and R. W. Wilkinson,
Vice-Presidents, and Mr. Ian Lillie, Secretary. Those elections indicated a strong attachment to Rovering. The rules relating to
membership required that incoming members should be males who must
(a) Have served two years in the Movement;
(b) Be 23 years of age, with provision for entry at 18 years if it could be proved to the Committee that it was not possible to join
or continue in a Rover Crew.
The latter clause prevented Rovers leaving Crews to join, and permitted Boy Scouts to join who could not enter Crews.
Subsequently, the name Fleur-de-Lys Club was dropped at the request of a Graduates' Society of Trinity College, Melbourne
University, which already had that title, and the name Rucksack Club was chosen. During the war, the Club was in recess, but
reformed two years ago, and made provision in its rules for the admittance to membership of a small fixed proportion of
non-Scouts. It conducts a programme of outdoor and social activities, and certain outings on the Rover Fixture Card are marked
for members to join.
At the annual meeting recently, it was decided to affiliate with the B.P. Guild of Old Scouts, and a donation of three guineas was
made to the Warburton Memorial Rover Chalet, which members visit for ski-ing and working bees. It actively assisted in
jamboree preparations in the erection of marquees at Wonga Park, of which job Mr. Arnold Neale, a member of the Committee,
was in charge.
SQUIRE TRAINING.
In view of the institution in 1936 of an upper age limit in Victoria to segregate the older matured Rovers and to make way for, the
entry of younger lads, the following moves were made to met the changes in policy:
(a) 1st January, 1937-Squire training scheme instituted;
(b) 20th May, 1937-Rucksack Club formed for older Rovers;
(c) 14th July, 1937-Rover Leaders' Council recommended lowering minimum age for entry of Squires from 17 to 16.
The need for a definite scheme of Squire Training was obvious, and in view of a campaign for the entry of Squires at an earlier
age it was thought best to issue a system based on P.O. & R. from the Rover Section Headquarters. Several Crew schemes had
been tried. Mr. Dietrich and Mr. Hulme, Assistant Rover Commissioners, drew up the present scheme with the Rover
Commissioner, and it was issued on the 1st January, 19 3 7. The wording was revised from 1st January, 1943, and again on 1st
October, 1948, in accordance with the 1947 edition of P.O. & R. To date it has been very successful, and when under review this
year the Rover Leaders' Council decided against any alterations except references to the new rules in the latest issue of P.O. & R.
Every Squire receives the pamphlet on entry to his Crew, so that he has his own copy. It is divided into two parts, viz.:
Part I: Study and discussion of the Scout Laws and Promise, Scouting for Boys, Rovering to Success, the Religious Policy of the
Movement, and latterly Senior Scout Literature. Part II: Scoutcraft f t and Service. This Part details the practical Scoutcraft, Scout
Journeys, and Service required. Part I is the definite job of the Rs.L. only, and is undertaken in conjunction with the advice of the
Rover Training Course which sets apart 18 nights for the purpose.
Part II can be handled by the Rover Mate, supervised by the Rs.L. to see that all sections are completed. The minimum period
should be not less than 6 months, and the maximum not greater than 12 months, and records should be kept. At the back of the
pamphlet are Notes on the Vigil, the questions of the Self Examination, and those asked at the Investiture Ceremony. These were
taken from the I.H.Q. Pamphlet, "Rover Scouts." Limited numbers of the Squire Training Pamphlet are available at the H.Q. of the
Rover Camp. Copies were forwarded to Interstate Associations years ago. It is interesting to note that N.S.W. and S. Aust. are
operating almost identical systems at the present time. A definite scheme of Squire Training is most necessary in the considered
opinion of the Rover Section.

DISTRICT ROVER CREWS.

District Rover Crews played a useful part in the development of Rovering in the days of the early 'thirties, when Rovers were so
few in number that Group Crews could not be formed. As they were not attached to any Group, their members wore their own
uniforms and scarves and they became separate entities. Lads who went to them usually lost all connection with their Groups, so
Group Scouters naturally became antagonistic to the setup. Their memory is best left undisturbed as part of the Stone Age of
Rovering. Group Crews are the proper set-up, and where they do not exist a successful method of establishing them was tried here
during the war, known as the Combined Crew Scheme. District Rover activities are best arranged by District Rover Councils.
COMBINED CREWS.
This method of extending Rover Scouting by using Group Crews was thoroughly tested in Victoria during the critical years of the
war, following the call-up for war service, when Rovering almost ceased to exist. The term Combined Crews was invented to
avoid any reference to District Crews to which so much objection was taken years ago.
Under the Scheme, an existing Group Crew in a District was asked to become a Host Crew for twelve months, and to take in for
Squire Training as guest members, all the eligible Squires in neighboring Groups. After completing their Squire Training and
investing them, the Host Crew returned the lads to their own Groups to form Crews there. While the lads were guest members
they were required to wear their own Group uniforms completely.
After the return of the Rovers to their own Groups, the Host Crew resumed its functions as a normal Group Crew. This plan
operated very successfully, is quite sound, and can be safely used in the future. Old Crews rapidly reformed and new Crews were
started by this means, which fostered very friendly relations among the Groups in consequence. In new Crews, in many cases
where Rover Leaders were not available, Rover Mates were permitted to manage their Crews pending the appointment of Leaders,
provided they had passed through a Rover Training Course.
ROVER TRAINING COURSES.
A number of Rover Wood Badge Courses were held up to 1936, and those who attended them were agreed that they were most
enjoyable and inspiring. The general feeling among Rover Leaders, however, was that they lacked sufficient practical direction for
their application to the management of a Crew. This is particularly necessary for the Rover Leader, who in many cases comes into
the Movement from outside, without knowledge of the general set-up of Scouting, to take charge of a section of it, which requires
some special methods of handling. Unfortunately, the Rover Wood Badge Course was discontinued some years ago by ?.
In 1939, Mr. Dietrich, Asst. Rover Commissioner, drew up a Preliminary Rover Course with me which was designed to instruct
new Rover Leaders in the theory and practice of Rover Scouting, so that, after completing it, they would know the main lines of
procedure in managing a Crew. It was approved by Mr. Kennedy, then H.Q. Commissioner for Training, and has been approved
by the Rev. F. Cooper, the present Commissioner for Training.
The first course was conducted in November, 1939, and since then twenty-two have been held, and almost 600 trainees have
passed through them. The thirty sessions cover the whole field of Rover Scouting and occupy two week -ends and some week
nights. Incoming Rover Mates are encouraged to complete it on account of the responsible part they take in supervising the Crew's
programme, during their yearly term of office. Crews are urged to adopt the slogan: "No Rover Mate without a Certificate." The
Course has been found very popular, and has to be strictly limited to Rover Leaders and incoming Rover Mates, to keep numbers
down. With a few exceptions it has been completed by every Rover Scouter and every Rover Mate.
Details of the Course were supplied to Mr. Macallister, Training Commissioner for N.S.Wales in 1944, and he is using it there
with some local modifications. He intended forwarding the notes to Gilwell Park, England. The notes have been supplied to
Tasmania as well.
EARLY ENTRY OF SQUIRES TO ROVER SCOUTING.
At the time Rovers were preparing for the Frankston jamboree lads in troops were not anxious to enter Crews because they said
there were too many older men in them who "did nothing interesting, and just sat round and only talked," and they were right. In
searching for the span of Rovering and commencement of the Rover stage, various authorities were consulted. B.P.'s own picture
in "Rovering to Success," page 208 (third impression), of the Rover as a young unmatured man was clear enough. He wrote
"There is, camping in my garden, a living example of what I hope may be the outcome of this book, on a wider scale. With all my
heart I hope it. He is a hefty Rover Scout, about seventeen years of age; that is, a fellow training to be a man. He has tramped from
a distance with his pack upon his back . . ." (In later reprints the age is shown as eighteen.)
Remembering that when Rovering first started in 1918 the minimum age was 15, (vide "Gilcraft" in "Rover Scouts") and that rule
25.4 in P.O. & R., defining Rovering, stated it had an added object in helping Rovers "to make useful careers for themselves,"
there seemed no doubt that Rovering should be for the really young man and should start training him when he began crossing the
threshold of manhood, as "a fellow training to be a man.

Experiments were tried in a few Crews by entering Squires at 16 plus, and putting them on to a definite scheme of Squire
Training. The results were most encouraging, and other Crews were induced to experiment. Up till then Crews in Victoria were
entering their Squires into Rovering at 18, 19, 20 and even older, into an organisation for "fellows training to be men."
Obviously the Scouting viewpoint on the question of when a fellow started training to be a man differed widely from the Defence
viewpoint in the last war, when the Call-up in 1941 was for young men of 18 years of age. Apparently the Service Chiefs
considered that, at that age, a young fellow had advanced so far towards maturity that he was fitted to undertake the defence of his
country - surely the job for a man in the fullest sense.
By 1937, the pattern of Rover Scouting seemed fairly clear, as the following conclusions had been reached in regard to Rover
Training:
(1) That it covered the period between youth and maturity, consequently was for the young unmatured man, and had its greatest
training effect in his earliest years in the Crew in Squire Training; that its effect declined as he approached maturity, and that the
youngest members of a Crew were therefore its most important responsibility.
(2) That it should be received by the youth after entry into the Crew at 16 plus, depending on the normality of his mental and
physical development, and near to the time when a series of big changes were in progress in his life, viz.:(a) the physical and
mental change from that of a youth to an adult male; (b) the change from the juvenile atmosphere of home and school, where his
life is largely shaped for him, to the adult atmosphere of work, where he begins making his own decisions, and to have some
independence due to possessing his own money; (c) the change in outlook towards girl friends and the desire to meet them.
(3) That it was intended to come into his life at this disturbed period of mind, bringing "Rovering to Success" with it as a guide
and chart to life.
(4) That it should find a place in his life to mould his inclinations, when, as a young man, he is beginning to interest himself in
social, athletic, cultural and other pastimes. If it comes even slightly late it is frequently crowded out by a multiplicity of new and
attractive interests.
(5 ) That it should begin to shape his outlook in the company of young men of his own age and older, rather than among younger
men and boys, to help develop a more manly outlook, and so keep pace with the change in his business life from home and school
to the adult atmosphere of his work.
(6) That he should have its help at the commencement of the difficulties and changes mentioned above, and not some years after,
when the opportunity of helping him had passed.
(7) That it should end at the indefinite point termed maturity, which was fixed at 2 3 to 2 f years of age.
It should be noted that Early Entry was not recommended nor approved as a temporary war measure.The next steps taken were to
try to alter the rule in P.O. & R. and the viewpoint of the Movement concerning earlier entry of Squires. Briefly they were:
11th May, 1937 - Announced by Rover Commissioner to Caulfield Scouters and Rovers;
14th July, 1937 - Rover Advisory Council recommended lowering of age from 17 to 16;
November, 1937 - Chief and Headquarters' Commissioners endorsed that policy;
April, 1938 - LH.Q. asked to alter rule for age for entry. Reply: While not altered generally, exceptional cases could enter at 161;
August, 1939 - LH.Q. vide "Scouter," reduced age to 164 years for Rovers in England to complete training before Call-up;
15th April, 1940 - "Victorian Scout." Chief Commissioner, Mr. Anderson, commended entry before 17, subject to normal
development;
4th December, 1941 - Meeting of Commissioners recommended further reduction to entry after 16th birthday, subject to normal
development;
February, 1942 - Victorian State Executive approved entry after 16th birthday.
In this connection it is interesting to recall some alterations in those years to the ages for Rover Scouts mentioned in the
Explanation of Scouting, at the commencement of Scouting for Boys:
Edition 1928, P. 10 -Rover Scouts are Scouts over 171.
Edition 1939
Edition 1937 P. 14 -Rover Scouts are Scouts over 17 and in
Edition 1941 exceptional cases younger.
That seemed to indicate a trend in Great Britain in pre-war years towards a reduced age for entry. When the recommendations of
the Post-War Commission on Scouting were received, a meeting of Commissioners was held at Headquarters in March, 1943, to
consider them. The meeting was not in favor of the introduction of Senior Scouting, and recommended the continuance of Rover
Scouting, with entry of Squires after the 16th birthday, subject to normal development, and that recommendation was sent to
I.H.Q. Subsequently, owing to the introduction of Senior Scouting, and to give that Section scope for development, a conference
of Commissioners early in 1947 decided that entry to Rovering should take place from the 17th birthday.
Scouting exists to train the boy as an individual, and the boy develops into manhood whether he is or is not a Scout. It is obvious
then, that the commonsense course is to move the boy from Cubbing to Boy Scouting to Senior Scouting, to Rover Scouting, at
the time best suited to him and his outlook, rather than at a time fixed by a rule, or other circumstances, or to suit some
convenience. A danger exists, in that the decision reached in Victoria for Squires to enter Rover Scouting from Senior Scouting,
after the 17th birthday, may be interpreted to mean almost the 18th birthday.

Then he is nearly too old for Squire training. In August, 1939, there were 102 Crews with approximately 900 Rovers. At present
100 Crews are registered with over 800 Rovers. This number will build up when Senior Scouting gets on its feet. A surprising
development which followed the lowering of the age for entry was a marked increase in the number of non-Scouts who came into
Rovering.
ROVER TRAINING.
The three fundamentals in Rover Scouting are that
(a) training must be such that each individual is given frequent opportunity for leadership and expression;
(b) the Crew must be a training organisation along Scout lines, and not a club with the President, Secretary and Committee form
of administration, and its slogan should be-"less talk and more action";
(c) the Rover Mate must be given a very large share of responsibility in managing the Crew programmes.
The following are a few notes briefly on the foregoing:- Individual Training.- In Cubbing, Scouting and Rovering the methods of
training differ. Boys of Cub age, living in a world of make-believe, get their training through the jungle atmosphere. Boys of
Scout age get their training through the Patrol System, which is the set up of the fraternity-gang stage of their lives, and is referred
to as such in "Scouting for Boys." Rovers should get individual training because, as young men, they will develop individual
outlooks in their progress towards maturity. Endeavours are made to foster this principle as follows:
(a) In Squire training by arranging for each Squire to lead discussions on the Scout Laws, Rovering to Success, and other aspects
in his turn;
(b) In Rover indoor programmes by arranging for each Squire and Rover to say the opening prayer, lead a game, a session,
debate, or discussion, as frequently as possible in his turn;
(c) In Rover outdoor programmes by arranging for each Squire and Rover to lead an outdoor activity in his turn, and' for each to
camp in his own hike tent and do his own cooking. Rovers will camp in their own tents at the jamboree.
Crew not a Club.- A Crew on club lines is apt to waste valuable time in discussions on business, the keeping of minutes and
reading them subsequently. The habit of sitting round a table with an overdose of talking will "brown off" the younger members.
Programmes need proper planning, in our experience, on the following lines:
(a) A skeleton for the 12 calendar months to ensure proper balance: Indoor. Outdoor. Dates of meetings. Dates of outings.
Subjects, Main Sessions. Routes.
(b) For three months ahead to give notice to Leaders: Indoor. Outdoor. As in (a), with Lead - As in (a), with Leaders and
Speakers.
(c) For the month ahead to avoid overdoing popular sessions: Indoor. Outdoor. As in (a) and (b) , with As in (a) and (b) , with all
set to times. times, fares, etc.
The ordinary Crew Indoor Programme operates mostly on these lines : Flagbreak and Prayer. 10 minutes' Business - or business
meeting every two or three months. 10 minutes; News Item from each one and short talk by R.S.L. or Rover Mate. Occasionally a
1-hour session on Practical Scoutcraft. Games for 45 minutes - divided into some P.T., team games, and 2-men contests. The Main
Session. Flagdown, Prayer. Supper.
The Rover Mate.-The Rover Leader should act like a managing director, while the Rover Mate is the foreman. One Rover Mate to
the Crew is advisable, about 19 years old, to hold office for 8 to 12 months, and to pass through a Rover Training Course to
qualify for appointment. While the R.S.L. looks after the training of Squires, the R.M. should be allowed to manage the Crew
programme - a very responsible job, and for which he must do a training course.
ROVER LEADERSHIP.
"they taught me that no man could be their leader except he ate the rank's food, wore their clothes, lived level with them, and yet
appeared `better in himself.' "
-T. E. Lawrence; "Revolt in the Desert."
Interesting experiments were tried with young leaders during the war, and since, as no suitable men from outside the Movement
were, or seem now, to be obtainable. Rover Mates who had been through training courses, and had finished their terms, were
appointed, A.R.S.L.'s, and placed in charge of Crews at age 20-21. The results generally were satisfactory, considering that young
leaders have limitations, due to need of experience and to lack of what might be termed "power of command" over their Crews. If
suitable men will not come into the Movement, it would appear logical to trust the product of the Movement in the form of
suitable trained Rover Mates, to move up into Rover leadership. Success depends on proper training, and the advice and
encouragement of older Scouters and Commissioners, without which discouragement is very likely in many cases. Such a scheme
needs to be viewed with patience, and as a long range policy, and to realise that young leaders have to be given opportunity and
time to develop their qualities, patience and perseverance. They, on their part, need to give vigorous active, rather than merely
passive, leadership. Many of the Crews operating to-day are functioning only because of the enthusiasm of their young leaders.
COMMUNITY SERVICE.
"The training of the Cubs and Scouts is largely a preparation for service which is consummated in practice by the Rover."

("Scouting for Boys," p. 10.)

That quotation from "Scouting for Boys" has doubtless caused many to wonder just what the thread of continuity in preparation
really is. It appears to me to have been mainly the daily good turn, for which the Movement at its inception was well and
favorably regarded. Even today, people outside the Movement still have Scouting and the daily good turn associated, though it is
doubtful whether those in the Movement do so. It appears that we have strayed away from one of the most important principles, to
which a return should be made as soon as possible, and Cubs and Scouts consequently would enter Rovering with a stronger
inclination towards serving their fellows. In Squire Training, as a first step, the daily good turn is required as a fundamental act of
personal service, to be continued, as well, as a Rover.
The whole question of training for service requires careful handling, to avoid abuse of the motto, by those who fail to realise that
the Rover is a trainee - as much as a Cub and a Scout - and that what really counts is the development of the ideal of service in the
individual, by himself.
It is necessary to be reasonable in expectations because the demands of specialised education today are such that Rovers have very
little spare time until their courses are finished. There are the inevitable black sheep who are iii the fold for the best of the
pickings, but there always were.
Since B.P. wrote those lines on page 10 of "Scouting for Boys," young fellows working by day and schooling by night are really
pressed for spare time, and it is significant that the division of the Crew into three stages in the new rule in P.O. & R. 257 (1947 )
is as follows:
(1) The Probationer Stage-Rover Squires.
(2) The Training Stage-after investiture as Rovers.
(3) `!"he Service Stage - the older members of the Crew.
This places the emphasis for service on the third stage, after 25 years.
The heart of Rover Scouting is generally sound, as the response by most Rovers for the preparatory work at the jamboree shows.
THE ROVER HEADQUARTERS STAFF.
The Section has been well served by a line of enthusiastic Secretaries since 1927, including the present occupant of that office.
The administration of various special activities has necessitated a large staff at Headquarters, and the Rover Section has been very
well catered for by their enthusiasm. The present Rover Headquarters Staff are:
Assistant Commissioner C. Hulme - Builder, Warburton Chalet.
Assistant Commissioner C. McNally - Training Courses.
D.R.L. N. Montgomery - Life-Saving Classes and Tests.
D.R.L. L. Bilney - Bookings, Transport for Hikes, Wonga Park.
D.R.L. C. Fox - Ski-ing arrangements.
D.R.L. L. Grimwood - Personnel for Jamboree Rover Camp.
R.S.L. C. McPherson - Secretary.
R.S.L. R. Clucas - Treasurer.
A.R.L. K. Fizelle - Treasurer's Assistant.
R.S.L. A. Coillet - Records.
Assistant District Commissioner C. Breydon (St. Kilda), with a team, manages Social Activities.
Assistant Headquarters Commissioner I. Stevens, who successfully formed and led a Rover Crew in German P.O.W. Camps for 21
years, is on long leave. He wrote a delightful little book of experiences titled "Glowing Embers."
I am greatly indebted to these men for their keen co-operation in advancing the cause of Rover Scouting. A tribute is justified here
to an unofficial assistant - my Mother - whose advice on the problems connected with young men has been most helpful.
DISTRICT ROVER STAFFS.
The Crews in Districts and newly-formed counties have been well attended by a number of District Rover Scouters, who
co-operate with the Headquarters Staff with the utmost zeal. Those serving at present are: Messrs. R. Driver, A.C.C. (Eastern); M.
Kimber, A.D.C. (Malvern), J. Nairn, A.D.C. (.Camberwell), C. Hill, A.D.C. (Footscray), W. Hogg, A.D.C. (Brighton), E. Touzeau,
A.D.C. (Collingwood), F. Blencowe, D.R.L. (Brunswick), R. Wood, D.R.L. (Brighton).
FINIS.
This survey of Rover Scouting in Victoria has been hurriedly written to mark the occasion of the Rover Moot. Much more could
have been included, but time and space, and the patience of readers deserved consideration.
Rover Scouting has its faults, and criticisms can be very helpful, but may also be destructive to morale. In assessing its values we
need to remember that the Rover Scout is the product of the training of all the Sections of the Movement.
Having now spent a long period in close contact with Rover Scouts my interest is as keen as ever. The possibilities of Rover
Scouting have never yet been tested under ideal and stable conditions. So far the surface has only been scratched, and the
possibilities for rich rewards are unlimited.