CONSIDERED the highest award any Scout can achieve, the Australian Scout Medallion is only awarded to a select group of individuals who have gone above and beyond the expectations of a regular Scout.

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Maddison Woodcock is a passionate member of the first Medowie Scout Group.

Maddison, a Year 9 student, was acknowledged for this dedication, when she was presented the Medallion in front of her teachers, peers, and community members at Irrawang High School this week.

Her journey towards this exceptional accomplishment has seen her gain many skills.

To be eligible for the Medallion, Scouts must participate in the Green Cord challenge, which is a range of activities to do with advanced camp craft.

Recipients must also fulfil two leadership components: a course and a major activity.

Maddison told News Of The Area, “I have learnt about many facets of camping, navigation using compasses, topographical maps and the stars and sun, and leadership skills.”

With an extensive knowledge of fire and fuel, safety and survival, and camp cooking and hygiene, she is the person you want around you in an emergency.

Maddison has also completed many hours of community service, such as volunteering doing gardening, Clean Up Australia Day, and Hunter Wetlands maintenance.

Maddison completed her Scout Leadership Course and First Aid Course in May and undertook her Green Cord requirement of a 30km bushwalk in the July school holidays.

“This hike was from the last section of The Great North Walk which is a trail that begins in Sydney City and ends in Newcastle at the Obelisk.”

“I trekked this last section of the hike with five fellow scouts, including Irrawang High students Matthew Williams and Ella Ruhl.”

“I was the leader, and each team member carried their own tents, food, water, clothes and equipment for the three days.”
“We completed the hike on our own.”

Maddison also organised a disco as part of the Leadership Activity.

Maddison now moves into the Venturer section for 15 to 18-year old’s and is looking forward to learning new skills.

By Rachael VAUGHAN