REBECCA McMahon from the Moogerah Region has earned the Queen’s Guide Award, the highest distinction a youth member can achieve in Girl Guides Australia.
The award recognises exceptional leadership, community service, and personal development – qualities Rebecca has demonstrated throughout her 14 years of Guiding.
“I joined as soon as I was old enough when I turned five,” she said.
“I did five years of Guiding in England before moving to Ipswich at age 10, where I joined Girl Guides Australia.
“My family was always involved – my mum was one of my first Guide leaders, and my three older siblings were Scouts.”
Achieving the Queen’s Guide Award is no small feat. It demands years of goal-setting, outdoor adventure, leadership challenges and community contributions.
“Receiving my Queen’s Guide Award was a momentous occasion for me,” Rebecca said.
“It was the culmination of over a decade of commitment and formal recognition of the hard work I put into my growth as a Guide and my dedication to my fellow Guides.”
Rebecca completed a range of challenges in areas such as Creative Thinking, Character, Community,
Communication, Collaboration, Commitment to Learning, Service, and Leadership – all assessed by her peers.
State Commissioner for Girl Guides Queensland, Susan Hayes, congratulated Rebecca on her success.
“Rebecca’s award is a celebration of what Girl Guides is all about – determination, community service and
youth leadership,” Ms Hayes said.
“We’re incredibly proud of her and what she represents for the Moogerah Region.”
Rebecca, now an adult member, serves as a unit helper and mentor to younger Guides.
“My goal is to have a positive influence on the younger Girl Guides and help them achieve their goals and get the most out of their Guiding journeys,” she said.
She also shared why Guiding continues to play such an important role in the lives of girls and young women.
“Guides provides opportunities that aren’t always available elsewhere, especially in camping and outdoor skills,” Rebecca said.
“Some people think the female-only environment is outdated, but it creates a space where girls who might feel overshadowed in mixed-gender groups can thrive.
“Guides is for the girls who feel left out in school when teachers ask for ‘strong boys’ to help carry things.
“It’s a place where girls build confidence and lifelong friendships that support them through life’s challenges.”
Rebecca’s achievement highlights the long-standing tradition of Girl Guiding in Ipswich and surrounding districts – including North Ipswich, Blackstone, Fernvale, Amberley, Beaudesert, Boonah, and Esk – where the movement has empowered girls for over a century.
