FOR families across Springfield, the local Scout Group has long been a place where young people learn, grow and belong – gaining confidence, practical life skills and friendships that often last a lifetime.
That tradition is now under serious threat.
A critical shortage of adult volunteers has pushed the Springfield Scout Group to a breaking point, forcing the temporary suspension of key youth sections despite strong and ongoing interest from local families.
Group Leader Brendan Kross said the situation reflects a broader challenge facing Scout Groups across Queensland, with declining volunteer numbers placing grassroots youth programs under mounting pressure.
“The most important issue for us is leaders,” Mr Kross said.
“Without adult leaders, we simply cannot run. It doesn’t matter how strong the interest from young people is – if there aren’t enough adults, Scouting stops.”
The Springfield Scout Group currently operates five youth sections – Joey Scouts (ages 5-8), Cub Scouts (8-11), Scouts (11-14), Venturer Scouts (15-18) and Rover Scouts (18-25). Each section must meet strict youth-to-
leader ratios under national Scouting requirements, with higher ratios required as children progress through the age groups.
“For quite some time we’ve been operating under pressure,” Mr Kross said.
“We’ve struggled to recruit enough trained adult leaders, which limits what we can safely do – from camping trips to basic outdoor activities that people associate with Scouting.”
That pressure has now reached a critical point. Mr Kross confirmed the group’s Scout section Leader recently stepped back for personal reasons, while the Cub Leader is currently dealing with medical issues.
As a result, both the Cub Scout and Scout sections are currently unable to operate until additional adult leaders volunteer.
Despite the strain, Mr Kross praised the dedication of the leaders who remain.
“Our leaders are exceptional,” he said.
“They go well above and beyond, but they can’t keep carrying this on their own.
“This isn’t about complaining.
“It’s about being honest about where we’re at. Without more leaders, we can’t keep running, no matter how much goodwill or community interest there is.”
While the shortage of leaders is the most immediate threat, Mr Kross said the group is also limited by the absence of a permanent Scout Den.
Since forming four years ago, the Springfield Scout Group has operated out of hired spaces, including the Springfield Lakes YMCA, without a permanent home.
“A permanent den would make a huge difference,” Mr Kross said.
The Springfield Scout Group is now appealing directly to the community for support, encouraging adults interested in becoming Scout Leaders, and businesses willing to provide meeting space, to come forward.
