Date: September 27, 2011

New bridge and buildings for Weka Point scout camp

A new bridge at the Weka Point Scout Camp near Rissington will restore one of the main features of the one hundred year old facility.

The camp was developed in 1911 and is located on land at a bend in the Mangone River on Puketitiri Road. A number of bridges have provided access across the river over the time the camp has been in operation but these have all been swept away or damaged by flooding of the river.

In the early 80's a swing bridge was built high above the river but that was recently declared unsafe for use. In anticipation of the camp's 100 year anniversary, donations were sought to begin the building of a new foot swing bridge. New huts and a dining shelter are also being built to cater for a resurgence of interest in Scouting around the region.

Past President of the Lions Club of Hastings Host, Dougal French says" to commemorate its 50th birthday, his club decided to donate $25,000 towards the project while the Lloyd Morgan Lions' Club Charitable Foundation has contributed a further $10,000."

Mr French says" the opening of the new bridge and facilities marks a major milestone in the camp's history. Not only is it celebrating its first 100 years but this new development will make sure it has a strong future and will be available for many more generations of Scouts to learn valuable outdoor skills."

"Scouting is undergoing a resurgence in popularity and the Weka Point camp is instrumental in youth being able to learn the value of teamwork, grow in confidence and learn respect and understanding of the great outdoors," Mr French says.

Hastings Mayor Lawrence Yule says," the camp is extremely important in the development of youth from throughout Hawke's Bay. Scouting has proved to be an excellent way to shape new community leaders and the Weka Point Camp performs an important part in this."

Lions Past International Director Ron Luxton with perform the dedication and opening of the Weka Point Lions Bridge on Puketitiri Road on Sunday October 2nd at 10.40am.

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