Adam Ballis’ hard work has paid off with a Queen Scout Award.
By Tania Martin
BE PREPARED is the motto of a good scout, which is something that Adam Ballis lives by.
The Venture Scout was rewarded for his years of dedication to the cause on the weekend.
He received the coveted and hard-fought Queen Scout Award.
The 17-year-old from Clematis was just six when he followed in his brother’s footsteps and joined the Joeys.
“I saw my brother having so much fun and I wanted to join in,” he said.
Cardinia Shire councillor Graeme Legge and Emerald’s first-ever Queen Scout, presented Adam with his award on Sunday afternoon.
The Queen Scout Award is the highest achievable in the Venturers.
But Adam said it hasn’t been easy.
It took more than 300 hours of community service, 12 months and 16 badges before he could claim the honour.
“It was hard work, but I really enjoy it,” he said.
Adam said it took more than 20 hours to gain each badge, which wasn’t easy, especially as he is in year 12.
“It took a lot of organising – from mum – but we did it in the end,” he said.
Adam is also the first in Emerald to rise up through the ranks from Joey to Venturer.
But he said the journey is far from over.
Adam is having too much fun to give up now and is looking forward to joining the Rovers – the highest rank in scouting.
