Scouts Keep Camp Sheldrick

This is a press release issued by Scouts Canada, Upper St. Lawrence Valley Area.

May 20, 2005

In a move that effectively reverses its decision of 10 months ago, Scouts Canada - Voyageur Council has announced it will work with local area Scouts to help Camp Sheldrick succeed over the next 4 years. The Camp is on property owned by South Nation Conservation (SNC) and is located a few kilometers south of Winchester.

John Boyce, Council Commissioner, and Warren McMeekin, Executive Director for Voyageur Council, reviewed the lease with the conservation authority and concluded that as long as local Scouts fulfill their duties with regards to plans, finances, compliance and safety, they are prepared to 'support the Area in its plans to use the property' for the duration of the lease.

Boyce said that what convinced them was the walkabout tour they received in early May, accompanied by South Nation General Manager Dennis O'Grady. During that tour the natural attractiveness and huge potential of the Camp was evident, as was the obvious effort to maintain and improve its appearance and function.

The Camp serves the needs of Scouting youth (including Beavers, Cubs, Scouts and Venturers) in Upper St. Lawrence Valley Area (about 400 members). The Area extends from Morrisburg to Brockville, and north to Kemptville and Winchester. Scouting sections from other areas such as Ottawa and Cornwall are encouraged to access the camp.

"We're very pleased to have Scouts Canada's continued support and involvement, " said Tom Graham, Area Co-Commissioner. "Thanks go to our team, who have demonstrated the necessary commitment to run the Camp. Now we can focus on further developing the camp as a fun place for outdoor activities for our members."

"Conservation and Scouting are a good fit," said Dennis O'Grady, SNC's General Manager. "We're pleased with this partnership. They take good care of the property, and it's in line with SNC's current goals for passive recreation opportunities."

The Camp, started in 1984, was born of a vision held by long-time area Scouter Bill Sheldrick, who passed away in 2002. Scouts Canada is the nation's leading youth organization. For more information, please contact Tom Graham at (613) 258-3978, or visit www.scouts.ca.