WITH the 1st South Wallsend Scout Group celebrating its 50th birthday this year, it seems only fitting that its ageing headquarters is being treated to a makeover.
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Its two bathrooms and kitchen are being gutted and refitted thanks to government grants and donations from Bunnings Wallsend.
The group has more than 50 members aged between six and 18 years old. When they are not busy rock climbing, canoeing, camping, or learning other life skills, they will often stay overnight in their headquarters, needing showers, toilets, and a functional commercial kitchen.
Cub leader Hugh Sparkes said their strong membership numbers were driven by word of mouth.
"The kids talk at school and explain how much fun they are having," he said.
"It's not the place that makes Scouts what it is; it's the people that come here. We're like family."
The finishing touches for the new bathrooms will be completed in the school holidays, while work on the new kitchen should start later this year.
