There are over 3200 of you here this weekend, with 250 from overseas, which according to Carl Hankinson (the Big Volunteer Boss) makes this the biggest reunion ever!
Alongside his welcome came some pretty big promises:
Ayesha Karim (the Not-Quite-So-Big Youth Volunteer Boss) was up next with a cheer from the crowd that was definitely louder than Carl’s, and a wish that we all prioritise making new friends. Having taken the mantle of UK Youth Lead at Reunion four years ago, Ayesha will be passing the roll over to Satvika Mishra this weekend. So come along to the official handover (3:00 on Saturday at the Main Stage) to thank Ayesha for her support, and to give Satvika a very warm welcome!
Aiden Jones (the Executive Boss) was then welcomed to the stage, but we couldn’t hear what he had to say because Carl sabotaged his microphone. We believe he thanked everyone for coming and hoped everyone would have a wonderful time enjoying the huge range of activities across site, but he could also have been telling us about the really nice cake on offer this weekend, or inviting us all to the bar for a pint. We’ll keep you posted if we hear anything more.
After all that, it was time for Sam Morris (the Big Camp Boss) to take the now working microphone, who snatched the opportunity to remind us to go and discover new things to support your local group, to earn the exclusive Centenary Activity Badge (apparently 30 of you have already done it – congratulations!) and to enjoy your weekend. Then as his final act as Camp Chief, he then declared – with a flash – the 100th Gilwell Reunion officially open.
Yes, Sam is also hanging up his 1st Gilwell Scout Group scarf/necker/neckie (delete as appropriate), and so with Reunion now open, it was time to hand over the mantle of Camp Chief to Tom Ovenstone, with the ceremonial transfer of the six wood beads.
Now officially Camp Chief, it was Tom’s turn with the microphone, again welcoming us all to Gilwell Park and hoping everyone has a fantastic weekend. After all, if Tom’s first Gilwell Reunion was 24 years ago and he’s still coming back, someone here must be doing something right.
Finally, it was back to Carl, who wished us a very enjoyable Reunion, whether you’re here to learn, relax or make new friends, before leaving the stage to prepare for his DJ battle.
… Did we mention there’s cake?