mmg.com.au

The hard work of Kyabram resident Alex Keeton has been greatly appreciated by the Kyabram Girl Guides.

After many years of service, Ms Keeton is reducing her involvement with the Guides due to work and study commitments.

She became associated with the Guides in 2003 when daughter Caroline started attending meetings.

Since then, Ms Keeton has taken on numerous roles, including secretary for two years and president for three years. In 2010 she became district leader, but has stepped down from the position this year.

She will, however, still continue her role as unit helper.

Ms Keeton recently received a Centenary Service Award recognising her outstanding contribution to Guides Victoria, and in particular the Kyabram unit.

This award was presented to Ms Keeton by the region leader of the Guides on behalf of the state commissioner.

‘‘It was a big surprise,’’ she said.

Ms Keeton said the Guides were grateful for the local community’s support.

‘‘It’s not just the Guides and parents, there’s the community behind them as well,’’ Ms Keeton said.

There are currently eight Guides, and Ms Keeton says ‘‘they need more girls supporting them.’’

‘‘Guides promotes self-confidence and gets the girls out into the community,’’ she said.

The Guides participate in activities such as camping, outdoor cooking, sleepovers and swimming, as well as working towards attaining badges.

There are just two parents on the committee, so the Guides are always looking for extra helpers.

‘‘Anyone can go on the committee of management — they don’t have to have kids doing Guides,’’ she said.

Kyabram Girl Guides is open to girls aged six to 18.

They meet at the Guide Hall, Tulloh St, each Wednesday after school, with their first meeting for the year on February 8.

For more information about the Kyabram Girl Guides, phone Thelma on 58531593.