Christening of 1st Pelican Point Sea Scouts' new rescue boat

2/8/97

On the eve of the 90th anniversary of the scout movement worldwide, Premier Richard Court today formally christened the 1st Pelican Point Sea Scouts' new rescue boat.

The boat was named McKail, after the late Mr Hal McKail, who founded the sea scouts in Western Australia in Albany in 1909.

He later moved the then 1st Western Australian Sea Scout Troop to Pelican Point in Crawley in1920 to establish its headquarters.

Mr McKail was a WA Sea Scout Commissioner and was involved in the sea scouts movement almost until his death in 1944.

Mr Court paid tribute to Mr McKail, describing him as a man who saw the need and opportunity for young people to focus their energy and ideas on a most worthwhile cause.

He also praised the efforts of people involved in the sea scouts movement for their dedication and commitment to the community.

The new five-metre rescue boat was purchased with an $8,500 donation from the Subiaco North Rotary Club and money raised by the sea scouts. The Scout Association of Australia (WA branch) donated the motor.

The new boat will be used for safety operations when the sea scouts perform their water-based activities. It will also allow the scouts to embark on more expedition-type adventures offshore.

The Sea Scouts emphasise the use of boating for team training, boat handling, navigation, understanding their environment, developing teamwork and raising self esteem.

Racing is not part of the sea scout ethos, rather an appropriate mix of competition with co-operation.

Media contact: Casey Cahill 9222 9475