WA to host major Scout Jamboree from December 30

20/12/94

Premier Richard Court says the people of Perth should 'be prepared' for a friendly invasion later this month when 12,500 scouts and girl guides from 24 countries and throughout Australia converge on Western Australia for the 15th Asia Pacific Scout Jamboree and 17th Australian Jamboree of Far Horizons.

Mr Court said the event was a huge undertaking and WA was honoured to host the Jamboree, to be held at Perry Lakes from December 30.

"The magnitude of the event is brought home when you hear, for example, that a 'city' of 3,000 tents will be established and the organisers have ordered 79,000 sausages, 52,000 fish fingers and 102,000 eggs to help feed the participants," Mr Court said.

"The jamboree will also have its own fire-brigade, police station, first aid posts and camp hospital, telephone system and daily newspaper."

Mr Court said the selection of Perth as the venue for the jamboree was testament to the hard work of the local scouting community and further proof of the State's well-earned reputation for organising and holding world class events.

"WA is also a great place to visit during the summer season and all scouts will be given the opportunity to visit our beaches, venture into the city and Fremantle and undertake many activities including sailing, go-karting, horse riding and caving," he said.

The Premier said events of the magnitude of the jamboree were an important tourism asset with participants visiting the State from countries including the United Kingdom, Canada, Africa, Singapore and Mongolia.

"The State Government recognises this significance and I am pleased today to present the organisers with a cheque of  $25,000 to help stage a 'Best of the West' concert night - which will form a key part of the activities," Mr Court said.

"The Government's contribution comes on top of the many resources already donated by the private sector, while 1,000 volunteers have offered their time to help stage the event - from manning stalls to providing accommodation for the many visiting scouts and girl guides in the lead-up to, and following, the jamboree.

"The Scouting movement is well-respected throughout the world and I am sure the well-known hospitality of Western Australians will ensure that those participating in the Jamboree will leave this State with fond memories of their time here," the Premier said.