By BEN CAMERON
A PAKENHAM Scout’s trip of a lifetime to Japan has been bankrolled by a very generous Pakenham Gazette reader.
The Gazette revealed last month that 14-year-old Orianna Allen from Pakenham Scout Group has her sights set on attending the 23rd World Scout Jamboree in July with 30,000 other young, like-minded leaders.
But with $7000 needed to cover all costs, Orianna had some serious fundraising ahead of her.
Luckily, 96-year-old Gazette reader Harry saw the story and offered to pay for everything.
Scout Leader Jason Baird said he didn’t feel comfortable with accepting the full amount.
“I didn’t accept his generous offer in full, and accepted $2000,” he said.
“I picked him up from his home on Tuesday and took him to the Scout Hall and he presented the cheque to Orianna.
“It was very special with lots of tears in the hall.”
Orianna said it was a gesture she will never forget.
“It was an amazing mixture of excitement, gratitude and happiness all in one,” she said.
“After offering to pay the full amount we explained that we just couldn’t accept such a large amount from one person.
“Harry understands that $2000 is an amazing contribution. I don’t think I will ever stop being grateful to Harry for helping me to get to Japan.
“When I return from the Jamboree I will be going to visit Harry with photos, souvenirs and lots of tales about my journey.”
The Jamboree is one of the world’s largest youth events, with Scouts aged between 14 and 17 attending from across the globe.
