Guiding News
A GIRL GUIDES NSW, ACT & NT NEWSLETTER
A Note from the Editor
JAMIE SHEPHEARD ( he / him )
SENIOR MANAGER, DIGITAL, MARKETING & COMMUNICATION
JAMIE@GIRLGUIDES-NSWACTNT.ORG.AU
This month, we mark a truly historic milestone—100 years of World Thinking Day. A century of global friendship and shared purpose is no small achievement. Across more than 150 countries, girls and women will pause on 22 February to celebrate connection — not just in sentiment, but in service.
You’ll see that spirit throughout this edition.
From Jo’s message acknowledging the leaders who have shaped our movement locally, to the Kiribati partnership project supported by Friends of Asia Pacific WAGGGS, we are reminded that Guiding is both proudly local and powerfully global.
You’ll also find important operational updates — changes to Casual Volunteer requirements, supervision ratios, and communication practices — grounded in our commitment to Child Safe, Child Friendly standards. These updates protect Guides, strengthen our practice, and ensure we remain a trusted organisation for families.
Alongside policy and process, there is momentum.
Momentum in Trail Mix as we spotlight fresh program resources.
Momentum in Ask GG as we tackle real-life Guiding questions.
Momentum in Herizon as our Youth Advisory Committee step into 2026.
Momentum in Anchor Points, Tent Pegs and Base Camp — the practical supports that keep everything moving.
And importantly, the launch of the Introduction to Neurodiversity learning activity — a tangible step toward ensuring every girl feels seen, supported and empowered.
Guiding continues to evolve. What remains constant is our purpose: building confident, capable young people who know their worth. As you read this edition, consider your own “why”. Who invited you into Guiding? Who are you inviting next?
Happy World Thinking Day.
From the State Commissioner
Hello Sisters in Guiding,
As we celebrate 100 years of World Thinking Day, we are reminded that Guiding is built not only on history, but on people — on the Leaders, Volunteers and Members who show up year after year to create opportunity, belonging and adventure for girls and young women.
In 2026, this historic milestone invites us to reflect on a century of global friendship and shared purpose. Since its beginnings, World Thinking Day has connected Girl Guides and Girl Scouts across more than 150 countries in a spirit of unity and hope. It calls us to look back with gratitude, to stand firmly in our values today, and to step forward with courage into the future.
It is in that spirit of gratitude that I would like to sincerely acknowledge and thank Kaz Ely, Rhonda State Commissioner from the
Foley, and Chris Butler for their dedication and service to the ACT & SE NSW Region, and our State Girl Guides Organisation over the past five years. Their term concluded on 16 January 2026, and their leadership, care and commitment have made a lasting contribution to Guiding in the Region. We are deeply appreciative of the time, energy and heart they have given to our movement. Guiding is stronger because of them.
As Guide meetings recommence for the year, we also turn our focus to the future. The start of a new Guiding year always brings fresh energy — new girls discovering their voice, returning Members building confidence, and Volunteers creating spaces where courage, curiosity and connection thrive.
To ensure we continue to offer vibrant, sustainable Guiding experiences across our communities, we are actively seeking new volunteers to strengthen our teams. Whether someone can offer a few hours a month or take on a leadership role, every contribution matters. When we welcome new adults into Guiding, we expand the opportunities available to girls — opening doors to adventure, leadership and lifelong friendship.
World Thinking Day reminds us that we are part of something far bigger than ourselves: a global movement united by a shared Promise and a belief in the potential of every girl. As we embark on this new year together, I encourage each of you to consider how you might invite others into our story — a parent, a friend, a colleague — and help us grow the next generation of confident, capable leaders. We are reminded that Guiding has always been both proudly local and powerfully global. What began as a way to honour our founders’ birthdays has grown into an annual moment of unity shared by more than 150 countries — a celebration of friendship, solidarity and shared purpose across the world.
World Thinking Day challenges us not only to reflect, but to act — to look beyond our own communities and consider how we can strengthen and grow Guiding everywhere.
In that spirit, I am delighted to share that one of our Board Directors and past State Commissioner, Belinda Allen OAM, is leading a two-year project to raise awareness of and grow Guiding in Kiribati. This important initiative reflects our deep commitment
to the Asia Pacific region and to supporting sister Associations in building sustainable, girl-led programs.
Partially funded through a Reach Out grant from Friends of Asia Pacific WAGGGS (FAPW), the project will see us working in partnership to strengthen leadership capability and program delivery. We are currently planning to send two experienced trainers and two young women to Kiribati at the end of September to deliver a four-day workshop series designed to build skills, confidence and local capacity.
This is World Thinking Day in action — friendship that moves beyond words and into meaningful collaboration. By investing in leadership development and sharing expertise, we contribute to a stronger global Movement where every girl, no matter where she lives, has access to the transformative power of Guiding.
In the coming months, Members are encouraged to keep an eye out for further information about how you can support this initiative. Whether through advocacy, practical assistance or other forms of contribution, there will be opportunities for our
community to be part of this exciting and impactful work.
Together, we continue to honour our global connections — not just in celebration, but through purposeful partnership.
Thank you for all that you do to bring Guiding to life in your community. Here’s to a year of connection, celebration and continued impact.
Happy World Thinking Day!
Yours in Guiding
Jo Tonon (she/her)
Changes to Casual Volunteers (CV)
What are the changes?
The Girl Guides Australia (GGA) Board agreed to two Child Safe Child Friendly (CSCF) changes relating to Casual Volunteers.
1. Casual Volunteers can only volunteer up to four occasions in total
2. Casual Volunteers must have a current, unrestricted Working with Children Check (WWCC) before their first occasion of volunteering
1. NSW - WWCC
2. ACT - WWVP
3. NT - OCHRE
These changes begin from 1 Jan 2026.
Why have the changes been made?
The GGA Board agreed to these changes to:
1. Strengthen the GGA Child Safe Child Friendly (CSCF) Framework
2. Bring consistency across Girl Guiding in Australia
3. Align the GGA CSCF standards to other institutions working with children (e.g., schools and sporting clubs which require all adults to have a WWCC prior to any involvement with children)
WHat does this mean for...?
New CV
Existing CV
• Need to submit WWCC when registering
• Remain in screening until their Profile is updated
• Can volunteer four times only & must then register as an Ongoing Volunteer (OV)
• Need to submit a WWCC before the start of Term 2
• From Term 2, unable to volunteer until compliant
• Can volunteer four times only & must then register as an Ongoing Volunteer (OV)
Unit Leaders & District Managers
• Need to keep a record of volunteering for CV
• CV who have volunteered on four occasions are unable to volunteer until they have registered as an Ongoing Volunteer (OV) & completed screening
What’s Next?
Girl Guides NSW, ACT & NT is working to implement these changes. We will share updates on changes to practices and procedures.
For more information on CSCF, please go to Guide Lines on the GGA website:
Use of Real Names in Leader Communications - Child Safe Child
Friendly Practice
As part of our ongoing commitment to maintaining a Child Safe, Child Friendly environment, this communication provides clarification regarding the use of names in written communication with families and the broader community.
To ensure transparency, accountability and professionalism, all adult leaders must use their real names (first name and surname) in emails, written correspondence and notes to families.
Why This Is Important
As an organisation aligned with Girl Guides Australia and the global standards of the World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts, we are committed to best practice in child safeguarding.
Using real names:
• Promotes transparency and accountability
• Ensures families know who they are communicating with
• Supports safe and professional boundaries
• Aligns with child safe standards and safeguarding expectations
• Reduces confusion where multiple adults may hold similar Guide names
Families have a right to clearly know the identity of the adult responsible for communication regarding their child.
What This Means in Practice
Leaders must:
• Use their real first name and surname in email signatures
• Ensure their real name appears on written notes or official communication
• Use real names when corresponding with families, external providers, and community members
• Maintain professional digital communication standards at all times.
Guide names may continue to be used within program settings with Youth Members as part of Guiding tradition. However, when communicating in a formal capacity with parents, carers or external stakeholders, real names must be used.
CHANGES to Supervision Ratio policy
WHAT ARE THE CHANGES?
On 7 Dec 2025 the Girl Guides Australia (GGA) Board agreed to amend the GGA Supervision Ratio Policy to provide more detailed guidance on how the supervision of Youth Members is to be undertaken at all Girl Guide Unit meetings, activities and camps.
• Men should not be included as regular volunteer helpers at Unit meetings & activities • Men can be involved as parent helpers/carers
in certain circumstances, for example as instructors, providers of specialist skills, as family members, for assistance with transport, or emergency supervision at Unit meetings & activities
• When a man is present at a Girl Guide activity, the usual practice is there will be one qualified Leader & at least one other woman present with Youth Members
• Men can be used to fulfil ratio numbers as activity leaders as long as at least one qualified Leader is present
• When men are present at a camp/overnight activity for any reason, the Leader-in-Charge must ensure that:
• Parents/guardians are notified -
• Prior to the commencement of the camp/ activity if a man will be staying overnight
• There will be a separate camping area for men
• Men will not be permitted to enter the area in which Youth Members are sleeping
• Bathroom and sleeping facilities will not be shared at the same time by Youth Members and adults
• A qualified Leader and at least one other woman will be in attendance at all times
What does This mean for...?
Unit Leaders
District Managers
• Able to explain Supervision ratios to Volunteers and ensure Meetings, activities & camps comply with the Policy.
• Able to explain Supervision ratios to Members & Volunteers and ensure Unit Leaders comply with the Policy in all Meetings, activities & camps.
Ongoing Volunteers & Casual Volunteers
• Are aware of the Supervision Ratios and follow them in all Meetings, activities & camps.
Best practice - supervision
Regardless of whether men are included in ratio numbers, a risk management plan must include specific consideration of the Child Safe Child Friendly impact.
1. One Youth Member must never be alone with one adult
2. Youth Members are to stay in line of sight of adults
3. Youth Members work in groups (Patrols or whole Units) For More Information
Please go Guide Lines: https://www. guidelinesforgirlguides.org.au/ratios-at-a-glance/
Trail Mix
A Program Feature to Pack in your Resource Rucksack.
JODIE CHILVERS ( she / her ) | AUSTRALIAN GUIDE PROGRAM (AGP) LEAD | AGPLEAD@GIRLGUIDES-NSWACTNT.ORG.AU
Each month, we’re shining a light on a different Program resource—from Guiding in Australia and across the globe. Whether it’s a badge activity, a clever planning tool, or a fresh idea to energise your next meeting, this feature is here to inspire, support and add a little something extra to your Unit’s program. Think of it as your monthly dose of practical Guiding goodness—ready to pack into your Leader kit!
This month’s resource in the spotlight is the recently developed Lunar New Year Pack . This is the first in a series of resources based around World Celebrations. These resources will assist you and the girls to add lots of variety to your programs. Have fun!
Happy new Guiding year everyone!
I hope you all had an enjoyable break and are recharged and ready for an exciting year ahead. We are already off to a busy start with February holding celebrations for both the Lunar New Year and World Thinking Day.
World Thinking Day is a great time to reflect on the diversity and unity within Guiding, and to embrace the traditions that make each of our communities unique. Whether you’re sharing stories, trying out new activities, or connecting with Guides from other backgrounds, it’s a chance to broaden our horizons and strengthen the bonds that hold us together.
Let’s make the most of these special occasions by bringing everyone together and making some wonderful memories.
We are working towards a one-stop shop for program resources. Upon visiting our website, you will find the “Girl Guides Program Ideas” tab featured on the homepage. This tab offers resources aligned with each of the AGP fundamentals, as well as access to newly released materials. Additionally, there is a dedicated section where Leaders and girls can contribute activities they have enjoyed,
enabling others to benefit from shared experiences.
100 Years of World Thinking Day – State Challenge Badge
In 2026, World Thinking Day celebrates 100 years of global friendship, reflection, and connection across Girl Guiding and Girl Scouting.
To mark this milestone as mentioned last edition, Girl Guides NSW, ACT & NT launched the 100 Years of World Thinking Day State Challenge Badge, open to Youth Members, Adult Members, and Trefoil Guild Members.
The Challenge is flexible and easy to integrate into existing Unit Programs, with activities that encourage Members to explore the past, present, and future of World Thinking Day. It can be completed individually, in Patrols, or as a Unit.
Youth Members who complete the challenge may wear the badge on the back of their sash for 12 months.
Download the Challenge Card!
Girls may wish to also partake in one of the fantastic activities inside the WAGGGS activity pack, available on the WAGGGS website here .
Ask GG! Let’s talk Guiding IRL
Ever wished you could lean across the campfire and ask, “Hey… how would you handle this?”
Welcome to Ask GG —your monthly dose of Guiding wisdom, practical ideas, and honest answers to real questions from our community. Whether you’re puzzling over Unit program, looking for fresh ways to grow membership, trying to explain Guiding in plain language to a curious parent, or navigating one of those “ this wasn’t in the handbook ” moments — Georgie’s here for it.
No question too small. No challenge too awkward. No judgement — just thoughtful advice grounded in the Promise, sprinkled with experience, and maybe the occasional cheeky wink.
Got something on your mind? Write in. Georgie’s listening. Email AGPLead@girlguides-nswactnt.org.au
This month’s query comes from Tongue Tied :
me with some responses?
Dear Tongue Tied,
Ah yes—the classic, “ So… what do Guides actually do now ?” question.
First, take a breath. If you’ve ever stumbled over this one, you are in excellent company. Guiding is so rich and varied that it can feel impossible to sum up between a sausage sizzle and the school pick-up line.
Here’s the secret: don’t start with activities. Start with impact.
Instead of listing crafts, camps and badges (though yes, we absolutely still do adventurous, hands-on things), try this:
Short version (10 seconds):
“Girl Guides is where girls and young women build confidence, leadership and life skills through fun, practical experiences.”
A little more detail (20–30 seconds):
“In Guides, girls get to try new things—from outdoor adventures to STEM, community projects and teamwork challenges—in a safe, supportive space.
It’s all about building confidence, resilience and leadership skills that stay with them for life.”
If they’re curious, you can personalise it:
“In our Unit alone, we’ve done , and recently — but what I really love is seeing the girls grow in confidence.”
Because that’s the heart of it. We’re not just running activities. We are:
• Creating spaces where girls can be themselves
• Helping them develop practical skills and strong values
• Encouraging them to take the lead
• Supporting them to serve their community
• Building friendships that matter
That’s the real story of Guiding “these days.”
And if someone says, “Oh, I didn’t realise Guides still did that!” — you can smile and say:
“We’ve always done it. We just keep evolving with the girls.”
Remember, you don’t need the perfect script. You just need an authentic one. Speak from your experience. Talk about the growth you’ve seen.
That’s far more powerful than a program list.
You’re not tongue tied. You’re standing on 100+ years of empowering girls — sometimes we just need a fresh way to say it.
Keep the questions coming.
Georgie x — GG
Herizon
Future-facing voices. Bold ideas. Young women leading what’s next.
AIMEE RASSOULI ( she / her ) | YOUNG WOMEN LEAD
YOUNGWOMENLEAD@GIRLGUIDES-NSWACTNT.ORG.AU
Introducing YAC 2026
Congratulations to the following Members who make up the Youth Advisory Committee (YAC) for 2026:
• Jessica Dibben – ACT & SE NSW
• Charlotte McGinty – ACT & SE NSW
• Chelsea McKenna – Coastal Valleys
• Chelsey Taylor – Coastal Valleys
• Juliet Plummer – Cumberland Plains
• Sarah Gahan – Cumberland Plains
• Chloe Teng – Northern Sydney
• Isabella Ribera – Northern Sydney
• Molly Corcoran – North Pacific Coast
• Emily Collett – North Pacific Coast
• Lexi Day – Northern Territory
• Tabbitha Josif – Northern Territory
• Issy Sheppard – South Coast and Highlands
• Annabelle Sousou – South Coast and Highlands
• Abby Byron – Twin Rivers
The girls have put together a video which briefly introduces themselves and their goals for their term, and we are so excited to watch their leadership skills grow! Watch the video by clicking above.
The committee also recently came together for their first Development Weekend of 2026, officially kicking off the year with the newly appointed committee. Many meaningful discussions were had and many laughs shared. Well done, YAC 2026!
Anchor Points
Steady leadership essentials that keep your Unit grounded.
KRISTINA TEODOROVIC ( she / her ) | LEADERSHIP LEAD | LEADERSHIPLEAD@GIRLGUIDES-NSWACTNT.ORG.AU
Junior Leader Q&A Connect Sessions
Upcoming in March, we are launching our first Junior Leader Q&A and Junior Leader Connection Session. First up is our Q&A session which is a perfect opportunity for young woman to explore what a Junior Leader is, and for current Junior Leaders and Supporting leaders to ask any questions they may have about the space. This will be held Sunday the 1st of March 2026 at 3pm online. Please register via the Our Junior Leader connection session will be held on Sunday the 29th of March 2026 at 3pm Online. These sessions will be geared towards current Junior Leaders, which will give them the opportunity to further develop leadership skills, meet and collaborate other Junior
Leaders in the State. This session will allow them a safe space to problem solve, work together as a group on all things Junior Leader and Leadership. Please register via the link if you are a current Junior Leader looking to expand your skills within your role.
There will be more Connect Sessions and Q&A’s throughout the year, please keep an eye on our events/ courses page for more information throughout the year.
Importance of Recognition
Being a Guide Leader can be one of the most rewarding jobs, seeing the progression and development of a young person within your unit. However, while very rewarding, can be a lot of hard work and dedication to the position.
Our Adult leaders are volunteers. They give their time, energy, and skills purely because they believe in the values of Girl Guides. Recognition shows that this effort is seen and valued, which helps leaders feel appreciated rather than taken for granted.
Secondly, recognition boosts motivation and retention. When leaders feel acknowledged, they’re more likely to stay involved long-term. This is crucial because
experienced leaders provide stability, mentorship, and continuity for both girls and newer volunteers.
Recognition also encourages professional and personal growth. Awards, thanks, and public acknowledgment can validate leaders’ skills—such as organisation, mentoring, teamwork, and problemsolving—which boosts confidence and encourages them to take on new challenges or leadership roles within the organisation. Honestly a simple thank you can go a long way.
Guides have plenty of opportunities for you to nominate members of your teams, including our amazing award system. If you know of anyone within your Unit, your District or Region that should be nominated for their hard work and contribution to Guides please follow this link.
Tent Pegs
Small outdoor things that hold everything steady
VIRGINIA F.M. BROWN ( she / her ) | OUTDOOR LEAD OUTDOORLEAD@GIRLGUIDES-NSWACTNT.ORG.AU
Exciting Stuff
The challenge for 2026 is for everyone with a camp or expedition qualification (excluding indoor), to run a camp or expedition in 2026. Even a small camp is better than no camp. If you hold more than one type of qualification- you decide what type you’ll run.
New Stuff
the requirement to have a current CPR qualification is now operational. If an LiC doesn’t have current CPR, unfortunately neither her ROC nor I, can approve the camp/activity until she is compliant (or another LiC is in place).
Outdoor Qualifications: The endorsement period for archery and abseiling qualifications is now 3 years, in line with camps/expeditions.
The endorsement period for water craft qualifications is also 3 years and there is an additional GGA requirement.
If you hold abseiling, archery and/or water craft qualifications and you have not received an email from me explaining the changes, let me know at outdoorlead@girlguides-nswactnt.org.au .
Not So New Stuff
Please use the following naming convention in the subject line of your email when sending in an OUT01 .
Name-Activity-Date eg:
‘Virginia Brown-Camp-10-12 April’
When an activity or camp is approved it is approved for a person (LiC) to deliver an activity, on a date. The unit, district, division or region name is not relevant for the approval. I look at the youth numbers by age and therefore ratios. If I’m asked have I approved, for example, Gungahlin
District’s camp, I really don’t know and will need more details and to search records; but if I’m asked have I approved VBrown to take a camp 10-12 April, I’ll remember as that is what I approved.
By using the requested details in subject line, you are allowing both your ROC and me to know what activities and camps we have pending approval, and how urgent they are.
New Term, New Meeting Time?
Unit Leaders can update their Unit’s Meeting Day and Meeting Time via their Unit Dashboard!
Use the pencil icon to edit the details, then press save. This will then show on the website when new enquiries are looking to join. Make sure you always keep this info up to date.
Your Guiding Name
It’s tradition for a Girl Guide leader to have a Guiding name!
It’s often something personable, endearing, and generally references some kind of flora, fauna or natural element
Make sure you have your Guiding Name listed on your profile by following the steps below.
1. Log in to your account www.girlguidesnswactnt.org.au and click your name to go to your profile page.
2. Select the Guiding Info tab
3. Open the Volunteer Details section and use the pencil icon to edit your Guiding Name
Guide Van
Did you know you can hire the Girl Guide branded van for your next community event or fair day?
More information will be available in the next newsletter.
First Aid & CPR Update
Who needs first aid (FA) & CPR?
First Aid Qualifications are required to hold ALQP
Qualification for Leaders & Managers & for Leaders planning to undertake camping & adventure-based activities.
Role Compliance will be checked before Training, Events & when submitting an OUT 01.
How do I submit my fA & CPR Quals?
There are two forms for uploading FA & CPR Quals (on the Running your District/Unit pages):
1. First Aid Qual Updates —upload Certificate with the course code (HLTAID009-011)
2. First Aid, CPR & NPC Reimbursement Form —if reimbursement is required upload Certificate with the course code (HLTAID009-011) & receipt
Qualification
HLTAID010
Minimum Qualification for
Unit Leaders, Assistant Leaders, District Managers & Region Managers
First Aid
HLTAID011
CPR
HLTAID013
Minimum FA qualification for Leaders planning to undertake camping & adventure-based activities
Outdoor Lead may require an expedition Leader to hold this Qual or higher if it is identified as applicable in the risk assessment for a particular expedition
HLTAID009
Unit Leaders, Assistant Leaders, District Managers, Region Managers
Qualification Valid for Includes
First Aid HLTAID010 3 years
HLTAID013 3 years
1 year * CPR must be renewed annually
- HLTAID009 *
&
Important Dates
First Aid compliance is required by the start of Term 2.
If you are not compliant by the start of Term 2 you will not be able to engage in any Girl Guides activities with Youth present (including running Unit meetings, attending events and being included in supervision ratios).
CPR compliance is required by the end of Term 4 2026 . This include the two years in between FA Qualification.
Campfire Call
Join us at Upcoming Events
LYDIA MORRIS ( she / her ) | EVENT MANAGER EVENTS@GIRLGUIDES-NSWACTNT.ORG.AU
We are off to a flying start with our 2026 events and courses program. In March we bring you webinars, trainings and our two first major events of the year, Junior Guide Getaway and Regatta. Read below and bookmark our What’s on page for up to date events and courses information.
Junior Leader Q&A—1 March
This Q & A Session will walk through the Junior Leader Resources i.e. Booklet, Snapshot, Junior Leader Checklist, and to give everyone the opportunity to ask questions about the Junior Leader Role. Register here.
Fun Leadership for Youth—6–8 March
Senior Guides & Junior Leaders, build your leadership potential, experience personal growth, challenge yourself and above all
have FUN with your Guiding sisters in this learn as you go self development weekend. Register Here . District Managers, do you have a stand out Senior Guide or Junior Leader in your District? Consider sponsoring them to attend FLY and support their further development. Contact events@girlguidesnswactnt.org.au for further information.
Junior Guide Getaway: Great Escape—13–15 March
This new Pre-Junior & Junior Guide Adventure is now closed for registration. We are excited to welcome 110 youth indoor campers and 50 youth day attendees to an escape themed experience filled with flying, climbing and team building challenges. Check the event page and join the Facebook Group for up to date event information. Keep an eye on your inbox for an email with a link to your Wedderburn Christian Campsite Activity Waiver Form.
Regatta: Steampunk Splashdown—20–22 March
Registrations are now open for this epic adventure on the water for Olaves and Senior Guides. This year’s theme celebrates the creativity and
innovation of Steampunk. Expect a weekend filled with inspiring outfits, imaginative designs, thrilling watercraft races, fun team challenges, and plenty of laughter. Check the event page and join the Facebook Group for key information and resources including the Pre-Regatta Challenge, Race Information and Race Registration Form. Register Here . Registrations close 8 March.
The boating crew are looking for extra hands on Thursday 19 March from 5–6pm at the North Rocks storage facility and RTS Tingira, Cabarita, to load boats and equipment onto the truck and trailers for Regatta. Any assistance from nearby Units would be greatly appreciated. You don’t have to be attending Regatta to lend a hand, however Units helping and attending Regatta will receive additional points for their team. Please let Caitlin Manton know by email on Caitlin.Manton@girlguides-nswactnt.org.au if you are available to help.
GGA Leader & Manager Training—multiple dates from March till November
National training dates for Leader and Manager
Online Training are now available on the The Australian Leadership and Qualification Program
( ALQP) Training website . Registration for these sessions can be made on the same page and will be open soon.
Queen’s Guide Award Information Session—26 March
If you’re in Senior Guides, or are a Leader or parent of someone in Senior Guides you may have heard about the Queen’s Guide Award. Want to know more about it? Youth Awards Coordinator, Ashleigh Hansen, will be running regular information sessions to support new awardees to get started, as well as supporting current awardees with any questions that may have arisen. Register Here .
Junior Leader Connection - 29 March
This Connection Session is an opportunity for Junior Leaders to get together, discuss their Role, have breakout sessions to discuss topics of choice, areas they need help in. Help providing resources that they can use whilst being a Junior Leader. Register Here.
More information coming soon for our March
Conduct a Camp Qualifications Training and Way to Go Hiking Training .
Let’s go 2026!!
More World Thinking Day
Badges and Activities
Celebrating 100 years of World Thinking Day - 22 February 2026
Background
Celebrated since 1926, the World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts World Thinking Day is a day of international friendship held every year on 22 February. It is the perfect opportunity to connect our global Movement and fundraise for over 11.2 million Girl Guides and Girl Scouts in 153 countries.
This year is particularly special since it marks the 100-year anniversary of World Thinking Day.
This year’s World Thinking Day Theme
This year’s theme is ‘Our Friendship’. Members may choose to take part in celebrations, buy a badge, fundraise or encourage participation in fun unit activities - or simply reflect on the friendships made locally as well as the global community we are all are part of.
To follow is a summary of World Thinking Day Resources that Girl Guides might love.
WAGGGS 2026 Activity Pack and Leader Resource
Girl Guides around the globe are encouraged to collect beads to create friendship bracelets representing the global community that they are part of, the friendships they have, and the importance of working together to create a brighter future for everyone.
Download the Leader Activity Pack EN-WTD-2026-Activity-Pack.pdf The program is 3 parts.
Part 1: Friendship across time and traditions
Part 2: Growing together
Part 3: 100 Years of World Thinking Day
GGA 2026 Activity Pack and Leader Resource
In keeping with the theme of Our Friendship, GGA have put together a great pack of activities that leaders and Guides may choose to incorporate into your World Thinking Day celebrations.
Activities can be found on the GGA website https:// www.girlguides.org.au/resources/programresources/
2026 Special Edition GGA World Thinking Day Fundraising Badge
To celebrate the 100 years of World Thinking Day and to fundraise for Girl Guides and Girl Scouts around the world, Girl Guides Australia have designed a special limited-edition badge.
$1 from every badge sold will be donated to the World Thinking Day Fund.
Available through Girl Guide Shops.
WAGGGS World Thinking Day 2026 Badges and Pins
As usual, the annual international badges and pins will also be available through Girl Guide Shops.
World Thinking Day 2026 Badge (Cloth)
World Thinking Day 2026 Pin (Metal)
World Thinking Day Fund
The World Thinking Day Fund creates life changing opportunities. In 1932, the idea for the Fund began after a Belgian delegate at the 7th World Conference pointed out that a birthday (World Thinking Day) involves giving gifts. Since then, WAGGGS have continued to honour this tradition by giving girls and young women across the world the opportunity to participate in Girl Guiding and Girl Scouting by donating to the World Thinking Day Fund.
If you and your Unit enjoy activities around World Thinking Day, you can show your support by donating to the fund and ensuring more girls and young women continue to enjoy Girl Guiding and Girl Scouting for years to come.
Donations to the World Thinking Day Fund can be made until April then the Girl Guides Australia donation can be submitted to WAGGGS in May 2026.
Any questions? Contact youth@girlguides.org.au
Have a wonderful World Thinking Day from all the team at Girl Guides Australia.
Saluting Their Service Challenge 2026
The Saluting Their Service challenge for 2026 is available for all Girl Guiding Members within Australia - both Youth and Adult Members. The theme for this year’s challenge is ‘Communication’. A copy of the syllabus is available on the Girl Guides Australia website: https://www.girlguides.org.au/ resources/leader-resources/
TWINKL Anzac Day Resource
There is also a great resource available here for Girl Guides who may feel anxious about attending social situations like Anzac Day. This resource explains in pictures and words, what you might expect to see and hear at a service so that you can be reassured and prepared for the experience.
The 2026 Saluting Their Service badges and pins are available through Girl Guide Retail Outlets.
Adult Action Badge
The Adult Action Badge was introduced in 2026 to encourage Adults to be involved in a variety of activities, expanding networks learning new skills and having fun at a range of Guide events
It is available to all Adults in Guiding.
It has had an additional two (2) Optional Challenges added this year:
1. engage with the Olave Program as it celebrates its 30th Anniversary and
For any questions regarding the Action Badges please email adults @girlguides.org.au or GGA office admin@girlguides.org.au
2. explore and use a WAGGGS resources.
The Badge syllabus is available on the GGA website https://www.girlguides.org.au/wp-content/ uploads/2025/03/Adult-Action-Badge-2026-FINAL. pdf
Empowering Every Guide:
Launching our Introduction to Neurodiversity Learning Activity
We are proud to announce that our newest national online learning resource, Introduction to Neurodiversity, officially launches today, Friday, 20h February on GGL.
Data from the 2025 Jamboree revealed that 30% of our Youth Guides self-identify as neurodiverse. To meet our commitment to inclusion, it is vital our Adult Members and Volunteers are equipped with the knowledge to support every girl. This activity provides the foundational tools to ensure our units remain safe, empowering, and truly inclusive spaces. This activity was co-designed by the National Neurodiversity Working Group. By centring lived experience and practical Unit needs, we have created a learning path that is both authentic and actionable.
Girl Guides Australia extends a sincere thank you to the National Neurodiversity Working Group. Their
dedication and expertise have been instrumental in bringing this project to life.
How to access the activity:
Where : Log in to GGL – Home Page – Recently added learning OR Catalogue – National Recommended Activities – Inclusion & Diversity
When : Available from Friday 20 February 2026
Goal : Enhance your skills and help foster an environment where every girl can reach her full potential.
If you have feedback, or wish to make a contribution, please send an email to communications@girlguides-nswactnt.org.au.
Guiding News
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