SENIOR MANAGER, DIGITAL, MARKETING & COMMUNICATION
JAMIE@GIRLGUIDES-NSWACTNT.ORG.AU
There’s a very specific kind of energy that settles across Guiding at this time of year. Half celebration. Half controlled chaos. A faint smell of damp set props and printer toner. An inbox held together with sheer optimism. And somehow? We keep pulling it off.
This edition feels especially packed in the best possible way. We’ve got Gang Show season gearing up, adventure programs rolling out, Volunteers reconnecting, face-to-face, for training again, and a whole lot of people across the organisation quietly doing the work that keeps Guiding moving forward every single day.
There’s also a strong thread running through this edition around growth. Growing confidence. Growing capability. Growing community. Whether it’s Leaders developing new skills through Girl Guides
Learning, teams planning massive events behind the scenes, or Volunteers stepping into opportunities to reconnect, collaborate and try something new, there’s
momentum everywhere right now.
You’ll also spot a recurring theme of “please remember compliance exists” sprinkled lovingly throughout these pages. Equal parts operational necessity and gentle cry for help. Please read those sections. Our Member & Volunteer Services and Operations teams would like to experience joy again.
A huge thank you to everyone contributing to Guiding across NSW, ACT & NT right now—from camp cooks and costume coordinators to spreadsheet warriors, trainers, event teams, and the Volunteers somehow managing all of this while also answering seventeen emails that begin with “just a quick question…”
You are the reason this organisation continues to thrive. Now go forth. Read the newsletter. Register for things. Update your CPR. Support a Gang Show. Nominate someone wonderful. Drink some water. And maybe— just maybe—title your outdoor activity emails correctly this month. Happy reading!
From the STate Commissioner
JO TONON ( she / her ) | STATE COMMISSIONER SC@GIRLGUIDES-NSWACTNT.ORG.AU
Hello Sisters in Guiding and our community of allies,
Across Girl Guides NSW, ACT & NT, there is so much to celebrate as we continue growing, reconnecting and creating opportunities for girls and young women to thrive through Guiding.
I encourage all Volunteers to take the time to explore the wonderful new resources being developed by our Leads to support Members across the organisation. These resources have been created to provide practical guidance, fresh ideas and meaningful support to help Volunteers deliver quality Guiding experiences in every community. It is inspiring to see the knowledge, creativity and collaboration being shared so generously across our movement.
One particularly exciting resource featured in the pages of this newsletter focuses on Gang Shows, arriving just as show season begins in many areas (page 9). Gang Shows are such a special part of the Guiding experience, bringing together creativity, teamwork, confidence, humour and friendship in a way that truly showcases the spirit of Guiding. We look forward to celebrating the enthusiasm and talent of all those involved both on and off the stage. Thank you to every Volunteer supporting rehearsals, coordinating productions and creating opportunities for girls and young women to shine. This month also marks an exciting milestone as we welcome our first face-to-face Leader Qualification (LQ) training opportunities since before COVID. These trainings provide an invaluable chance for Volunteers to reconnect, learn together, strengthen skills and continue building supportive networks across our organisation. The return of in-person learning reflects the incredible enthusiasm and commitment of our Volunteers to continue growing and developing within Guiding. Thank you to the facilitators, organisers and participants helping make this such a positive and energising step forward for Girl Guides NSW, ACT & NT.
National Volunteer Week has also provided an important opportunity to reflect on the power of connection and community within Guiding. Every conversation, campfire, meeting, adventure and moment of encouragement helps girls build confidence, resilience and lifelong friendships. The impact our volunteers make every day within their local communities cannot be overstated. It was also wonderful to recently celebrate volunteers at the ACT & South East Adult Awards, recognising the dedication, leadership and commitment of members who continue strengthening Guiding in their communities. We were equally proud to see Girl Guides NSW, ACT & NT represented at the Premier’s Volunteer Recognition event, highlighting the important contribution volunteers make not only within Guiding, but across the wider community.
Volunteering with Guiding offers so much more than giving time. It provides opportunities to develop leadership skills, build lasting friendships, share experiences, support young people and contribute to something truly meaningful. Time and again, we see Volunteers gain just as much from Guiding
as they give through connection, personal growth, adventure and community.
Thank you to every Volunteer who continues to inspire girls and young women to be the change in their worlds. Together, we are building a stronger, more connected and more vibrant future for Guiding.
Thank you, as always, for your ongoing commitment, leadership and service.
Yours in Guiding
Jo Tonon (she/her)
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!
Resource in Focus
It’s Gangshow Season! To compliment this, we have put together a Resource Pack highlighting this exciting event, including a little a bit of history about how it all started and some great activities based around the theatre and drama.
If you have the opportunity to attend a Gangshow near you, please do – show your support for all those who have put time & effort to get the show on stage. If there is not a Gangshow near you – support a local performance – or maybe you might want to enjoy a short roadtrip and get into the Gangshow experience.
To all those performing in Gangshow this season –break a leg! And a big thank you to all those work behind the scenes (like me) to put these great performances together and offer our girls another fantastic experience.
The resource pack can be found on the website here .
Support a Gang Show Near You!
Many of our Guides across our organisation are participating in Gang Shows all over NSW and ACT. I encourage everyone in our community to get out and support them as they take the stage!
Albury Gang Show
• Albury Entertainment Centre
• 12 June & 13 June
• Buy Tickets
Canberra Gang Show
• Canberra College Performing Arts Centre
• July 8-11
• Buy Tickets
Cumberland Gang Show
• The Concourse Theatre Chatswood
• July 4, 5 and July 9-11
• Buy Tickets
Hornsby Gang Show
• Abbotsleigh School for Girls
• July 3-5 & July 8, 10, 11
• Buy Tickets
Kirrawee Gang Show
• Sydney Technical High School
• July 7-8 & July 10-11
• Buy Tickets
Last weekend I sailed the High Seas at my Region Camp. It was a fabulous weekend with just over 200 Youth Members attending at various stages over the weekend. The event featured both indoor and outdoor camping, welcomed day visitors, offered a range of activities, and included a wonderful campfire. Girls and Leaders enjoyed themselves throughout the weekend. It was inspiring to see Regional Leaders collaborate to create an excellent program, provide delicious food, and ensure every aspect of the camping experience was a success for girls of all ages. Bravo Northern Sydney Region.
Details regarding the NZ Jamboree have been announced, with applications for Leaders currently open and Youth applications to be available soon. This event offers girls an excellent opportunity to participate in an international gathering, develop global friendships, and gain valuable new experiences. Head to the Girl Guides Australia website for more information.
I hope to see many of you at the State AGM later this month as we review the past Guiding Year.
Be sure to check the program ideas section on the website– you may discover unexpected updates!
Ask GG! Developing my Abilities as a Leader
Ever wished you could lean across the campfire and ask, “ Hey… how would you handle this? ”
Welcome to Ask Georgie Guide —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.
This month’s query comes from Feeling Flat :
Dear Georgie Guide, As a Leader, should I continue developing my abilities to remain current? Signed, Feeling Flat
Dear Feeling Flat ,
Absolutely! Continuing to develop your abilities as a Leader is essential for staying effective and relevant. Guiding is always evolving, and keeping your skills up-to-date helps you support your team, respond to new challenges, and provide the best possible experience for the girls in your care.
Investing in your own growth also sets a positive example for others and encourages lifelong learning within your Unit. Check out Girl Guides
Learning on the website for some interesting courses to complete and develop your skills.
Georgie x — GG
Got something on your mind? Write in. Georgie’s listening. Email AGPLead@girlguides-nswactnt.org.au
Tent Pegs
Small outdoor things that hold everything steady
VIRGINIA F.M. BROWN ( she / her ) | OUTDOOR LEAD OUTDOORLEAD@GIRLGUIDES-NSWACTNT.ORG.AU
Girl Guides: building confidence, one questionable camp meal at a time.
Incredibly Exciting Stuff
The new Ocean & Waterways resource has officially arrived – the latest exciting resource created by the State Leads!
You’ll find it here: Girl Guides Program Ideas - Fresh Program
Packed with heaps of fun activities and inspiring ideas, this resource is designed to help you create engaging programs with your own unique twist. You can work through every activity or simply mix and match your
favourites – the choice is completely yours!
Exciting Stuff
Let’s see if we can match – or even beat –last year’s number of adventure-based activities! Our goal is for every Unit to take part in at least one adventure activity this year.
If you’ve ever completed an OUT01 before, why not give it a go? It’s a great opportunity to try something new, build confidence, and create some amazing adventures for your Guides.
Losing the will to live stuff
Please remember to title your outdoor emails using the following format in the subject line:
UC - Activity - Date
Using this format helps keep everything organised, easy to find, able to be prioritised, and it only takes a moment.
That’s all for this month!
Base Camp
Your Hub for Operational Updates and Support
MEMBER AND VOLUNTEER SERVICES MANAGER
HEIDI@GIRLGUIDES-NSWACTNT.ORG.AU
We’ve made a few small improvements to how First Aid and CPR compliance is recorded for Adult Members in our database. You can now find this information in the ‘Screening and Compliance’ section of My GuideBook, listed just below your WWCC and National Police Check.
This change also makes things easier for Supervisors in Guiding (SiGs), as everything is now in one place— no need to toggle between two separate tabs (yay!!).
A quick reminder: CPR compliance for Leaders and Managers is due by the end of Term 4, 2026. CPR must be completed annually through a Registered Training Organisation (RTO), and then uploaded via one of the following forms: FA, CPR & NPC Reimbursement Form – Members (if claiming reimbursement), or First Aid Qual Updates form (if reimbursement is not
required).
You can also now update your First Aid and CPR details directly by selecting ‘Edit your Details’ on the left-hand menu and navigating to Compliance.
Compliance Matters
Understanding Compliance in Girl Guides
What you need to know, and why it matters
Compliance can feel complex, but at its core, it’s actually quite simple. It’s about three things:
• keeping our Members & Volunteers safe,
• meeting legal requirements, and
• reducing risk across our organisation.
Every Adult Member and Volunteer plays a role in this.
So, what does “compliance” actually mean?
In Girl Guides, compliance has two parts:
1. CSCF Compliance (Child Safe, Child Friendly)
This is about making sure all adults working with young people are safe, screened, and prepared.
It includes things like:
• Maintaining your membership (including Code of Conduct and declarations)
• Holding a valid Working with Children Check
• Completing a National Police Check
• Providing references
• Completing required Child Safe training
2. Role Compliance (e.g. for Leaders and Managers)
This ensures you’re qualified and current in your role.
It may include:
• ALQP Leader or Manager Qualification
• First Aid and CPR
• Annual Role Reviews
• Activity Specific Qualifications (e.g. Camps, Outdoor activities)
Who is responsible?
Short answer: everyone .
• You are responsible for keeping your compliance up to date and checking your profile
• Supervisors in Guiding and Managers support and monitor compliance
• Staff record, manage and report compliance — they don’t “police” it
When is compliance checked?
Compliance isn’t a “set and forget” task — it’s checked at key moments.
You’ll need to be compliant before:
• Taking on a role
• Attending or running camps, events, or overnight activities
• Completing qualifications
• Renewing your membership
If you’re in a leadership position, you’re also responsible for checking the compliance of others before these activities.
How do I check my compliance?
It’s quick and easy:
• Log into your Member Profile to view your status
• Use Dashboards and reports (for Leaders and Managers)
• Check your qualifications and expiry dates regularly
What happens if I’m not compliant?
There’s a clear process—and plenty of reminders along the way.
• You’ll receive notifications when something is due or expiring
• If not completed, your status may move to N onCompliant or Suspended
• This can impact your ability to volunteer, attend activities, or hold a role
Different roles, different requirements
Not everyone has the same compliance obligations:
• Adult Members (Leaders/Managers) : Full CSCF + Role Compliance
• Adult Members (no role) : CSCF only
• Youth Members transitioning to Adult
Members: CSCF during transition
• Ongoing Volunteers : CSCF requirements
• Casual Volunteers : CSCF screening and limited participation only
Why it matters
Compliance isn’t just a checklist — it’s how we:
• Protect young people
• Support safe, high-quality programs
• Maintain trust with families and communities
• Meet our legal and organisational responsibilities
It’s what allows Guiding to thrive—safely and confidently—in every community.
A simple way to stay on track
If you remember nothing else, remember this:
• Check your profile regularly
• Act on reminders early
• Keep your qualifications current
Girl Guides Learning
MAY Updates
JO LINDSAY (she/her) | LEARNING AND DEVELOPMENT SPECIALIST
JOL@GIRLGUIDES-NSWACTNT.ORG.AU
Project Compass Leader Training
Girl Guides Australia has released a new Project Compass Leader training for anyone who was unable to attend the first one. This training is designed to provide you a walkthrough of the 10-stage roadmap and the resources available to you to facilitate this exciting program with your Guides.
When: Monday 1 June, 7PM AEST
Where: Online - enrol via Girl Guides
Learning (GGL)
Project Compass is a dynamic, girl-led journey that bridges the gap between citizenship and entrepreneurship. Following a 10-stage roadmap, Guides identify a social cause they care about and build a social enterprise from the
ground up. By running their own business with a social purpose, Guides gain real-world enterprise skills while redistributing their profits back to the community.
New GGL Trainings
A reminder that there are three new trainings available in Girl Guides Learning. On the following page is a quick overview of the new training, who needs to complete it, and in what timeframe.
Name of Training Cohort of Learners When to complete by
CSCF Adults in Guiding 20262027
Introduction to Neurodiversity
Adults in screening Within 6 weeks of joining
Existing Leaders & Managers By the end of Term 3 2026
All other Adults in Guiding By the end of Term 4 2026
All Leaders & Managers in Training Date to be advised
All existing Leaders & Managers By the end of Term 4 2026
All other Adults in Guiding Recommended learning (not mandatory)
Food Handling / Food Safety
Catering Leaders in Charge of food handling and anyone else who handles food locally in your Unit, District, Region or at a State level. Before attending, assisting or running any event or activity that involves the preparation, delivery or service of food.
Existing Unit Leaders, Resource Leaders and Managers By the end of Term 2 2027
Campfire Call
Join us at Upcoming Events
LYDIA MORRIS ( she / her ) | EVENT MANAGER EVENTS@GIRLGUIDES-NSWACTNT.ORG.AU
There are so many exciting events, trainings and opportunities coming up across the State! From adventurous activities and special events to leadership development and skills training, there is something for every Member to get involved in. Be sure to regularly check the ‘What’s On’ page on our website to stay up to date with upcoming events, courses and opportunities being offered at a State level.
Junior Leader Connection - 31 May
Junior Leaders are encouraged to register for this Connection session now for an opportunity to discuss their role and seek support and information from Kristina Teodorovic, Leadership Lead.
GGS
Dubbo and Sydney
Excitement is building as registrations prepare to open for some of our most anticipated upcoming events! We know many of you are already keen to start fundraising, designing your badge competition entries, and planning your spectacular costumes –so here’s an exciting first look at this year’s theme.
Drum roll, please… this year’s fundraising animal is the incredible Regent Honeyeater! With its striking black and yellow feathers, this critically endangered Australian bird is helping inspire this year’s activities and fundraising efforts.
Members will also have the chance to learn more about the species and the important conservation work being led by Taronga Conservation Society Australia. Get inspired by watching this short video from Taronga Zoo: https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=kh_6hD2Q0SQ.
Volunteer Conference 2026 registrations are now open!
District Managers and Region Teams are invited to join us at the beautiful Rydges Resort Hunter Valley from Friday 31 July – Sunday 2 August for an inspiring weekend of connection, learning and leadership.
This year’s theme, Guiding Light: Illuminating leadership, will bring together Volunteers, State Team, Board Members and Staff for important organisational updates, practical trainings and networking opportunities across Districts, Regions and State.
The program includes a wide range of engaging sessions covering leadership, membership growth, community presence, compliance, wellbeing, finances, inclusion, AI & social media, and more.
There are also longer sessions including First Aid renewal and Skills Presenter training.
Your $100 registration includes:
• 2 nights accommodation
• All conference sessions
• Meals on Saturday and Sunday
Whether you’re looking to strengthen your leadership skills, connect with other volunteers, or gain fresh ideas to take back to your District or Region, this conference is not to be missed.
Registrations close Tuesday 30 June.
REGISTER HERE
Volunteer Thank You Dinner 2026
As we celebrate National Volunteer Week 2026, we want to take a moment to recognise the incredible people who make Guiding happen. Across Girl Guides NSW, ACT & NT, our Volunteers give their time, energy, leadership and care to create experiences that help girls and young women grow in confidence, discover their strengths and reach their potential.
To help us say thank you in a meaningful way, we’re excited to open nominations for our Annual Volunteer Thank You Dinner.
This is a special chance for us to come together, share stories, celebrate friendships, and acknowledge the amazing contribution Volunteers make across Guiding.
This year’s dinner will be held at Atura Blacktown on Saturday 7 November 2026, from 6:00pm–10:00pm. Guests will enjoy a three-course plated dinner, presentations, and an evening of celebration and festivities. We’d love you to be part of recognising these incredible Volunteers. Nominations are open be submitted
by Members, parents, carers, staff, supporters and anyone in our wider Guiding community. If you know someone who has gone above and beyond in the past 12–18 months, we encourage you to nominate them.
To be eligible, nominees must be compliant Adult Volunteers of Girl Guides NSW, ACT & NT at the time of nomination and on the night of the event (including Members, Ongoing Volunteers and Casual Volunteers). Each nomination also needs to be supported by at least one other person from the Guiding community, and should include details about the impact and achievements of the nominee, including how their contribution links to our Strategic Plan.
Nominations close Sunday 9 August 2026. All nominees will be contacted to acknowledge their contribution to Guiding, and shortlisted Volunteers will be invited to attend the dinner.
If you have any questions or would like to share additional supporting information, please get in touch with the Events Team at events@girlguidesnswactnt .
Addressing M365 Issues
Last week, we experienced an issue within Microsoft 365 (M365) that resulted in a number of our users temporarily losing access to services including Outlook, SharePoint, and Microsoft Teams. We understand that technical difficulties like this are not only frustrating, but also directly impact your dayto-day communication, collaboration and workflows. For this reason, resolving the issue and minimising the disruption was our highest priority throughout the process.
As soon as the issue was identified, our team worked to investigate the cause, engage with the appropriate support channels, communicate with our Members, and restore access as quickly as possible.
We are pleased to confirm that all affected licenses have now been restored. and access to M365 services should be functioning as normal. If you are continuing to experience any issues with your account or access, please contact ithelp@girlguides-nswactnt.org.au so our team can provide direct support.
Guide House remains committed to providing the systems, tools, and suport our Adult Members rely on
to deliver quality Guiding experiences across NSW, ACT & NT. Whilst the issue is resolved, we are continuing to review this incident closely to strengthen our processes, improve resilience, and redult the likelihood of similar disruptions occuring in the future.
We would like to take this opportunity to thank you for your patience, understanding and continued support while we worked to resolve this issue. Guide House remains committed to serving our community with transparency, accountability and dependency.
NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards
In the spirit of National Volunteer Week, you might also like to take a moment to recognise Volunteers beyond Guiding through the 2026 NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards.
The NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards are an annual program aimed at recognising the incredible dedication, effort and community service NSW volunteers, volunteer leaders and volunteer teams.
There are only two weeks left to get your nominations in, with applications closing on Friday 29 May 2026 .
If someone you know goes above and beyond in their community service and deserves to be celebrated, this is your chance to put their name forward. It’s a simple way to say thank you and shine a light on the impact Volunteers make every day across NSW.
Find out more and nominate here .
If you have feedback, or wish to make a contribution, please send an email to communications@girlguides-nswactnt.org.au.
