29/08/2023
We promised to share some of the Sail Away event for those that weren't able to be there. Here is the transcript from the farewell words by Rachael our Chief Commissioner from our virtual Sail Away event on Saturday.
This is not the sort of event I would have envisaged that I would have been hosting when I took over a Region Chief.
I would like to thank all the fabulous leaders, helpers, parents and all those behind the scenes and of course all the girls in BGO who have been so amazing making mountain top moments and memories that will last a lifetime, not just recently but throughout the lifetime of BGIFC and BGO
Throughout my guiding life from being a Brownie aged 7 I have never left guiding and I have thoroughly enjoyed my time the and various things I have done, being QM on camp, international trips, going down a make shift waterslide – well what else do you do with a grassy slope, tarpaulin and washing up liquid. Doing lots of fun activities, fundraising for girls and leaders to go on trips, encouraging leaders and girls to grow, and meeting so many amazing people along the way.
Although I have not been in BGO as long as some, I have lovely memories such as doing ride ride ride my Tuk tuk at Waddow last year, making hundreds of slices of Eggy Bread and 1 mean hundreds. Being involved in an event where there was so much glitter and Brownie saying “my dad doesn’t like glitter ….. so I’m going to put on as much as I can” the state of that table at the end of the day will always remain with me.
I would like to thank the BGO exec and advisors both past and present who have given up so much time to support our members and support each other through some of the hard and difficult times,
I would like to thank Diane, Hazel, Jane and Christine who have been working tirelessly in the back ground, supporting, reviewing documents, and being there as a sounding board especially during these last few difficult months.
Thank you to my 2 wing women Lynne and Adele, who took on the role knowing that we had a battle on our hands – kept me sane (rather and impossible task just ask Mr Wise Owl 😊)
They were there when I needed to rant, to cry, they encouraged and supported, they have given their time so freely to help me and everyone in BGO
Quote from Lady Baden Powell
"Discipline yourself daily by having a plan...not just vague, wishful thinking. Commit yourself daily to do something however small, for somebody else, for by making other people happy you will find true happiness yourself. " "Happiness comes not from what we have but from what we give and what we share."
A few words on what BGO means to me
Fun, friendship, laughter, glitter, seeing girls achieve something for the first time or challenging themselves.
Lots of giggles
Badges – lots of badges
Understanding of different cultures
Boxing camels
Mr & Mrs Wise Owl
Zoom calls
Eggy Bread
Lots more glitter
Diversity
Different time zones
Standing as one
Unity
Friends for life
Since the first overseas unit opened in Portugal in 1911 BGIFC/BGO has brought so many things to so many people.
Our Galleon has sailed around the World and, at it’s busiest, could be found in 46 different Countries.
For those who have boarded the Galleon lasting friendships have been made and there will always be a special place in our hearts for all our fellow shipmates.
We have all sailed with dignity and grace to the end and as we lower our flag for the last time take care of yourself and others.
Farewell BGO
