Girl Guides Western Australia has been awarded the Community Spirit Award at the 32nd Belmont and Western Australian Small Business Awards. The ceremony, held on October 29, recognized the volunteer-led organization for its community spirit and contribution to empowering girls.
Carol Hanlon, founder of the business awards, expressed her delight at the recognition. She highlighted the importance of the Girl Guides in building team skills, self-confidence, and personal development, noting that her own daughter benefited from the program.
With approximately 1,250 youth members and 350 adult leaders, Girl Guides WA runs programs focusing on personal development, leadership, practical skills, physical wellbeing, and community service. Chair Brenda Hamlet, who has been involved for nearly 70 years, said the award helps spread the message that the organization is active and delivering high-quality programs.
Hamlet shared her personal experience, having joined as a Brownie at age seven in the UK. She emphasized the global bond among Guides, recalling instances where she was welcomed by fellow members in unfamiliar countries. The organization aims to empower girls and young women to become community leaders.
While most members are in the Perth metropolitan area, there are strong presences in Albany, Bunbury, Geraldton, and the north-west, along with online Lone Guides programs for remote areas. Girl Guides WA is largely self-funded through membership fees but benefits from the WA Government's KidSport subsidies, which help cover registration costs for families with health care cards.
Programs are available for girls aged five to 18, with the Olave program for women aged 18 to 30, offering a social network to improve physical and mental health, build confidence, and foster connections.
