SCOUTS ACT is saluting member number 1, Leon Tannahill, for 65 years of service to young people through the Scouting movement.

Chief Commissioner Rick Goode said: “I am extremely pleased we can recognise Mr Tannahill for his many years of service to the youth of the ACT.  

“Leon’s reward has been simply the satisfaction of knowing his efforts are reflected in the positive development and growth of young people as they take their place as responsible citizens in our community.”

Leon first started as a Scout leader at 5th Caulfield Scout Group in Melbourne in 1950, before moving to Canberra, and joined 11th Canberra Scout Group as a group leader in 1968. In 1969 he became the assistant area commissioner for the Canberra-Monaro Region.

He won a Churchill Fellowship in 1980 to study the administration of Scouting program in West Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Sweden, the UK and Canada; and in 1981 became the inaugural chief commissioner for the ACT.

In 1986 his contribution to Scouting was recognised when he became a member of the Order of Australia. He has held various other roles including as the branch chairperson 1991-1995 and then the president of the Scouts Australia (ACT Branch) 1995-2000. In 1990 he was awarded the Silver Kangaroo, the highest award for adult leaders in Scouts Australia, and in 2003 he was honoured as a life member of Scouts Australia.