By John Holland - 10th Kilternan
I’ve just returned from one of the most inspiring weekends in Scouting I’ve had in years—Patrols in Action at Lough Dan, and I can confidently say: this is Scouting at its absolute best….. small but perfectly formed.
Patrols in Action isn’t just a camp. It’s a youth-led experience, built by young people, for young people. With a programme packed full of classic Scouting spirit and modern-day energy, the camp reminded everyone what happens when young leaders are empowered to take the reins—and when adult volunteers come together to support, not steer.
From the very beginning, the buzz around camp was electric. Canoeing, kayaking, pioneering, high-spirited hikes through the Wicklow hills, campfire songs and skits, late-night laughs, and friendships that formed in a flash—it was everything you'd want in a great Scouting experience.
A huge thank you goes to the incredible Core Team who made it all happen:
- Camp Chief – Conor Bruce, 8th Wicklow Blessington
- Head of Programme – Jake Kavanagh, 78th/79th Dublin Clondalkin
- Head of Logistics & Security – Oisín McGuinness, 3rd Kilkenny Thomastown
- Subcamp Chiefs – Robin Hayes, 5th Carlow Town & Iseult Jordan, 1st Mayo Castlebar
- Head of Support/Welfare – Anna Walsh, 5th Carlow Town
- Head of Staff Catering – Seth Adriaanse, 46th Trinity Donaghmede
- Head of Communications – Clodagh Walsh, 23rd Limerick Caherdavin
Their commitment, professionalism, and humour kept the entire camp running smoothly—despite the occasional “2 a.m. fire drill” and one very resilient staff member who rumor had it was trapped on a couch all week! Look out for these brilliant young leaders honing their skills and experience. I have no doubt they will populate the core teams and IST of fantastic camps and future Jamboree’s in the future.
As part of the Radio Scouting Ireland team with Ana, Marsha, and Vic, I had the joy of watching young Scouts immerse themselves in radio tech, communications skills, and global connections— some pushing themselves out of their comfort zone to earn badges with great pride and enthusiasm.
While the 2026 date for Patrols in Action is still under wraps (the review process is only beginning), one thing is clear: this team has tapped into something special. The entire experience has left everyone excited and hungry—for more.
As one of the organisers put it:“Scouting has given so much to us. Now it’s our turn to pass that on. We want to keep building that culture, that community, and give younger Scouts the same opportunities we’ve had.”
So to the Scouts, Scouters, supporters, and the Lough Dan crew—thank you. Patrols in Action 2025 has shown that youth-led Scouting isn’t just possible—it’s powerful, essential and the future.
See you in 2026. Book early, folks. You won’t want to miss it next year!
