TraditionalScouting&EasternMindfulness
BLIA Scouts Australia is fully registered under Scouts Australia. We provide standard badges and programs while integrating daily silent meditation, vegetarian values, and temple service to develop resilience.
Empowering Youth via Temple Networks
BLIA Scout groups operate from Fo Guang Shan temples (Melbourne, Priestdale, Maylands). The serene and peaceful temple grounds provide our youth with a secure shelter to meet, explore, and focus.
Although hosted at temples, our doors are open to children of all backgrounds and faiths. Scouts learn to build shelter, handle first aid, and cook vegetarian meals while implementing the Three Acts of Goodness daily.
89 Somerville Rd, Yarraville VIC 3013
1034 Underwood Rd, Priestdale QLD 4127
280 Guildford Rd, Maylands WA 6051
Origins & History of Scouting
Scouting was founded by Lord Robert Baden-Powell in 1907 following an experimental camp on Brownsea Island in the UK. Baden-Powell's vision transformed youth education worldwide, emphasizing outdoor adventure, observation skills, self-reliance, and international brotherhood.
The Three Principles of World Scouting
Duty to God / Spiritual Beliefs
Adherence to spiritual principles, loyalty to the religion or core spiritual values that express them, and acceptance of duties resulting therefrom.
Duty to Others (Messengers of Peace)
Active participation in the development of society, respect for others and the natural world, and promoting peace, harmony, and cooperation.
Duty to Self
Responsibility for the personal care, learning, continuous self-improvement, and holistic development of oneself.
The Australian Scout Promise
The Three Acts of Goodness in Action
Do Good Deeds
Participate in local tree planting, creek conservation, and temple cultural festival volunteering to build a service-first heart.
Speak Good Words
Learn compassionate communication and constructive speech. Replace demand language with needs, and praise peers' efforts.
Think Good Thoughts
Practice guided silent breathing, daily gratitude reflections, and emotional awareness to cultivate a clear, calm mind.
The Internal Compass & Spiritual Development
The Scout program fosters holistic growth across six key areas (SPICES): Spiritual, Physical, Intellectual, Character, Emotional, and Social. The Internal Compass provides a navigational framework for spiritual reflection.
Exploring Beliefs
Exploring spirituality in religious and non-religious forms, examining life's purpose and deeper meaning.
Stopping for Reflection
Pausing to reflect upon the Promise & Law, meditation, contemplation, and living up to core values.
Respect for Others
Respecting different religious, social, and cultural backgrounds, and valuing diversity in our global community.
Being Thankful
Expressing gratitude for the beauty of nature, human relationships, and the opportunities available throughout life.
What sets BLIA Scouts apart?
| Comparison | BLIA Scouts | Standard Scouts |
|---|---|---|
| Program Curriculum | Official Scouts Australia curriculum & badges + Buddhist studies/values | Official Scouts Australia curriculum & badges only |
| Mindfulness Integration | Short mindfulness meditation integrated in every weekly session | No structured mindfulness or meditation training |
| Camp Outing Meals | Fully vegetarian catering, emphasizing compassion and green living | Standard mixed catering (including meat) |
| Guidance Ethos | Scout Law & Promise + Three Acts of Goodness | Scout Law & Promise |
| Community & Culture | Deep integration with Fo Guang Shan temples and multicultural events | Local community or school hall-based gatherings |
Sections & Leaders
Joey Scouts
Ages 5 - 7Joey Scouts focus on discovering friendship and nature in a safe, fun, and nurturing space. Activities include nature treasure hunts, simple crafts, cooperative play, and 1-2 minute 'quiet breath' focus games. Children learn basic team sharing, compassion for insects and animals, and emotional awareness.
Cub Scouts
Ages 8 - 10Cub Scouts focus on developing self-reliance and small team leadership. Cubs attend weekend camps, learn essential knotting, outdoor cooking, navigation, and basic first aid. We practice simple mindfulness at the start of meetings and guide them in gratitude circles during camp reflections.
Scouts
Ages 11 - 14The Scout section develops high independence and outdoor survival. Scouts plan their own multi-day hiking expeditions, construct large pioneering structures, and lead service shifts at local temples. They learn 'learning by doing' and utilize mindfulness to manage academic and life stressors.
Venturers
Ages 15 - 17Venturer Scouts take charge of their own personal growth. They plan and execute challenging expeditions like rock climbing, white water rafting, or interstate service projects. They delve deeper into mindful reflection to establish inner balance and assist in mentoring younger sections.
Rovers
Ages 18 - 25Rovers operate as a self-governing unit of young adults focused on service, social bonding, and adventure. They design national expeditions and volunteer as lead coordinators for international temple cultural festivals. Rovers combine civic responsibility with advanced leadership skills.
Become a BLIA Scout Leader
Guide youth in character and outdoor exploration while expanding your own accredited leadership skills.
Scout Leaders & Adult Leadership Pathway
Becoming a Scout Leader is a rewarded path of personal growth and service. Adult Leaders receive official accredited qualifications through Scouts Australia, leading youth in wilderness adventure, mindfulness sessions, and national/international Scout Jamborees.
Start Your Scouting Journey – As a Youth Member or Adult Leader
Our divisions across Victoria, Queensland, and Western Australia welcome youth of all ages and adult volunteers. Get in touch today to explore meetings, badge programs, and temple-hosted activities.