Area Scouts take part in Cobscook Camporee

PHOTO: Campmaster Chris Bernier, of Winslow, looks over units at the opening ceremony. (Submitted photo)

The 59th annual Cobscook International Scout Camporee took place Sept. 17-19 at Cobscook Bay State Park in Edmond.
The theme of the camporee was Highland Games. Approximately 120 youth and leaders from 13 BSA Packs and Troops from across Maine attended the event, including several from the Turner Publishing circulation area. They were Troop 73 Gorham, Troop 401 Sidney, Troop 433 Winslow and Pack 454 Oakland.

While Canadian Scout troops could not attend in person this year because of the pandemic, many events were streamed on Facebook Live by staff member Michael Locke, so they could participate virtually. Many scouts and leaders dressed in kilts for the weekend.
Competition events included hammer throw, caber toss, stone put, highland dance, haggis-a-pult, tomahawk throwing, and archery. Campmaster Chris Bernier, of Winslow, and his staff had a special surprise for the Scouts — a visit from St. Andrew’s Pipes & Drums Band. They led the Scouts on a parade through the campground, performed for an hour, and answered questions about their uniforms and instruments. Many said this was the highlight of the weekend for them.
There were also two competition events for the adults — dessert cook-off and Caveman Golf. In Caveman Golf, leaders had to construct their own clubs and balls out of natural material and then play the four-hole course. Saturday evening wrapped up with a traditional campfire, where units sang or performed skits.
Awards presented Sunday morning were the Bob McVicor Award, named for a long-time Canadian Scout Volunteer who provided many years of support to the event. The award is presented to the unit showing the most Scout spirit and most adhering to the camporee theme, and it went to Camden Troop 200. Gorham Troop 73 finished third. Among Cub Scout packs, Oakland Pack 454 finished first.
Camper of the Weekend recognition was given to Cub Scout Brayden Peace, of Pack 454. Camping gear was awarded including a camp stove, folding table, dutch oven, and fire grates.
The 60th annual Cobscook International Camporee next year will have the theme Medieval Times. The date will be announced.