Leading under lockdown

As some organisations struggle to keep connected during the coronavirus pandemic, 1st Docklands Girl Guides are leading the way after moving weekly sessions online.

Shortly after lockdown measures were implemented, the local Girl Guides group decided to move their meetings to teleconferencing site Zoom.

And aside from the lack of physical interaction, little has changed.

Still proudly wearing their uniforms, Guides have been completing activities and challenges mostly within the home.

In the limited time they can spend outside, they’ve also written messages of support in chalk around the Docklands community.

“We’re all just trying to make the best of these strange times, making sure we support each other and keep our community and united world spirit going,” Kirsty Stewart, one of the unit’s leaders, said.

“The girls all go to different schools so the meetings are a good time to say hello and catch up. I’ve been so impressed with how well the girls have taken to this; their teleconference etiquette has been wonderful from the start. They could show some of my colleagues at work a thing or two!”

1st Docklands Girl Guides usually meet every Tuesday evening out of the Community Hub next to Library at The Dock.

The inclusive program (which recently celebrated its first birthday in Docklands) looks to develop confidence, self-reliance, and leadership.

And while some things are the same under lockdown, others are understandably different.

Importantly, though, they’ve learned to adapt.

“We can’t make crafts together but the girls are encouraged to keep showing off their creative flair by showing the unit anything they’ve made during the week,” Kirsty said.

Moving online has not only benefitted the kids, but also leaders who meet separately to generate ideas and maintain support.

All training sessions, including child safety and leadership, have already moved online.

“We may be on lockdown but Guiding is keeping ahead of the times and making sure we stay engaged.”

For more visit guidesvic.org.au •