Jewish duo’s service to Scouts recognised

Scouts NSW Adult Recognition Awards were presented to two Jewish North Shore Scouts leaders at a ceremony at Lane Cove Scout Hall last month.

Nathan Shelton, Region Commissioner Cubs of Sydney North Region, received a Meritorious Service Award.

A former Scout himself, Shelton commenced in 2020 as an assistant Cub Scout leader at 2nd/3rd Lindfield Scout Group, and then rapidly took on more responsibility, with energy and enthusiasm, to become a the North Shore Regional Commissioner – Cubs, in 2025.

At the same presentation, Peter “Rusty” Allen – Honorary Group Adviser of 1st East Roseville Scout Group – received a Silver Wattle Award for Outstanding Service, in recognition of his leadership in Scouts spanning 35 years so far.

Allen began as an assistant Cub Scout leader in 1991, and went on to serving as a group leader in 2007, and a group adviser from 2013, mentoring Scouts leaders in Sydney’s mid north shore, and overseeing the success of the Scout group, and its facilities.

Shelton said the award means a lot, “because I joined the Scouts in leadership roles because I believe in its programs’ positive impact, and it’s the most inclusive youth organisation I’ve ever come across.

“You get involved to make a difference – you do it and then you don’t really think about it – and then you don’t actually realise the effect and contribution you have made, really, until you see it in writing like this [on an award certificate].

“So I’m really grateful, but I’m just one of many.”

Shelton also said he has known Allen “literally all my life” because his own parents and the Allens have been close friends for decades, “so for us both to receive an award from NSW Scouts at the same presentation made it even more special”.

Shelton’s award citation noted how he brings a wealth of Scouting knowledge, practical skills, and lived experience into every program and leadership role; mentors emerging youth leaders, and contributes significantly to coordinating major Scouting events and developing training courses.

It also highlights Shelton’s ability to support youth who present challenging behaviours, and his strong belief that Scouting should always be fun, which is reflected in the imaginative and adventurous programs he creates.

Allen’s award citation emphasises how his “humility, dependability, and decades of service have strengthened Scouting at East Roseville for generations”.

It also notes his problem-solving ability and deep understanding of the Scout group’s traditions, facilities and ways of working.

And it describes his longstanding service as being “defined by his willingness to step in wherever needed” and his quiet but confident leadership, which “helps retain, and encourage others, to volunteer”.