More than 3,200 scouts and volunteers from Canada and beyond are spending a week in the woods and on the water in Sooke, with the commitment to leave no trace behind.
Scouts from Australia, Finland, Sweden, and the United Kingdom joined their Canadian counterparts from every province and the Yukon from July 6 to July 13 for Pacific Jamboree 24 on the 250 acres that comprise Camp Barnard.
"We are so proud of the work the Pacific Jamboree team has done to create such a well organized and amazing fun-filled event," said Kathryn Ashby, director of marketing and communications for Scouts Canada. "They spent 14 months preparing for this event, and their effort really shows."
Zach Dallas, media team lead for Pacific Jamboree 24, said the event is the culmination of years of scouting experience for boys and girls aged 11 to 14.
A wide range of activities with an emphasis on safety include pioneering and camping skills, kayaking, canoeing, raft-building, rock climbing, mountain biking, hiking, and exploring the region.
"The theme of this camp is Explore the World, which encourages youth to think beyond their traditional borders," Dallas said. "The scouts all sleep in tents in four sub-camps, and cook all their meals. It's a pop-up community that's very self-sufficient. Scouts take care of all maintenance, with the aim of leaving the property without a trace. "
Although there hasn't been any major issues, the Scouts motto 'Be Prepared' is evident at the health centre, which can handle just about any problem that may arise.
"We've also taken extra steps to ensure everyone stays cool and hydrated during this stretch of hot weather," Dallas added.
Ashby said in addition to the strict environmental standards in place, there's a strong focus in inclusivity.
"We want to make sure every kid feels included, whatever their background, and are able to participate in everything the camp has to offer," she explained.
Chris Harrison, a parent with the 4th Whalley Scout Troop from the Lower Mainland, said the volunteers have been amazing.
"The kids are having fun and the activities have been great, with lots of learning opportunities," he said.
Parent Shayla Lecuyer said all of the kids are enjoying the activities and training, and the opportunities to trade badges and make friends with scouts from all the country.
Trystan Patton, a scout from Whalley, said he's enjoying the variety of activities at his first Jamboree.
"It's my first time in Sooke, and it's pretty nice," he added.
Riley Lecuyer, also a member of 4th West Whalley, said he's enjoying the chance to meet scouts from other provinces, and he's really enjoyed cooking the food.
"It's a great opportunity for them to see what a Scout Jamboree is all about," Dallas said.
When asked how people in Sooke have reacted to small groups from the 3,200 scouts and volunteers venturing into town on occasion, Dallas and Ashby had nothing but praise.
"It's a very welcoming community," they said.
Pacific Jamboree 24 welcomed some young visitors when about 100 Cubs came out to Camp Barnard on Wednesday.
