Regional Family Gala

Regional Family Gala 2025 – What a Weekend!

On the 6th and 7th of September, nearly 2,000 young people, families and volunteers from across South East Scotland Scouts came together at Bonaly Scout Centre for an unforgettable two-day celebration of Scouting.

The Regional Family Gala 2025 was packed with adventure, laughter and energy from start to finish. With a huge range of activities on offer — including high ropes, archery, bushcraft, inflatables, grass sledging, laser tag, zip lines, escape rooms, crafts and the Gang Show — there was truly something for everyone.

Visitors were also treated to a tasty selection of food from our vendors, including Wanderers Kneaded Pizza, Lazeez Street Food, Argentinian Foodies, Scott from the Little Parlour, and of course the Scout-run tuck shed.

A Huge Team Effort

Events like this don’t happen by themselves. A massive thank you goes to:

• The Bonaly Service Team, for keeping the site running smoothly
• The Longcraig Team, for bringing their expertise and energy
• The Gang Show cast and leaders, for their brilliant performance on Saturday
• Representatives from the SEEE, Network and the Inclusion team who were running the information stands
• Hellen and Robert who did a massive shift chasing up names and registration numbers, amending and changing tickets for attendees and then running the registration across the weekend.
• The Army, both at Bonaly and at Redford Barracks, for their invaluable logistical support
• Our Young Leaders and their leader team, who stepped up with enthusiasm
• All of the adult leaders and volunteers who worked tirelessly to deliver the programme and support families throughout the weekend

And, above all, a very special thank you from the whole Region goes to Stewart, Ross, Dave, Fee and their team. Their planning, dedication and leadership over many months made the Gala possible — and their contribution cannot be overstated.

Fantastic Feedback

The feedback from families and participants has been nothing short of glowing:

“My two enjoyed all the activities and the food options were really good. We’d definitely get tickets again if the Scouts run something similar at Bonaly in the future.”

“Absolutely fabulous event today, well done to the organisers & all the volunteers who’ve worked so hard all day to make it such a success.”

“We had an amazing time! The kids want to go back tomorrow too!”

“Fantastic, fantastic, fantastic! And please pass on our thanks to everyone involved.”

Many families who thought they’d only stay for a couple of hours ended up spending the whole day — a true sign of the event’s success!

Looking Ahead

In closing the Gala, Regional Lead Volunteer Martin Elliot said:

“What we’ve achieved together has been nothing short of remarkable. The fantastic feedback we’ve received is a real testament to all of your efforts. It’s my aim to get us all together soon so we can properly acknowledge and celebrate your contribution.”

The Regional Family Gala 2025 has shown the very best of Scouting in South East Scotland: teamwork, adventure, and community spirit.

Thank you to everyone who played a part in making it such a success.