The summer of 2008 will forever be remembered because of the relentless rainfall. However, for one group of local young people it is the Jamboree that will outshine all other thoughts of 2008.

It’s not that they did not experience the severe weather; it’s just that the weather became secondary to everything else and it never dampened the spirits.

After months of preparations, sea scouts and leaders from 4th Port Dodder departed from Ringsend after an emotional farewell from family and friends.

Off to Punchestown to live the dream of participating in a Scout Jamboree. Along with 12,000 other scouts from both Ireland and abroad, Punchestown was transformed very quickly into a colourful, self sufficient town.

Every day of the Jamboree consisted of a theme based on the elements: Earth, Fire, Neon, Air, and Spirit. Here is just a snapshot of some of the activities which 4th Port experienced: crafting in copper, a continental ceili, carving, flint fire lighting, campfire, a luminarium, scientific experiments, ring of fire, water obstacle course in the Curragh Army camp, getting at close hand with the emergency services, demonstration of a major disaster scene, pioneering, grass sledges, making a coconut cup and a wooden spoon, screen printing, simulator, attending a concert and a talent show, the International Fair, disco and sailing on Blessington lake.

4th Port camped in Hellfire subcamp and in true scouting tradition, made its own gateway. Scouts cooked and as a team managed their campsite each day. 4th Port were one of the successful troops to receive the Jamboree 2008 Environmental Award for effectively implementing an environmental strategy.

The Jamboree had its own Radio Station, JAM FM. Danilo Zambrano from the troop presented a show on the Friday night. He designed his own script and compilation of music. Danilo showed another of his skills when he sang ‘Galway Girl’ at the talent show and got second place, only to be beaten by Lollypop from Austria.

The troop even had time to take on the Camp Chief Challenge. For this they had to earn 100 points by carrying out such tasks as challenge another troop to a team game; have a meal with another troop; do a random act of kindness. Successful members received the Camp Chief Challenge Pin.

Within the Group, they have a saying at the end of every camp ‘leave nothing behind but our memories’. This Jamboree was truly the ultimate Scouting experience and the memories will live on for many years.