“Her energy for all things scouting was an example to us all”

Wednesday 12 July 2023

Tributes have been paid to a dedicated and respected island Scout leader who continued to help the group “right up to the time of her passing” after she sadly died due to cancer.

Julie Maindonald joined in 1994 as a Beaver Scout Leader and later became Assistant Cub Scout Leader at the 2nd Jersey Scout Group, which covers the south-east of the island, and then Group Secretary at the 3rd Jersey Scout Group, which covers the eastern parishes.

She later became Group Secretary at the 2nd Jersey Scout Group, before going on to serve as its Group Scout Leader in March 2017.

Announcing the sad news on their Facebook page, Jersey Scouts remembered Julie as an "active leader across all sections" within the Group "right up to the time of her passing".

"Her dedication to ensuring that as many young people had every opportunity to be part of Scouting was phenomenal," the tribute continued. "This was recognised with Julie receiving her Award of Merit, Medal for Meritorious Conduct, and an Island Commissioner's Award.

"...Thank you, Julie (Akela), for all you have achieved and done for Jersey Scouting and in particular the 2nd Jersey (Greve D'Azette) Scout Group. You will be sorely missed."

Numerous members of the Jersey Scouts community have shared their thoughts and well wishes with Julie's husband, Tony, and daughter Kirsty, as well as paying tribute to her character.

The 3rd Jersey Scout Group said members were "truly thankful for all that she did while at the 3rd and for what she continued you to do at the 2nd Jersey. Our thoughts are with her family and all those at the 2nd Jersey Scout Group."

Nina Lodwick-Campbell commented that she was "heartbroken" to hear the news.

"I personally will miss her very much and just can't believe I won't see her again. She was always there for us at the 2nd and very kind, approachable, guiding us and keeping us in check."

Jenny Trotty said Julie's "energy for all things scouting was an example to us all".