Our leaders
Meet Bayside's team of experienced and dedicated volunteer leaders.
Hi, I’m Akuna (Tam)! My Scouting journey began 35 years ago, when I joined Girl Guides at just six years old, eventually spending more than 10 years as a youth member before returning to Scouting in 2013 as Group Committee Chair at Chermside-Burul. I became a Scout Leader in 2014 and have since led at Chermside-Burul, Cleveland and Gumdale, which later merged with Bayside Sea Scouts. Over the years, I’ve also taken on roles in diversity and inclusion, youth welfare and adventurous activities. Outside Scouting, my professional background is in social work, family wellbeing and adventure therapy, with a particular focus on supporting First Nations children, young people and families.
A lifelong lover of the outdoors, I’m passionate about camping, hiking, canoeing and the incredible opportunities Scouting provides, from multi-day hikes and Australian Jamborees to the friendships and adventures shared around a campfire. I believe outdoor experiences build confidence, resilience, independence and a sense of belonging, and I'm committed to making Scouting a safe, inclusive and welcoming place for every young person, regardless of their background, identity or abilities. What I love most is watching young people discover their potential, develop leadership skills and achieve things they never thought possible. After more than a decade as a leader, I still get just as much out of Scouting as I did as a youth member!
Hi, I’m Bennu (Will)! My Scout name is inspired by the ancient Egyptian bird deity associated with renewal, discovery and adventure. My Scouting journey began in the 1970s as a Cub Scout, and I’ve been fortunate enough to experience many parts of the movement, progressing all the way through to Rovers. Scouting has been a constant throughout my life, bringing countless adventures, lifelong friendships and valuable skills. As an Aquarius with a love of the water, you'll usually find me happiest sailing, canoeing, paddling or enjoying the great outdoors.
As a Scout Leader, I love giving back to an organisation that has given me so much, sharing the knowledge and skills I've gained over the years while helping young people build confidence, resilience and practical life skills. I'm passionate about camping, pioneering, bushcraft, traditional Scouting skills and, of course, a bit of good old-fashioned ropework – I can rarely resist improving a knot or two! For me, Scouting is all about adventure, learning by doing, teamwork and creating memories that last a lifetime. I'm proud to be part of the Bayside Sea Scouts community and excited to help the next generation discover that same sense of adventure and belonging. As I always say, "A bad day outdoors is still better than a good day indoors."