Lapwing Lodge, Paisley
11th – 13th November 2005
The very first Polaris event was held at Lapwing Lodge, near Paisley in November 2005. This was the first event of its kind that I had ever attended and I had no idea what to expect after I was picked up from the train station. I had been encouraged to come by a member of the planning team and assured that I would have fun. She was right!
Right from arrival the atmosphere was very relaxed and welcoming. Friday night was laid back and friendly, much snack food available and fun things to do. Saturday was packed with variety and interest: sessions on personal safety, Guiding on your CV and the Queen’s Guide award were informative. Scottish Chief Commissioner, Liz P, visited and gave us a chance to give our thoughts and ideas on a number or areas, including recruitment and the centenary. Later on we all worked hard on writing a leaflet on all the opportunities available to Senior Section members, which proved to be quite a task! Our hard work was rewarded with a relaxation session and Angel Cards and smoothies and chocolate fondue. On Sunday morning reflections were held with a Remembrance theme and then Polaris’ first business meeting was held, at which the new committee was formed, office bearers elected and the constitution approved.
It was exciting to be involved with Polaris at its beginnings, though I was quite taken aback at becoming vice-chair of something that I’d only just heard of! I had enough fun that weekend that I was pretty glad that the particular planning team member had asked me to come but as it turned out that was just the start of many amazing experiences and opportunities that I am still appreciating as a member of Polaris.
- Kirsten Strain