The Queen's Scout Award is the highest honour that can be earned by a Venturer. Venturers are Scouts aged 14-17, open to all regardless of gender, with a focus on community involvement, personal growth, leadership development, study/life balance and, of course, adventure and responsible risk taking.

Kotara Venturer Alyssa Wharton's journey to the award was a huge undertaking, and she took on challenges including hikes, learning sign language and sewing sustainable face masks. Charlestown MP Jodie Harrison recognised her achievement in NSW Parliament this week. 

"It was my pleasure to help celebrate this amazing young woman's achievement with her troop on 6 May," Ms Harrison said.

Scouting runs in Alyssa's family—she's the fourth generation to wear the woggle, and she was presented her award by her proud dad, Chris, with her mum and grandparents looking on.

"It was my pleasure to meet Alyssa at the award ceremony. She is young woman who has already achieved so much," Ms Harrison said.

"This award is so well-deserved, and I am sure Alyssa will continue to make our community so proud."

Jodie Harrison MP is pictured with Alyssa and Newcastle Deputy Lord Mayor Cr Declan Clausen.