Gramps' commitment to Scouting and community recognised with OAM

The humble heart of 1st Castle Hill Scout Group has been recognised for his decades of service to the community of Castle Hill – including Scouting.

Allan “Gramps” Staples was awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia in the King’s Birthday Honours list and described the experience as “very humbling”.

“I found out a few weeks back. Apparently the process went on for something like four years unbeknown to me,” he said.

“According to the people who sponsored me, they made some application on my behalf four years ago or something like that. I got a letter from the Governor-General saying I was being considered, could you have a look to see if the information we’ve got is basically correct. I said, yes, could add a bit more, but it’s fine. Another month went past and they said you’ve been approved, but you’re not to say anything, you have to keep it a secret.

“I was at the GWS Jamborette (on the long weekend) at Cataract freezing my you know what’s off, it was really cold, and people were coming around and visiting. Word spread around fairly quickly (that he had been awarded an OAM).”

See the full list of recipients

Many of the activities Allan has been involved in over the years he describes as “life sentences” – once he starts, he’s in it for life. He spent 57 years in the insurance industry, working on abuse claims and workers compensation, and put that experience to good use in the Scouts NSW Insurance Committee. He’s been in Scouts for more than 35 years, in the Lions Club approaching 50 years and a JP for more than 50 years.

“You live in a good community, so you may as well support the community. It’s a great place; if everybody did their little bit, the community would be even better still,” he said.

“It’s lovely when you’re walking down the street and some big fellow comes up and says, ‘Hi Gramps’. It’s my Scouting name, one I hated originally, but I’ve grown into it. These men will tell me who they are, and they came through my Scout Group. It’s nice to hear they’re doing well in life.”

It has not always been smooth sailing for 1st Castle Hill Scout Group, with it on the verge of closing at one time.

“I joined as a Cub Scout Leader and Scouting in the Baulkham Hills Shire was very large. There were five or six Groups around Baulkham Hills, four in Castle Hill, some in Kellyville,” he said.

“I think the area got old and a lot of the kids moved out and moved on. Castle Hill then started to get a resurgence in development life and new Groups sprung up. I didn’t have a Joey Scout Unit and that pretty much killed us, not having the Joeys. I got down from having two Scout Units and two Cub Scout Units down to just a handful of kids.

“The acting District Commissioner said I’ve got a job for you, you can take over as DC. I said, I’m sorry, I’m grassroots, I don’t want to be a DC or anything like that. Scouting is grassroots, which is the way I want to be. We started to grow again and are doing alright.”

For the members of 1st Castle Hill Scout Group, “Gramps” has been the heart of the Group, providing unwavering support and volunteering countless hours to the youth of the Hills District.

Committee president Belinda Wilson said on behalf of the Group, Gramps impact on generations of Scouts was immeasurable.

“He has shaped young lives with integrity, care, and a deep sense of purpose. As a dedicated Youth Safe Advocate, Gramps models the values of safety, inclusion, and respect, ensuring every young person in the Group feels seen, valued, and supported. He fosters a family culture within the Group, becoming a grandfather-figure to many – always accessible, encouraging and nurturing,” she said.

“His commitment extends far beyond weekly meetings. Gramps has supported ScoutHike for more than 20 years, consistently shown up for camps, Jamborees, Bunnings barbecues, and major events. He takes immense pride in seeing Scouts progress through the Australian Scout Award and Queen’s/King’s Scout Award, guiding them as they grow into confident, capable young adults. His leadership is also reflected in the culture he has built – many Leaders today, including those without children in the Group, were inspired by his example. Former youth members are now returning as Leaders, a powerful testament to the community spirit and legacy he has cultivated.

“Gramps leads by example, living out the true message of Scouting and embodying the values of Baden-Powell’s original vision. From Friday Leader lunches to mentoring new Leaders, he instils respect, resilience and lifelong learning. His presence is more than support; it’s a steady, guiding force that continues to enrich the lives of our Scouts, Leaders, and families alike.”