Leaders Like These Make Florence Bay Shine

Leaders Like These Make Florence Bay Shine

Florence Bay Rovers are lucky to be led by passionate, experienced, and downright awesome people—people like Madi Hamilton (Darzee) and Chris Dibbs (Crispy). With years of service under their belts and a genuine love for Scouting, these two leaders bring energy, purpose, and vision to everything they do. Here's a closer look at their journeys.

Meet Madi Hamilton (aka Darzee): A Lifelong Scout on a Mission to Inspire

When it comes to living and breathing the Scouting spirit, few embody it quite like Madi Hamilton — known in the Scouting world as Darzee. From being carried along to Scout meetings as a newborn to now leading the next generation of Cubs and Rovers, Madi’s journey is a remarkable testament to what it means to grow with and within the movement.

A Scouting Life from Day One

Madi’s Scouting journey began before she could even walk. With parents who were Venturers and Rovers in Townsville, it was only natural that she’d follow suit. Officially invested as a Joey in 2007, she’s since achieved several significant milestones, including the Joey Scout Promise Award, Grey Wolf Award, and the coveted Australian Scout Medallion.

Her Scouting path has taken her from Belgian Gardens in Townsville to Banksia Scout Group in Mackay and back again. Now in her 12th year, Madi holds dual roles as Assistant Cub Leader for Belgian Gardens Cubs and Florence Bay Rover Representative for Belgian Gardens.

Skills, Service, and a Spirit of Adventure

Madi’s Scouting experience is backed by serious training. She’s logged over 100 km of hiking and more than 100 nights camping, previously held qualifications in Canoeing and Abseiling, and is currently certified in First Aid. She’s working towards regaining her Adventurous Activity qualifications, further fueling her passion for the outdoors and youth development.

When She’s Not in Uniform...

Outside of Scouts, Madi works as a Court Services Officer at the Townsville Magistrates Court, managing court proceedings and traveling across North Queensland—from Mount Isa to Bamaga. It’s a demanding role, but one that reflects the same commitment, leadership, and responsibility she brings to Scouting.

Quirky, Creative, and Committed

Madi’s love of creativity shines through even in her downtime. A dedicated Animal Crossing player, she’s gone so far as to design her very own Scout uniform in-game. “It’s super cute and cozy,” she laughs, “and I can be an in-game Scout too!”

Why She Leads

For Madi, leadership in Scouts is about giving back. “I love being able to support the next generation in learning valuable skills as they grow – leadership and communication skills, being resourceful and trustworthy, and creating excitement for further learning.”

Words to Live By

• Favourite quote: “Don’t ever doubt yourselves, or waste a second of your life. It’s too short, and you’re too special.” – Ariana Grande

• Darzee’s personal quote: “I lost the game.” (If you know, you know.)

Thank you, Madi, for your dedication, energy, and unshakable Scout spirit. Your journey continues to inspire those around you, from your local Cub Pack to fellow Rovers and beyond!

Meet Chris “Crispy” Dibbs: A Life Lived for Others Through Scouting

When you hear the phrase “career Scout,” you might picture someone deeply embedded in the Scouting movement, living and breathing its values day in and day out. That perfectly describes Chris Dibbs—known to many as “Crispy.” Currently serving as the Scout Leader for Charters Towers Scout Group and Crew Leader of Florence Bay Rover Crew, Crispy’s journey through Scouts has been nothing short of lifelong dedication.

A Scout from the Very Beginning

Crispy’s Scouting journey began just days after his sixth birthday, back when the minimum age was still six. From that first investiture as a Joey in ScoutReach Lones, he has never looked back. “I’ve been a Scout for almost as long as physically possible,” he says.

After his early years as a Joey and Cub in Scoutreach Lones, Crispy moved to Charters Towers, where he’s been ever since. His journey through the sections has been extensive — Cub Second, Assistant Patrol Leader, Patrol Leader, Assistant Crew Leader, and now Crew Leader, earning Peak Awards along the way. His adult leadership career started as an Assistant Cub Leader and has grown into his current role as Scout Leader.

And while his “official” positions are impressive, Crispy continues to lend a hand across all sections whenever needed.

Skills and Scouting Qualifications

Chris brings a wide array of skills to the table, with Safe Participant (SP) qualifications in Bushwalking, Abseiling on natural surfaces, and Pioneering. He’s currently working toward a Trained Participant (TP) qualification in Pioneering and is on the path to becoming an Archery Guide. He’s also close to earning his Wood Badge and will soon hold a Certificate III in Active Volunteering from his work at AJ2025.

A Life Built Around Scouting

For Crispy, Scouting isn’t just a hobby—it’s a lifestyle. “Scouting is pretty much my entire life,” he admits. When he’s not running Scout nights, mentoring youth members, or leading his Rover Crew, he’s involved with the Region Promotion Team and serves as Promotions Director for LEAP25. He’s also done promotion work for major events like Cuboree and AJ2025.

Outside of Scouting, Crispy lends his skills to the broader community, particularly in audio/visual work for events. His interest in tech, from networking and coding to video editing and web design, often feeds back into his Scouting work—especially in his promotional roles.

Why He Leads

When asked what motivates him to be a leader, Crispy is quick to credit Scouting for shaping who he is. “Honestly, I wouldn’t be here if it weren’t for Scouting, and if I was, I certainly wouldn’t be the person that I am now,” he says. “I really want to provide that opportunity for others, so they can become the best versions of themselves—or at least better versions than they are now.”

Words to Live By

Choosing a single quote that resonates was no easy task for Crispy, but one stands out:

“Only a life lived for others is worthwhile.” – Albert Einstein

To him, this encapsulates everything Scouting represents: service, purpose, and living beyond yourself. It’s a sentiment echoed throughout Rover Scouts’ commitment to giving back.

And in his own style, he adds a personal quote:

“The game of life isn’t optional. You’re already playing it. There’s no option to pause and no restart. You’re all in – this is going to kill you. So, you might as well dedicate yourself to the highest Good possible and play the most incredible game while you wait. Have you got anything better to do?”

Final Thoughts

There may be things Crispy feels are “missing” from his story—but his journey speaks volumes. His passion, dedication, and commitment to youth development make him not just a Scout Leader, but a true embodiment of what Scouting is all about: service, growth, and lifelong adventure.

Both Darzee and Crispy bring passion, skills, and serious heart to everything they do. Whether they’re leading a Scout night, mentoring younger Rovers, or representing the Crew at regional events, they’re setting an example of what it means to lead with service and integrity.

We’re proud to have them in Florence Bay Rover Crew—and even prouder to call them our friends.

Want to join a Rover Crew with leaders like these? Contact Crispy on 0416167957 or check them out on the Florence Bay Rovers Facebook page to learn more about what we do!