Scouting Traditions
The Scout Promise
There are two versions of the Scout Promise, either of which may be chosen by the individual.
On my honour, I promise
To do my best,
To be true to my spiritual beliefs,
To contribute to my community and to our world,
To help other people,
And to live by the Scout Law.
On my honour
I promise that I will do my best
To do my duty to my God, and
To the Queen of Australia
To help other people,
And to live by the Scout Law.
The Scout Law
Be Respectful
Be friendly and considerate.
Care for others and the environment.
Do What is Right
Be trustworthy, honest and fair.
Use resources wisely.
Believe in Myself
Learn from my experiences.
Face challenges with courage.
Scout Sign and Salute
The three-finger salute is used by members of Scout and Guide organisations around the world when greeting other Scouts and at ceremonies.
In most situations, the salute is made with the palm face out, the thumb holding down the little finger, and with the fingertips on the brow of the head.
Scout Handshake
The left-handed Scout handshake is a formal way of greeting other Scouts of both genders used by members of Scout and Guide organisations around the world when greeting other Scouts.
According to the Ashanti warrior version of the story, then-Colonel Baden-Powell saluted them with his right hand, but the Ashanti chiefs offered their left hands and said, "In our land only the bravest of the brave shake hands with the left hand, because to do so we must drop our shields and our protection."
The Ashanti's knew of Baden-Powell's bravery because they had fought against him and with him, and they were proud to offer the left hand of bravery.
