It is with great sadness that we announce that Barry Carr – of 1st Sunridge Scout Group – has passed away after a long battle with cancer.

Beginning his Scouting journey as a Cub at the age of 7, he relocated to Germany in 1976, where he became a member of the Boy Scouts of America. Upon returning to South Africa in 1989, Dave Higgs encouraged him to join Rovers. Shortly thereafter, Athol Bruyns invited him to serve as Assistant Troop Scouter at Sunridge. In time, he succeeded Athol as Troop Scouter and went on to hold various roles within Sunridge. He ultimately became the Scout Group Leader, a position he held until his retirement in October 2024 due to ill health.

Scout Groups naturally experience cycles of highs and lows. Barry demonstrated his steadfast leadership by guiding Sunridge through its challenges, and held deep gratitude to those who contributed to the Group’s revival. He also acted in good time to ensure that new leadership could take over Sunridge, without any disruption. While it is through collective efforts that Sunridge has entered a new era of growth and prosperity, it would not have been possible without the solid foundation laid by Barry.

His dedication extended beyond Sunridge, as he contributed to the development of Scouts across the District by organizing and leading various training courses. He was also a familiar presence at numerous District and Regional events, always willing to offer his support wherever it was needed.

In a conversation shortly before his passing, Barry highlighted the critical role of effective communication and collaboration between Groups. He stressed the importance of setting a high standard—not only in skills but also in ensuring safety remained a top priority.

Barry was deeply skilled, reliable, and precise, always setting a high standard in everything he undertook. His profound love for Scouting and Sunridge was evident throughout his life and bore fruit in the strong bonds he built within the Scouting community. In his final days, this love was reciprocated with various members of Scouting visiting him, bearing testament to the impact he had on their lives. Through it all, Barry displayed remarkable bravery and stoicism.

Though we were prepared for his passing, it does not diminish the deep sorrow we feel at his loss. Our deepest condolences and sympathies to his family, friends, and 1st Sunridge Scout Group. I urge all members of Sunridge to embrace Barry’s best qualities and carry them forward to inspire future generations. You are part of the proud legacy he leaves behind—a legacy that continues to thrive through your actions and memories. Let us honour him by ensuring he is never forgotten.