SURF Awards

Bute Community Forest WON the Award for THE best Community-Led Regeneration project in Scotland at the SURF Regeneration Awards last night. The judges praised our collective efforts to connect young people and different groups to the Forest to help celebrate what is a fantastic asset for the island. The panel were impressed by the range of events and activities, our off-grid huts, our Roundhouse, the enthusiasm and knowledge of volunteers like Gordon & Jessica (name-checked on the night), the work of 'Forest Sam' and the extent of our partnership working with others.There was a strong list of community projects across Scotland and 15 of these were showcased on the night at the Ballroom at Glasgow's Central Station. It was an emotional evening (certainly for me the Chair who shed an involuntary tear at the acceptance speech) as we accepted the Award from the Scottish Government Minister for Employment and Investment. Thanks too to Trustee Martin Catlin and Samuel for joining me on the night.We are looking forward to making 2025 another great year for the Community Forest. And... for those who are wondering.... the cuddly toy is a quokka... (SURF choose an animal each year to accompany the Awards).... renowned for their unending friendliness. Where the quokkas live, they have no predators at all and they trust everyone.