July 10, 1999 was a rather wet day, I must say. It had already rained twice, once in the morning and again in the evening. But our hopes were still high, for it was Vortex, the Campfire.

As the sky darkened, the breeze was cool and the atmosphere was slowly building up as various Scout and Guide units arrived. Besides our very own school's Guides, NCC, NPCC, Military Band and AVA members, there were altogether 29 other units present. Almost 650 uniformed group members and 60 guests attended our campfire. Massive. That's the word I would use to describe the campfire.

"I declare the campfire OPEN!!", our Guest of Honor declared. Hundred pairs of eyes were fixed on the fire pit that rested on a 5 meters tall structure. But nothing happened. All remained silent and still. Thoughts began to stir. Would they be able to get the fire up on the pit? Why was it taking so long? Seconds passed followed by minutes, yet everything remained the same. The level of anticipation rose to its peak when all of a sudden an engine-like sound ripped the silent surroundings. Cheers and screams blasted to arena. It was a helicopter!

The helicopter, with a fireball tied to it, rose steadily and approached the pit. It was a spectacular view not to be missed. BANG! And the helicopter slammed into the technical block and landed flat on the concrete ground. Everybody froze and gasped in shock. The first clap was heard, followed by a second one. Very soon everyone followed suit, bringing the campfire back to life. Screams and cheers grew louder when one of our Patrol Leader climbed up the fire-pit to light it up. At last, the campfire was on and going. He had indeed saved the day.

However, the weather was against us. Yet another downpour started in the midst of the show. The guests and fellow Scouts and Guides were then led up to our school hall. It was a rather whole new experience. They had real fun!

Despite all physical and human obstacles put ahead of us, we, Westlake Scouts, as one managed to overcome them. The later part of the show went on smoothly. Various groups performed their dance items with fanciful moves. ACS(I) Scouts, Bendemeer Guides and Anderson Clover Guides were just some of the many dance teams. And at about 10pm, the campfire came to an end.

Westlake Scouts would like to thank our Guest of Honour, Principal Ms Cynthia Goh and GSL Mr Yang Koon Sing for their endless support and encouragement. And also, Acting Vice Principal Mr Tan Yark Khwee, Mr Tan Ming Yen (DC Toa Payoh) and the other guests and units for gracing the event.

We hope to see you at the next Westlake Campfire ...


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