Meet Katherine Smail, Tarneit Phoenix Guides

Katherine Smail leads the Tarneit Phoenix Guides, a group dedicated to empowering girls and young women.

The group showed incredible resilience by relocating and rebuilding after a devastating fire destroyed their hall.

 

What does Tarneit Phoenix Guides do for the community?

We provide a brave space for girls and young women to fearlessly shape their own identities, lives, and communities. After our hall was destroyed by fire on 1 June 2024, we relocated to Dianella Community Centre and continued our mission from there.

Our hall was 60+ years old.  It was home of current and old keepsakes, heritage uniforms & badges, books & photo albums.

All our camping equipment was destroyed. Nothing was able to be salvaged.

Now a year on we have changed our name from Hoppers Crossing Girl Guides to Tarneit Phoenix Guides.  Rising from the ashes.

The 2024 Dennis Family Community Grant is the only assistance we have received to begin again.

 

How have you been involved?

As the unit leader, I’m proud to have reestablished our group in a new space and to start building new traditions in our new Guiding home.

What changes has your group made in the community?

We’ve participated in the Dianella Community Centre’s Dignity Bags and End Homelessness projects, and also took part in their open day to connect with the wider community.

 

Highlights from 2025 so far?

Definitely our District Camp in March – 60 girls and adults camping at Riddells Creek. It was 35 degrees on Saturday and then cold, wet and windy on Sunday!

 

What’s planned for the near future?

Now that we’re grounded in Tarneit, my goal is to grow our unit and become a visible, active part of the local community.

 

Where can people find out more or get involved?

Visit: guidesvic.org.au