1998 — The Melvin returns to Kilcully

From 20–23 August 1998, Kilcully once again hosted the All-Ireland Melvin Scoutcraft Competition, bringing almost 600 Scouts to the campsite for four days of competition, activities and friendship.

A total of 59 patrols took part, with challenges including Scouting Skills, a Mountain Pursuit and public speaking on the subject of mental health. The competition also had an international flavour, with visiting Scouts from overseas joining patrols from around Ireland.

The theme for the 1998 Melvin was “Le Chéile in Éireann – A Mythical and Mystical Adventure of Ireland”, as featured on the official competition manual preserved in the Kilcully archive.

Among those welcomed to Kilcully for the event was Chief Scout Peter Dixon, pictured during his visit to the campsite. Another photograph records the Quill sisters being welcomed to Kilcully, capturing some of the hospitality and activity surrounding the competition.

The Melvin Trophy was won by the 38th/40th Cork (Ballinlough), making it a particularly successful competition for Cork Scouting.