But sadly, the Guides arrived at the hall on June 19 to the devastating news that their worm farm had been stolen over the weekend.

However, it’s not all bad news – the Guides are smiling once again after they reached out to Bunnings Warehouse Cessnock, and were supplied with a new worm farm that week.

Unit leader Kelly Sansom said the 2A Junior Guides decided to install the worm farm last year as a part of their environmental badge activities.

They raised money to buy the worm farm, which was installed in the front yard of the Guide Hall, and would bring in food peelings from home to feed the worms.

“Everyone loves to play in dirt and get dirty and play with worms – this was a very exciting part of the process,” Ms Sansom said.

“The girls learnt and cared for our worms. We learnt how important worms are to help break down fruit and veg and turn these scraps into food for our veggie and flower gardens.”

Bunnings Warehouse Cessnock complex manager Graeme Champion said the store was always happy to help out the local community where possible.

“We look forward to continuing to provide assistance to more Cessnock community groups in the future,” he added.

Ms Sansom said the Guides appreciated the gesture from Bunnings after being hurt and saddened by the theft.

“The girls couldn’t understand why someone would do this,” she said.

“But as Junior Guides we make choices for a better world and live with strength and courage.

“So with this in mind we hope to rebuild and start a new farm.”