The award is one of the highest honours given out by the scouting movement.

The 18 year-old worked for the award over a period of three years during which time she made her way through the stages in the Queen's Scout award program.

In order to receive the award participants must complete various levels within the four award areas: adventurous activities, community involvement, leadership development and personal growth.

Miss Melville, a member of the 1st Wearne Bay (Illawong) Scouts group, said the last six months of the award were the hardest.

``They were the most time consuming with finishing all the smaller details and writing up the reports of everything you've done,'' she said.

During the course of the award Miss Melville participated in a variety of activities including a first aid course, leadership courses and an overnight hike.

``I also did a scuba diving course and now I'm a trained scuba diver. ``That was my favourite because I probably wouldn't have been able to do that otherwise.''

Scout group leader David Lund said the award was a tremendous achievement.

``She is a great ambassador for young scouting today,'' he said.

Miss Melville received her award at a ceremony in Illawong Scout Hall on Sunday.