The picnic was started by the City of Sydney as a way of giving back to the community. Every year families are chosen by welfare agencies so that the families can have a worry free evening at the City of Sydney's expense. Volunteer groups, like Rover Scouts, have been lending a hand since the first event 14 years ago, and it is a fantastic time for all concerned. This year a 38 Rover Scouts from New South Wales, 2 from Victoria and 3 from Germany provided 8 hours of service towards assisting in this event, in Uniform, and ensured the afternoon and evening was a success. This is the 8th New Years Eve Lord Mayors Picnic, and Rover Scouts will continue to provide service to this event into the future.