Our Rich History
1st Sunbury: A History
The origins of 1st Sunbury Scout Group date back to the late 1910s, with the first Scout Master being officially registered in 1919. By 1920, the troop had grown to 13 members, including Allan and Laurie Boardman, who were among the earliest youth to join and contribute to the fledgling group.
In 1922, the troop, then known as “Wee Georgie Wood’s Troop,” embarked on a memorable camp in the Grampians. During this time, the Scouts developed essential bushcraft and outdoor skills under the guidance of their leaders. The group also used St. Mary’s Anglican Hall as their headquarters, where committed leaders such as W. Speakman, T.L. Hall, A. Boardman, and T. Hall fostered the growth and development of the young Scouts.
A significant moment in the early history of the group came in 1923, when the troop demonstrated their dedication to community service by acting as a guard of honour at the funeral of Scoutmaster Len Musgrove’s father. This event reflected the values of respect, service, and camaraderie that have remained central to the 1st Sunbury Scout Group throughout its long history.
The Revival Years
After a long period of inactivity, the 1st Sunbury Scout Group was officially reformed on 11th March 1964. The first meeting took place at the home of Scoutmaster Ron Buckland, soon followed by the group’s first activity—a Tenderfoot Tracking session on 4th April. By May, they had set up a temporary headquarters in the old Butter Factory on Horne Street, providing a practical space for meetings and activities.
The group quickly built momentum. A Campfire Investiture was held on 30th May, welcoming new Cubs and Scouts at the Group Scout Master’s farm. The official reopening was marked at Sunbury Memorial Hall on 17th June, with support from district and state Scouting leaders. That same year, the Scouts attended their first Winter Rally in July and completed their first hike in August, firmly re-establishing Scouting in Sunbury.
We finally have a home!
In 1969, a major milestone was achieved when the Association purchased the old Fire Brigade station for a mere £100, providing the group with its first permanent home. The acquisition of the Old Fire Station on Evans Street marked a significant chapter in the group’s history. Groups paid a nominal fee of $6 per year for the hire of the hall.
The Old Fire Station became the heart of 1st Sunbury Scouts, serving as their headquarters and a hub for scouting activities. Dedicated scouters like Harry Rothsay, Ian Symonds, Daryl Archer, Peter Collett, and others contributed to the group’s growth during this period. Many young scouts and cubs, including John Buckland, Nick Langmaid, and Peter Bloem, among others, experienced the adventures of scouting within the walls of the Old Fire Station.
Miller St Hall
The era at the Old Fire Station came to a close in 1979 when a new chapter began with the official opening of the Miller Street Hall on April 22. The Miller Street Hall became the new home for 1st Sunbury Scouts, marking a transition to a modern and purpose-built facility.
The opening of Miller Street Hall symbolized the group’s continued growth and commitment to scouting values. With new leadership, including scouters like Ian Arnel, John Hardie, Norm Ripp, Denis Burr, Bill Houston, and Jean Manning, the group continued its tradition of nurturing young scouts and cubs. The Miller Street Hall provided a fresh setting for scouting adventures, fostering camaraderie and learning among generations of scouts in Sunbury.
Present Day
Today, the 1st Sunbury Scout Group stands as a beacon of scouting excellence, rooted in a legacy of over a century of service and adventure. With a modernized approach and a renewed commitment to scouting values, the group continues to thrive in the Sunbury community. Led by dedicated leaders and supported by enthusiastic youth members, the group remains steadfast in its mission to provide a dynamic and enriching scouting experience.
The group’s activities extend beyond traditional scouting, embracing new challenges and opportunities in a rapidly changing world. From outdoor expeditions to community service projects, from leadership development to embracing technology, the 1st Sunbury Scout Group remains at the forefront of youth empowerment and character building. As it looks to the future, the group remains deeply rooted in its heritage while embracing innovation, ensuring that the spirit of scouting continues to inspire and shape the lives of young people for generations to come.