The 2nd and 3rd Lindfield Scout Group, located in Lindfield, New South Wales, is one of the longest-standing Scout groups in the region, celebrating its 100th year of Scouting in 2024. From its humble beginnings in 1924, the group has grown to become a vital part of the Lindfield community, enriching the lives of countless young people through Scouting’s core values of adventure, service, and leadership.

Inauguration and Early Beginnings (1924)

The history of the 2nd and 3rd Lindfield Scout Group began on 12th November 1924, when the group was officially inaugurated by Reverend L.J. McDonald and a group of interested community members. Reverend McDonald, alongside local residents who were keen on fostering youth development and instilling strong moral values, recognized the importance of Scouting in helping young boys learn life skills, build character, and serve their community.

During this initial meeting, the foundations were laid for what would become a thriving community institution. The early years saw a small but enthusiastic group of boys join the newly formed Scout group, where they engaged in traditional Scouting activities like camping, knot-tying, hiking, and developing self-reliance. These formative years set the tone for the growth and evolution of the Scout group.

Growth and Expansion

As the years passed, the group expanded its membership and activities. With the increasing popularity of Scouting in Lindfield and across Australia, both the 2nd and 3rd Lindfield Scout Groups were formed to accommodate the growing number of young people eager to join. This expansion allowed the local community to provide more opportunities for youth to participate in Scouting and develop leadership skills.

The 2nd Lindfield Scout Group

The 2nd Lindfield Scout Group was one of the pioneers in the region, quickly establishing itself as a leading Scout troop. The group’s outdoor activities, camping expeditions, and involvement in local community service projects helped it earn a reputation for producing well-rounded and engaged youth.

The 3rd Lindfield Scout Group

Soon after the formation of the 2nd Lindfield Scout Group, the 3rd Lindfield Scout Group was created. Like its counterpart, the 3rd group focused on providing opportunities for local youth to learn essential life skills through Scouting principles. Both groups worked closely together and shared a common goal of nurturing young leaders in the community.

Milestones and Achievements

• 1930s to 1950s:

  Both groups actively participated in district and state-wide Scout events, including jamborees, where they gained recognition for their outstanding performance in various Scouting competitions. These early decades were marked by strong community engagement and the continued growth of the membership base.

• 1971:

  The groups became coeducational, allowing both boys and girls to join as the Scouting movement in Australia embraced gender equality. This marked a significant milestone, making the groups more inclusive and reflective of modern society.

• 1980s to 1990s:

  During this period, the Scout groups expanded their range of activities, including overseas expeditions, advanced leadership training, and involvement in national conservation projects. The introduction of new technology and educational approaches helped keep the programs relevant and engaging for young people in Lindfield.

• 2000s to Present:

  Today, both the 2nd and 3rd Lindfield Scout Groups remain vibrant parts of the community. Their commitment to Scouting’s core values of

  duty to self, duty to others, and duty to the world

  has remained steadfast as they continue to prepare young people for the challenges and opportunities of the modern world.

Celebrating 100 Years of Scouting (2024)

In 2024, the 2nd and 3rd Lindfield Scout Group proudly celebrates 100 years of Scouting. This remarkable milestone marks a century of service to the Lindfield community and countless youth who have been part of the group. To commemorate this centenary, the group has planned a series of celebrations, reflecting on its rich history and the impact it has had on the lives of local families.

The 100th anniversary is not only a time to celebrate the past but also to look forward to the future. With a legacy of strong leadership and community service, the group is poised to continue its mission of empowering young people through Scouting for many years to come.

Legacy and Community Impact

The 2nd and 3rd Lindfield Scout Group has always been more than just an extracurricular activity for local youth—it has been a central part of the fabric of the Lindfield community. Through community service projects, involvement in ANZAC Day ceremonies, environmental conservation efforts, and charity work, the Scouts have continuously given back to their community.

Many former members of the 2nd and 3rd Lindfield Scout Groups have gone on to serve in prominent leadership roles both locally and internationally, carrying with them the skills and values they learned during their time in Scouting.