1st Ivanhoe is the oldest Scout Group in Australia, commencing in 1908, just one year after Baden Powell began Scouting in the UK. Started by a Naval Officer, ‘Skipper’ Wilson the Group was originally based at what is now known as Wilson’s Reserve on the banks of the Yarra River off the Boulevard in Ivanhoe. With this history, the Group had a natural affinity for water activities. The Yarra River
at Ivanhoe in those days was much wider than it is today and swimming and boating was popular. Hence 1st Ivanhoe Scouts have always been a Sea Scout Group, meaning they participate in the same activities as ‘land’ Scouts do, but also have a strong focus toward boating activities. The Group today has 27 boats (yachts, rowing boats, canoes, kayaks and a power boat) all currently stored off site.
1st Ivanhoe moved from the banks of the Yarra to Norman Street Ivanhoe, beside the railway line, in 1930 and was located there until 2013 when we relocated to Hawker Street in Ivanhoe as it provided more space for our growing Group and adjacent parklands for activities. At that time we fully renovated the Hawker Street hall and now have one of the nicest Scout Halls in the State.
