Historical information

The 1st Kew Scouts was one of the first Scout Troops in Victoria, being formed in 1909. From 1927 they met in a magnificent Scout Hall in Disraeli Street, Kew until it was demolished in 1993. Still operating (in 2020) from their new Scout Hall on the corner of Kilby Road and Kellett Grove, Kew.

Physical description

1st Kew Scouts undertaking water rescue training at Bulleen. The photograph was most likely taken while the Scouts were camping beside the river one summer, with the programs generally including not only fun and games but also varying training activities. At the time many locals swam in the river. 1924 was well before the construction of major water storage dams and urbanisation of the upper reaches of the Yarra River, which significantly reduced downstream flows and water quality. These days, the Scouts tend to raft and canoe in the Yarra, rather than swim.

Inscriptions & markings

On front: 1924. On reverse: photographer's stamp