Gawler Girl Guides celebrated their 100-year anniversary last Sunday week as past and present members gathered to share stories and have some fun.
The Guide Hall was covered with memories throughout the years, while the gloomy weather didn’t stop many locals gathering to enjoy activities on Princess Park and learn more about the Girl Guiding experience.
Member for Light, Tony Piccolo MP, joined Mayor Karen Redman in cutting the celebratory cake, and shared his joy in how the community had rallied to make the event a memorable one.
“Community groups and volunteers have answered the call to help Gawler Girl Guides offer the hospitality and activities we see here today, and I want to congratulate all involved,” said Mr Piccolo.
“From the parents and leaders who volunteer their time and Concordia CFS for utilising their truck for hands-on demonstrations to our service organisations Zonta, Apex and Rotary for giving their time.
“Groups like Girl Guides are important to have in our community to develop handy skills for everyday life, but also attributes such as leadership, teamwork, collaboration and confidence while learning off positive role models.”
More than 80 people were in attendance, including guides from other units, as the day finished with a dinner and some entertainment around a campfire.
A number of events were held at the Gawler Community and Recreation Centre to mark the occasion and to showcase the activities that they undertake.
The Gawler Girl Guides met in various locations over time until their current ‘Guide Hut’ was officially open in 1953 by State Chief Commissioner Miss May Douglas and given the name of “Para Pine” in front of about 100 visitors.
It is understood that the current premises are on land donated by the Jacobs family.
Council records from 1923 show correspondence from Captain Girl Guide, Ms Kathaleen May, thanking the Council for allowing them to meet in the basement of the Council offices was noted.