1st Boksburg Scout Group in danger of closing

The 1st Boksburg Scout Group, Boksburg’s oldest and most historic scouting unit, is at risk of closing down after more than 115 years of service to the local community.

Established in 1910, the group has played a vital role in developing young people in the area through outdoor education, leadership and community involvement. However, dwindling resources, the loss of key members and the need for fresh leadership have left the group struggling to stay afloat.

According to Kim Joseph, one of the group’s leaders, 1st Boksburg is now one of only two remaining Scout groups in the area, the other being 2nd Boksburg. At its peak, Boksburg had up to eight active Scout groups, many of which have since closed their doors over the past century.

A legacy under threat
Today, 1st Boksburg still has three legacy members, children whose parents or grandparents were part of the group. Despite its rich heritage, the group is in desperate need of support to survive.

“Our Scout hall, built on three donated stands in Terhon Street, Freeway Park, was opened in 2012. Because the land near the river had a high clay content, we received professional advice and laid a floating foundation. Parents and Scouts helped build the hall, which was officially opened by Mike Mason,” Joseph said.

Tragically, the Scout hall was destroyed in a fire during the Covid-19 lockdown period, leading to a significant loss of equipment and a temporary halt to in-person activities.
“We lost most of our ropes, tents, poles and gas bottles – everything we used for camping and training. But we kept going. Our Pack Scouter was even awarded a commendation for her work in helping other groups run online during that time,” Joseph added.

Recent support and ongoing needs
The group has received some assistance, including funding towards a new boundary wall from members of 1st Benoni and 6th Benoni Scout Groups, who were completing a community challenge. However, they are still in need of expert help to replace the current damaged wall, as well as donations of camping equipment to replace what was lost in the fire and subsequent thefts.

Loss of a leader
The group suffered another blow with the passing of long-time Scout Master John Oliver on July 9, aged 70. Oliver, who received his 50-year long service award in February, was a dedicated member of the scouting community.
“John was originally from Durban, where he earned his Springbok Scout Award before relocating to Johannesburg and joining 1st Boksburg. He was not only incredibly knowledgeable but also a great friend and mentor to many,” said Bell.

A call for new energy
In its heyday, 1st Boksburg encouraged scouts to attend international jamborees in countries such as the UK, the United States, Australia and the Netherlands, as well as local events such as Sanjamb and the Cederberg Adventure.

Now, the group is calling for new energy to carry the legacy forward. Volunteers are urgently needed to assist with leading the Cub and Scout Packs, as well as to serve in background roles such as fundraising, bookkeeping, equipment maintenance and garden upkeep.

“No scouting experience is needed. Training will be provided. We just need committed people who care about youth development and the outdoors,” Joseph said.

Anyone who would like to assist may contact Joseph on 011 871 4872.

“If you can help in any way, either as a volunteer or by donating equipment, or if you have a child between the ages of seven and 18 who would like to join the group, you are encouraged to get in touch,” Joseph added.

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