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Original owner Douglas Ward Dies
Douglas Scrub is named after Douglas Ward. The original owner was Douglas' Grandfather, Zachariah, and he left the Property to his grandchildren, who then left it in a trust until Douglas, the remaining grandchild died. (date in 1974 unknown) Picture shows the Ward's house. -
Property is bought by Rex Ellis
Rex Ellis Bought the Property and built Douglas Scrub House using local materials as well as ones sourced from the outback, through his camel adventure company. (date in 1974 unknown) Picture shows Rex Ellis in 2011. -
Girl Guides buys Douglas Scrub
Bought for $130,000 with the help of a $5000 government grant. What is now called Ken Maguire reserve was retained by Rex. Settlement occurred about 5 months after the sale in early April 1979. Picture shows Douglas House on the day of Sale -
First Guide Function
Although the property had not been settled the first open day took place with Rex's permission. -
Period: to
Chairman of Management Committee: Margaret Carter
only the years are known -
Official Opening
Douglas Scrub was officially opened by His Excellency the Governor of South Australia Mr. Keith Seaman OBE KStJ, during state camp 12-18 May. Picture shows the state camp. -
Olave Baden Powel Memorial Gates
On Thinking Day the Gates at the front of the property we opened by Lady Joyce Price CMG OBE (Chairman of the world committee of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts and State president) who was originally a Guide at Victor Harbor. -
Construction of the Army Bridge
The 1st and 2nd trp, 3rd Field, squ RAE, built the bridge over Douglas Gully Creek, called the Army bridge. -
First stage of the Adventure Course is Built
Built by Bill Berlmon and a group of 10 Volunteers. -
Opening of Carter Lodge
Named after Margret and Rod Carter, the lodge was opened by the Hon Don Hopgood, Minister for the Environment. Margaret was the Chairman of the property and made enormous contributions to the development of the property. Ron's army contacts were very valuable in building the infrastructure of the property. Picture shows Ron and Margaret at the opening. -
The Great Flood
Blewett Springs and Douglas Gully creeks flooded Douglas Scrub flooding the quiet area and bird hide, it also washed away the Lois Richardson Bridge. Picture shows the flooded bird hide. -
First Art Exhibition
An art exhibition raised over $65,000 for Douglas Scrub. This money was used to build a 2m high fox fence around the boundary, new carpets and an upgrade to the Ken Maguire Toilet Block. Picture shows the exhibition in the activity shed behind Douglas House. -
Foundations of Paxlease House laid
After selling the original Paxlease, the old Crafers School, the Association put the money towards building an accommodation and conference centre in Douglas Scrub.(Date in January unknown) -
Creation of the Brownie Dell
Also known as the Owl's Dell (date in February not known) -
Opening of the Trefoil Shelter
On Thinking Day the shelter was opened by Lady Seaman, State President. -
"The Camel Paddock" becomes available for sale
Rex Ellis's adjoining property know as "The Camel Paddock" Goes on the market and with his financial support the Guides bought the land and named it Ken Maguire Reserve in his honour. (date in April unknown) Picture shows Lady Dunstan and Ken Maguire -
Opening of Jackie's Trail
The wheelchair access trail is named after Jackie Schaeffer, a Holdfast Ranger Guide. -
Ken Maguire Reserve officially opened
Opened by Lady Dunstan, the State President and wife of the Governor. -
Paxlease House Opened
Opened by Her Execllency President of Guides Australia Lady Stephen. -
Hackett Shelter Built
Built by Sally and Tim Porter. -
Period: to
Chairman of Management Committee: Jan Forrest
Only the years are known -
Carols in the Scrub
Held on Ken Maguire Reserve. -
Jackie's Trail extension opened
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Period: to
Chairman of Management Committee: Jill Ribbons
only the years are known -
Period: to
Chairman of Management Committee: Helen Goldney
Only the years are known -
Pine Flat Cookshed completed
(date in September unknown) -
Period: to
Chairman of Management Committee: Jan Forrest
Only the years are known, current chairman of the committee -
all info is from http://users.adam.com.au/forrestjan
History of Douglas Scrub Website
