Description

Carlton Scout Hall on Wurundjeri country was built in 1931. Designed by architect Henry James, the unusual design is a well-preserved example of late neo-Baroque styling that holds significance socially and historically for its role as a public gathering place. This purpose-built home for the First Carlton Troop (now known as Carlton Scout Group) was a substantial investment by the local community in a still-young youth movement, and was built with multiple uses in mind.

The stage, framed with a substantial proscenium arch, provided a source of income in the group's early years by facilitating weekly social dances and other events that brought the community together. One of the oldest purpose-built Scout halls still in use in Victoria, the groups that have met here have witnessed—and been influenced by—how the community has changed through waves of workers cottages, slum clearances, community action and the more recent gentrification of the area.

What's On

Many walk past our hall and miss it, while others see an open door and peek inside. Today we invite you in to explore our hall in all its glory. Located on tiny Shakespeare Street, the vast interior of the hall will take you by surprise. We’ll use that space to share stories with you of the nearly 100-year-old hall, as well as the street it lives on and park it faces. Each has fascinating histories all of their own. We’ll also tell stories of other incredible Scout halls across Victoria, with many architectural masterpieces coming out of the early years of the Scout Movement. But of course, we’re Scouts—and what do we do best? There’ll be plenty of activities for children and young people, a fundraising BBQ, and some musical performances on our stage. We can’t wait to share these stories with you.

Children's Activities

Children are why our hall is here, and we want to share it with them! We’ll have a bouldering wall onsite, scavenger hunts to explore our exhibits, pioneering activities like building with poles and ropes, a fundraising BBQ and musical performances to be enjoyed by children and adults alike.