Building a Community: Forest Range's First Mission Hall

WE NEED A HALL
March 21, 1909 – first Church of
England service held at Forest School
(now Lenswood Primary School)

In 1910 a group of residents of Forest Range met
to discuss the building of a Mission Hall and
community gathering place. The group was led by
Rev Everett who was the Anglican minister of the
time. The intent was to build a building that could
have multiple uses. The hall could be used for
Anglican worship, social events and
entertainment.
Mr JB Fry gave the land for the building and the
community cleared and levelled the site. The
block sits immediately above The Ford on Stony
Creek. A newspaper of the time states that the
building would be:
“a compact little village church in the Gothic style,
with porch, vestries and other conveniences. The
building will be erected of local stone, and will
make a pleasing addition to the township”
RELIGIOUS NOTES. (1913, September 27). The Register
(Adelaide, SA : 1901 – 1929), p. 6.,
from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article59104665

The Ford – before building the Mission Hall (postcard, collection of J Shaw)

The building was built by Mr A Brockhoff, who was responsible for many buildings
in the district. On 1 October 1913 the foundation stone was laid by the Governor of
the time (Sir Day Bosanquet). On 7 February, 1914 the building was opened by
Mrs Bosanquet.
Image = Mission Hall - from "The Ford" around 1960's
http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article59101570

THE LAND
•

Original grant 11 March 1859 to - EA &
F Wright

•

Part 62. FP 7816, Lots 2 & 10, Original
CT 3.21 (Current CT 1180-171)

•

GPS S 34 33.060 E 138 29.148

•

Subsequent 27 December 1872 - Rev
GH Farr & F Wright

•

18 October 1881 – R Smith & A
Hayward & K StB Miller & WF Smythe

•

24 August 1899 – JB Fry

•

16 February 1911 – Church of England,
Diocese of Adelaide

Forest Range Institute - Opening Day. State Library of South Australia.
B 519

NEW MISSION HALL
CEREMONY AT FOREST RANGE.
A very large number of people from Forest Range and
neighboring districts gathered yesterday afternoon to
witness the laying of the foundation stone of the
new Mission Hall to be used for Church of England services
and, when not required for services, for general purposes,
and concerts. The hall will hold 200 people, and the plans
were prepared and presented to, the church by Mr.
Senior (architect). The matter has been in hand for the last
year or so, and the Rev. F. Sewell, the Sector in charge of
the district, has been gratified by the wonderful response
that the church people in the neighborhood have made.
Work to the valve of £130 has already been done by them in
levelling the site and carting sand, lime, and stone to the
spot. The stone was laid by his Excellency the Governor,
who spoke highly of the character of the people of
the district, many of whom were his friends. Wherever the
English race went, he said it carried its religion with it. They
believed that a nation which was based on righteousness
was sure to succeed. That was why there had never been
another Empire like the British Empire. He considered the
sight [sic] of the hall excellently chosen, and was glad to
know that the edifice was to be used for social as well as
religious purposes. The Rev. F. Sewell read the service, and
his Lordship Bishop Wilson blessed the stone before it was
laid, and afterwards thanked the Governor for attending.
Hymns were sung by an excellent choir. A bodyguard of
cadets was present, and various friendly societies were
represented.
1913 'NEW MISSION HALL.', Daily Herald (Adelaide, SA : 1910 - 1924),
30 September, p. 3, viewed 9 July, 2013, http://nla.gov.au/nla.newsarticle105595426

1913 'FOREST RANGE HALL.', The
Register (Adelaide, SA : 1901 - 1929),
1 October, p. 9, viewed 7 July, 2013,
Sir Day Hort Bosanquet, from State
Library of SA http://images.slsa.sa.gov.au/mpcimg/18500
/B18312.htm

NEW HALL, FOREST RANGE.
OPENED BY LADY BOSANQUET.
About four years ago the Bev. A. W. B.
Everett, who was then Anglican minister at
Forest Range, began a movement which
had for its object the erection of a building
that for the pre sent could be used as a
mission hall and also for entertainments and
social gatherings, but which, later on, when
the future additions as proposed in the plans
were added, would be a model little village
church. The residents took a lively interest
in the matter, and a committee, with Mr. W.
Tribe as secretary, was formed for the
purpose of carrying out the proposal. Mr. J.
Fry came forward and gave a block of land
which, overlooks the roadway near the ford,
a fine elevated site for a church.
Honour guard of girls dressed in white for the opening of the Mission Hall – collection of J Bishop

The townspeople cleared and levelled the land. Last week Lady Bosanquet, in opening the first portion of the church (Sir Day
Bosanquet having laid the foundation-stone some months ago) said this was the last work of the kind she would perform in South
Australia, and the new building was in the hills where the had spent many happy months in the beautiful surroundings of Forest Range.
The building of such a pretty little church as she bad seen by the plans was a great work for such a small community to commence, and
she congratulated them on their efforts so far in the completion of the hall. Many baskets of beautiful flowers and fruit were presented
to Lady Bosanquet, after which the Rev. F. Sewell thanked her for declaring the hall open, and conveyed to Lady Bosanquet the
best wishes of the residents. Mr. E. W. Senior, of A.M.P. Buildings, King William street, the architect, gave his services free. Mr. A.
Brockhoff was the contractor.
1914 'NEW HALL, FOREST RANGE.', The Mail (Adelaide, SA : 1912 - 1954), 7 February, p. 5 Section: SATURDAY'S NEWS SECTION., viewed 7 July, 2013,

FOREST RANGE HALL. :

OPENED BY LADY BOSANQUET.

Saturday last was a beautiful day in the hills, and the residents of Forest Range and vicinity turned out
in strong force to take part in the ceremony of opening the new hall. Lady Bosanquet and
Miss Bosanquet., who were attended by Captain Fletcher, A.D.C., motored over from Marble Hill, and
were met by a guard of Honor of young ladies, who formed a archway from the motor car to the hall
door. After an inspection of the new building, the foundation-stone of which was laid by his Excellency
the Governor on September 29 last, Lady Bosanquet formally declared it open for social
purposes. The hall has been urgently required in the district for some years. About four years ago the
Rev. A. W. B. Everett, who was then the Anglican minister there began a movement which had for its
object the erection of a building that could be used as a mission hall, and also for entertainments and
social gatherings. The residents took a lively interest in the matter, and a committee consisting of the
following gentlemen was formed:— Messrs. H. Caldicott, A. Brockhoff, R. Collins. F. Hackett. J. and N.
Norton, H. Trevenen, G. E. Smith, E. Dearman, W. and R. Hale, and H. Baum, with Mr. W. Tribe as
secretary. Mr. J. Fry gave a block of land, which overlooks the road way near the ford, and a start was
at once made to clear and level the ground. This was done by the townspeople. Contracts were then
let to Messrs. A. Brockhoff and J. Templer for the construction of the building, the former doing
the mason work and the latter the carpentering, and the expenditure amounted to about £650. The
first service was conducted in the hall by the Rev. F. Sewell on Sunday. Lady Bosanquet was
presented with basket of flowers and fruit by Misses Madge Caldicott and C. Lindstrum respectively.
The Rev. F. Sewell, in asking Lady Bosanquet to declare the building open, said they were all pleased
that she had consented to do so. Lady Bosanquet said she was delighted to be present that afternoon
to open the new hall, especially as the stone had been laid by her husband. That was the last work of
the kind she would have to perform in South Australia, and she was pleased that it was in the hills
where she had spent many happy months. It might be lonely to live in the hills, particularly for the
young people, who might feel that they were cut off from the pleasures of the city, but she was
sure life in the country, especially in such beautiful surroundings as at Forest Range, was the
healthiest and best. By erecting that hall, in which there was ample space for a library and a readingroom, for lectures or dances, and also in which a moving picture show could be held, they had done a
great deal to bring the pleasures of the city to their country homes. It was a great work for a small
com munity to have done, and she congratulated them because their efforts had been crowned with
success. (Applause.)The hall was gaily decorated, and a number of pretty stalls were arranged round
the walls. The stallholders were:— Refreshments, Mesdames Caldicott, W. Hale, Patterson, and
Misses Caldicott (3) ; cakes, Mrs. Dearman; sweets, Mrs. Tribe and Miss Jennings; work, Mesdames
Trevenen, Baum, and Brockhoff, and Misses Lyons (2) ; strawberries and cream, Misses Brockhoff
and Dearman; ice cream, Misses G. Tribe and M. Caldicott; cool drinks, Messrs. Trevenen and O.
Caldicott; fruit, Misses Hackett and Brown; shooting gallery, Messrs. F. Hackett, R. Hale, and E
Dearman; Aunt Sally, Mr. W. Hale, Mr. E. W. Senior was architect for the building, and gave his
services gratis.
1914 'FOREST RANGE HALL.', Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1895 - 1954), 7
February, p. 43, viewed 7 July, 2013, http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article88831204

At the opening George Smith had
a dark suit died to try to get it
white. But it didn’t go white, it
went “old gold’. He still had to
wear it and stood out for miles.
P & J Trevenen

Mission Hall with footbridge, 1918
Taken By Glen Caldicott, collection of John Bishop

The ladies toilet was to the side across a
little bridge over the gutter. You went out a
door in one of the little side rooms. The
Toilet was covered in blackberries and
behind it was a forest of broom. The
men's was at the back but wasn’t really
used much! Later they were combined in
the one spot – in a red brick building at the
back.
P & J Trevenen & M Fry

Collection of P von Creytz, circa 1960

Oz Caldicott was caretaker. He used to
manage the gas lighting (no electricity
until 1951). There was a box near the
side door . Gas was a fuel (shellite) and
Oz used to pump it up and light the 4 or 5
lights. They were Gloria lights (pressure
gas lights) and put out a wonderful light.

Heating didn’t exist in the hall, but there was
an open fireplace in the supper room.
1950 - State Library of South Australia. B 61020 59

Attendance and office bearers

Collection of J Gardiner, circa 1980

From year book of the Church of England in
Australia in the Diocese of Adelaide
Year ends March

23

1911

Rev F Sewell

70

27

124

1912

Rev F Sewell

70

27

156

1913

Rev F Sewell

70

27

122

1914

Rev J J Emery

90

26

75

1915

Rev J J Emery

90

28

110

1916

Rev J J Emery

O Caldicott

ACF Brockhoff

EW Dearman Miss Jennings

90

20

157

1917

Rev J J Emery

O Caldicott

ACF Brockhoff

EW Dearman W Hale

90

21

109

3

1918

Rev J J Emery

GS Caldicott

ACF Brockhoff

EW Dearman E Dearman

90

26

112

2

1919

Rev J J Emery

GS Caldicott

ACF Brockhoff

EW Dearman E Dearman

90

20

130

1920

Rev JSW Coles

O Caldicott

ACF Brockhoff

J Trevenen

90

35

136

1921

Rev JSW Coles

GS Caldicott

ACF Brockhoff

Miss Burchell

90

27

136

1922

Rev JSW Coles

GS Caldicott

ACF Brockhoff

90

29

155

5

1923

Rev JSW Coles

GS Caldicott

ACF Brockhoff

90

23

115

5

1924

Rev JSW Coles

GS Caldicott

ACF Brockhoff

90

31

161

5

1925

Rev JSW Coles

GS Caldicott

HO Caldicott

90

34

180

1926

Rev JSW Coles

GS Caldicott

HO Caldicott

90

32

133

1

HO Caldicott

90

23

138

2

90

23

96

2

90

20

270

2

90

20

30

1

Walter Tribe

Walter Tribe

H Moss

1927
1928

Rev ST Longman O Caldicott

1929

Rev ST Longman O Caldicott

1930

Rev TP Wood

O Caldicott

1931

Rev TP Wood

GW Schultz

O Caldicott

90

25

Rev TP Wood

GW Schultz

O Caldicott

90

30

248

1933

Rev TP Wood

GW Schultz

O Caldicott

J Nicholl

90

30

Rev TP Wood

J Trevenen

HO Caldicott

J Nicholl

90

32

162

8

1

2

1

29

3

Bef Mission hall
building
Bef Mission hall
building

19

1

2

3

Mission hall building

5

Comments

Mission hall building
Mission hall erected
Debt £200

1

Debt £170

3

Debt £130

1

23

4

Debt £100

2

15

3

Debt £71

18

3

Debt £41

24

3

Debt £26

12

8

3

1
7

25
20

218

1934

19

187

1932

Mrs Longman

20

19

Sunday school
teacher av

15

Sunday School
Supervisor

Sunday school
average

70

Lay Reader

Funerals

Communions

Rev AWB Everitt

Warden

Marriages

Communicants

1910

Warden

Baptisms

Minister

Confirmations

Year

Sittings

Year book of the Church of England in Australia in the Diocese of Adelaide : year ends March

3

1

2

Debt £16

9

2

Debt £11

10

1

20

2

18

2

5

1

3
1
1

1

2
8

1
1

1

1

CHURCH

Baptism certificate : July 4, 1960.
Hirell Mason (now Schapel) was baptised at the
Mission Hall, along with many others including
Baptism – 1963
1. Susette Fry (God Parents Mavis & Basil Townsend)
2. Allyson Fry (God Parents – Dean & Ruth Patterson)

I remember taking confirmation
classes in the back seat of the
minister’s car with a group of others.
John Vickers

CHURCH
We all piled into the old Fiat to go to church.
Never missed a service. There’d be
Grandpad, Gran, Mum, Dad, Aunt Mary, Phil
& me. I remember sometimes the wheel
came off!

Some families came up
from Basket Range for
church.
M Fry

The Governor came to
church here sometimes.
M Fry

M Fry

In the 40’s I remember that as people got up to go
to communion Uncle Hein would go in the
opposite direction. I don’t remember him taking
communion. He had to go home and put the
kettle on ready for morning tea after church.
Baum’s was the place for morning tea.

Ladies had a cleaning
and flower arranging
roster. A key was kept on
Trevenen’s verandah.
M Fry

P Trevenen & M Fry

Old family diaries note the
numbers at church, sometimes
just 2 people, occasionally just,
rector + 1 (herself)
E A Baum, 1955-59

As kids we would sneak out of church and
play in the mountains of sawdust at the
sawmill next door.
P Trevenen

There were services 3 mornings a month and
one afternoon. Communion was only in the
morning services.
M Fry

The maintenance and upkeep of the Mission Hall was always a
struggle in this small community. A note from Hein Baum’s diary
records a meeting discussing selling the Mission Hall.
Hein Baum 3 July 1946

Sunday December 6, 1970
Dedication of the Church of St. Mary Magdalene, Lenswood

St Mary Magdalene’s only
functioned as a church for ten years
before it closed and the building
was sold.

Easter service schedule 1973

Some of the foundation members, at the close of the church
- Mrs Dorothy Frost, Mrs E.S. McLaren, Mr H.K.(Ken)
Caldicott, Mrs Audrey Croft and Mrs. Mavis Caldicott.
Courier, 20 February 1980.

WEDDINGS
First Wedding at Mission Hall
17th June 1916
Private Henry Oswald Caldicott to
Glenwynd Maude Tribe

1916 'Family Notices.', The Register (Adelaide, SA : 1901 1929), 14 July, p. 4, viewed 7 July, 2013,

1916 'MARRIAGES.', Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1895 1954), 5 August, p. 51, viewed 29 August, 2013,

Caldicott-Tribe. A quiet .wedding— the first celebrated at the Church of England
Mission Hall, Forest Range — took place on June 17, when Glenwynd Maude,
only daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Walter Tribe. Salisbury, was married to Private
Henry Oswald, A.I.F., eldest son of Mr. and Mrs. Henry Caldicott, '‘The Lodge”
Forest Range. The ceremony was. performed by the Rev. A. M. B. Everett, M.A.
The bride entered the hall on her father’s arm, to the strains of –”The voice that
breathed over Eden:'' She looked a dainty figure gowned in white silk poplin and
lace;. The prettily-worked tulle veil was arranged, mob cap style, with tiny .
bunches of orange sprays on either side, which fell to the end of the train, where
it was caught by a horseshoe of orange blossom. She also carried a white shower
bouquet, tied with white, silk ribbons. The bridesmaids - Miss Dorothy Burton
(cousin of the bride) and Miss Maude Caldicott (sister of the groom) - looked
charming in smart white silk coats and skirts, and white silk hats. They carried
white shower bouquets, tied with red, white, and blue streamers, also carved
the bridegroom's gifts' of dainty silver purses, with their initials engraved. The
bride groom was supported by his brother (Mr. Leonard Caldicott) and Mr. Charles
Bishop. The ball was beautifully decorated by the friends of the bride, the altar
itself being a mass of white bloom. As the bride and bridegroom came down the
aisle the “Wedding March” was played by Mr. Moss, and a pretty silver horseshow
was presented to the bride. After the ceremony a reception was held by the
parents of the bride and bridegroom at the Forest Range Hotel. Only near
relatives and immediate friends were present Later the bridal couple left by motor,
we bride travelling in a saxe blue coat and skirt, a picture hat of black silk velvet,
and a handsome set of black fox furs, the gift of the bridegroom. A number of
useful presents And several cheques were received, .also many telegrams of
congratulations from different parts of the State.
1916 'MARRIAGES.', Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1895 - 1954), 5 August, p. 51, viewed 30 July, 2013,

PRE-WEDDING PARTIES
1926 'Family
Notices.', Chronicle (Adelaide,
SA : 1895 - 1954), 2 January,
p. 39, viewed 7 July, 2013,
http://nla.gov.au/nla.newsarticle89642106

1933 'OUR COUNTRY SECTION.', The Advertiser
(Adelaide, SA : 1931 - 1954), 11 May, p. 13, viewed 29
August, 2013, http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article74004972

1926 'Family
Notices.', Chronicle (Adelaid
e, SA : 1895 - 1954), 2
January, p. 39, viewed 7
July, 2013,

1933 'News From Country Centres.', Chronicle
(Adelaide, SA : 1895 - 1954), 30 November, p.
14, viewed 29 August, 2013,

1917 'Family Notices.', The Register (Adelaide, SA : 1901 1929), 20 December, p. 4, viewed 7 July, 2013,

1951 – Beryl &
Trevor Schultz
(no photos)

Mavis Caldicott (nee Blight) sent invitations Alma Blight’s
(later Trevenen) pre-wedding tea. 1929. Above is the
invitation Alma saved.

WEDDING
RECEPTIONS
20 September 1952
Phillip Harry Trevenen married Joan
Burke
Their wedding reception was in the Mission
Hall, as were many others at the time.
Eileen Stafford arranged the flowers.

1952 'Family Notices.', The
Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1931 - 1954), 13
September, p. 22, viewed 29 August, 2013,

20 September 1954 :: Murray Costin, Phil
Trevenen, Joan Burke, Margaret Trevenen

10 September 1955
Bob Leslie married Joyce Rowley
Their wedding reception was in the Mission Hall.

31 May 1958
Dene Rowley married Topsy
Bonython
Their wedding reception was in the
Mission Hall.

PARTIES

WWI 1918 – Forest Range &
Lenswood Berry Badge – tin
back. 32mm diameter.

The final of the Queen competition in aid of Red Cross was
held in the Lenswood Mission Hall. Dr Jungfer announced the
winner, Miss Shirley Harvey (£128 19/4). Miss Nancy Vickers
second with £107 12/7 and Miss Minyon Green third with
£103. Mrs Jungfer crowned the winner. £339 11/11 was raised
altogether. Approximately £680 has been raised for patriotic
purposes by the district with 380 population in five months.
COUNTRY NEWS. (1945, September 13). Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1895 - 1954),
p. 2. Retrieved September 23, 2013, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.newsarticle93339944

FOREST RANGE. August 30.- Australia Day was celebrated by
Forest Range and Lenswood at the mission hall, Lenswood, on
Friday evening, August 23. An excellent concert provided by the
Misses Fisher, F. Merchant, Percival, Ross and E. Thompson, and
Messrs. A. Ross, and H. Thomson, Misses Fisher and E. Bungay,
and Mr. L. Edwards were accompanists. The hall was crowded to the
doors. Mrs. Eglinton (Queen of Forest Range) won the Queen
competition from Mrs. J. Vickers, of Lenswood. The
crowning ceremony was performed by the President and Secretary.
The crown was made, after the pat tern of the Royal Crown, by Mr.
Edwards. The competitions conducted by Mr. A. Vickers (pair of
ducks presented by Mr. Ley); Mr. Clark Filsell (box of chocolates,
presented by Mr. Filsell) Mrs. K. Green (cake, presented by Mrs. G
Ley and Mr. Kleinschmidt). Miss D. McLaren (set of lace corners,
presented, by Mrs. L. Edwards) were won. by Mr. Leslie Collins, Mr.
Roy Green, Miss Elsie Kumnick, and Mr. S Norton respectively. The
local 'Berry Button,' which was designed by the secretary, was a
distinct success
Mr. G. Jeffrey, an old resident of Tweedvale, presented, a number of
kangaroo souvenirs, which sold readily. Altogether the funds should
benefit to the extent of about £100. The various committees were:—
Managing Committee, President (Mr. G. Ley), Secretary (Mr. L.
Edwards), and Mrs. H. Caldicott; “Home for a Bob,”. Messrs. D.
Brockhoff, R. Green, O. C. Norton, E. Dearman; Concert, Messrs. A.
Vickers, W. Bishop, E. Dearman; Queen Competition, Messrs. A.
Waters, C. Filsell, O. C. Norton, J. Dalton, F. Peterson, J. Marshall, N;
Green, G. Caldicott, J. Schultz, J. Trevenen, and Bert McLaren;
Refreshments, Mesdames Ley, - J. Vickers, Trevenen, H. Caldicottt,
Baum, J. Green, P. Green, jun., W. Marshall, Peterson, McLaren;
Jumble Stall, Misses W. Vickers, D. McLaren, N. Townsend, Myra
Green, May Green, L. Caldicott, G. E. Birchall, Delia Biggs, Ivy' Fry,
Ina Green, and Mrs. L. Edwards (convener); Doorkeepers, Mr. T.
Eglinton and Mr. Peterson.
1918 'THE COUNTRY.', The Register (Adelaide, SA : 1901 - 1929), 3 September, p. 7, viewed
29 August, 2013, http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article57543996

3 October 1961 Kay Langmead surprise 21st party at Mission
Hall
Yes I remember the hall well not only for school concerts where I was
once an elephant but also serving the tables at the wedding reception
of one of your committee members, Campbell Stafford and his wife
Kaye
Lynette Alexander (now Lockwood)

Alec Morris compered a Football Follies in the mid 50’s
in aid of Eric Philips. Peter Caldicott did magic tricks,
Don Morris play the banjo and Jack Muller was a
ventriloquist. His dummy, sitting on his knee, was
Garth Schultz!
P Stafford

There was a big football dinner there once,
with hundreds attending. It was the year of
the first big premiership. The hall was full
and the ladies catered.
P Trevenen

21st Birthday – 9 July 1957
Ben Wye’s 21st birthday party
21st Birthday – 27 August 1957
Topsy Bonython’s 21st birthday
party

Lyn I am sorry but that wasn’t our wedding reception but I did
have a surprise 21st there put on by the Lenswood Primary
School over 150 people came it was wonderful. I remember
Rural youth concerts there especially sawing a man in half!!!
which was my future husband. I also remember walking
around to the Hall for school concert practises. I also attended
the Hall/Church as a Church of England member with Mrs
Giles who I boarded with at the time.
Kay Langmead (now Stafford)

“there was a surprise 21st birthday held there for Kay Langmead (latter Stafford)
I took a key shaped sponge cake baked by my mother Lucy to school as a decoy
because Kay was my class teacher
Kay boarded with Bryant & Doreen Giles and they took her out drove her around
the back roads so when she arrived at the Mission hall she had no idea where
she was
She entered the mission hall to a great surprise with parents, teachers and
student there to greet her
My mother had baked and decorated a second “formal’ 21 st cake, which was fruit
cake and then decorated it with the thick plastic icing etc as this was one of
Mum’s self taught hobbies”
Memories from Sandra Green (now Adams)

MEMORIES
The Basketball Club held a dance in the Mission Hall in aid of club
funds. Music was supplied by Mr and Mrs Aufderheide of Basket
Range. The proceeds amounted to £4 7/6. The Oakbank basketball
team defeated the local team at the Lenswood court. Scores were
Oakbank 27 goals Lenswood 10.
Mr McIvar is in charge of the cold stores.
A children’s entertainment under the direction of head teacher and staff
of the Forest School was held in the Mission Hall. Helen Dankel
contributed two solo dances. Dancing for adults began at 9.30 with Mr
Berand as M.C. Supper was served by members of the Welfare Club
under the direction of Mrs Arthur Green. The proceeds amounted to
£10 4/6.

During a period of the war the Education Department
decided to rebuild the Lenswood School so some of the
pupils were housed in the Church of Christ next door
which was quite new as it had just been built by Mr
Lawrence of Lenswood. Some of the older grades were
sent around to the Mission Hall near the ford. We were
some of the grades of 4 or 5 and we were allowed to play
in the creek under the bridge and catch yabbies. At the
back of the hall there was a huge heap of saw dust we
used to climb over. This was the remnants of large
sawmills of earlier days.
Colin Schultz

Cam also remembered on the weekend a hypnotist coming
to the Hall and how he got Joyce Leslie to play a "piano"
which she was so realistic, as well as other things.
Kay Stafford

The Welfare Club presented a globe and banner to the school. At the
annual meeting of the Forest School Welfare Club the following
officers were elected; President Mrs Arthur L Green, vice-president
Mrs Clarke Filsell, secretary Miss L Lee, treasurer Mrs A Filsell,
committee Mesdames M Vickers, M Frost, A Waters, Jenkinson, and F
Green.
The dance class is proving a great success.
"REPORTS FROM RURAL CENTRES." The Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1931 - 1954) 7 Aug
1937: 19. Web. 23 Sep 2013 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article74206709 .

Herbert Roberts was the caretaker in the late
40s early 50s.
Ben Wye

Harvey Schultz sang at all of the concerts to raise money for
the war.
P Trevenen

I remember a ‘best legs’ competition for some event once.
Mum (Alma Trevenen) won and Jean Fry came second.
P Trevenen & M Fry

1917 'THE COUNTRY.', The Register (Adelaide, SA : 1901 1929), 11 May, p. 9, viewed 7 July, 2013,

1945 'Rural Reports.', The Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1931 1954), 7 September, p. 3, viewed 3 September, 2013,

1930 'PILES DISAPPEAR.', The Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1889 - 1931), 22 February,
p. 9, viewed 7 July, 2013, http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article29011365

1945 'Rural Reports.', The Advertiser (Adelaide, SA :
1931 - 1954), 3 August, p. 2, viewed 7 July, 2013,

1949-61 MOTHERS UNION
Formed 28 July 1949 at the Lenswood Mission Hall
(Minutes held with the Prince of Peace Church, Lobethal collection held at the State Library of South Australia : SRG 94/M2 :: Treasurers book held in private collection – J Shaw.)

Meetings consisted of a short service and then discussion, sometimes a speaker. There was a
Ladies Methodist Guild active at the same time.
August 1951 – raising money to install
electricity at the hall. Fund raising ideas:
• Provide supper to as many functions as
possible
• Grow peas / swedes on the church’s
vacant block
• Stalls (tea and scones) on recreation
ground
• Card games
• Provide rooster for competition at the
Plum Pudding Ball
• Square Dancing

August 1957 – new rector was keen to have
a church name - St Ann’s suggested

1960 – a social club was also active
9 May 1961 – the group disbanded and
attended Norton Summit meetings

1916 'HONORING SOLDIERS.', The Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1889 - 1931),
26 October, p. 9, viewed 7 July, 2013, http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article6468477

Soon after the close of the Great War. An Australian flag, with the
names of those who enlisted from the neighborhood and those
who fell inscribed upon it was hung on the wall of the Church of
England Mission Hall at Forest Range. After nearly, twenty
years this flag was in tatters. In the presence of a large
congregation, a substantial wooden honor roll, bearing the fifty
names in gold leaf, was unveiled by Miss Mary Lyons, who had
been instrumental in collecting the funds for its purchase, and
dedicated in an impressive service by the Rev. T. P. Wood,
chaplain to the forces. An address was given by Mr. Playford, M.P.
himself a returned soldier.

Mary Ellen Catherine Lyons

1937 'Home News For Country Readers.', The Advertiser(Adelaide, SA : 1931 - 1954),
14 September, p. 15, viewed 23 July, 2013, http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article30777101

DANCES
There might be a dance on Saturday
night and then we would have to
setup for church in the morning,
bringing out the pews, organ and alter
and setting up the flowers.

1937 'Country Section.', The Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1931
- 1954), 18 September, p. 20, viewed 6 July, 2013,

Margaret Fry (nee Trevenen)

A parish ball (the first of a monthly series)
was held in the Lenswood Mission Hall.
Misses Hakendorf's jazz band supplied
the music, and Mr. R. Macalister acted as
M.C. There were visitors from Adelaide,
Norton's Summit, Summertown, Woodside
and Tweedvale.
1933 'From The Country.', Chronicle (Adelaide, SA :
1895 - 1954), 25 May, p. 12, viewed 6 July, 2013,

1939 'REPORTS FROM RURAL CENTRES.', The Advertiser
(Adelaide, SA : 1931 - 1954), 24 August, p. 19, viewed 29
August, 2013, http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article74431449

DANCE AT LENSWOOD.
An old time dance was held in the Lenswood Hall on Friday night.
There was a good attendance. Visitors came from
Summertown, Uraidla, and Tanunda. The proceeds were donated to
the Back to Forest Range and Lenswood celebration. Among those
present were Mesdames H. Schultz, F. Peterson, Misses George (2),
E. Norton, V. Green, R. and ? Rowley, Shultz (3), M. Peterson. Probert
(2), Messrs. H. Schultz, H. Rowley, F. Rowley, K. Probert, W. Sholz, J.
Fry, G Schultz S Norton H. Prosser, W. Castle. O. Caldicott, A Green,
W. Joyce, C. Green, L. Bonython. The music was supplied by Mrs.
Ginsberg, and Mr. G. Schultz was M.C.

1930 'From The Country.', Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1895 - 1954), 18
December, p. 13, viewed 29 August, 2013, http://nla.gov.au/nla.newsarticle90468701

1928 'DANCE AT LENSWOOD.', The Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1889 - 1931), 29 August, p.
8, viewed 29 August, 2013, http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article29292961

BACHELORS BALL
LENSWOOD A bachelors’ ball, in aid or Forest school funds, was held
at the Lenswood Mission Hall Mr. George Schultz was M.C. and the
music for the dancing was supplied by the Excelsior Jazz Band, of
Adelaide. Prizes for novelties were won by Miss Tena Edwards and Mr.
Jack Schultz (Monte Carlo) and Mr. Frank Ganoni and partner (lucky
spot). The home-made supper was provided by the bachelors, and
served by four or them, namely, Messrs. Bert Robinson, George
Schultz. Cliff Joyce, and Norman Hughes who donned while aprons
and caps for the occasion. The hall was decorated in red and white
streamers, with gum leaves adorning the stage.
1934 'REPORTS FROM RURAL CENTRES.', The Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1931 - 1954), 27
July, p. 26, viewed 29 August, 2013, http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article35123352

BALL AT LENSWOOD.
A leap year ball was held in the Lenswood Mission Hall on
February 26 in aid of the MorIalta Children's Home.
Members of the committee were Misses Madge
Caldicott and Mavis Blight, and Messrs. Ken Caldicott and
Jock McAllister. Mr. Hosking, representing the board of
the home, thanked those present. The lucky spot was won
by Miss E. Holyoak and Mr W. Scholz. Miss W. Bishop
and Mr B. Robinson won the Monte Carlo dance, and Miss
A. Stafford and Mr. F. Rowley secured the prize for the
lucky number.
1932 'BALL AT LENSWOOD.', The Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1931 - 1954), 3
March, p. 12, viewed 2 September, 2013, http://nla.gov.au/nla.newsarticle46843912

Did you ‘Trip the light Fantastic’ to the
following musicians?
Kevin Curtis and Faith Spargo

1932 - OLD SCHOLARS' DANCE

Don Scrase and Jack Makings

Mr and Mrs Aufderheide from Basket Range
The Forest School old scholars continued their fortnightly dance in
the Lenswood Mission Hall on Wednesday. The proceeds were in aid
Vaughan Cranwell
of the school libraries. Among those present were Mr. and Mrs. O.
W. Probert. Mr. and Mrs. W. Bishop. Mr. and Mrs. L. Caldicott. Mr.
Peter Cranwell, Don Stentiford and Glyne Cranwell
and Mrs. F. Townsend. Mr. and Mrs. C. Mason. Mr. and Mrs.
Black Cat Band
A. Stafford, Mr. and Mrs. J. Green, Mr. and Mrs. W. Scholz. Mr. and
Mrs. S. Norton. Mesdames L. Caldicott. A. Vickers. A. Conlon, H.
Helen Thomas (piano)
and R. Plummer, Misses E. Steer, M. Caldicott. P. Joyce. B. A. and
John Mangelsdorf (Drums)
J. Probert, P. Blight. M. Schultz. W. Bishop. L. and J. O'Malley, W.
Graetz. and P. Gurr. D. Merchant, E. Chigwidden, N. Roley, M.
Len Mangelsdorf (Saxonophist)
Madigan, J. Bale. M. Raymond, H. Caldicott. and H. Hale. Messrs.
MCBill Scholz
J.Macallster. H. Green, L. Redin, C. Joyce, B. Schultz, L. Green. S.
Norton. L. Norton.A. Dawson, H. Rowley. P. Rowley. B. Robinson. W.
Mrs Stella Walters and Welland Aufderheide
Fry. L. Copeland, M. Graetz. C. Fox. L. Collins. Saunders, W.
- MC Don Kumnick
Scholz. R. May, T. Trenorden, C. Merchant, B.Townsend, R.
Jenkinson. W. Probert. J. Young, H. Bennets, G. Ingerson, H.
LENSWOOD The annual social of the Wesley Guild was held in the
Slape,S. Bongard, and V. Adams.
Methodist Church. Greetings were received from Oakbank. Charleston.
1932 'OLD SCHOLARS' DANCE.', The Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1931 - 1954), 9 July, p. Woodside. and Balhannah. Miss Sophie Schultz read the secretary's
18, viewed 5 April, 2013, http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article34687794
report. Mr. W. Alexander was chairman. Those who took part in the
programme were Mrs. Jack Schultz and Mr. Leslie Green (duet). Mrs.
Teakle (solo), and Misses Eileen Pearson, Hilda Stafford, and Mr.
There was a dance somewhere every week. This
Hutchens (recitations). The Woodside choir also rendered items.
was a big hall. I remember being at a dance when
Winners of competitions were —Misses Clarice Teakle and Eileen
word came that King George had died. They
Pearson (Oakbank) and Mr. Ralph Norsworthy (Balhannah). — A ball
cancelled the dance midway through and we all went
was held in Lens wood Mission Hall in aid of Forest school woodwork
home.
class. Mr. George Schultz was M.C.
M Fry

1933 'REPORTS FROM RURAL CENTRES.', The Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1931 - 1954), 3
October, p. 7, viewed 2 September, 2013, http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article74015156

Oz used to have to clean up after the dances ready for
church in the morning. He would walk over the hill from his
home and clean up and put out the pews. He was a paid
caretaker for many years.

Pin-Up girl competition
winner Lilly Berry.

M Fry

The liquor license was no liquor within 300 yards the hall.
You could count the steps (yards) to the white post on the
way to Baum’s. There was always a stash of bottles hidden
there.
(D Rowley)

XX always had a bootful of grog. He used to have
everything. When we went to the dance we would drop the
girl at the dance and then stay outside. There was no
smoking in the hall and if it was raining the little porch would
be crammed. The girls would sit around the edge of the
hall.
(P and J Trevenen)

Oz Caldicott used to put speed on the floor before a
dance. He would spread it around and then pull a
bloke around on a bag to make the floor “fast” for
dancing. They used to have dance competitions.
Once Mark Frost said “now we’ll have a waltzing
competition strictly for ‘hamatuers’”. Stan Barrand
quickly replied “Well I haven’t bought my hammer so
I’ll have to sit out!”.

1945 'Rural Reports.', The Advertiser (Adelaide,
SA : 1931 - 1954), 9 June, p. 3, viewed 25 July,
2013, http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article43496780

Deb. Ball At Lenswood. (1954,
September 16). The Advertiser (Adelaide,
SA : 1931 - 1954), p. 16. Retrieved
September 23, 2013, from

L-R Pam Rowley & Bob Leslie, Judith Caldicott & unknown, Marlene Packer & unknown,
Mary Plummer & unknown, Beth Joyce & John Schapel, Judith Bridges & unknown,
Glenda Green & Forest Driver.

Pam Rowley enters on stage to
make her debut.

Mrs Giles, dance conveynor,
presented the seven debutants to
Mrs T Playford.

Debutants were Pam Rowley & Bob Leslie, Judith Caldicott &
unknown, Marlene Packer & unknown, Mary Plummer &
unknown, Beth Joyce & John Schapel, Judith Bridges &
unknown, Glenda Green & Forest Driver.

Merilyn Rowley collected the debutant’s
posies. Seated are Bob Leslie and Pam
Rowley, Forest Driver and Glenda Green,
and others.

Junior Deb Ball – 18 June 1960

Email from Sandra Adams (nee Green)

“My frock was made by Raelene Brock nee Stanley whose husband was Ron Brock of Forest
Range. Raelene was a relative on my mother’s side and had met Ron Brock when staying with
my parents and was a professional dressmaker. I remember Bruce Gadkear’s mother, Audrey,
putting lipstick on for me as I was the only deb not wearing it. My shoes were white plastic
sandals because mum would not buy white leather shoes for me – not practical - and they
probably broke the budget. I also noticed in the photos my circlet of flowers was not straight on
my head! I can see Aunty Mavis Townsend peeking around the side of the piano on the stage”

Sandra Green and Bruce
Gadkear

Janice Plummer and
Peter Green

Sandra and Philip
Green

Junior debs were presented to Mr & Mrs Mugford, Mrs Morriss and
Mrs Shirley Mason.
Above: Janice Plummer and Peter Green
Below: Lynette Fry and Mitchell Gadkear

Jenny Fry and Sally Plummer present flowers to the
adults, pictured Mavis Townsend who played the
piano.

MOVIES

The Back of Beyond (1954)
The Back of Beyond (1954), directed by John Heyer, was
made by the Shell Film Unit. 3 The Shell Unit was set up in
1948 with Heyer in charge. Heyer was given a brief by Shell
to make a "prestige" documentary that would capture the
essence of Australia.
He chose as his subject a weekly Birdsville Track mail run.
The film follows the mail man Tom Kruse and his mail truck
along the Track. He visits isolated stations and outposts and
encounters natural obstacles - like flood waters and sand
dunes - which he deals with as a matter of course. The film
also takes up stories of the Track - stories of its past,
anecdotes about it. There are re-enactments: two young girls
set off for the track to find help after their mother has died but
are never found; and an Aboriginal whilst inspecting the
remains of a mission station recalls it as a going concern
when he was a child.
The film was shown in theatrettes, town halls and from
travelling vans throughout Australia. It is estimated that some
750,000 Australians saw it in the first two years of its release
this way.
The Australian Journal of Media & Culture
vol. 1 no 1 (1987) Australian Film in the 1950s Edited by Tom O'Regan

Harold Raymond
Lenswood Mission Hall
CONCERTS
Was the violin called
Maureen?
Harold Raymond performed with his talking violin and his Merrymakers. The show included comedy, bell ringing, dancing, magic, juggling,
ventriloquism and hillbilly yodelling.
Harold Raymond was a resident and campaigner for Townsend House – SA Institution for the Deaf and Blind, for most of his life. In 1979 a building at
the Townsend House complex was, thanks to a grant of more than $30,000.00 from the institution, converted into a craft centre for blind
and deaf people. In 1983, it was named the Harold Raymond Building in honour of the then recently deceased Harold Raymond, MBE.
Raymond became a pupil at Townsend House in 1909 as a 13 year old boy. By the age of 16 he was totally blind. He later became a collector for the
institution, seeking donations from the public. In 1918, at Berri, he adopted a fresh and highly successful approach to seeking donations.
He hired a hall and called a meeting chaired by a prominent citizen. At the meeting he demonstrated braille and other skills and then played his violin
with support from local musicians. For nearly 50 years he gave concerts throughout the state, raising considerable funds for the institution.
In 1932, he became the institutions travelling concert manager and remained with the institution finally as appeals officer, until his death on
September 8, 1983
(Adelaide Advertiser1/5/2002 “What’s your problem”)

SCHOOL CONCERTS
[December 20, 1926]
On Friday evening the mission hall was crowded with parents and friends for the
break-up concert given by the children of the Forest School, Lenswood. Songs,
recitations, dances, and vocal items were rendered by children, and their ability
reflected great credit upon the head teacher (Mr. George) and his assistant (Miss
B. George). Mr. Rowley, chairman of school committee, presented prizes to best
all-round scholar in each grade for the year's work, and many other children
received chocolates for good work. Mr. George, also received congratulations for
number of children who successfully passed the recent qualifying examinations;
seven students sat for the test, all of whom passed.
1927 'MOUNT GAMBIER.', Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1895 - 1954), 1 January, p. 13, viewed 6 July, 2013,

Yes I remember being on this stage several
times. In 1943 in the play put on at the end of
the year. A play about Father Christmas
starring Darryl Green and myself.
Claire Alexander

We used to walk around from the school for
concert practice, and rush straight into the creek
to play.

1916 'THE COUNTRY.', The Advertiser (Adelaide, SA :
1889 - 1931), 5 October, p. 9, viewed 6 July, 2013,

P Trevenen

Kath Joyce sang “Christopher Robin” &
Gordon Schultz was Christoper Robin,
kneeling and saying his prayers.
G Schultz

I remember being in “Little Miss Muffet” for
one school concert. Nancy Vickers was
Miss Muffet and I was the spider!
P Trevenen

FOREST SCHOOL WELFARE CLUB
The Forest school welfare club held its first birthday party at the Lenswood
Mission hall.
1936 'W.C.T.U. Activities.', The Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1931 - 1954), 15 August, p. 25, viewed 5 April,
2013, http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article48169893

The Welfare club held a social in the
Mission Hall. A waltzing competition was
won by Mr. and Miss Aufderheide
of Basket Range, and a lucky spot by
Colin Green and Sylvia Schultz. Supper
was served by the members of the
Welfare Club, under the direction of Mrs.
Arthur Green.
1937 'Country Section.', The Advertiser (Adelaide, SA :
1931 - 1954), 18 September, p. 20, viewed 6 July, 2013,

Members of the welfare club at the 40th anniversary
Dora Frost, Alma Trevenen, Emily Mason, Elsie Green, Mavis Caldicott

1938 'REPORTS FROM RURAL CENTRES.', The
Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1931 - 1954), 22 August, p. 17,
viewed 2 September, 2013, http://nla.gov.au/nla.newsarticle74395631

Lenswood Amateur Dramatic Society
LENSW00D.; September 11. — On the invitation of the 'Lenswood Amateur Dramatic
Society,' about 60 persons gathered at the Mission Hall on Friday night. Mr. S. Green,
in welcoming the guests, explained that the social was to commemorate the first
anniversary of the society. The hall was decorated with streamers and asparagus fern.
The arrangements were in the hands of the secretary (Mr.0. Green), and the items
were: — Overture, Mr. Len Stafford; opening chorus, Lenswood Dramatic Society;
song ,'My Rosary,' Miss Verna Green; ' song, 'At Dawn,' Mr. C. Green; song, 'In the
Garden of my Heart,' Mrs. S. Green; guitar solo, Mr.Ray Green; harp duet, Mr. G.
Schultz and Mr.S. Barrand. Competitions were won by Mr. Bert Green, Miss Daisy
Green, Mr. Steve Norton, and Mr. S. Barrand. Dancing followed till midnight to music
supplied by the Lenswood Orchestra, assisted by Mr. Ray Green. The members of the
society presented Mr. and Mrs. S. Green with a wicker-chair, in appreciation of the way
they had worked to make the society a success.
1927 'ARDROSSAN.', Chronicle (Adelaide, SA : 1895 - 1954), 17 September, p. 15, viewed 1 August, 2013, http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article90076295

The Lenswood Amateur Dramatic Society toured with the comedy drama, “Escaped from the
Law,” produced by Stan Barrand. It was staged at Gumeracha and Tweedvale in 1927.
In 1929 the society staged a play entitled, “Run to Earth.”

Celebrations on Thursday.
Back to Forest Range and Lenswood celebrations have been arranged by strong committee in the district, of
which Mr. S. Barrand is President and Mr. S. Green secretary, with the idea of commemorating the fortieth
anniversary of the discovery of gold in the district. Forest Range is one of the oldest settled areas in the hills, the
first people to go there being sawyers, and splitters, who crashed to the ground the huge timber of the district to be
carried to Adelaide by bullock teams. As the land was gradually cleared it was utilized for fruit growing and raspberry
and strawberry culture. Church services were held in a slab hall, the preacher sometimes driving from Mount
Pleasant. Mr. Jack Fry .conducted the mail service for many years, and the first hotel was called the Stoney Creek
Hotel, the ruins of which are, now standing, on the property of Mr. H. Baum. Gold was discovered, in 1888, and
while a large portion of the alluvial field was staked out, the main lode was never discovered, and the field
soon petered out. The 'rush, however, proved beneficial to the district, because many of the diggers, realizing the
fertility of the soil, eventually made their homes there. Many of the old settlers, are still hale and hearty, and one of
these is Mr. John Green, who will be one of the first to extend a welcome to all visitors.

The celebrations will be opened on Thursday, evening when an old-time concert will be held. This has been
arranged by Mr. John Dempster, and the proceedings will be officially opened by Mrs. H. Homburg, in the absence
of the Attorney-General (Hon. H.' Homburg). Mr. John Green will give the address of welcome. On Friday morning,
visitors and old-timers, will 'go back to school, and in the afternoon the children will be catered for by a sports
gathering on the recreation ground near the ford. An old time dance will from [sic] the main feature of' the evening's
-celebrations on Friday, and on Saturday afternoon, the locals will play the visitors cricket on the Forest Range Oval.
Forest Range and Lenswood boast of a talented amateur dramatic society, which has raised over £300 for charities,
and this body of workers will entertain with a presentation of that famous play, 'The Private Secretary’. On Sunday,
there will, be 'back to church' services, conducted by Mr. Longman (Church of England), at 2.30 p.m., and by Mr.
Bailey (Methodist) in the evening. About 200 people are expected to visit; the district during the
celebrations. Excellent charabanc services have been arranged to leave Adelaide G.P.O. at noon and 5 p.m. on
Thursday and Friday, and 9.30 a.m. and 6 p.m. on Saturday. Return services provide for departure from Forest
Range on Friday at 8.30 a.m. on Saturday ant 8.00 a.m. and 1 p.m. and on Sunday at 9 a.m. and 4.30 p.m
In addition to- Messrs Barrand and Green, (president, and secretary respectively), the .committee includes
Messre; B. McLaren, (treasurer).- O. Caldicott, K. Caldicott, G: SchuItz, W. Scholz, A. S. Stafford, A. George, S.
Norton, J. Fry, E. Hefford, and E. Mason.
1928 'BACK TO FOREST RANGE.', The Register (Adelaide, SA : 1901 - 1929), 21
November, p. 10, viewed 13 July, 2013, http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article53611126

1928 'BACK TO FOREST
RANGE.', The
Register (Adelaide, SA : 1901 1929), 24 November, p. 11,
viewed 13 July, 2013,

Handwritten script
Stan Barrand, was the producer and the group presented the
play, “The Private Secretary” in the Mission Hall at the Back to
Forest Range and Lenswood celebrations, 23-26 November
1929.

Rural Youth was defined as “a society of young people who meet together to
enjoy themselves and at the same time, learn something of their country and the
joys that come from helping others.”
The movement started in the early 1950’s and stopped operating in 1993. It was
supervised by the Department of Agriculture of SA.
In the mid 1960’s there were 81 senior clubs in the state with a membership of
4000.
The Lenswood & Forest Range Rural Youth Club was formed when it had its first
meeting on 11 November 1957 at the Lenswood Mission Hall.

Revue 63

Meetings moved to a number of local venues, including the Memorial Park Hall
and the Forest Range oval clubrooms. However the club met at the Mission Hall
on occasions when a large venue was required.

A variety show in 1963 was headlined by
• a man being sawn in halves - Cam Stafford
and
• a snake charmer – Barry Schultz.

In its latter years, the club decorated the kitchen area of the Mission Hall for use
as a club room. The Mission Hall was the venue for the last meeting of the club
in the 1980’s.
The Mission Hall was the venue for two memorable theatrical performances by
the club.

£24.10.0 raised for E.F.S.

Ye Olde Time Music Hall
A gay 90’s variety show performed in the Lenswood Mission Hall in
1967. Peanuts (in shells) were sold for consumption and for throwing at
the performers. Halls ginger beer was on tap. Proceeds went to
Restvale in Lobethal.

FOREST YOUTH CLUB
Formed 1944

…

AG. BUREAU
The local branch of the Agricultural Bureau
began in 1897 and has held meetings in a
variety of venues including the Mission Hall.
Apart from branch meetings, members from
branches in Adelaide Hills communities
would attend the annual social and an
annual conference. The Lenswood and
Forest Range Agricultural Bureau hosted
many of these event at the Lenswood
Mission Hall.
Junior Agricultural Bureau also met at the
Mission Hall and continued until the
formation of Rural Youth.

ANNUAL SOCIAL
The Premier (Mr. Playford) received
congratulations yesterday on attaining the
third anniversary of his assumption of
office. Mr Playford will attend the social of
the Lenswood and Forest Range
Agricultural Bureau tomorrow night.
AGRICULTURAL BUREAU. (1929, September 5). Chronicle(Adelaide, SA : 1895 - 1954), p. 37. Retrieved August 6,
2013, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article90048392

PERSONAL. (1941, November 6). The Advertiser
(Adelaide, SA : 1931 - 1954), p. 6. Retrieved August 6,
2013, from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article45736811

ANNUAL CONFERENCE
EXPERIMENTAL ORCHARD Site Sought By Government
Progress towards the establishment of an experimental orchard in a high rainfall district of the hills was
revealed yesterday at Lenswood where, on the 50th anniversary of the formation of the Lenswood
branch of the Agricultural Bureau, a conference of the hills branches was presided over by Mr C. Filsell.
The Premier (Mr. Playford) said that great advantages had been gained from the work at the Black
wood experimental orchard, but the time had come to review the whole position. He believed that much
could be done by research to improve the economics or fruit growing. The Chief Horticulturist -Mr A. G.
Strickland) said that four possible sites had been submitted by bureaus and examined in response to a
request by the department, but a search for a more suitable site was continuing, and he would welcome
any further submissions through the bureau. The conference was opened by the chairman of the
Advisory Board of Agriculture (Mr. P. J. Baily), who congratulated the branch on a junior membership of
43. Other members of the board present were Messrs. F. Coleman and Norman Wicks the conference
secretary (Mr. C. G. Mason) traced the history of the Lenswood branch from its foundation in 1897 with
12 members under the chairmanship of Mr. John Vickers to the present day when membership was lust
over 100. Pasture Development The conversion of virgin soil to pasture land was the subject of a paper
by Mr. A. J. Copeland and after lunch, provided by the women of the district, delegates visited Mr.
Copeland's pasture*, and saw their remarkable development. The District Agricultural Adviser (Mr. L. R.
Griffiths) said that Mr. Copeland had shown that large areas of the Adelaide Hills now undeveloped
could be brought into profitable production. What is being done to educate the coming generation of
fruit growers? That question was asked by a spokesman for the Lens wood and Forest Range branch.
Mr. Strickland said that there was no place where a boy could be trained for a diploma course in
horticulture, but he believed that there was room for such a specialized course at Roseworthy.
Meanwhile he advised extension of the Junior branches of the bureau to help fill the need for this
education. A resolution that facilities be made available to train boys up to diploma standard in
horticultural pursuits was passed unanimously. An account of his recent visit to the fruit growing areas
of New Zealand was given By Mr. Max Vickers.
EXPERIMENTAL ORCHARD. (1947, August 28). The Advertiser (Adelaide, SA : 1931 - 1954), p. 5. Retrieved August 6, 2013, from

1946 'BUREAU SOCIAL AT
LENSWOOD.', The
Advertiser(Adelaide, SA : 1931 1954), 23 October, p. 8, viewed 23
July, 2013, http://nla.gov.au/nla.newsarticle74638539

MEMBERS OF HILLS
BRANCHES MEET AT
LENSWOOD The thirty-third
annual conference of the Hills
branches of the Agricultural Bureau
was held at Lenswood on August 29.
Mr. W. J. Bishop (chairman of the
Forest Range and Lenswood
branch) presided. Mr. H. N. Wicks
(vice-chairman of the Advisory
Board of Agriculture) delivered the
opening address. Visiting officials
and members of the Hills branches
of the Agricultural Bureau are shown
outside the Lenswood Hall, in which
the conference was held. Among:
those in the foreground are Messrs.
A. M. Dawkins, P. H. Jones, and H.
N. Wicks (members of the Advisory
Board), Mr. George Quinn (Chief
Horticultural Instructor), Mr. H. C.
Pritchard (secretary of the
Agricultural Bureau), and Mr. D. F.
Laurie (Chief Poultry Expert). — ?
Krischock Photo
AGRICULTURAL BUREAU CONFERENCE.
(1929, September 5). Chronicle (Adelaide, SA :
1895 - 1954), p. 18. Retrieved August 6, 2013,
from http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article90048616

TRANSFORMATION
TO A PRIVATE HOME

The Advertiser, August 30, 1997.

Mission Hall
We celebrate!

The Advertiser,
April 24, 1999.

Building a Community: Forest Range's First Mission Hall

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