For the first time since Kindilan outdoor education centre was established in 1950, the doors to the centre were opened to the public to celebrate its 60th birthday on Saturday.
More than 600 people from south-east Queensland, made the most of the opportunity and visited the Redland Bay centre for the Family Adventure Fun Day.
They enjoyed a day of abseiling, canoeing, rock climbing, flying foxes, giant swings, archery and low ropes.
Six months of planning and the help of more than 40 staff and volunteers made the day possible.
Kindilan manager Rebecca Fox said the hard work and planning paid off.
“I loved seeing all the people roll in and explore all the activities we have to showcase," she said.
“It was wonderful meeting new people who have never been to Kindilan before and talking to young children, young people, teens, mums and dads and grandparents and relatives and hearing stories of all generations giving Kindilan adventures a go, and loving it.”
Kindilan was bought 60 years ago as a Guides state training facility. Since then, Girl Guides Queensland, have hosted national and international events at the centre.
In 1999, its role was to widen to a professional outdoor education centre where schools, community groups and businesses can experience its outdoor activity, accommodation and conference facilities.
Felicity O'Grady of Manly said the highlight of the day was canoeing and "not having to line up for hours to have a go at something".
There was also a jumping castle and face painting and a BBQ.
The one question on everyone’s lips is, will there be another open day next year? And the answer is Yes!
“So many smiling faces and loads of laughter… I promise you all there will definitely be another Kindilan Family Adventure Fun Day” Bec said.
“We have already booked in October 12 2013 and next we hope to have another rock wall and an outdoor movie screen,” she said
Rebecca Fox said the day wouldn’t have been possible without dedicated volunteers and support from local business.
“I’d like to thank Guides Qld for having the vision to purchase and create Kindilan 60 years ago as a Guide campsite. I also want to thank the donators and sponsors of today, and all the past Kindilan staff and GGQ volunteers who have become family. But mostly, I want to thank my incredible staff and all the Girl Guide volunteers who made this day such a success. You all rock!” Bec said.
Next year’s Family Adventure Fun Day is set to be bigger and better with more energy, bigger a buzz of activity, fun and adventure.
If you would like to help sponsor the next year’s event or inquire about any of Kindilan’s programs and events you can phone 3206 7291 or email
cst@kindilan.net.au
