Fess’s Hut

Gilwell Park’s Patrol Activities Centre

Fess’s Hut, officially known as the Patrol Activities Centre, is one of Gilwell Park’s most practical and well-used facilities. Located at the end of Sycamore Drive beside Storm Hut, it opened in October 1985 and replaced the ageing Forest Hut, which had served Scouts for many years.

The centre was built to support Patrol Activities - small-team camps and programs that teach Scouts leadership, teamwork, and outdoor skills. It was named in honour of Kevin “Fess” Phair, one of the three Leaders who developed the Patrol Activities program after the 1977 Dandenong Jamboree. Their idea was to give Scouts the chance to run their own activities, make decisions, and learn by doing.

Inside, Fess’s Hut is designed to be practical. One section stores tools and equipment such as soldering irons and other materials for technical projects. The larger section holds camping gear and canvas, with a drying area that can handle up to 30 tents or tarps at once.

Over the years, Scouts have learned a wide range of skills at Fess’s Hut from bushcraft, welding, and blacksmithing to orienteering, communications, and environmental studies. It’s also the base for environmental camps that support WaterWatch, a program that helps monitor water quality and protect local ecosystems.

Nearly 40 years later, Fess’s Hut continues to be a key part of Scouting at Gilwell Park a place where learning, teamwork and adventure come together.