Rex Konning

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Rex became a Wolf Cub in Johannesburg at the age of 7 and in 1949 became a Boy Scout at 1st Parow, with Ernie Palmer as his Scoutmaster. They built the original Scout Hall in Weimer Street, Parow, later moving to new premises near the Golf Club. The highest Scout achievement obtained was the 1st Class Badge.

In 1955 Rex was warranted as an Assistant Cubmaster at 1st Parow Group. 1957 saw him as an Assistant Scoutmaster at 1st Bellville with Teddy Schurr as the Scoutmaster until 1960 when Rex became Scoutmaster. In 1964 he went to Pietermaritzburg for a fun filled National Jamboree as an assistant to Oscar de Vries the Cape Western Contingency Leader. Rex recalls that it was a rain washed event most of the time, but above all, a great experience.

He was one of the first to obtain his Scout Wood Badge, as in those days it was not compulsory to earn it. Later he went on to earned the Cub Wood Badge and GSM/Commissioners Wood Badge as well. He also achieved the Cub Camping and Pack Holiday Certificate.

In 1972 he became the Group Scoutmaster of 2nd Parow Group with Albert Snyman as the Scoutmaster. The Edward Shield was won by the 2nd Parow Pack in 1978 and it was the first time that this trophy was brought to the Northern Area.

In 1977 he was appointed Assistant District Commissioner of the Tygerberg District which now consisted of 1st and 2nd Parow, 1st Vrijzee, 1st Goodwood, 1st Edgemead and 1st Monte Vista Groups. Later 1st Thornton also joined the District. This District was the first to wear District Badges on their shoulders, contrary to Head Quarters instructions.

In 1980 Rex became the District Commissioner of the Tygerberg District when John McEwan resigned. His Assistant District Commissioners were Donald Alexander and a long faithful friend, Denzil Roberts.

His final warrant was as Assistant Area Commissioner (Districts) when all District in the Cape Western Area were now under his control, including George and Wilderness.

As far as Awards, Rex was awarded the Long Service Medal in 1965, with the 30 year Bar following in 1977, 40 in 1987 and in 1994 the 50 year Bar. This award was presented to him by the Chief Scout of South Africa, Garnet de la Hunt at a special meeting hosted by 2nd Parow at St. Margarets Church in Parow. The Mayor and the former Mayor of Parow, our Area Commissioner, Brian Figaji and many other important Commissioners and Scouters attended. The Scout Band led by Alan Shinton marched from Voortrekker Road to the Church Hall together with Girl Guides and Brownies.

He was honoured to receive the Medal of Merit in 1980 and 11 years later in 1991, the Bar to the Medal of Merit. He states that the highlight of his Scouting career was when the Order of the Silver Protea was presented to him in 1995 for distinguished service to the Movement.

He contributes his success in life to his adherence to the Scout Laws and Promise. He has always tried to live up to our Founders last message: "Try to make this world a little better than when you found it."

In closing, he leaves a final message to (Brother & Sister) Scouts, in that he salutes you and challenges you all to live by your Scout Laws and Promise.

Scout Heritage Centre 2009