John Scott Park
John Scott Park is named in honour of John Nicol Scott, a distinguished Camp Mountain resident renowned for operating the esteemed Auchen Eden Ayrshire Stud and serving as a Councillor on the Pine Rivers Shire Council from 29 April 1961 to 4 April 1970.
The park was established following the closure of the railway station and yards. Historically, Samford Railway Station played an integral role in the suburb’s transportation network. However, with the completion of the sealed road over the Samford range from Ferny Grove in the early 1950s, dependence on rail transport diminished, as improved road infrastructure facilitated greater accessibility to the valley. This shift prompted commuters and local producers to increasingly favour motor vehicles, ultimately leading to the closure of the rail line from Ferny Grove to Dayboro in 1955.
In response to the discontinuation of rail services, Bill Nelson, then serving as the local postmaster, recognised the potential of the vacated land for community benefit. He initiated a petition that was subsequently submitted to both local authorities and the State Government. As a result, the former railway property was designated as a recreational and sports reserve.
Presently, John Scott Park supports the community as a multifunctional venue for sports, recreation and public events, offering expansive grounds, a community stage, playground amenities and sheltered areas.
If you’d like to learn more about our local history, the Samford Historical Museum in Station Street, is open Sundays and Wednesdays, 9am to 3pm. Adults $6 and children $2. Groups Welcome.
Tel: 3289 2743. www.samfordmuseum.org.au/