Thank you to George James (ON 1957) for organising this reunion and to John Southwell (ON 1955) for the article

George James (ON 1957) and his wife Bianca recently travelled to Cobar in Western NSW and planned on spending time in Orange while on their way. George had the great idea of meeting with two or three ON’s for a light lunch.

A few days later and after obtaining assistance with contact details from the College, he had contacted 23 ON’s from in and around Orange. He invited them to meet for a midday meal in a private room at the famous & historic Duntryleague Guest House & golf club on Saturday 16 September.  There was general surprise when we learnt of the number of ON’s living in the area.

George & Bianca organised black & white decorations and we had some old school photographs and memorabilia for display. We met at about midday and then enjoyed a substantial meal and excellent local wines that took up much of the afternoon.   Despite the fairly short notice a total of 18 were able to attend as follows:

Brian & Iris Atkinson (1955); Peter Britton (1951); Barry & Brenda Carr (1954); Allan Clements (1966); George & Bianca James (1957); Desmond & Sandy McDonald (1961); Stuart Mosely (1960); Jeff Nash (1953); Peter & Pattie Oates (1954); John & Helen Southwell (1955); John & Dianne Williams (1958).

During the meal each ON was asked to tell a little of their school years and of the period since, all of which proved to be very interesting. The highlight of the occasion was the address presented by John Williams (ON1958). John had been an impressive athlete at school and in his first year had won the U13 cross country.   After leaving NC he was the recipient of a Rugby Scholarship. During June to September 1963 and as a member of the Wallabies Test Team, he toured South Africa where they played 20 matches (12 wins & 1 tie). John captivated us all with his reminiscing of events and details of that tour.  The Wallabies tied the series with the Springboks by winning two and losing two Tests. The 1963 Wallabies became the first touring team to beat the Springboks in two consecutive Tests since 1896.

The occasion proved to be a great success and was enjoyed by all who attended.  It was great to have the opportunity to link up with and/or renew friendships with fellow ON’s and partners. Our thanks go to George and Bianca James for firstly the idea and then for organising everything. It is our hope that a similar reunion can be arranged for some future time.

John W. Southwell

(ON1955 – Bursar 1980-1999)