Scotch College

A memorable occasion –2007 Annual Dinner

Over 500 Old Boys connected (and reconnected) at this year’s Annual Dinner at Leonda.

Words: Tim Shearer Photography: Andrew Murdoch

Over 500 Old Boys congregated at Leonda to connect and reconnect with each other and to pay tribute to retiring Principal

Dr Gordon Donaldson. They also enjoyed Graeme Samuel’s reflections (pictured main) on his life and the relationships that have helped shape it.

Members of the Old Scotch Pipes and Drums Club piped in the official party and Leigh McGregor (’56) delivered the Ode to the Haggis with his customary aplomb. Graham Bradbeer said a heartfelt grace, and the night was under way. School Captain Ed Whitelaw was next to the podium, updating the audience with recent happenings at the School, both on and off the field.

A visual presentation depicted Gordon Donaldson’s 25 years as Principal at Scotch. Dr Donaldson then stole the show as he humbly reflected on his time at Scotch and his hopes for the School in the future. Greeted with a standing ovation, he shared his views about the importance of learning and education generally.

He told of his vision that Scotch should endeavour to provide every student with a degree of scientific literacy in the future. This will enable them to understand the scientific and environmental implications of issues they will face in after-school life. Dr Donaldson left the podium to another standing ovation – a sure vote of thanks from the Old Boy community for his 25 years at the top.

Michael Robinson (’56) proposed the toast to the guests with great flair and Graeme Samuel responded with distinction. GS

Mark (’90) and Gordon Donaldson	Alan Steele (’67) and Graham Bradbeer Young Old Boys join in the celebrations
Jim Derham (’56), Chris Taylor & Allen Morris (’51)	Marc Greening (’95) , Ryan Eagle (’95) & Martyn Boye (’97)
Catching up with old friends	James Paterson (’82), Sally Paterson, Doug Hyslop (’58) & Ian Paterson (’52)
Michael Robinson (’55) , Graeme Samuel, Gordon Donaldson and Richard Beveridge (’62)	Richard Porter (’06), Ian Porter (’74), Brian Porter (’44) & James Porter (’03)