Scotch College

Luncheon with Herb, Stuart and Jeff

The RACV Garden Restaurant was the venue for an excellent address by the well known athlete, Herb Elliott who told stories of his exploits and experienced perceptions of the Sydney Olympics and their athletes.

He outlined the pressures on the potential athlete wishing to compete at the ultimate level of the Olympics. 20,000 or more athletes being reduced to 10,000 from 200 nations for their one day in four years. Their passion, achievement and skill each aspiring to Olympic glory and being able to compete at the Sydney Games.

His own thrill at attending the Melbourne Olympics as a spectator and the focus and passion of competing in Rome. His own experiences of doubt, fear and the challenge of the competitors were emotions that all would have as the pressure builds in the real competition. The tales of his win in the Rome 1500 metres was both inspiring and amusing as the event was assessed in retrospect. Also he spoke of towels, competitors, pressure and determination all building to the World record he set in that race.

Turning to the SOCOG issues of today he was so very positive that Sydney would provide a Games unequalled in recent times. The reporting of the sponsorships, marketing, venues, village and infrastructures have been very unbalanced and not as accurate as he recognises the scene.

With his answers to a series of questions he gave a great insight to the man held in such high regard as an athlete and an ambassador of Sportsmanship. Those attending were fortunate to share such an address.

Prof Stuart Macintyre

Our monthly Luncheons were back to the Cardinal Pavilion in April to hear Professor Stuart Macintyre, Dean of the Faculty of Arts at Melbourne University tell of his dedication to History. First inspired at Scotch by the late R H Clayton, '45' to us all, who not only made history live, but also made it so relevant to the times we live in. His other great encouragement in the study of history came from David Webster, who still teaches in Canberra. Together, their influence led him to making history his lifelong hobby and vocation.

The present generation appears to be denied its opportunities of history, with the emphasis on technology and scientific matters. Some major Institutions of Learning do not even have History on their Curriculum. The specialisation on Australian Studies and the environment, at the expense of the broader sweep of historical learning, is also a matter of great regret.

In answer to questions, he indicated his disappointment at the lack of Classical Languages and again stressed the importance of the wide view of history as being related to our daily life.

It was an address that certainly matched the present to the past in a very meaningful way. Such being appropriate, with the Class of 1930 attending their 70th Year Reunion. In all 14 'boys' of that year shared the luncheon and the company of their friends. One at least, travels from as far afield as Horsham. Much chatter followed the meal and photos were taken of what they described as a 'vintage' year.

Jeff's positive approach

The large attendance that enlisted to hear Jeff Kennett speak to our May Luncheon necessitated a change of venue to the RACV Roof Garden restaurant. It was a witty introduction from the former Premier as, with his usual forthright and positive approach, he stressed that we must always look to the future, as we cannot alter the past. Goals and strategy are needed to influence change and are necessary to implement one's objectives in life. The best thing that happened to him that morning was that he woke up!

He believed that relationships were important and should be developed both at a personal and professional level. Such contacts should not necessarily be motivated by monetary matters, but by mutual trust and understanding. It was in that context that his Government, when in office, had established many contacts around the world to further and exchange the benefits of Victoria. Of particular importance was our relationship with Indonesia, as our nearest neighbour with such a large population. Following the East Timor crisis we have been well reminded of our isolation and the need for our own self reliance.

He discussed his concern for those suffering from Depression and his new official role in promoting an understanding of the disease. Noting that little research work had been done, he considered education and publicity as an important part of de-stigmatising the problem. New research programs were also needed to assist in encouraging an understanding among those affected, to talk of their illness. Such help will ameliorate the isolation which those afflicted often feel.

He concluded by emphasising the responsibility of Scotch to continue to provide people for leadership roles for participation in all the varied areas in community service.