Scotch College

Great speeches - luncheons

November Luncheon

The former Parliamentary Secretary to the Premier for the Arts, Lorraine Elliott, was our guest speaker at the well attended fathers and daughters November Monthly Luncheon. Introduced by the incoming Luncheon Chairman, Peter Addison, Lorraine spoke of her family connection with Scotch, her father being an Old Boy, and relatives attending the School.

Speaking of women now in Parliament and the important role they play, she outlined the difficulties that parliamentary demands make on their lives. The impact of their workload on their families is immense and the necessary dedication to meet both claims is a very difficult balancing act. There has been, in recent times, a very considerable lift in the number of women in the Parliament which has brought about a very different climate within the Chamber. On the issue of why more women are not attracted to politics, she pointed to the combative nature of the parliamentary system, which on the whole is not characteristic of women's natural instincts. Many thrive on the cut and thrust, but many are not receptive to the aggressive atmosphere which it engenders.

However, the Electorate work and being able to assist constituents is very rewarding, as is the development and implementation of policies within her portfolio.

She enthused at the enormous opportunities she has had with her role with the Art community. The immense talents of the creative folk she has met and the support the Kennett Government gave to the Arts was of great satisfaction to her. There is boundless scope within Victoria for creative people and their abilities to be recognised and appreciated.

Her obvious delight with the subject was well stated and her knowledge of the issues within her portfolio was well understood. The mixed audience were all impressed with her candour and enthusiasm. In all an excellent luncheon.

December Luncheon

A record number of 'new' Old Boys were fortunate enough to be present at the RACV to hear Kevin Sheedy address our December Luncheon. Seventy-two were in attendance and without doubt appreciated the thoughtful comments and advice he offered.

In introducing the speaker, Ray Sneddon acknowledged his well-known football achievements but also pointed out that his cricket ability had almost made him a State cricketer. As an innovator, motivator and visionary Kevin had been awarded recognition with the Order of Australia.

Kevin's skill as a communicator was evident, as was his imaginative approach to the problems of life. Drawing from his own experiences, he emphasised the important issues facing the boys as they leave school and begin to manage their own lives in a wider field. Firstly he saw health as being very important and needed to be worked on as 'it is difficult to be well when you are dead.' It was also important to spend time with your father and share the knowledge of life that he has gained. Having completed Year 12 it is vital that boys think seriously about the decisions they have to make between now and their 21st birthday, that they are sensible and responsible in everyday decision making.

Whilst he believed money was handy he put it in the perspective of its value in the terms of Australian lifestyle and the rest of the world. His final observations were recommending the ability to adjust and be flexible in an ever broadening world, as the exposure to new and different challenges and experiences arise.

He outlined the problems and challenges he faces as a coach, from rule changes to management and personality issues. His advice was to find the issue, keep high standards and do not lose the focus upon which you set.

The very successful and enjoyable luncheon was completed with frank questions and answers from the guest speaker.