Scotch College

Canberra Dinner

The 2002 Canberra Branch Dinner was held in August at the Kamberra Wine Complex and an entertaining night was had by all who attended. Craig Hilliard ('74) gave an entertaining speech about the evolution of Australian athletics and the coaching and training facilities at the Australian Institute of Sport.

He talked about the relationships that he has forged with some of our best athletes and the highs and lows of being an individual coach. He also discussed how the role of 'coach' was in actual fact a multi-faceted role of psychologist, physio, programmer, computer guru, accountant and counsellor. He has been fortunate enough to attend five Olympic Games, which he remembers for their magnitude, their community spirit and the fact that friends are made for life. His 'magic Olympic moments' included Cathy Freeman's 400 metres gold medal, Jai Taurima's silver medal in 2000, and some of Michael Johnson's performances.

Brisbane Dinner

The Brisbane contingent of The Old Scotch Collegians' Association met at the Novotel Hotel in Brisbane in August for the Annual Dinner. Leigh McGregor ('55) was on hand to deliver his famous "ode to the haggis" with his normal gusto. John Stacey organised a terrific night, and it was clear that Duncan McMurtrie ('55), John Munckton ('57) and David Hosking (amongst others) had an enjoyable evening. John has handed the Branch Presidency baton on to Paul Thomas-Hicks ('92) who, with Leigh McGregor (who has accepted a position in the Development Office at Ormiston College), will organise the dinner in 2003.