Great Scot Archive
Issues from 1998
Issues from 1998
 
 
 
 

Publications

Fellowship, camaraderie and support

The OSCA Annual Dinner encapsulates the aims and objectives of the Association itself.

The 85th Annual Dinner of the Old Scotch Collegians’ Association was by any measure an outstanding success.

In many ways the dinner encapsulates the aims and objectives of the Association itself. It fosters fellowship and camaraderie among former students, it keeps Old Boys in touch with the school via the wonderful addresses made by Principal Tom Batty and School Captain Jack Fowles, and it encourages Old Boys to support their old school, whether it is through the spirited singing of the school songs or through reigniting their relationship with their alma mater.

We were indeed privileged to hear former Prime Minister John Howard share his views about arguably Scotch’s greatest Old Boy, General Sir John Monash, and honoured by the quality of the welcome afforded to him by Old Boy (and current School Council member) David Kemp (’59). I, too, was honoured to stand before the 575 guests present as President of this dynamic association.

Former Prime Minister John Howard with OSCA President Peter England ('70)

While reflecting proudly on this wonderful occasion, I should also point out that I am aware that the Association must keep a very level-headed approach to the challenges that lie ahead. Communicating effectively with our younger school leavers is one of our major challenges: to them, emailing is passé! The Association is exploring the technologies required to remain in touch with these constituents, such as Facebook, Twitter and texting. Short, sharp grabs rather than layers of information appear to be where things are at.

The Association is approaching its centenary in 2013, and the OSCA Council is endeavouring to provide something for everyone in this important year. Former staff member Bruce Brown (’60) is compiling a centenary history of the Association. If you feel you have something to contribute, please don’t hesitate to contact Bruce by email at booey43@bigpond.com.

We are currently reviewing our membership. We have contact details for some 14,000 Old Boys of the school, but only 6,700 are actual life members of the Association. The OSCA Council is determined to address this issue over the next two years, as it seeks to ensure that as many Old Boys as possible are active members of the Association in 2013.

To apply for life membership of the Association, please visit www.oscanet.com.au and click on ‘Forms’ at the top of the home page. GS

Updated: Monday 24 June 2013