the high bulletin - sydney high school old boys...
TRANSCRIPT
Volume 56 No 1 April 2011
Print Post Approved 236697 - 00002
Published by Sydney
High School Old Boys’ Union Inc
Patrons:
James Wolfensohn and Lord Robert May
President: Joseph Waugh Secretary: Viv Littlewood
(02) 9907 2856 +612 9907 2856
PO Box 1546 DARLINGHURST NSW
1300 AUSTRALIA
www.shsobu.org.au
In this issue:
2 – Another international sportsman
3 – Phillip J Day Scholarship dinner
5 – Jottings 6 – Australia Day honours
7 – Speech Nigh 2011 9 – Pontoon launch 11 – Class of 1960 14 – Class of 1980
16 – Can you help? 17 – Thanks
19 – Notice of AGM 20 – Reminiscences
21 – Forthcoming events 23 – Obituaries
27 – Sport
The High Bulletin The Magazine of High’s Old Boys
SHOBs ARE BACK!
The SHOBs front row: James Ip (2008), Bill Wang (2010) and Shahar Merom (2009).
The Sydney High Old Boys’ Rugby Club was revived on Wednesday night, 6 April 2011, when 16 Old Boys met for the first time as a team to face last year’s premiers, Eastern Suburbs, in the Under 85 kg Competition in the NSW Suburban Rugby Union.
The first round disappointment led to a spectacular turn-around on 13 April, when the High Old Boys trounced the University of NSW 82-0, with tries to Andrew Johnston (1997) (3), Robert Chen (2008) (1), Nelson Ridges (2009) (1), Marcus Halliday (2), Matt Ling (2009) (1), George Barris (2001) (1), James Ip (2008) (1), Charles Kingston (3), and Michael Ambrose (2010) (1) and six conversions to George Barris (2001).
The Old Boys’ team has been joined by other supporters, including the School’s current sports master, Mark Pavone, who, before coming to Sydney, played with the North Brisbane Rugby Club in Queensland.
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SHOBs are back... The under 85 kg Competition is held on Wednesday nights throughout the season. There are plenty more opportunities to display the old High spirit in the forthcoming matches against Chatswood, Dee Why, Forest, Hunters Hill and Lindfield.
For further details on the draw for the remainder of 2011, go to the MyRugby website: http://myrugby.rugby.com.au/myrugby/competitions/ drawresult.asp?comp=8389&OrgID=01020
To register your interest in pulling on the old brown and blue: [email protected]
ANOTHER INTERNATIONAL SPORTSMAN Feng Yeng (2000) is yet another of our recent Old Boys to be representing Australia in the international sporting arena. He was first introduced to the Olympic sport of fencing at High in 1995.
Currently he is ranked third in Australia for men’s senior foil and recently won gold for Australia in the men’s team foil at the Commonwealth Fencing Championships in Melbourne.
The gold medal-winning Australian men’s senior foil team at the Commonwealth Fencing Championships. Feng Yeng (2000) is on the far right.
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Feng has also represented Australia at the fencing world championships in Paris.
2011 is going to be an exciting for Feng as he has taken a one year career break from his work at a Division of General Practice (Primary Health Care) to focus his attention on fencing and reaching his full potential.
The Olympic qualification period for London 2012 begins in March and he is already about to relocate to Shanghai to train with a provincial team. This will place him closer to three World Cup competitions to be held in Tokyo, Seoul and St Petersburg. Feng is under no illusion that the training, at the Shanghai Finance University, will be easy - it is full-time at 6 days a week, up to 7 hours per day.
The main difficulty Feng faces at the moment is lack of financial support. Fencing does not have a high profile in Australia and is not part of the AIS program.
Fencing can be extremely taxing due to the requirement for specific standards of equipment, travel expenses, competition entry fees, and training fees. Feng has been a self-funded athlete all this time and like all self-funded athletes just tries to do the best he can with the resources available.
Any Old Boys who would like to offer Feng support as he pursues the Olympic dream should get in touch via [email protected]
PHILLIP J DAY SCHOLARSHIP DINNER The school community is invited to attend the Phillip J Day Scholarship Dinner - 7.00 pm, Tuesday 31 May 2011 in the Great Hall. This year’s dinner will be hosted by Daniel McPherson (1997), host of Dancing with the Stars, and a star of City Homicide and The Bill with guest speaker Tom Cusbert (2002), University Medallist (2008). Cost is $60.00 per person and is tax deductible as a professional learning opportunity. Please RSVP by 26 May 2011 on the attached invitation. All enquiries
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should be directed to Con Barris (1971): [email protected]
The Dinner is the major fund-raising event for the The Phillip J Day Memorial Scholarship - established in 2007 in memory of Phillip Day (1965) - to provide an outstanding Sydney Boys High School student with financial assistance to maximise his opportunities whilst a student at the school. The scholarship is awarded each year to a student from any year within the school with selection criteria including outstanding talent in a particular area of academic or co-curricular endeavour, particularly good all round achiever or a student with special needs, financial or otherwise. Phillip John Day was a much esteemed Old Boy, Head Teacher of Social Sciences (1984-2006) and mentor to a generation of High boys. Further details about the scholarship, including a form for donations, may be found on the School’s website:
http://www.sydneyboyshigh.com/donations/scholarship-fund
Contributions Contributions to The High Bulletin are welcome and may take any form.Items should be submitted to: [email protected] or Editor, HighBulletin, SHS OBU, PO Box 1546, DARLINGHURST NSW 1300.
All contributions are submitted on the understanding that publication is atthe editor’s discretion and may be edited for any reasonable groundincluding appropriateness, style and to meet space, layout and legalrestrictions.
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JOTTINGS You can now post updates about yourself and your classmates on our website - http://www.shsobu.org.au/bulletin/
The Class of 1970 recently held its forty year reunion. Michael Fisher (1970), on behalf of the organising committee, has sent the school a donation of $500 for the Phil Day Memorial Scholarship Fund. He writes: “Not only was Phil’s younger brother, Ross, a member of our cohort, but we felt that if the money helped in some small way for a student to benefit from his years at High then it was more than worthwhile.”
Daniel Comben (2003) has been posted back to School as an industrial arts teacher.
Allan Ramsay (1967) writes: “They say there is nothing better than new challenges later in life. Recently my wife put forward the proposition of climbing Mt Kinabulu in Borneo. Being both avid long distance bushwalkers we decided to implement a hard hill climbing regime before making the attempt on the 4100m. We found that getting acclimatised to that sort of height within 24 hours is indeed a massive challenge. However, after rising at 2am on day 2 to take on the final ascent of 800m we managed to crawl our way over the last few hundred metres (with heads spinning) to the summit. And what an awe inspiring view over the South China Sea. The journey down was far easier. I would recommend this experience to all of the older Old Boys but get a physical first.”
Greg Perry (1975) is now heading up the Renal Unit at Royal Darwin Hospital. He recently approached Philip Gerber (1972) at Church in Darwin and asked if he’d been the CSM of the SHS Cadet Unit in the 1970s. Philip reports that they’ve certainly done some catching up.
Adam Farrow-Palmer (2006) just landed a new job as a programs producer at Sky News in Sydney.
David Moses (1991) reports that his firm, Horizon Habitats, won the NSW Master Builders Association "Excellence in Housing Award" for Renovations, Alterations and Additions in the $3 million+ category.
Wayne Donaldson (1967) writes: The late Bill Lucan-Roberts who, with the late Allan R Jessep and Jim O Rigby taught me Latin at High once (c 1966) said “Until you can read some Greek, you’re not really educated”. Stupidly I believed
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all my teachers told me. However, now I can say I’m “educated” for I’ve just finished a part-time BA (Hons) in Greek externally at the University of New England. My thesis on aspects of Galen’s surgery earned a First but having practised orthopaedic surgery for 35 years in Sydney was of little help. In part I needed to translate a 35 page long passage from a Renaissance edition which was quite like doing an unseen at school but there were no cribs to lean on. Let my experience show it’s never too late to do something you might have always wanted to do.
Cam Lyon (1964) writes: During a recent holiday in Thailand, Laos and Vietnam, I happened to be seated in a restaurant in the night market area of Chiang Mai, Thailand, downing a cooling ale with my wife. I got chatting to a fellow sitting adjacent to me and discovered that we had a little more in common than just being Australian. He was an old High boy and we had both worked at school holiday jobs as assistant posties at the Coogee Post Office, although at different times. He told me that he was now resident in Thailand and that his name was John Sulman (1971), otherwise known as “Ned”. He had also attended the same primary school as my wife (Rose Bay), before his family moved to Clovelly. He had also been a rugby team mate of our current deputy, Con Barris (1971). Quite coincidentally, a photo of the two of them appeared in the issue of The High Bulletin that arrived in my mailbox today, in the 12A Rugby team of 1966. High boys are everywhere!
Australia Day honours Congratulations to the Old Boys who received awards in the Order of Australia on Australia Day 2011:
Bruce Corlett (1961) AM for service to the community through business advisory contributions to a range of charitable, medical research and educational organisations.
Kenneth Dutton (1954) AM for service to tertiary education as an administrator and academic and through contributions to the development of international engagement in Australian higher education.
Charles Shuetrim (1957) AM for service to conservation and the environment through support for marine research, particularly at the Lizard Island Research Station and the Sydney Institute of Marine Science.
Russell Hannah (1960) OAM for service to the arts, particularly through the Illawarra Folk Club, and to the community.
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A singular honour On 11 December 2010, the High Rowing community gathered for the christening of a new single scull. The scull is named in recognition of Joseph Waugh (1987), President of the OBU, and member of both the High Foundation and the School Council for his “ongoing contribution and support to High Rowing and the Outterside Centre”. The funds for this new addition to the fleet were raised through the High Rowing Challenge.
The christening of the new single scull. L to R: Julie Blomberg, Joseph Waugh (1987), Cam Lyon (1964) and Anita Bezjak.
Speech Night 2011 On 15 February 2011, the School welcomed back Peter Sams (1973) as the special guest at Speech Night to deliver the Occasional Address. Peter spoke of his time at High playing the cello in the school orchestra and of being inspired to become a musician. He trained and worked as a music teacher before moving careers to become an Industrial Officer with the AWU. He joined the Labor Council in 1982. His career in industrial relations and Labor politics culminated in his appointment as Deputy President of the Industrial Relations Commission (1998) and of Fair Work Australia (2010). Peter spoke about the changing nature of the Australian workplace and that career changes were common and expected.
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His message was to be flexible and to follow the career path that will give you most satisfaction.
Congratulations to the boys who received the OBU-sponsored prizes:
Yixin Liu: Old Boys' Prize (for “the boy who was not necessarily first in sport, not necessarily first in scholarship, but certainly first in the hearts of his fellows”); Antony Paul: John Waterhouse Prize (for the Prefect who is judged to have the most “character”) and James Brunton Gibb Prize (for excellence in the art of public speaking); Gareth Deacon: John Skyring Cross Memorial Prize (for outstanding sportsmanship): Nelson Wang: JW Gibbes Senior Prize (for proficiency in classics and devotion to duty in GPS Sport) and G C Saxby Prize (for Mathematics Extension 2); Dominic Mah: JW Gibbes Junior Prize; Michael Do: Colonel D J Duffy Sword of Honour (for most efficient CUO); Max Wei: Keith C Cameron Memorial Prize (for dux of Year 11); Gavin Sutton: Sir Frederick Jordan Memorial Prize (for dux of Year 10); Adilmorad Nadir: Gordon Barr Memorial Prize (for dux of Year 7): John Wormell: Chancellor's Prize (for Year 12 Classical Greek); Yale Wong: Dr Charles Winston Prize (for Year 12 Geography); Austin Ly: SHOBs Rugby Club Prize (for Year 11 Chemistry): Christopher Chiam: A H Pelham Prize (for Year 10 Classical Greek).
Arch Ferguson Prizes (for sons, grandsons and brothers of old boys in Years 8-12 who are most distinguished in academic study and service to the School)were awarded to: Steve Comninos (Year 8), Daniel Tam (Year 9), David Andrews (Year 10), Kumudika Gunaratne (Year 11), Kieran Taylor (Year 12);
John Wormell (2010), who took out the Chancellor's Prize, also received the first-in-course award at the HSC for classical Greek continuers. The Sydney Morning Herald reported that John, who completed the most difficult HSC maths course at the age of 12, decided to study classical Greek because it required problem-solving, like maths.
Peter Sams (1973) presenting theprize for dux to Vithushan Mohan(2010).
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Pontoon launch On Saturday, 29 January 2011, the friends and supporters of High Rowing gathered at the Outterside Centre at Abbotsford for a cocktail party to launch the School’s new pontoon.
The pontoon, with a design life of at least 25 years and a low maintenance requirement, was constructed and installed by Sydney Marina Contracting whose managing director is former High rower Peter Philipp (1996). Technical advice and supervision is being provided by former High rowing parent Graeme Hurrell (James 2000 and Tom 2007), partner in engineering consultants WMAwater.
The Sydney High School Foundation has funded the very large cost of this essential project with substantial contributions from the High Club ($50,000) and donations by current rowing parents ($55,000) and Old Boys ($12,000).
The OBU is looking for donations from Old Boys to boost the funding significantly and free up Foundation funds for other much needed projects for the School.
The top 100 donors will each be recognised with a metal plaque attached to a plank in the deck of the new ramp.
How To Make a Donation All donations made via the Sydney Boys High School Australian Sports Foundation Donation Scheme will be fully tax-deductible. Under the School’s Scheme, all funds donated through the Australian Sports Foundation for “Rowing
The launching of the pontoon: Chairmanof the SHS Foundation, Geoff Andrews(1964), President of the High Club, NormLamerton (1951), President of theRowing Committee, Anita Bezjak,President of the OBU, Joseph Waugh(1987), Rowing MIC, Julie Blomberg,Principal, Kim Jaggar.
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- Facility Development” will be returned to the School and applied to the cost of the pontoon.
Daniel O'Keefe (2008), Robert Chen (2008), Matt Ling (2009), Mitch Kelly (2008), Chris Andrews (2008), Khalid Ahmed (2008),
Shahar Merom (2009)
To make a donation, download, fill out and print the Sports Equipment and Facility Donation form on the School’s website at www.sydneyboyshigh.com/sport/sports-donations. Please enter the amount of your donation in the rowing section of the “Facility Development” column.
Richard Luxford (1976), Keith Jameson (1961), Ian Stewart (1959), Steve Adams (1974).
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Return the completed form, with your cheque made payable to the “Australian Sports Foundation” or your credit card details filled in, to Sydney Boys High School at the address on the form.
Roger Grant (1963), Phil May (1963), Cam Lyon (1964).
50 Years On…..The Class of 1960 Australia was a very different place that year the young men of Sydney Boys High’s Class of 1960 bade their farewells, packed their bags for the last time and moved on to join the wider world.
In 1960, Arthur Caldwell became leader of the ALP, the Warragamba Dam finally opened after 14 troubled years and poker machine mechanic Stephen Lesley Bradley was arrested for the murder of eight year old Bondi boy Graeme Thorne, who he had kidnapped.
In sport, a certain magic was abroad. It was an Olympic year, and in Rome in perhaps the last of the “old style” Games, the Aussies won eight gold medals, with the names resonating as much today as they did back then ..... especially so with the likes of Dawn Fraser, Herb Elliott and the brave and battered equestrian hero, Bill Roycroft. Neale Fraser won Wimbledon (remember those days?), Kel Nagle the Centenary British Open and Jack Brabham his second World Formula One Motor Racing championship. Finally, as the school on Anzac Parade readied for its annual summer holiday breather, Australia and the West Indies fought out perhaps the greatest cricket Test ever played - Brisbane’s heart-stopping tie, the first in 500 Test matches. In the words of Sinatra’s song it seems on reflection to have been …a very good year…
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Fifty years later, November 12, 2010 to be exact, the Class of ’60 gathered again from places far and wide, to celebrate the Golden Anniversary of their shared experience. The meeting place for the reunion dinner was, rightfully, the Great Hall – always regarded as the focal point and engine room of the school for the special days and nights. The gathering process, begun by 1960 school captain Tony Cairns in late 2009, was not without its sadness – as the committeemen realised would inevitably be the way. Progressively they recorded a tally of Year of ’60 schoolmates who had died in the half century since: 18 of them, as it turned out - from a year of 156.
Four graduates from 1960 made up the committee that kicked off what would be an increasingly fascinating ‘find the schoolmate’ trawling exercise: Tony Cairns, Peter Tzannes, Rod Harvey and Warren Lewis (joined later by Ian Heads). The initial, and principal task was to track the ‘156’ - whether just down the road in suburban Sydney or at some far-flung overseas base - and the long haul began via the OBU lists and 1960 school records (with great help provided by Joseph Waugh (1987) and his OBU officers), followed by a dogged and comprehensive search through electoral rolls by Tony’s wife Ellen. Then, came the second tier – such as support provided by the Daily Telegraphs `In Search’ column and the Sydney Morning Herald’s ‘RSVP’. Rumours, tips and hints about the possible whereabouts this old boy or that were followed up with Holmesian intensity and ingenuity. Regular meetings were held at a mid-town Sydney hotel (medicinal purposes only, of course) – and the tasks sliced and diced and shared around: catering, publicity, the gradual establishment of a former classmates data base. Remarkably as the big night loomed, the committeemen had tracked down addresses for or details of all but 20 of the 156.
Friday night, 12 November 2010, prefaced by a slightly nervous wait when the drinks order for the gathering was delayed in heavy traffic, saw 75 of those
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former classmates from 1960 gather in the Great Hall. With them for the evening, enormously welcome – and gracious in his few official words - was Bob Outterside, a Maths Master at the School in ’60, champion rugby player and, later, a distinguished and inspiring Headmaster of Sydney Boys High (1977-92). Late in the night Jim Rigby (Latin teacher, coach of the first grade cricket team for years and an immensely popular figure at the school) called in – to a warm welcome, adding considerable additional lustre to the occasion.
Before it all began many had joined a 2010 prefects-led tour of the School; for most in that group it was a `first’ after 50 years…a rekindling of memories.
Tony Cairns was our skipper once again as he had been in ’60 and set the scene with some warm and appropriate words before committeemen Lewis and Heads kicked around a few sporting yarns on the subject of “Great Moments”. The epic 1959 Head of the River win was, of course, prominently mentioned.
Later, with dinner and ‘formalities’ over, came the nub of what these sort of occasions are all about – the meet-ups, the g’days, the handshakes among men who through the chance that life dishes out had shared some years together and something special - so long ago. Late into the evening, conversation and hearty laughter rumbled in waves through the Great Hall.
It was a very special occasion…a very human experience.. And as it unfolded the boys of ‘60 were, briefly, boys again, in numerous cases meeting schoolmates they had not seen for half a century - yet making instant re-connection….. again and again. Stories forgotten for 50 years surfaced with remarkable clarity. Observed Peter Tzannes: “I suppose what really amazed me was that after 50 years and perhaps an initial lack of recognition when first meeting former
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schoolmates there was the realisation that those same schoolmates had not really changed at all.”
Worth doing? You bet! was the verdict late that evening as members of the Class of 1960 finally headed back out into the buzz of the big city….…… just as they had done one day 50 years before.
But this time there was a difference: a postscript that the old classmates would meet again in five years time, and so continue the journey.
Class of 1980 Mark Maunder (1980) reports on the recent 30 year reunion for the class of 1980:
The Old Boys of 1980 gathered at the NSW Leagues Club on Saturday 23 October 2011 to celebrate 30 years since attending school.
Due to the great efforts of both Mark Danckert and Mark Maunder, many old boys were tracked down and some attended their first reunion since leaving school in 1980.
The night commenced in the downstairs bar for a few pre dinner drinks and a chance to catch up with each other and everyone was so excited to be there and see some old friends that they haven't seen for many years.
The Old Boys came from far and wide - a couple from the United Kingdom,and many more from interstate. There was around 55 in attendance with a real concerted effort to attend.
After a few drinks it was upstairs to the function room for a two course meal,more drinks and everyone trying to reacquaint themselves with some guys who had changed since leaving school.
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Many had lost hair. Some had gone grey. Some had put on a bit of beef and then there were those chosen ones who looked as though they hadn't changed at all.
Mark Maunder made a brief introduction speech. Scott Heathwood spoke about those old boys who had passed away. Mark Wieland lead the group in singing the school song. And, as the night wore on, anyone who wanted to, was given the opportunity to get up and speak - Charlie Crossley, Angus Dawson and Michael Barko took this opportunity.
It was a wonderful night had by all and the warmth and energy in the room was fantastic as the old boys of 1980 enjoyed each other's company.
With many years passing people were a lot more in sync with each other and it wasn’t a case of whether you were a great sporstman,academic or someone who was a bit quieter that others. The guys were just happy to catch up and find out what has been going on with their old school mates lives.
There were lots of funny stories about events that took place in the time we had at SBHS and some of the interesting teachers we had. And, to a man, every old boy was proud to have attended SBHS.
The night wound up about 11:30pm with some very jolly old boys after a few lubricants, some kicked on, some called it a night,but all agreed it was a fantastic occasion with high hopes of getting together again well before the 40 year reunion.
Thanks to Mark Danckert setting up the Old Boys page on Facebook, as the guys will be able to keep in touch regularly.
E-Bulletin The OBU now issues a regular
e-Bulletin, at least once a month.
If you have not been receiving our e-Bulletin, please send your e-mail
address, with name and leaving year to:
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CAN YOU HELP?
Join the growing list of Old Boy mentors
Thank you to the nearly 60 Old Boys who have so far volunteered to share their valuable professional experience and insights with younger Old Boys who are about to embark upon their professional careers!
The OBU is starting a mentorship program, so that those Old Boys who are already in a profession can offer advice and guidance to those ready to begin their careers.
If you would like to offer your expertise and time, please fill out the on-line form that is linked from http://www.shsobu.org.au/mentorship/
We will be seeking to engage younger Old Boys who wish to be mentored in the very near future.
Rugby coaches wanted
The School is looking for Old Boys to join the existing Old Boy rugby coaches and assist in the upcoming rugby season. The positions are paid, from $15/hr to $30/hr depending on experience, qualifications and team coached. The juniors train Monday and Wednesday after School and at Thursday afternoon sport. The seniors train on Monday and Thursday after school and at Wednesday afternoon sport. All teams play in the GPS competition on Saturday.
Interested Old Boys should contact Geoff Stein (1973): [email protected] or (02) 9361 6910 ext 320.
Wanted: civil engineer, geotech engineer and quantity surveyor
The Boys’ and Girls’ Schools are investigating the possibility of a shared-use Multipurpose Centre, incorporating a raked auditorium, performing arts facilities and other functional spaces, to be constructed in the Schools’ grounds. A group comprising the two Schools' Principals and members of the two School Councils is developing a proposal to be put to the Department of Education.
To guide the proposal, parent architects from both schools are collaborating to prepare a design brief and make preliminary estimates of the potential project cost. The group is seeking pro bono assistance from a civil engineer, a geotechnical engineer and a quantity surveyor for this work over the next couple of months.
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If you can help, please contact Geoff Andrews (1964) on 9386 9957 or [email protected]
Wanted: lawyers and project managers
The Old Boys’ Union is looking for Old Boys lawyers and project managers to provide their expertise as delegates to the Sydney High School Foundation Inc.
The Foundation’s management committee consists of the Headmaster, the presidents of the OBU and the P&C and three delegates each from the OBU and the P&C. Its objects include acquiring, holding and managing real property on behalf of the School and entering into legal arrangements to preserve, develop and maintain facilities on behalf of the School. The Foundation is responsible for the Outterside Centre at Abbotsford, the Fairland Pavilion at the McKay Sportsground, the High Store and the newly developed tennis courts at the School.
The OBU Executive Council elects delegates for the Foundation following the AGM in June. With several long-standing delegates retiring this year, the Council is looking to appoint Old Boys with skills that are needed by the current Foundation management committee.
If you would like to be considered for one of these positions, please contact Joseph Waugh (1987): [email protected]
THANKS
School Archives The School’s archivist, Louise Graul wishes to acknowledge the following donations during 2010. Anyone wishing to donate items to the Archives should contact Louise Graul on (02) 9361 6910 or [email protected]
Christopher Cooper, executor of the sister of Norton Rowe (1931): Photo/postcard from 1931 GPS Head of the River Regatta.
Jack Benson (1945): Copy of the November 1951 Record.
The High Club: Two trophies: Billiards tournament, Presidents trophy (snooker tournament); Framed drawing of the School; Miscellaneous documentation.
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Colin Clowes: Article on Joseph Coates (Headmaster) from The Sydney Mail, 19 September 1896.
George Maltby (1945): 26 copies of The Record from the period 1940-1976.
Rod Rimes: Photograph, 4th XV, 1927, including James Rimes (1927).
Jill Winter, daughter of Henry Vincent Napier (1930): 1883-1933 Jubilee Record.
David John Alexander Lewis (1973): Two school jumpers: one blue (Centenary jumper), one grey, 1 hand knitted scarf.
Barbara Golder, daughter of Alfred Manning Levick (1900): Prize book (The Stones of Venice, Vol 1) presented to Alfred M Levick for passing the University senior exam with distinction.
Wayne Donaldson (1967): two books that his French teacher gave to him:English and Imperial History 1931 and L’ile Inconnue 1908 Coulevain.
Peter Murray (1976): Copies of the Record, 1972-1976.
Christopher Budd (2006): School blazer.
Nicholas Whitlam (1962): his autobiography Still Standing (2004).
Diane Goodwin, niece of Norman Hansen (1934): jpg photo of final year (5A), 1934.
Ian Latter (1957): jpg photo of 2nd XV, 1957.
Bruce Pyke (1947): Booklets pertaining to meetings of the Lodge Sydney High.
OBU contact PO BOX 1546
DARLINGHURST NSW 1300
AUSTRALIA
(02) 9907 2856
+612 9907 2856
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NOTICE OF ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING The Annual General Meeting of the Sydney High School Old Boys’ Union Inc will be held at the Sydney Boys’ High School, Moore Park, Surry Hills (enter by the front door of the Main Building on Cutler Drive) on Tuesday 28 June 2011 at 6:00 pm. Parking is available on-site.
Nominations for the positions of President (1 position), Vice President (up to 3 positions) and ordinary members of the council (up to 10 positions) must be made in writing, signed by two members of the OBU and include the written consent of the candidate. They must be delivered by 21 June 2011 to the Secretary at PO Box 1546, Darlinghurst NSW 1300.
(A nomination form is available for download from the OBU website: www.shsobu.org.au )
The accounts for 2010, which will be presented for approval at the meeting, will be available in advance from the OBU’s website http://www.shsobu.org.au/accounts or will be posted upon request by calling (02) 9907 2856.
Members may appoint other members as proxies by notice given to the Secretary at PO Box 1546 Darlinghurst NSW 1300 by 21 June 2011.
(The form for the appointment of a proxy is availablefor download from the OBU website: www.shsobu.org.au )
Before attending, nominating or appointing a proxy, please take steps to confirm your membership by contacting the Secretary by e-mail: [email protected] or by telephone: (02) 9907 2856.
ORDER OF BUSINESS
1. Minutes of the previous AGM (22 June 2010).
2. President’s report.
3. Treasurer’s report.
Motion: That the accounts for 2010 be adopted.
4. Election of office bearers and members of the Executive Council.
(a) President.
(b) Vice Presidents.
(c) ordinary members of the Council.
5. Any other business.
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REMINISCENCES
Victory in the Pacific Alfons Rosenstrauss (1942) writes:
You may not realise it, but I am the only Australian who was present when the Japanese surrendered on 15 August 1945 on the island of le Shima – VJ Day – as I was a member of the American Forces at the time, and there were no others present.
At the time in question, I was stationed at the Motabu Peninsula in Ohmawa and we were going to the island of le Shima where a famous war correspondent had been killed by a Japanese sniper, to look at the memorial put up by the Americans for him. While on the way over to the island there was a message that came over the air “two Japanese Betty Bombers are on their way to le Shima to surrender. For God’s sake don’t shoot them down as their surrender will mean the end of World War II. The bombers are easily recognisable because they’re painted white with green crosses on the side, so please don’t shoot them down.”
That was on 15 August 1945 – VJ Day – and it was the end of World War II, the ceremony was arranged for the US Missouri on 3 September 1945. All of us present were given photos of the surrender but, unfortunately, I’ve lost them.
The Japanese military and diplomatic delegation at le Shima, transferring from the “Betty” bombers to a US transport plane to be flown to General MacArthur’s
headquarters in Manila. [www.militaryimages.net]
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FORTHCOMING EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES
Old Boys in the Northern Territory
Old Boys interested in forming a group in the Northern Territory should contact Philip Gerber [email protected]
GPS Old Boy Bowls
High has an enviable record in the annual competition for the Harold Lewarne Trophy that has now been going for some 55 years.
In 2010, High was runner-up to Joeys – and is hoping for an even better result in 2011.
Games are held each month from May to November at Warringah Bowling Club at Mosman.
The dates for 2011 are: 1 May, 5 June, 10 July, 14 August, 11 September, 9 October and 13 November.
A panel of new/additional players is needed. Qualification to represent SHS in this competition is for players to be Old Boys, past/current teachers or staff of the School, or the father of a past or present student at the School.
To be considered for selection contact should be made with:
Phil Lewis Phone/Fax: 9416 9627 [email protected] .au
Ern Berge Phillips Phone: 6558 0914 Fax: 6558 0916 [email protected]
GPS OBU Golf Day
The GPSOBU Day will be at Manly on 18 August 2011.
For further details contact John Kelly: [email protected]
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Class of 1951
Members of the class of 1951 are planning a reunion for later in the year. To register your interest, please contact Kevin Mulqueeney (1951): [email protected]
Class of 1981
The Class of 1981 reunion (for year 10 1979/year 12 1981) will be held at the Woollahra Sailing Club on 22 October 2011.
Final arrangements will be announced soon, but those wishing to be included should contact Paul Almond (1981) at [email protected] or 0413 136 149.
Class of 1991
The Class of 1991 is holding a 20 Year Reunion gathering at the Bavarian Bier Cafe, Entertainment Quarter of Fox Studios. Bent St, Moore Park on 7 May 2011 at 6pm.
For further information, contact Arron Mann (1991) [email protected]
MY CLASS @ SHSOBU.ORG.AU The My Class page on the OBU website provides a link to pages for individual leaving years. Each page provides a forum for members of the class to catch up and also to record the details of their reunions. Read about the spectacular success of the 1977 leavers at the recent GPS Gold Challenge, or the class of 1970's reunion at the Clovelly Hotel: http://www.shsobu.org.au/myclass/
To add your class to the list, please contact us: [email protected]
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OBITUARIES (John Francis) Michael “Smiler” Cremin (1939) died 13 January 2011.
A former Randwick and New South Wales fly half, he played three Tests and 19 matches in total for Australia between 1946 and 1948.
Mick is said to have been one of the most influential players in the immediate post-World War II period as both a player and strategist.
It was in the latter capacity that Cremin helped to mastermind New South Wales' stunning upset of the 1947 All Black tourists at the Sydney Cricket Ground.
Keith Austin Cross (1945) died 29 January 2011. At High Keith was School Captain, a member of the 1st XV and the 1st VIII in 1945, represented the School in athletics and won a CHS breast stroke swimming title.
As a Wallaby, his test career involved 19 matches spanning nine seasons from 1949-1957. In the same period he represented NSW on 25 occasions and took to the field 131 times for Randwick 1st Grade in 1946-1957.
Keith's funeral service at the Eastern Suburbs Crematorium was presided
over by fellow prefect, Rev Dick Engel (1945).
(John Donald) Bruce Miller (1938) died on 16 January 2011.
Bruce came to High from Bondi Public School and, on leaving High became a teller with the Bank of NSW and then a radio announcer and talks officer with the ABC in Sydney and Canberra during World War II. He is thought to have been the first Australian-born newsreader hired by the ABC. At this time he also enrolled in the University of Sydney, where he was forced to study economics because he had inadvertently disqualified himself from an Arts degree by dropping classics at High.
From the Record, 1945.
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In 1946, he became an academic, holding various tutoring and lecturing positions at the University of Sydney and the Workers' Educational Association from 1946. In 1952 he moved to the London School of Economics, initially to study and then, after a few weeks, to work. He then went on to become the University of Leicester's foundation chair in politics, in 1947, and became dean of social sciences in 1960.
He was appointed professor of international relations at the Australian National University in 1962, declining a chair at Oxford, offered at the same time. He remained at the ANU until his retirement in 1987. Bruce wrote and edited numerous books, articles and journals, covering his fields of interest.
His obituary in The Sydney Morning Herald records that Bruce was:
“an economist who advocated peaceful trade through state-managed, humane capitalism. For him such a system promoted peace over war. He was at once opposed to the utopian rhetoric of collectivism and the selfish cant of neo-liberalism.
“He spoke out powerfully against the attempt to ban the Communist Party in Australia but also supported the American war in Vietnam - something he later regretted. He opposed the invasions of the Suez Canal and Iraq and saw the invidious impact of neo-imperialism in Latin America and nationalistic racism in the Middle East, but he disliked what he regarded as disingenuous ideological posturing by the global south.
“He hated the Soviet Union for the 1939 Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact with Germany, was incredulous that people he knew remained in the Communist Party and mistrusted Marxism for what he saw as its inexorably Leninist tendency towards unwavering dogma and centralised violence.” (SMH 15 February 2011.)
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Terry Ryan (PE Teacher, 1981-2010) died suddenly on 4 January 2011 after being diagnosed in December with an agressive form of cancer. The Headmaster, Dr Jaggar, records:
Terry was a dedicated PE teacher. He was very involved in expanding the 1.6km run program at High where boys benchmark their performance and are tested several times inthe year to measure improvement. Terry was the mainstay of High’s “Learn to swim” program for many years. He managed Junior GPS Tennis teams. He gave a lot of his time as co-driver and mentor on several trips in the school bus to Boggabilla. He became quite adept at changing bus tyres! Terry loved swimming, fishing and Rugby League.
Terry is survived by his partner, Sue McGuinness, who retired a few years ago from the SASS staff at High.
The 1982 1st XI, GPS premiers: Back Row: M Cassidy, D Heydon, M Bard, A Woodley, A Holden, S Ford, M Espinosa, A Ackerman; Seated: C Sant (Scorer), K Nayanar, R Outterside (Headmaster), G Webb (Captain), B Hodge (Coach), A James (Vice-Captain), T Ryan (Cricket Master).
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GPS OBU TIE Woven exclusively for the GPS OBU Council of NSW, this tie features the embroidered crests of all nine AAGPS schools, on a tasteful blue background.
Ideal for job interviews and formal dinners.
Only $40 (includes postage and handling within Australia).
ORDER FORM
(Tax invoice)
Sydney High School Old Boys’ Union Inc • ABN 22 652 291 509
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Complete if paying by credit card:
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Please return to:
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PO Box 1546
DARLINGHURST NSW 1300
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BASKETBALL The School’s basketball team became the Australian Men’s Champion school at the Australian Schools Championship in Bendigo after defeating Newington College 81 – 79, on 14 December 2010. Both schools entered the grand final match undefeated. The scorers for the High team were Emmett Narr 23points, Daniel Jones 19 pts and Andrija Dumovic 16 points.
The photos from the Australian Schools Championship are courtesy of Ish Rajendram.
The School’s first grade basketball team are now also GPS co-premiers for 2011.
RIFLE SHOOTING The Sydney High School Rifle Club was honoured to host a legend of Australian rifle shooting who delivered a coaching seminar for students at the ANZAC Rifle Range on 9 April 2011.
Seminar presenter Don Brooks is a three time Australian Olympian (1972, 1976 and 1988); a three times Australian Commonwealth Games
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representative (1974, 1978 and 1986); smallbore world champion and world record holder. He was, therefore, eminently qualified to deliver an excellent presentation on building a perfect shooting position, and the elements of sports psychology used by elite level shooters. The seminar comprised classroom lectures and a fullbore range shooting session at 300m. The lessons learned by all who attended will serve them well for the remainder of their shooting careers.
Old boys Ishan Nadkarni (2008), Daniel Comben (2003) and Sam Kremer (1992) assisted with the conduct of the day. Thanks are also due to the magnificent Shooting Master, Cathy Meaney.
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ANNUAL SHS GOLF DAY The 37th Annual SHS Golf Day was played at Ryde Parramatta on Thursday 14th April 2011.
A beautiful day and a first class golf course saw 31 old boys have an enjoyable round followed by a pleasant dinner and presentations.
Winners were:
Killip Cup for 1st Ian Kennedy (1954) 40 stableford points
Ron Ramsay Bowl for runner-up John McGill (1957) 36 points
Scratch Geoff Dunn (1970) 27 Points
Long Drive A Grade Geoff Dunn (1970)
Long Drive B Grade Alf Tremain (1957)
Nearest the Pin A Grade Colin Dunn (1971)
Nearest the Pin B Grade Warren Lewis (1960)
Best 1st Nine Graeme Bastock (1958)
Best 2nd Nine Owen Sherrard (1957)
A reminder that the GPS Old Boys Day is at Manly on Thursday 18th August 2011, the more players the better to defend our title. For further details contact John Kelly: [email protected]
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Sydney Boys’ High School has had three homes in its 125-year history.
This new publication celebrates the 125th anniversary of Sydney Boys’ High School by revisiting the years spent in the School’s original home in Castlereagh Street - the site of the foundation of State secondary education in New South Wales.
This 58-page work relies on first-hand accounts and original documents and images to provide a fascinating account of the School’s earliest pupils and masters and their activities at School and beyond.
ORDER FORM (tax invoice)
Sydney High School Old Boys’ Union Inc • ABN 22 652 291 509
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MEMBERSHIP SUBSCRIPTION 2011 (Tax invoice) Sydney High School Old Boys’ Union Inc • ABN 22 652 291 509
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