Gentlemen's Lunch 2025

On Friday 10 October 135 Old Boys arrived back to the College for this year’s Gentlemen’s Lunch, one of the biggest turnouts we’ve seen in many years. With ages ranging from 73 to 98, the room was full of laughter, handshakes, and shared memories as classmates reconnected and reminisced about their school days, which for some date back as far as 1941.

This year’s lunch was especially meaningful as we celebrated milestone reunions for the Classes of 1960–1964 (65 Years On), 1955–1959 (70 Years On), 1950–1954 (75 Years On), and 1945–1949 (80 Years On). It was wonderful to welcome so many familiar faces back to the College and to see the strength of friendships that have stood the test of time.

The day began with morning tea in the Centennial Chapel foyer, followed by a musical concert in the Chapel itself. We were delighted to welcome Professor Roy Kerr (OC 1950) to his first Gentlemen’s Lunch. Roy took a moment to reacquaint himself with the Chapel Reflection Room, where his likeness is beautifully captured in stained glass. He was amused to see that he hadn’t changed much, and it was a lovely moment of connection between past and present.

Guests enjoyed performances from Caleb Waines (Year 7), Ethan Waines (Year 9), Isla Kempthorne and Em Watt (both Year 12), accompanied by William Ernest (OC 2014). A special moment came when Ian Stevenson (OC 1955) watched his granddaughter Em sing. Russell Kent (OC 1959), who was celebrating his 70 Years On, also played the organ for us. After the performances, Charlie Gregg (Year 9) piped the group across the Turley Bridge for the traditional photo.

The Strowan House dining room was full of energy and conversation as old friends caught up over a delicious meal, thanks to Russell and his team. Greg Reynolds (OC 1973 and OCA Executive member) welcomed the group back to the College and set the tone for the afternoon with a few warm words.

Euan Hilson (OC 1954) offered Grace, followed by Denis Adams (OC 1954), who gave the Toast to Absent Friends. Then came one of the highlights of the day when Wal Scott (OC 1959) had everyone in stitches with his hilarious stories from his school days, delivering a brilliant Toast to the College that had the whole room laughing.

Rector Mark Wilson responded, sharing his first impressions of St Andrew’s and reflecting on how special it is to be part of a community with such strong and lasting connections.

We were especially honoured to have Professor Miles Kennedy (OC 1945) with us. Now 98 years old, Miles was Dux of the College exactly 80 years ago in 1945, a remarkable milestone and a wonderful reminder of the legacy and history that events like this celebrate.

We’re already looking forward to welcoming our Gentlemen back in 2026 for another special day of connection, laughter, and shared memories.