Gentlemen's Lunch 2026

On Friday 9 October, 150 Old Boys returned to St Andrew's College for this year's Gentlemen's Lunch. The record attendance included more than 15 Old Collegians aged 90 and over, with classmates from across eight decades reconnecting and sharing memories.

This year we celebrated milestone reunions for the Classes of 1961-1965 (65 Years On), 1955-1960 (70 Years On), 1951-1955 (75 Years On), 1946-1950 (80 Years On), and 1941-1945 (85 Years On).

The day began with morning tea in the Centennial Chapel foyer before guests gathered in the Chapel for a programme reflecting on the College's history and traditions. A new tradition was introduced when Professor Miles Kennedy (OC 1945), attending his 85 Years On reunion, rang the Chapel Bell to signal the start of proceedings, providing a fitting link between generations of Old Collegians.

After guests enjoyed performances from a number of talented students, College Archivist Pip Dinsenbacher spoke about the College archives, sharing plans to expand the display of historical material and encouraging Old Collegians to consider donating memorabilia that may otherwise be lost to future generations. Guests then joined together in singing the College Song, accompanied on the organ by Russell Kent (OC 1959), before making their way across Turley Bridge for the traditional group photograph.

The celebrations continued in Strowan House, where a much-loved Scottish tradition made a welcome return. Ed Butler (OC 1990) piped the haggis into the room before delivering the Address to a Haggis, joined by Alan Reid, Humphrey Moore, Bruce Murtagh and Rev David Thompson (all OC 1960), who had travelled from Australia for their 70 Years On reunion. They were among many Old Collegians who had journeyed from around New Zealand and overseas to reconnect with friends and former classmates.

Rev David Thompson (OC 1960) offered Grace, and OCA President Zoe Merrick (OC 2014) welcomed the gathering, acknowledging the generations of Old Collegians who continue to support and strengthen the St Andrew's community.

A special acknowledgement was made to Professor Miles Kennedy, who, at nearly 99 years of age, remains a link to the College's early history. He first attended St Andrew's during the Second World War and returned this year for his 85 Years On reunion. Also recognised were members of the 80 Years On reunion group, Professor Roy Kerr, Barrie Hunt and George Spencer (all OC 1950).

The 70 Years On reunion attracted a strong turnout. Thanks to Don Maginness (OC 1960) for his assistance in reconnecting classmates and helping make the reunion such a success.

Stuart Fox (OC 1962) delivered the Toast to Absent Friends, before Professor Roy Kerr (OC 1950) gave the Toast to the College. Roy transported guests back to the post-war years of St Andrew's, sharing stories of school life at a time when teacher shortages meant a mathematically gifted student occasionally found himself helping explain concepts to the teaching staff. His reflections and recollections provided a window into a very different era of College life. He also reflected on the journey that took him from St Andrew's College to becoming one of the world's most celebrated mathematicians and physicists, whose groundbreaking work transformed our understanding of black holes and the universe.

Rector Mark Wilson responded on behalf of the College, reflecting on the importance of stewardship, tradition and preserving the values that continue to shape St Andrew's today. He spoke about the responsibility each generation has to build on the legacy of those who came before them while ensuring the College continues to evolve and thrive for future generations.

Guests also enjoyed hearing from Mike 'Scrump' Johnston (OC 1974), who spoke about the College's outstanding First XV season and the team's historic National First XV title. With the trophies on display throughout the afternoon, many Old Boys took the opportunity to view them up close and capture a photograph alongside a piece of College sporting history.

As the afternoon drew to a close, guests departed with memories refreshed, friendships renewed and plans to meet again next year.

We look forward to welcoming our Gentlemen back again in 2027.