Gippsland Grammar recently celebrated decades of connection as the School welcomed back Old Scholars from the Classes of 1965, 1975, 1985, 1995, 2005 and 2015 for its annual Decades Reunion.
Always a highlight on the school calendar, the day was filled with sunshine, stories and shared memories as the Garnsey Campus came alive with laughter and reconnection. Former classmates reflected on their time at Gippsland Grammar and the lifelong friendships formed during their school years.
Hosted by the Old Scholars Association, the event was a wonderful opportunity for principal Dr Paul Walton to meet past students and hear firsthand about their experiences.
It was an especially meaningful day for Old Scholars Association president Fiona Mills (née Neumann, Class of 1995), who attended as both organiser and Old Scholar. The reunion also drew attendees from across the country, including Craig Thomas (Class of 1985) who flew in from Perth for the occasion.
Among those reconnecting were Andrew White and Linda Cam (née Glover), who shared the School Captain roles in 1975 and were delighted to reunite 50 years later.
“We thoroughly enjoyed the time that we got to spend with each other, sharing enthusiastically both our memories and experiences,” Andrew said.
“What came through for me was the quality of the people and, I believe, the values the School instilled in us, which have served us well over the years and enabled us to be positive influences in our lives and communities.”
Old Scholar Kylie Lilburne from the Class of 2005 echoed Andrew’s reflections.
“It was so great to catch up with those who could attend, and I forgot just how amazing my year was,” Kylie said.
“And I couldn’t agree more with Andrew when he reflected on the values the School’s instilled in all of us and how they have served us well over the years.”
Gippsland Grammar development coordinator and Decades Reunion organiser Sarah Guinness – herself an Old Scholar from the Class of 1989 – said it was lovely to see the legacy of a Gippsland Grammar education celebrated in such a positive way.
“Once again, our Decades Reunion was a terrific success,” Mrs Guinness said.
“Our Old Scholars were genuinely grateful for the chance to reconnect with each other and with the school and the feedback on the day and following the event has been overwhelmingly positive.”
