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OWCA
40 Years On - The 82s celebrate in style
The much-anticipated 1982 40 Year Reunion, miraculously missing the COVID restrictions of reunions past, was a party just waiting to happen. In classic fashion, precisely 82 members of this well connected and fun cohort combined with former staff to celebrate in style.
Forming an organising committee early on, the event delivered a slick tag team of speakers and entertainment, including an astonishing collection of video messages from their friends around the globe set into a pacy and fun travelog format. The committee included Mark Samlal and Ian Thomas who welcomed guests, thanked all who had contributed and highlighted the many achievements of the group.
Official guest speaker, Cam Williams, had the crowd in stitches with his commentary on nicknames, culminating in an award ceremony, and Rob Sharpe’s sincerity and care was priceless as he roamed with the microphone for stories from the floor. Ian and former School Captain, Jason Stephens, read ‘telegrams’ from former staff, including a wildly amusing and heartfelt message from Dawson Hann, who was waylaid in Adelaide.
Highlighted throughout was the commitment of the 82s to the life of Wesley - as staff and former staff, as past and present Wesley parents, and as amazing volunteers through affiliate groups, the OWCA and the Foundation. Another highlight was a fundraiser for the Foundation in the form of specially designed and very popular purple and gold ‘82’ caps, which no doubt will be seen at future get-togethers for years to come.
The lighting, 80s background music, cocktails, dinner, singing of school songs and the afterparty were first rate; nothing about this reunion disappointed, other than it drawing to a close dangerously close to the midnight hour. The College and OWCA staff involved are all to be applauded for delivering such a fine event. These OWs care a great deal for each other and their time at Wesley and seeing them enjoying every minute 40 years on was quite a sight to behold. Wesley Now and Always? There’s no doubt about it!