Over 230 members of the Riverview Community came together on the last Friday in August to toast old friends and new at the 2023 Old Ignatians' Union Annual Sports Lunch.  With sunny vistas across Darling Harbour, guests were treated to a spectacular meal supported by an array of magnificent wines supplied by our Marquee Event partner Sevenhill Cellars. A sensational speaker panel including Iain Payten(OR94), Tony Dempsey (OR84) and ARU Coach Scott Bowen (Current Riverview parent) unpacked the current state of Australian Rugby and discussed their prospects for this years Rugby World Cup in France (might I add, a fairly prophetic discussion). The day also saw special OIU tributes to the  2023 College Rowing achievements, Matty Shields and Bob Marsh.

I would like sincerely thanks our Sponsors, including Punta Mita Resort, Sevenhill Winery, Bondi Trattoria, Sydney Restaurant Group, Helping Hands, The Buena Vista Hotel, Argyle Meats, Skeed Digital, History of the Wallaby Jersey, Cockle bay Yacht Club and St Ignatius College.  The lunch raised money for the College Bursary and our designated Charity for 2023, Hearts in Rugby Union.

A shout out to  all those members, parents and friends who kindly donated prizes and All those who won ! Congratulations and thank you to our major Auction Winners:

Simon Johnson (Punta Mita Resort)
Francina Turner (Cova Cottage Lunch)
David Tevanian (Hunter Valley Resort)
Natalie Lollback( Bondi Trattoria and Sevenhill package)
Nathan Taylor (Argyle Meats Package)
Catherine Power (Overnight Cruise)

And our Raffle winners

Nola  McCann
Julian   Stephenson
Sue  Cunningham
Michael Ward
Michelle  Abbey
Peter  Cahill
James  Quirk
Anne Fehon

Thanks to the Sports Lunch Sub-Committee of John McCann and Ben Connolly who did most of the heavy lifting and of course Chris and Heather from the Engagement Office.  

Finally, our friends at Bondi Trattoria have offered members a special deal leading up to Christmas.  Serving the families of Bondi Beach and its surrounds for over 35 years, Bondi Trattoria has been under new ownership since May 2017, with a fresh approach to quality and tradition. An Italian restaurant with a Mediterranean influence, we offer a menu of innovation and comfort, in an environment that is approachable and attentive, with respect to the tradition of honest food and service. Right over the road from Australia’s most famous beach, we are as much a destination as a local. Bondi Trattoria is delighted to offer a discount to Old Ignatians for a limited time. Discount of 10% off your lunch or dinner bill is offered until 1st December 2023. Bookings are encouraged, please quote OIU discount when make your reservation.

Daniel

President