The Year of 1970, 55 Year Reunion
Friday, 17 October 2025

The Year of 1970, 55 year reunion was held from 10th to 12th October. Golf , organised by Len McKinnon (OR70) and tennis, held at Rob Cahill's house were held on Friday 10th October. 

On Saturday 11th we gathered for Mass at St Patrick's Church Hill, The Rocks in Sydney , followed by lunch at the Occidental Hotel in York Street. Mass was said by our own Fr David Ryan SJ (OR70), who is based at St. Canice's in Kings Cross. It was a great service as Dave made it very personal for us all. 

The lunch was superb - 50 old boys attended and enjoyed great food, drinks, and exceptional service. One of our English teachers, Joe Castley ,who soon turns 95, gave an inspirational speech about education and teaching. One of our own led us in several songs from our era. Ben Connolly, current OIU Committee member, attended briefly at the beginning to speak about the OIU. The Bursary was highlighted with brochures handed out. Lunch kicked on till about 9.30pm. Sunday was lunch generously hosted at John and Fran Hartigan's house, with partners included. It was another great day with music and magic performed by Michael Giblin, our resident magician. 

The weekend was a wonderful celebration of our lasting friendships - so much fun and joy - and even our partners enjoyed the stories- for the umpteenth time! 

A key element of the lunch was a slide show of about 60 photos, put together by Bill Markham, from our time at school and since over the years, with special focus on our mates who have passed away. We are now organising printed copies, as the album was exceptional in bringing back wonderful memories. 

Steve Newnham (OR70) 1970 reunion organising committee member