Former students of Saint Patrick's Technical School took a trip down memory lane when they gathered in Queensland for a reunion late last month.
Organised by Paul Wales, Greg Quilter and Margaret Burnell (Hogan), the February 26 to 28 event united those now living in southern and north Queensland but also several Goulburn residents. Some also travelled from Hobart, the NSW south coast and the Hunter region.
Spokesman, Goulburn man Peter Watt said Mount Tamborine motel was usually booked out for the annual weekend. This year, 37 people attended, with numbers slightly down due to the COVID-19.
"The original concept for the weekend started after a conversation between Greg Quilter and John Bensley who served on the same ship in the Australian navy," Mr Watts said.
"In 2016/17 they got together for a drink, which grew into a larger gathering with a few fellow school mates from St Pat's Tech who now reside in southern Queensland and northern NSW."
The reunions have been running since 2017.
One special part of the Saturday night dinner was a solemn moment to remember those who had passed way, especially Thomas (Billy) Daniel who died earlier this year. Mr Watts said Mr Daniel and wife Kathy had booked the motel to attend this year's reunion.
The event spanned three days and included music and a cake cutting at the main dinner.
"A great weekend was had by all and early indications are that next year's event could see a much larger attendance," Mr Watts said.
Saint Patrick's Technical School was located in Bourke Street, opened in 1915 and closed in 1965 when classes moved to Saint Patrick's College.
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Louise Thrower
If you have a story to tell, drop me a line at louise.thrower@austcommunitymedia.com.au or call 0418 229 678.
If you have a story to tell, drop me a line at louise.thrower@austcommunitymedia.com.au or call 0418 229 678.
