Another enjoyable Old Paradians Association gathering took place at the RACV City Club Wednesday August 10. The theme of the lunch focused on ‘Fathers and Sons’ and it was great to see a number of Old Paradians from across generations. There were over 60 guests in the room and again special thanks to Keith Sharkie who continues to play an instrumental organisational role in these lunches.

The Parade College motto, ‘Tenete Traditiones’ means hold fast to traditions and the RACV Club Old Paradians’ luncheons are testament to that motto having occurred since 1936.

Pat Mount (1962) again did a great job as ‘Master of Ceremonies’ and the lunch commenced with grace delivered by Fr Michael Glasheen (1955). Old Paradian Tony Ongarello (1949) was remembered having recently passed away.

John Nicholls was invited to address the guests to provide an update of Old Paradians’ Association activities. He spoke of the launch of the Parade College Foundation; the reunion programs the Association organises with the classes of 1972 and 1982 gathering in the coming months having followed the recently concluded 2000, 2001 & 2002 and the 2010, 2011 & 2012 reunions. John spoke of the Old Paradians’ Association strategic plans moving forward. One of these objectives was to seek financial support with the aim of getting to some form of financial independence from the College. Another strategic objective was to deliver an Annual Old Paradians Association Dinner.

This year the inaugural Hall of Fame Awards Night Dinner will take place at the College on Friday 21 October. Save the date. Further details will be released in the next few weeks.

Terry Henderson (1966) introduced the guest speaker, his good friend and fellow racing identity, Brian Martin OAM (1966). Brian spoke of the origins of his passion for the racing industry with some beginnings at Parade Alphington and a chance Melbourne Cup sweep win as a 6-year-old. Brian spoke of how fortunate he was to follow and work in an industry that gave him so much. 45 years of calling both in Australia and overseas, including 29 Melbourne Cups. Brian was able to call his own horse, legendary Fields of Omagh, in 2 winning Cox Plates, the second as a 9-year-old in its last race. Brian’s address was filled with passion, history and humour. He was able to conclude his address answering some questions from the floor.