Over 90 guests filled the room at the RACV Club for the Old Paradians' June monthly luncheon to celebrate a reunion of the 1958, 1966, 1967 and 1968 Old Paradians' Premiership Teams.

1958 team members Neil Pivetta, Brian Hill and Laurie Wakling gathered together with club legend John Booth and Coach Maurie Considine. The 1958 flag was the first of 4 Premierships Maurie coached. The others, a three-peat, in 1962, 1963 and 1964. The luncheon also saw Maurie celebrate his 91st birthday amongst many family and friends who sang happy birthday and a birthday cake was cut.

Four-time Premiership player and four-time Premiership Coach, John Booth, spoke of how he reluctantly took over the coaching role from Maurie but was quickly able to build a team that would dominate A Grade with another three-peat of premiership wins in 1966, 1967, 1968. Team members Pat Mount, John Tudor, Ric Sambell, Len Foster and Peter Peyton were present at the lunch.

David Jones (1958) interviewed Maurie and John, who both reflected upon the team's successes including tactics and personalities. The influence of Lou Arthur and Frank Mount was profound during this period.

Special thanks to Ray Hangan (1950) for his work in assembling team members for the luncheon. Unfortunately, Ray was an apology having recently fallen and broken his arm.

Former Victorian and Australian cricketer, Keith Stackpole, was able to address guests and answer questions. Keith spoke of the highlights and lowlights of his Test career, the joy associated with team success at the district cricket level and some of the personalities in the game. His career as a media commentator on Channel 9 and radio through the 80’s and 90’s was also discussed. Names like Greig, Boycott, Packer, Redpath, Chappell, Cowdrey, Snow, Lillee and others were highlighted. Keith also made some assessments of Australia’s chances in the forthcoming Ashes tour.

The next luncheon in July will see Br Laurie Collins address the gathering and receive his well deserved Honorary Old Paradian Award. Additionally, Ray Hangan and Keith Sharkie will be presented with the Old Paradian Outstanding Service Award. We look forward to another great turnout!