50 guests were in the room to enjoy a lovely lunch and listen to our guest speaker Daniel Hoyne (2006), Competitions Analysis Team Lead at Champion Data.

Pat Mount (1962) did a fine job again as Master of Ceremonies while his brother John (1962) sang a lovely rendition of grace.

Daniel gave an excellent and engaging presentation and fielded some questions to conclude. He has just completed 20 years of service at Champion Data, first commencing as 15-year-old on work experience. A cricket connection at that time, Glen Luff, invited Daniel to do some work experience that led to a casual job ‘doing stats’ that continued post school, while Daniel was at university. A full-time position followed, and his career has flourished in the growing organisation. He loves the work he does.

Daniel spoke of Champion Data’s work across numerous major sports including AFL, NRL, Rugby Union, Football, Horse Racing, Netball, Golf, Tennis & Lacrosse and are aiming to get into the US NBL arena. It was fascinating to hear of the incredible demands from AFL Clubs, the Broadcasters and betting agencies place on Champion Data services.

The Old Paradians’ Association was able to give a report to the guests on recent and planned activities. Alumni Officer Hayley Workman, was able to attend her first OPA lunch and meet some of the men who have been remarkably attending since the 1950’s. Lance Phillips (1945), Peter Walker (1946), John Mackey (1950), Ray Hangan (1950) and Denis Wheelahan (1951) were all in attendance at the lunch and regularly attend. It was great to see some new faces in the audience.

Next month, we welcome Senior Australian of the year Br Thomas ‘Olly’ Pickett (1959) who will come over from Perth to be acknowledged. Old Paradians’ Football Club Coach Ben Turner and President Simon Vincent (1989) will also be in attendance to report on the club’s prospects in 2025.

To book for the April luncheon, visit our upcoming events.

Special thanks to Lunch Coordinator Peter Johnston (1973) for his great work.