Responses to broadcasts

TOM O’DEA

www.lancefieldmercury.org.au

VOL. 34 NO 6 JULY 2024

Tom O’Dea is very well known in this area; he has been running O’Dea’s Auto Spares in Romsey since he stopped working as a cop in Sunbury. He then began in car parts, and the rest is history. It began with a shop in Sunbury which was sold to Repco; then the Romsey branch of O’Dea’s Auto Spares opened in 1990, when the town had a population of just 1000 people.

• I remember Tom and his brother John who worked at Bendigo Motors up High St. Their father was a policeman. He had a Holden car which had the number plate GAF 000. I think It was the first number plate in Kyneton which had three letters in it. Previously number plates only had two letters. Tony Colwell
• Cliff Dawes I was at school with Tom O’Dea we were good mates at school.

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Frank Evans Tributes

• Danny Bowe Thanks for this Michael. The Simpson St. old boys are thinning out
• Tony Colwell I remember Frank very well. The Evans family lived in Simpson St up near the hospital. We were altar boys together. I only saw him a couple of times after we left Kyneton and had a couple of beers with him at the Alexandra pub when I was staying in Kyneton with my aunt. I have an idea that he played footy at one stage with Hesket.
• Michael Halley Ray and I were great mates and Frank although a bit younger was also a mate. I was often at their home and reall their father at the Guardian Office setting type.
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• Barry Boswell Eulogy
• Tom Hayes It may be 55 years but for the family I am sure it is still raw
• *******************************************************************

The Trentham Falls poem By Bill Maloney of Little Hampton

There is a lovely beauty spot

Where nature often calls

Its along the Coliban river

Its called the Trentham Falls.

It’s such a lovely peaceful place

It’s where the people go

To see the water plunging

Down sixty feet below. It’s where the lovers go at nighttime

When the moon is very bright

And they cuddle and caress there

Until its late at night.

But that place has happy memories

Of the years of long ago

When the swagmen used to camp there

As they’d shelter from the snow.

In a little wooden building

That stood there on a hill

They said it was built from timber From Tom McCashneys mill

And the people built that structure

In their good old fashioned way

So they’d have a place to sell their beer

At their sports on Boxing Day.

When the people used to gather

They’d come from near and far

And they’d stand around that building

As they used it for a bar.

Then the Swagmen would take over

When winter came around

They’d came there in that building

With their beds upon the ground

We remember those old fellars

As around the countryside they’d roam

They’d flock there to that building

To them it was their home.

To shelter from the wind and rain

And from the bitter cold

Some of those men were very young

And some were very old.

And when the Summer sun Was beaming down

They’d rest there in the shade

They used to call those poor old swagmen

The Billy Can Brigade.

But now those days are over

The years have slipped by fast

And all we have are memories

Sweet memories of the past.

And that little shed is missing

And the swagmen they have died

They are now all up in heaven

They have crossed ‘The Great Divide’

But the memories still remain there

Like the sound when Mopoke calls

And the water still goes tumbling down

Over the Trentham Falls.

Bill Maloney, Little Hampton.

2024 Possum Trophy

Small in number

On the lead up to St Patrick’s Day members of the Kyneton Marist Brothers Old Boys Association travelled to Torrumbarry Weir Holiday Park for their annual retreat. This was at least the twenty second time they had made the Park home for the weekend. [First visit year lost in antiquity]

The attendance number was considerably less than in previous years, but all apologies received were genuine. In the spirit of our Irish heritage the lyrics of MacNamara’s Band are appropriate “Although we’re few in numbers, we’re the finest in the land”

Since our last visit Peter and Leanne Taylor our hosts at the Holiday Park have made some significant changes to the accommodation and the surrounds. Although some of our traditions had to alter the weekend was enjoyable for all.

Mick Plowman has become the catering manager and provided palatable meals. Michael Halley again was responsible for the desert menu also prepared on site.

Purists would say that an annual retreat is to identify the most critical priorities for the coming year and develop a plan to achieve them. Ours is to draw the voucher raffle [value $1000.00], conduct a race tipping competition, allocate a winner for the Possum Trophy and determine when the Annual General Meeting will be held and have a relaxing time with mates.

Ticket 61 bought by Jarrod Plowman won the raffle, John Wilson and Roly Sandilands battled all day but John eventually won the race tipping. This is John’s second year in a row when he burst out of the barrier in the first race and set a basically unsurpassable lead.

The Possum Trophy is awarded to the attendee who makes an exceptional contribution to the amusement of all. Paul Plowman [another!] is the 2024 winner and asked to remain anonymous! Not a chance Paul!!

Paul travelled the sixty odd kilometre round trips to Cohuna to obtain some provisions and visit the TAB. On arrival at the hotel he found that the TAB is no longer operating an outlet. Suddenly a light bulb blew and Paul recalled that betting via a mobile phone has been possible for over ten years. It is denied that he also visited the nearby smaller town of Leitchville. Paul now has his name engraved on the trophy with twenty other recipients.

At the conclusion of the retreat a short memorial is held to remember Old Boys whose names have been placed on the deceased Honour Roll. There were seven this year. Four previous Possum winners have also died and were remembered along with those deceased who did not achieve “greatness” at Torrumbarry

Brian Fleming “Flemmo” died on 20 March 2024 after several years of ill health.  He had been unable to attend the 2024 Torrumbarry visit, but was there in spirit.

Brian was the inaugural winner of the Possum Trophy in 2002.

He placed his keys in an ice-cream container and left it on the river bank. A passing boat’s wake washed ashore and moved the container into the river and it floated away.

The late Leo Law and Flemmo headed down stream and caught up with the container intact with the keys.

Vale Possums

It is sad to report that Kevin Mustard [2018] and Shane Feeley [2022] have died since winning the prestigious Possum Trophy

Scroll down to the year and read their contribution.

Hole in One

Pat Clohesy Golf hole in One

Pat scored a hole in one at Bendigo in April 2023. The story was carried in the Midland Express.

A copy was distributed to members who have provided email details.

If you desire one please apply via Contact page

2023 Possum Trophy

He made his mark!

In 1950 Brother Paul Bourke came to the Kyneton Marist Brothers School as an assistant teacher, but from 1952 until 1957 he was the Principal. His uncanny resemblance to Trichosurus vulpecula had seen him given the nickname Possum at the seminary when he took up his vocation.

Many of the boys taught by Brother Paul remain as members of the Old Boys association and have fond memories of him, both as teacher and friend. A group of these past students take an annual excursion at Torrumbarry Weir Tourist Park.

Each year one of the team is selected as having made his mark by a deliberate or accidental behaviour. Being conscious that records of the school had not survived a trophy was established and named Possum. The winner has his name inscribed and retains the trophy for the coming year.

This year Brian Fleming was the adjudicator for the Trophy! He selected Bill Young who had emulated Maxwell Smart with a shoe phone. Bill was one of the fishers and vocal about losing a fish that may not have been a carp. To add insult to injury when entering a cabin he slipped and lost a shoe and his phone.

After much searching the shoe was found, but looking for the phone continued until it was noted inside the shoe. [Sorry about that chief]. The 2022 winner Shane Feeley was reluctant to hand over the trophy but relented. Bill now has his name inscribed on the trophy along with the past winners and is custodian for a year.

The event will be held again next year, where everyone who attends will have the opportunity to join the ranks and have their name inscribed.

2023 Visit to Torrumbarry

Plenty to carp about

The 2023 Kyneton Marist Brothers Old Boys visit to Torrumbarry Weir Tourist Park was memorable in a number of ways. The total fire ban imposed for Saturday 18 March meant that the customary Ute load of firewood brought up by President Roly Sandilands was not used in the campfire for cooking, rubbish disposal and comfort.

The management of the Park changed hands recently but the superficial procedural changes did not cause any conflict. Covid had been put out of mind but the various strains of encephalitis virulent along the Murray River had seen most pack mosquito repellent. But don’t get ahead of yourself!

Gerry and John Lavery from Mildura were late cancellations due to Covid entering the family home and the affected one “coughing one’s guts up”. But all other acceptors arrived and settled in. The five accommodation cabins were allocated on a first in best dressed basis and the three days provisions packed away and yarning took over until lunch.

The afternoon was still a settling in period with stragglers still arriving. The recent devastating flooding along the Murray River has caused carp numbers to increase to astronomical numbers [as reported in media]. The fishers amongst us found out that reports were true, and each caught only the obnoxious carp, which they carped about!

But by the time Mick Plowman and his assistants barbecued porterhouse steaks and prepared vegetables all had arrived and selected a sleeping place. Most, after day’s travelling retired to bed but the football on television kept the tragics up until the final siren.

Saturday dawned and a buffet breakfast of bacon, eggs and toast was welcomed by the well-rested. Some were not seen even at lunch time but the brave ventured outdoors. The total fire ban and the over forty degree temperatures kept shade at a premium. The raffle to bolster our finances was sold out except for one book that was unopened and still at Kyneton.

As advertised, the draw took place at noon and ticket 105 sold by Cliff Dawes was the winning one. The winning ticket had been bought by Gary Buckley who is now a grand richer. The Buckley family are well entrenched in the Old Boys.  An unnamed Buckley was a player in the school’s first football team in 1926. The residual money will be used for our community support, but in particular the school bursaries and student gifts.

As twilight approached the catering contingent brought forward cold chickens and corned beef to supplement the mashed crème royale potatoes supplied by Artie Clarke. Mick Halley provided dessert each day. Friday was a steamed pudding with custard and cream and Saturday a butterscotch sponge cake.  A short remembrance with a minutes silence was held to acknowledge Old Boys that have been added to our deceased Honour Roll.

Bill Young now has his name inscribed on the Possum trophy along with the past winners and is custodian for a year.

The 2024 visit will be on the agenda for the next Management Committee meeting. Based on the many “see you next year” departure messages it seems that the decision will be in the affirmative.

Reminiscences as we approach a centenary

Paul Plowman sent this message:-

[Edited]I had a phone call from an ex-student Michael Hoban who attended the same time as me.

He informed me that his brother Francis passed away in his sleep whist camping in North Queensland.

Francis attended St. Pat’s in Ballarat; however the Hoban family were great supporters of the old Boys.

I forward this information, so that you may pass on to all old Boys.

The last paper cutting of sports events has mention of Michael Hoban and Paul Plowman under the banner 200 Brave Elements to Witness Sports.

It mentions that on Sunday 30 November 1967 the weather was inclement, but a large contingent of parents and friends attended the meeting.

This would have been the last annual sports day, as the brothers withdrew from the school that year.

The first year was 1926 and sports were foremost in the curriculum and a cutting was kept. This is really an historical report and is been recorded to acknowledge all of the brothers, priests, parents, friends and students who contributed to school over the forty years it was open.

All of those mentioned in 1926 are long deceased and are on the Honour Roll, as are some of Paul Plowman and Michael Hoban contemporaries.

But Brother Kevin Hoare who handed in the keys and switched off the lights is still alive and mentioned in Testimonials 

October 1926 “The outstanding feature of this month’s sports items was a journey to Redesdale to play a team representing Heathcote. Our kind friends again supplied the means of getting there. The Very Rev. Dean Martin, P.P and Rev. Father Loughnan and Messrs Halloran and Skehill’s cars were put into service. The ladies of Redesdale prepared for our coming also and after the game supplied both teams with a splendid repast. We have to thank them and also Rev. Father McMahon of Heathcote who organised this reception. The game was a very strenuous one, and there were times when we appeared to be hopelessly outclassed. The final scores, however, 3 goals 8 behinds to3 goals 4 behinds left us as victors. For our team, Halloran [Capt.], Buckley, Mahoney and Vereker weer outstanding and Duff was the best and most solid player for Heathcote.

A photo of our team has been taken and it is hoped that it will be kept in the school as sort of historical souvenir of the first Marist team in Kyneton”

2022 Visit to Torrumbarry

The annual fishing trip of the Kyneton Marist Brothers Old Boys to Torrumbarry Tourist Park was held on the 18^TH & 19^TH March 2022. The attendance this year was less than last, but many valid reasons were received. After setting up the camp some ventured down to the Mighty Murray to wet lines. Others settled down to wet their whistles, or just relax.

We enjoyed wonderful weather during our stay. Lunch was late on Friday as the Dim Sim steamer was still in transit, so cat food (meat) cheese and tomato sandwiches appeared for the appetisers. Our evening meal consisted of spuds, pumpkin, peas and Wagyu Steak cooked to perfection by master butcher Mick Plowman.

After the meal, all settled down to enjoy each other’s company along with a fair bit of banter. Lights did not go out until well past the witching hour. This was the excuse some used for almost missing out on egg, bacon and sausages in the morning.

Saturday race tipping competition was won on the first race when John Wilson picked the winner with odds at 30 to one, many spoke about inside information he must have had. This is always controversial! Kevin Willey, who is a prolific winner, has been in poor health this past year. His family brought him for a visit on Saturday, and he was the focus of attention.

The traditional visit to the Torrumbarry pub was not possible, as it is closed due to white ant infestation, so all retired to barracks.

This year the fishing improved with the boat people having some eatable yellow bellies in the esky. Land fishers also hooked some; our fencing contractor member produced some battered strips of fish wrapped in anchovies. Corned Beef was on the menu for evening meal along with vegies. The only thing missing from the weekend meals was Mick Halley’s specially prepared deserts, as he had family commitments.

Saturday evening President Roly thanked all for helping out with the weekend especially Len Young and Jack Ramsdale. We had a memorial moment for deceased old boys and friends. The famous Possum Trophy recipient as judged by the panel went to Shane Feeley. And as usual no comments as to why the judges awarded Shane the trophy. Many know why but have been sworn to secrecy!!

Sunday morning all up bright and early for breakfast cooked. Then packing up got under-way; dishes inventory correct for each unit and all bid goodbye as they headed for home. Next year’s Fishing trip will be held on the 17^th 18^th and 19^th March 2023.

The trophy and previous winners is shown on the Testimonials page

Reflections

Our web site is really the only written history of the Kyneton Marist Brothers school.

Recently some information has come to notice and is added here for readers information.

Classmates Leo Halloran and Leon Fallon

[This story was provided by Angela Crawford of Midland Express of 9 November 2021]

Classmates Leo Halloran and Leon Fallon were reunited in Kyneton last week after 70 years apart.
Both 87 years old now, the pair went to school at the Marist brothers in Kyneton from 1946 to about 1950.
Before last week, they hadn’t seen each other since they left school. Leo went to work in Melbourne and Leon stayed in Kyneton, where he became a barber – and still cuts hair today.
Leon has also been an active member of the Marist Brothers Old Boys Association and is a life member due to his work on past management committees.
Many people from Kyneton went to the school up until it closed in 1967, but the Association (established in 1947) is still going.
Leon recalled their days at school, quick to point out that Leo was more conscientious than he.
“I was not; I remember trying to copy homework!” Leon told the Express.
“Leo was known for riding his bike to school from south Kyneton in all weather.”
The reunion came about when Leo’s son Michael learnt about Leon through Leo’s cousin, Mick Halloran, who still runs the original family farm in Pastoria. The farm has been owned and run by the family for more than 150 years.
Leo is also the grandson of former Kyneton Shire president Daniel Halloran who served on council 35 years.

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Brian Walsh contact

I have been gone from Trentham for forty Years. I could hardly class myself a Marist Brothers Old Boy as I only had two terms at the school. Family circumstances caused my boarding days to end abruptly.

However faith and Religion remain as strong as ever. These days My wife Betty and  I are retired at Torquay and  have a lovely home in Kithbrooke  Park retirement Village.

After 29 Years in the Liquor industry I retired, and having become firm friends with Angus Armanasco through business I spent the last years of my working life with Angus and my first love Horses. I still race a horse or two just as a hobby and my family are all interested the same.

I am the last of the Kids of Michael and Eileen Walsh. I hope this might be of some interest to you and the Old Boys.

Hughes Family Connection

In the exchange of information regarding Frank Walsh John Hughes provided this insight into the antecedents of Hughes brothers who are also on our deceased Honour Roll.

There were three Hughes brothers from Carlsruhe, John, Frank and Denis (known as Jim]

John & Frank initially owned the Butchers shop, Frank moved to Albury in the early 60s and John and his wife Aly (nee Shepherd aunty of Denis, Brendan and Kevin) then operated it until her passing and then for a while owned by their girls Maureen and Kathleen

John’s dad was Jim who along with Frank Walsh would host the Marist Brothers Melbourne meetings in Melbourne, which included John Biddlestone who is also on the Honour Roll. Gerard son of John keeps the family involvement

Jim Hughes’ best mate from Kyneton was Vin Reardon {Brother Sunshine}, who is a Marist Old Boy legend, and worked in the butchers shop for many years

Bryan Michael Crowe

Bernadette Kerwin the sister of Bryan Michael “Mick” Crowe contacted us via the Web Site.

Hello. It was such a surprise that I came upon this absolutely heartfelt and sincere history of the Marist Brothers, Kyneton.

My name is Bernadette (Crowe) and we were long-time residents of Kyneton. Our father Bryan Crowe was one of the first pupils of the Marist Brothers.

I just wanted to thank-you for the notice the Committee inserted for our brother Bryan Michael Crowe.

His passing was a great shock to the family and we love and miss him every day. Once again thank you, Kind Regards, Bernadette.

An exchange of information took place and this is Bernadette’s response:-

Thank you so much for all of this.   I really appreciate all the effort you have gone to.

You are right it does provoke some memories. I remember Michael and Tony talking about Brother Boniface. Brother Victor taught me how to swim. He would have lessons at the local pool after school.

Once again thank you so much .Look after yourself,

The patriarch was Bryan Crowe who used to manufacture stock crates. Bryan’s welding was renowned as they seldom broke. One competitor’s units often let go and caused problems.

Sundblom and Law families

Sunny Sundblom is recorded on our Honour Roll. His wife Jarlie    [Jarlath Ann] died on 16 September 2021.

Jarlie was the sister of the Law boys who populated the school during the fifties and sixties of the twenty century. Kevin and Mick are still living, but Leo and Peter have graduated to higher education.

A number of tributes were posted on the T J Scott web site. This tribute form Judy Law covers our connection.

Jarlath Ann Sundblom

27 November, 1934 – 16 September, 2021

Judy and Peter (Dec) Law on 18 September, 2021 at 10:17am

To Ann Susan Fiona Lisa Owen and families!
We are so sorry with your loss of a beautiful mum Nana and sister to her family.

Jarl was a wonderful sister to Peter who loved her so much a great sister in law to me and a wonderful auntie to Travis Trudy Tyrone Thomas and their families with love Judy xx RIP

Les Kays Raises Memories

Our farm at Bullengarook was only about 1k from the saw mill; that was owned by Les Kays.  I remember him well.  I can still remember the sound of the steam siren that they blew at 12-00 every day.

The saw mill was at the back of Kneebonene’s farm and the State School.

When I went to the Marist Brothers at Kyneton, in 1946 there was a Neville Kays in my grade.  He lived along High Street, out past the High school.  His father was a saw miller but I don’t know what relation he was to Les.

Thanks for the e-mails as I can remember a lot of the boys you refer to.

I also had a brother (Joe Hassed) who went to the Marist Brothers before me.  Joe died in 1988.

I look forward to your e-mails.

Cheers,

John Hassed.

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Judge Frank Walsh

In the recently deceased page our memorial to His Honour is recited.

When Frank retired at the compulsory age of 75 his colleagues attended a farewell event.

This is one story that shows the grace and integrity of the man.

You were educated by the Marist Brothers and the Christian Brothers, and graduated with honours from the University of Melbourne.

You were admitted to the Bar in 1958 and became a queen’s counsel in 1977. Your contribution to the Bar was outstanding. You were a member of many committees, including the law reform, ethics and the fees committees, as well as director of Barristers Chambers between 1974 and 1979.

While on this Court, you have presided over many interesting cases. In a case in 2000, your Honour challenged the notion among some young men that the carrying of knives was a measure of masculinity.

In ordering that an 18-year-old man be detained in a youth training centre for a violent knife attack on a man, you observed that there “appears to exist among many young male persons in this community an impression that their masculinity requires affirmation by the possession of a knife, which can be used as a weapon and which is regarded by them as placing themselves in control of all situations.

“This is a fallacy and it’s incumbent on the Court to express its denunciation of the use of knives in inflicting serious injury and in the community of crimes in general. The warning must be given in unequivocal terms that such inappropriate use of knives will not be tolerated.”

In the course of a long career in the criminal law, you have heard evidence about the tragic consequences that can be caused as a result of the interconnection between violence, drug use and crime.

It is not easy being a judge in this Court but you have always carried out the task with dignity and fairness.

2021 Visit to Torrumbarry

Alumnus Silver Anniversary  

Alumnus has Latin origins meaning foster son or pupil. Although the language was a subject taught at the Marist Brothers in Kyneton, the word was not in common use.

As American influence infiltrated after the introduction of television, the description Alumnus became trendy, but the past pupils of the Kyneton School continue as the Old Boys Association.

An annual excursion for the group is to the Torrumbarry Weir Tourist Park that brings members and selected friends together to share experiences and reminiscences. This year was the twenty fifth time that the gathering took place.

As with any get-together there are some memorable undertakings that need recognition. In 2002 it was decided that a perpetual trophy should mark the stand-out participants. Originally the winner’s name was inscribed on a hospital bed pan, but it was later changed to a plaque and named the Possum Trophy in memory of Brother Paul Bourke a most respected teacher at the school.

So the judges set about determining a worthy winner for the nineteenth occasion. The Evil Queen in the fairy-tale Snow White asked her mirror who is the fairest of them all? This is no fairy-tale but a mirror on the wall is significant.

One of the attendees was late to rise, and still slightly lethargic in his darkened room. His feet hit the floor and those nearby heard a loud exclamation “who are you?’[Expletive deleted]. The sleepy head had mistaken his own image on the wall mirror for an intruder. Interestingly, during the dedication the winner was oblivious to the accompanying spiel, and had to be called to attention to accept the award.

He had been one of the last students taught by the Brothers, but remained with the Indian Sisters from The Apostolic Order of Carmel who took over the teaching task. This was in 1968 when the winner Brendan Sheppard was a young boy. It follows that he and his classmates are the youngest Old Boys, but the elder statesman of the members is Jack Pattison, now in his ninety-third year, and still heil and hearty. Their age difference reflects the forty years that the Brothers taught at the school.

So Brendan [Aka Pencil] holds the trophy until 2022 when the next winner will be decided. Considering that the Old Boys Association has not had new entrants for more than half a century it is commendable that many still supports its charitable undertakings.

Time is the great leveller! During the weekend a minute’s silence was held in memory of ten members or members’ family who died since that last excursion. Gratefully none were victims of the Covid virus!

Jack Pattison reflects

Nonagenarian reflects on school days

The recent passing of two Marist Brothers Old Boys who had exceeded ninety years of age caused reflection by one of their contemporises about school at Kyneton during the war years. John Andrew Pattison has celebrated his ninety-second birthday.

Latin was a compulsory subject at the school in case a boy took a vocation to a religious life, or had aspirations for a medical degree. The headline not only reflects time, but reminds us that Latin is the root of many common words in the English language. [Classical Latin nonagenarius from nonageni, ninety each from nonaginta, ninety from base of noven, nine + -ginta, -ty a nonagenarian person]

The sons of Police Sergeant John Pattison, Tom and Jack were students at the Brothers school and were from a family quite well known in the community, during and after their school years.

Jack came to prominence during the 1940 annual sports day when he was the winner of the100 yards, and 75 yards races. His winning broad Jump of 11 feet 8 inches and equal with J Hughes in the high jump at 3 foot 9 inches was topped off with his team winning the Jim Spain football shield in 1943.

Part of the school year was to qualify at swimming and resuscitation. Jack and 24 others qualified for both. He and Tom Walsh [Deceased 2018] later took over as instructors and managed to pass another 37 boys. They were under the tutelage of Brother Boniface who was “sports mad” for all disciplines.

Jack wrote “I recall we spent some regular school time on the school veranda stab kicking to each other under Bonny’s coaching. And he left us all with the lasting memory of how to keep your head over the ball and drop it properly”.

On 30 August 1943 Sir Winston Dugan, Victorian Governor, made 24 Royal Humane Society awards for 1942-43 at Government House. Amongst the recipients were 5 schoolboys, 3 schoolgirls, 4 naval ratings, 2 policemen, and an auxiliary constable.

Awards were given personally to each recipient, one of whom was John Andrew Pattison. He was invested with a Certificate of Merit for saving Lawrence Joseph O’Sullivan a fellow student from drowning in the Campaspe River.

Both boys remained in contact after leaving school and were successful in their chosen careers. Jack qualified as an accountant and became an administrator at the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation [CSIRO], whilst Lawrie became a fencer of renown around Deniliquin.

They got together often when Jack was stationed at Deniliquin and reminisced about the school and the near fateful day in the Campaspe River.Their journeys separated when Jack moved to Melbourne. Sadly Lawrie had only attained the age of 68 when he died on 27 December 1997 and was buried at Deniliquin.

Four other boys, including twins, from the twenty-four qualifiers are known to be still alive, but seven decades since has unfortunately balanced the scale in favour of the deceased.

Country Boys in The Big Smoke

Gerry Danaher sent along this reflection

I recently saw mention of Marcellin College in a newspaper or somewhere. That revived a memory which the boys involved would not like to hear of. [Your records might back me up.]

It was a Queen’s Birthday Monday in, I reckon 1961 that we bussed it to Marcellin to play them in a footy match. The game was the epitome of a debacle.

We hardly got a touch; they kicked about 30 goals to our 1 or 2 behinds (I’m sure we never put one through the big sticks). At one stage well into the game, a Marcellin player ran past me & sung out to all teammates in earshot to not treat this match as a joke.

Melbourne ruckman Bob Johnson had a brother playing. On request, Bob gave our boys a few pre-match pointers on the game. He probably departed early in proceedings.

Before going to the college, we called into St. Pat’s Cathedral for a mosey around and after the footy match, went to the MCG to see the traditional Queens Birthday clash between Melbourne & Collingwood, which was the reason I remember the date

Well Mick, those are my sole memories of Marcellin College.

Gerry is right. Monday 12 June 1961 Melbourne 17-19-121 defeated Collingwood 7-10-52. Umpire Schwab in charge, with 78465 spectators.

Frank Adams and Laurie Mithen each got 4 goals for the Demons and Trevor Steer the same number for the Magpies.

Nothing in our scant records mentions the visit to Marcelin College or the football match. During the year most sporting revolved around swimming, but there were two visits to Assumption at Kilmore.

Contrary to general results when we played Assumption on April 16 the under 13’s beat Assumptions’ under 12’s and the firsts also won. It is noted that some Old Boys were in the team and Assumption fields their under 15’s.

The Guardian article finished “Two wins, the spectacle of games on most of Assumption’s seven beautiful and spacious football grounds, and the generous hospitality of the brothers made it a very enjoyable trip”.

On an unrecorded day we took part in a Lightning Premiership at Kilmore. The under 15’s “where successful against one team only, Camberwell, but improved their standards of play as the games progressed”. “The under 13’s were very successful winning all games except Hawthorn, whom they played again in the final and were again defeated”.

A small aside, “during the day Geoff Organ obliged by umpiring sevarl matches.” Organs Bus service obviously was used to transport the teams to Kilmore. In earlier times Dick Lee used to be the transporter. On the return trip as we boarded he announced” I will take you down the street on one condition, no peanuts”. Apparently crushed peanuts underfoot caused difficulty in cleaning.

Old boys motioned in the reports are L Brown, I Thompson, D Bowe, T O’Dea, V Pilch, M O’Reilly, J Moloney, J O’Dea, D Higgins, K Haslett, P Law, and K Bevans.

Easter 2020

The Old Boys Association Committee extend to all past pupils of the Kyneton Marist Brothers school sincere greetings for an Easter that will be like no other that we have experienced.The COVID-19 virus is also something that we have not before experienced.

Amongst the population that the medical people have deemed to be at high risk of severe complications are older adults and people of any age who have serious underlying medical conditions.Many of us have underlying medical complications, and a large percentage would fall into the older adult category. A fifteen year old boy who was at the school in its last year [1967] is now in his mid-fifties.

The closure of churches and cessation of Mass is also unprecedented. Your local church will have alternative measures to allow parishioners to keep the Easter spirit alive. Our motto Servabo Fidem is exactly the phrase we need to remember.

Anyone who has themselves or had family members markedly affected by the rules introduced by the Governments have a special place in our thoughts. But remember the best advisors we can muster are setting the scene to keep us all safe.

Often mistaken as a bible verse the saying “this too will pass” seems to be a neat fit. [When Max Klinger was eating a Jeep Colonel Potter told him so]

But it is particularly important that we remember all those who sacrificially serve others. Members of the Armed Forces, doctors, nurses, ambos, fireys and volunteers go about their tasks without getting a second thought. The police have a particularly unenviable job as they may be called upon to intervene in families or lifelong friends’ activities.

Say a special prayer for them and ask God to bless them and their loved ones.It is opportune to give a schoolmate a call and check how he is going, and if you can give any help. It will be better than an Easter egg.

Not only schoolmates, anyone that you know! Those who grieve a deceased Old Boy may appreciate contact particularly if they are isolated.If any of your mates have emails feel free to forward this message

.May this coming unique Easter Sunday inspire you to new hope, happiness, prosperity, and abundance, all received through God’s divine grace.

And may you have good health going toward our next reunion on 24 January 2021

2020 Visit to Torrumbarry

Relocating possum

Possums are protected under the Wildlife Act 1975 and it is illegal to relocate these native marsupials. A related dilemma was addressed by the members of the Kyneton Marist Brothers Old Boys Association during their annual visit to Torrumbarry Weir Tourist Park.

The 2020 expedition to Torrumbarry was the eighteenth and was attended by the usual suspects and some invited guests. One of the most respected teachers at the school was Brother Paul Bourke, who due to his similarity in looks to the animal was nicknamed Possum.

As with other social gatherings such as Golf Days where a NAGA is awarded the Old Boys acknowledge standout behaviours by awarding the winner the Possum Trophy.

The attendee adjudged as the winner lives near Bendigo but works at Kyneton, so the award of the trophy was considered to be within the legal definition of relocation. The standout behaviour that clinched the deal was that benchmarking and exceeding a previous winner was proven.

The previous recipient is a well-known Kynetonian who, for privacy, will remain anonymous. But let’s say he still lives with his Nan! His claim to fame was to over-imbibe and then swear off whiskey for life.

On Saturday after the campfire dinner one of the guests, making his second appearance produced a bottle of whiskey and invited folks to share a drink. Acceptors were few but the person who had “signed the pledge” was soon passing a glass. As the assembly reduced in size and folks headed to bed the whiskey drinkers were left alone to reminisce and savour the malt. [Paddy Whiskey is Irish and the spelling is correct]

Morning came and we found that the evening had morphed into the new day and the whiskey level had been significantly reduced. The already honoured person had been first to retire which left John Wilson as the last man standing. So John is the keeper of the Possum Trophy until next year when it again is on offer!

Before jumping to the conclusion that this is a weekend of heavy drinking, be assured that the passing of time has curtailed many earlier activities. The participants are all self-disciplined enough to be responsible drinkers.

The Old Boys have a comprehensive web site that contains information about previous winners and other historical matter.

A page is dedicated as an Honour Roll to note Old Boys who have died. The list is far from complete, and any additions or alterations will be gratefully received.

Frizza Marshall

Local hero

Laurie ‘Frizza’ Marshall has won the Channel 7 P&O Home Grown Local Hero Competition.

During the Big Bash season, a Local Cricket Hero has featured at each game.

On Saturday Frizza was announced the winner of the competition for his tireless work at the Malmsbury Cricket Ground.

The 83-year-old Frizza is a truly dedicated voluntary groundsman who has been rolling up a turf wicket at Malmsbury for 43 years. His prize includes a 10-day P&O cruise with cash to splash, while the nominator and club have been well looked after.

Reported in the Midland Express and repeated with permission

2019 Visit to Torrumbarry

Piscatorial Experiences!

Piscatorial is an adjective of or concerning fishermen or fishing. The Kyneton Marist Brothers Old Boys have been visiting the Torrumbarry Weir Tourist Park to foster this pursuit for more than twenty years.

As with any assembly there is often a prize for a member that by actions or omissions becomes the stand-out participant. To immortalise the annual winner a perpetual trophy was established and named Possum Trophy. This is in memory of Brother Paul Bourke who taught at the school for many years. Paul was one of many brothers that taught at the school from 1926 until 1967 and to which Old Boys owe a debt of honour.

The group that came together on the first weekend in May 2019 included three octogenarians and many quickly approaching or have eligibility for a Seniors Card. Males; particularly in older age have more frequent relief visits. With shared accommodation the inevitable interrupted sleep by some “needing a visit” will occur. If one adds a second “S“ to piscatorial the meaning more or less reflects the situation!

Norm Schmidt has been a frequent visitor over the years and purports to be an expert piscatorialian. But he has seldom bagged a fish to get bragging rights. But waking his Bunkie’s over ten times during Friday night got him the nomination for the Possum Trophy. If that was not sufficient at breakfast he described a crumpet as one of those “round things”.

Vice President Roly Sandilands was presenting the Possum Trophy to Norm when from around the darken corner came a glowing surprise. Judy and Peter Law had entrusted Jack Ramsdale and Len Young to transport and deliver a birthday cake for Michael Halley who attained octogenarian status on May 7th. Michael was surprised with the generous thought and effort but still found time to deliver one of his long dissertations, which began with saying he recalled being born and that his mother was there at the time. Finally [phew] he acknowledged the Marist Brothers whom he said were “the men who shaped our lives”. The boys also penned personal remarks on an appropriate card.

The judges’ decisions are final for the Possum Trophy, but Len Young “threw the keys into the ring” on Sunday morning after most had departed. His effort would have relegated Norm to second place if it had been earlier in the day!

2018 visit to Torrumbarry

Possums Invading Mildura

The Kyneton Marist Brothers Old Boys held their annual excursion to Torrumbarry Weir Tourist Park this past weekend. [20 to 23 April]

The weekend gathers up fishers and non-fishers who are members of the Old Boys Association that was formed in August 1947. Members and selected friends use the three days to renew acquaintances and catch up with the news since the last meeting.

The school closed in 1967 but the Old boys Association is still delivering community support to those in Kyneton and district that find themselves in necessitous circumstances. Given that fifty years have passed since the school closed and ninety-two since it opened the ranks of Old Boys are thinning so a special time is dedicated to remembering those who have died. This year was particularly poignant as one of last year’s attendees had died, and Tom Walsh of Trentham, believed to be the oldest Old Boy passed away on 17 April.

That honouring ceremony morphs into what big business calls networking opportunities and folks are free to do whatever takes their fancy. But, like all kind, hunger will bring the herd together, and the nominated camp cooks prepare sustainable meals. Communal efforts ensure tidiness and discipline.

No group gathering goes by without some noteworthy action and an award fitting the group is given. [E.g. Golf’s NAGA Football’s Down-low] The Torrumbarry visitor adjudged the winner becomes the holder of the Possum Trophy for the next twelve months. The trophy is named in honour of Brother Paul “possum’ Bourke the Principal at the school when most of the active Old Boys were finishing their education.

There were a number of contenders including Kevin Mustard the 2017 winner, who was reluctant to lose the trophy. Although he had a toehold for some time Kevin was found wanting toward the end of the activities. Others also slipped behind as the days progressed.

Gerry Lavery who now lives in Mildura was the judges’ choice as the 2018 winner. The reason for his selection is known only to those who were in attendance and remains so, to protect Gerry and other winners from possible mockery or even blackmail! No doubt the Possum Trophy will enjoy a vacation to sunny Mildura and away from chilly Kyneton this winter.

2017 Fishing adventure

With baited breath!

The annual visit to Torrumbarry Weir Tourist Park by members of the Kyneton Marist Brothers Old Boys association and selected friends took place on Mother’s Day weekend [May 12th to 14th].

Most had been given a leave pass, but all departed Sunday morning in time to get home for family activities. Apart from Kyneton, members from Sunraysia and metropolitan Melbourne made the pilgrimage.

The assembly is a diverse group with ardent fishers and equally passionate land lubbers. But the mix adds to the orderly operation of the camp. Whilst some are away fishing others prepare the food and keep the home fires burning.

President Peter Law was not in attendance this year due to a bout of ill health, but Vice President Brian Fleming rose to the challenge and ensured that the tradition of good food and good humour was delivered.

Part of the activities is a tipping competition which was won by the said Brian Fleming but no protest was entered. Last year Kevin Willey from Nagambie had entered a protest which the chief steward Len Young dismissed as frivolous.

All had been forgotten, for during dinner Saturday evening Len made a presentation to Kevin to mark his 80th birthday the milestone which he passed in January. Roly Sandilands provides the wood for the cooking and heating and is chief stoker. He got a bit close to one piece and it was suggested that he be called “Roly Poley”.

The school closed in 1967 but the alumni are vibrant and active in Kyneton and district undertaking community support. We all remember one teacher from our school days and the majority of the committee were taught by Brother Paul Bourke.

Brother was known as Possum when he was a seminarian and that name went with him though his life. To make these weekends more memorable an award is given to the person that conducts themselves in a manner that sticks in others memories.

The recipient has his name engraved on the perpetual Possum Trophy. This year it was won on a clear decision of the judges by well know Kyneton identity Kevin Mustard. Kevin was a guest and gave an impromptu comedy and vocal concert which put him in the running, but it was his fishing acumen that clinched the day.

He announced that he was going to catch a fish and commenced to get his gear ready. First the line was so tangled that it had to be cut and reduced in length. Then came the bait; he took out a piece of cheese and tried to cut a piece with a knife but failed. Not to be beaten he decided to use the wood splitter to make some small pieces; that too failed so more traditional bait had to be used. Kevin later determined that the cheese was a couple of years old.

October 2016 Sick List

Jim Barron is in the Kyneton Hospital with serious kidney and herat conditions, He expects to return home soon but will need constant medical attention.

Meanwhile Peter Law can not shake off a debilitating virus that has curtailed him for weeks.

Peter Clohesy and Jack Ramsdale are both still undergoing medical treatment for their respective illnesses.

Sausages But No Snags

The first Saturday in June was a typical Kyneton winter’s day with biting winds driving the sleet around the BBQ but the volunteers manned the sausage sizzle despite the conditions.

The Old Boys attended in good numbers but absent were Brian Patrick Fleming and Jack Willmott. Brian had to attend his grandson’s football match at Golden Square before he heads north for the rest of the winter.

Jack Willmott has, much to his chagrin, become a resident at Ray M Begg Kyneton Aged Care and his “pope mobile” lays dormant at his previous residence. We wish Jack all the best for his settling in period at his new home.

Overall this was one of the best days in the “kitchen “for many a year. Twenty one [21] kilograms of sausages were devoured by the passing parade to warm the insides and ignore the sleet.

The competition for a trailer load of firewood was won by Mary Taylor [nee Patterson] but not having an open fire she handed it over to her niece Sophie Collins. It is hoped that hubby Richard is warmed as they burn the wood.

Interestingly Mary was the first entry that President Peter Law accepted but we see no conspiracy.

2016 Fishing expedition

Every year members of the Kyneton Marist Brothers Old Boys Association [Old Boys] and selected friends travel to the Peoples Republic of Torrumbarry [PRT] where the reigning President of the Old Boys becomes the supreme commander for the period of occupation.

The closest location in Australia is the now deserted township of Patho which is in the annuals of Victorian History and was even passed by Burke and Wills.

PRT El Presidente Peter Law welcomed the score of folks who journeyed from all parts of the state and made special mention of our mates who had died since the first excursion to PRT. It was a year and a week since the camp chef-de-mission Leo Law died. Kevin Tresidder, Gerry Brown and one of the more notable regular attendees “Sunny” Sundblom were also remembered.

The sun shone bright every day and warmed the atmosphere until the fires for cooking and heating were set ablaze by the flametender Roly Sandilands. The assembly was diverse with many reasons for being in attendance. Some had come for fishing, others for relaxation and some for devilment.

The blue green algae bloom that has engulfed the Murray River was notable but folklore dictated that if your bait is deep enough any fish you catch is safe to eat. The reasonably sized Yellow Belly caught by Lenny Hourigan has been consumed with no ill effects.

It was interesting that the Patho Plains were predominately used to grow wheat, oats, and barley which was turned into chaff or kept intact for stock feed. One of the attendees was Owen Perry whose family business of Chaff production is a long established Kyneton icon.

Hay and chaff have been used as animal feed in Victoria since the 1830s when hay was cut by hand with sickles. Horse drawn binders, which made sheaves from cut cereals, were developed in the 1880s. After a few days of lying on the ground, the sheaves were stooked with pitchforks and dried before being carted for stacking. The making of a hay stack required precision skills.

Michael Halley and Owen had stories to swap as Michael’s father Tom used to build haystacks for Perry’s and Watson’s Straw envelope factory and was always involved in the harvest when chaff cutters were taken into the paddock and driven by traction engines.

Michael Halley is responsible to provide the deserts to compliment the sumptuous meals prepared on site by the maître de Jack Ramsdale and assistants. The traditional steamed plum pudding was served on the first evening with a brioche bread and butter pudding and a French styled fruit crumble for the celebratory roast dinner.

One of the guests Graeme Edwards a member of the Renault Car Club brought along his newly acquired specked up Clio and went from PRT to Rob Roy to partake in the hill climb competition. Graeme recorded 26.96 seconds which is just over a second outside my personal best of 25.88 seconds. The ever competitive Graeme is slightly constrained by the effects of Chemotherapy and is determined to better the results next competition.

Kevin Willey was leading the tipping competition from race one but was pipped on the post when an outsider won the last. Kevin entered a protest that was quickly dismissed by Chief Steward Len Young. Brian Fleming nursing a “football injury” imitated Michael Jackson with a colourful glove on the injured hand, but at one stage introduced himself as Elvis.

Part of the weekend is the awarding of the Possum Trophy which is in memory of Brother Paul Bourke [Possum] and is for the outstanding activity during the weekend. Arthur Clarke now joins Brian Fleming as a winner for the second time. The PRT Minister for Information declined to provide details of Mr Clarke’s exploits but Vino Veritas was mentioned in passing.

The planning for the next excursion to PRT is well in hand and all are welcome.

Class photos

Photographic record

Gerry Danaher and others have provided many photos of past classes but it is nigh on impossible for them to be posted here on the web site.

We have the photo that covers the assembelled class shown below. If you would like a copy just ask!

FORM 3 1960

Back Row: Bill Scott: Brian Lee: Leo Mudford: Gerry Danaher: Denis O’Donnell

Middle Row: Greg French: Adrian Donovan: Russell Mangan: Denis Collery:

Kevin Falloon: Paul Donovan

Front Row: Colin O’Sullivan: Ted Beattie: Jim Cusack: Rodney Mumford:

Jim Lavery: Noel Boyer: Brian Sheppard

Photo and names supplied by Gerry Danaher

A question was asked at the reunion about Terry Rowe who after graduation became a wheat farmer in the Mildura area. The Mildura Vice-President Gerry Lavery provided this information:-

I know Terry Rowe his brother Barry Rowe married my sister Maureen. Barry died on the 2nd December 2003 in Geraldton WA is buried at Mullawa WA. Maureen is living in Geraldton visits Victoria a couple of time every year. When in Mildura she always visits Terry who lives in Mildura and is alive although not as fit as he used to be! Terry used to attend Sunday morning mass in Mildura so I would see him a fair bit and speak to him.

Although since his last hospital stay in mid 2015 he is unable to drive and has to rely on taxi’s to get to mass which is a bit much for him. I used to work with Terry in the shearing sheds around Sandon that’s where the Rowe family farm was after they left Kyneton. He also used to help Barry out at the Barfold Vic farm when I worked for Barry. Terry’s wife is Beryl they has one son who runs the farm at Merrinee near Werrimull Vic and one daughter who lives in Melbourne.

Posted 4 February 2016

The 2015 excursion to Torrumbarry Weir

Michael Halley was unable to attend this year so a verbatim report from Peter Law is being published.[Some minor modifications have been made]

A GREAT TRIP…lots of chat and drinkies. Kev [Kevin Willey] had a good time…. Roly [Sandilands] must have been a bit off because the hole under the chair wasn’t quite as big as the norm.

Our normal funny man Paul Healey could not attend due to his mum’s illness! However the replacement Mr. Kevin Mustard a renowned mop bucket player and story teller filled the bill, he is a funny man and will be coming next year.

2016 trip is already booked for the weekend of the 18th 19th 20th March 2016.

At breakfast on Sunday there was a national disaster when the cook L.J.L  [Leo Law] was cooking the eggs which were supplied by Mal Tyquin. (it couldn’t have worked better really)

Leo came to the last 4 eggs in the carton and unbeknown to all he had some trouble cracking the shell so he tried another one same result then smelt a rat and investigated only to find the last for had been boiled….”tykie” had done the job so therefore winning the possum trophy. [Perpetual trophy for a stand out performance during the weekend! [Named in memory of Brother Paul Bourke]

However there was another great effort again by the president [Jack Ramsdale]….phone call to Leo from Elmore…”have you left yet?’ Leo.no …can u pick the eggs up from tykies” Leo ok ….not much time after, a call to Leo from

Rochester ‘have you left yet’ Leo no can you go to pups place and pick up the fish and potato cakes Leo ok.

But you have to give it to Jack once again he had everything hid the 3 huts…..no sweets only two fruits’do we have any cream jack asks arty’ no reply….cream was found this morning packing up, it was hiding behind the orange juice which was not used …..in the fridge …..

Arty [Arthur Clarke] ,Leo and Owen Perry caught a few fish Yellow belly….

To Michael Halley..get mending because you were sadly missed by all…catch up PH

Kevin Rowe

Kevin Rowe who lived in Kyneton for only a few years attended the school in the mid 1940’s. He contacted us via the web site and provided a photo and the names of the students.

The sports record shows: 

In temperature of 99F at Barkly Square [due to meadow hay being cut at racecourse] on an unknown date in 1945 Kevin Rowe was placed third behind Terry Barron and Gerry Brown in throwing the cricket ball. Terry set a record at 80 feet and 4 inches for the under nine group. Kevin and Gerald O’Reilly were third in the Cock Fights [how politically incorrect!] Gerry Brown/M Dexter won with Terry Barron/Barry Green second.

Many of the others that took part in sports that day have died.

Those in the photo are:

Back Row: Jim Leahy – Joe Derricot -Thomas Hayes- Blair Morrison -Douglas Ferris- Arthur John Hayes -Bill Trehwella -Brian Green

Middle Row: Graham Devaney -John Tyndall -John Mc Inerny -Colin Pavelitich- Kevin Lynch- John Shearman- Bill Mudford- Noël Maloney – Kevin Rowe- Brian Fleming- John(widy)Beer

Front Row: Ken Roberts -Martin Dexter- Keith Chapman – Brother Conan -Snooks O’Reilly -Frank Crow -Peter Main

We have acopy of the photo but can not uplaod it to the web site. If you want to see it just ask.

On the Sick List

Our Emeritus Old Boy Jack Willmott had a spell in John Faulkner Hospital with a bout of pneumonia but was discharged and returned home on Friday23 May 2014

V.i Ramsdale is Bendigo Hospital in a quite serious condition. The Last Rites were administrated and as often happens some improvement was noted.

V.I is known in her own right as the author of The Journey Turns Full Circle a history of the Church on the occasion of its 150th Anniversary in 2002. But she is also the spouse of Leo a long time stalwart of the Old Boys.

Conjoined Possums

After another year of community support the Kyneton Marist Brothers Old Boys took some rest and recreation. In the recent past they topped up the needed funds to secure the future of The Bluestone Theatre Kyneton; and made a sizeable donation in support of Courtney’s Crew. The latter is a fund raising effort in memory of Courtney Keast tragically killed in January.

The have an annual excursion to Torrumbarry Weir on the Murray River at Patho a somewhat remote location. The area is a favourite spot for fishers and some of the Old Boys actually are followers of piscatorial delights. Some are closet aquaphobics and remain around the camp to assist with catering and keeping the fires alight for both warmth and cooking.

One of the treasured but not sought mementoes of the weekend is the Possum Trophy. The plaque is so named to honour the memory of Brother Paul Bourke a long term Principal the school, nick-named possum more as a term of endearment than derogatory. [Actually the name was given to him as a young seminarian]

Eligibility to be named on the trophy is open to all participants and is adjudged by two Vice Presidents of the alumni association. The criteria is somewhat flexible but is awarded to reflect a memorable part of the weekend.

Len Young the association treasurer has attended all weekends over the last two decades but has never been conspicuous as he maintains an important behind the scenes function and is also official photographer. He could be called “Teflon Len”!

But even on Teflon something will stick; so it came to pass on the most recent weekend for Len. Set to capture his first photograph of the day he exclaimed “my [expletive deleted] card is still in the computer at home”. No one was going to beat that so the judges were relaxed and less observant. However favourites often get beaten!

The inaugural winner was Brian [Flemmo] Fleming way back in the year 2000 so as a past winner was more or less excluded! Since the sad demise of Keith McGowan Flemmo has become the Irish Singer Daniel O’Donnell’s unofficial public relations manager. He arrived in “mummy’s” car playing a tape of his favourite singer and over the next three days switched it on a played it to taunt those less inclined to Irish music and lyrics.

As the camp was packed up and departure was happening Brian shook everyone’s hand and bade fond farewells as he sat in the driver’s seat. But all of musical interludes had flattened the battery on mummy’s car much to the delight of all and sundry.

Whilst he was being helped to get the car going the judges took a decision that 2014 would see joint names engraved on the trophy. The last time this occurred was when two lads fell out of their bunk beds at the same time.

So if you see Len or Brian in your travels extend hearty congratulations for contributing to the history of the Kyneton Marist Brothers Old Boys.

At the 2014 AGM Brother Kevin Hoare advised that Brother Tom Maher was in Adelaide on retreat when he had a fall. he was indisposed for some weeks but is now back in Brisbane and fully recovered.

SECOND COMING!

We received a letter from Brother Victor Chalmers former headmaster at the school who was appointed in 1958…he came across the web site by chance and he said he was impressed that the old boys were still active ….he is no longer a brother and left the order not long after leaving Kyneton….he was flattered to be on the list of headmasters….but goes on to say “there is another list that has me down as “Victor Chambers RIP”, its a rumour, I’m eighty and quite well….

His address and email are…..John G Chalmers 2a Boscarne Ave Torquay 3228 jmchal@iprimus.com.au

The website has been altered to “raise the dead”! Sorry John but it was the brothers who gave us the list of deceased

• On Sunday 13 December 2009 the sun shone brightly on the Kyneton Football Oval where the families of members gathered for the annual fish luncheon.
• In some cases three generations of an old boy’s family were in attendance. More than twenty members dropped in during the afternoon.
• Jack Ramsdale and Len Young took the responsibility to prepare the food which was deep fried fish, scallops, potato chips and cakes, together with dim-sims. The table service was provided by Brian Fleming and Peter Law. Accompaniments for the freshly prepared food was provided by the ladies and consisted of several salads and other condiments.
• Desserts were also provided and although not low calorie were very popular————-after all it is Christmas!
• After the food had gone Santa arrived to treat the children with ice cream and sweets and specially selected presents from Santa’s own workshop.
• President Roly Sandilands thanked the attendees for support and also the chefs and wait staff.
• A good day was had by all!
• David Gellion sent in a request to correct the spelling of his father’ Jack’s name in the deceased old boys register. He provided this family insight:
• Dad worked with Goldsbrough Mort in Wycheproof for about 10 years until we moved to Cobram in 1966 where he joined Younghusbands. He worked for a number of companies around the Cobram/Numurkah area after that.
• I wouldn’t remember to many of his connections as I only a young fella at the time.
• My mother led me away from being a stock and station agent and pointed me in the direction of being an engineer – a good choice at the time.
• Gerard Danaher has been compiling a listing of the Class of 1958. It is a work in progress and any students from that year are asked to send in their details and any other names.