Published on: 15 October 2014

2014-08-15 20.11.33Like all good events the initial idea germinates over a cold beer, a glass of wine and a feed… and so it was with the 1977 Captains’ Dinner, a night with a dual purpose.

To bring together ‘elite’ past students … some have weathered better than others… to bask in the glory that was 1977 when this band of exceptional students achieved many notable successes: the Darlot Cup for cricket; the Alcock Cup for football; with further joy in athletics; gymnastics; swimming; rowing; debating; chess… you name it, the Class of ’77 achieved it.

And from a more sombre perspective it was to reflect on the contribution of one of our fellows, Luke Holland (dec), who lost his life in a car accident late in our final year at school. To many of us Luke exemplified all that was good in a human being. He was a top student, an outstanding competitor in sport, he held a strong faith, but most importantly he cared for others, always prepared to spare a moment or two.

A great theme then for a great night that followed…

Thirty-two old boys from the Class of ’77 gathered for drinks and a feed at Royal Freshwater Bay Yacht Club. Ten lads were apologies so after 37 years since we left CCGS, it was an excellent turnout. Richard McNeil (Adelaide) and Ian Wood (Melbourne) made the trip across the Nullabor whilst a few others headed in from their bush settings.

The evening kicked off with some great banter, followed by a moving talk by Headmaster Garth Wynne who talked about how Luke’s legacy had been embraced in the School’s message to Year 12s. This was a most sombre 15 minutes, with all the lads in a reflective space, contemplating how we had all continued our own journeys and yet Luke had lost his so early in his life.

As the dinner progressed and the ‘social’ lubricant flowed speeches were shared by Joe Fisher, Clayton Lewis and Richard McNeil… reflections on how we won the cricket and football in ’77 and Luke’s contribution to these successes. During these tales the ‘rogue’ of our years, ‘Camel’ Gary Watkins jumped to his feet and shared the most significant impact that Luke had played in his life at school… it was really a touching observation.

This was a night that was fondly enjoyed by all who attended… and not surprisingly a small group of ‘stayers’ were asked to move on at 12.30am by the yacht club staff… we just love havin’ a good time… laughs a plenty!!

So for the class that is 77 it is all about carpe diem… we continue to ‘seize the day’!

Thank you Luke Holland for the inspiration and leadership and fellowship that you shared in abundance.

Peter Bowman (1977)

To view the photo gallery for this event, click here.