On Friday 25 October, the School had the pleasure of hosting the Esteemed Lunch, a reunion event that brought together community members who have been involved with Carey for over 40 years. Held at the Kew Sports Complex, this memorable gathering welcomed over 80 guests, including alumni, former staff, current staff and partners who came to reconnect, reminisce and celebrate shared memories of their time at the school.
The afternoon kicked off with a warm welcome from David Morgan OAM (1961), who shared the rich history of this event, originally named the ‘Steele Luncheon’ after the School’s first headmaster and first president of the Old Carey Grammarians Association (OCGA), H.G. Steele. This tradition dates back to 1925, when a pivotal meeting was held at Steele’s home, leading to the establishment of the OCGA. That historic gathering set the foundation for a legacy of alumni connection that has endured and evolved over time. The luncheon, now in its fourth iteration as the ‘Esteemed Lunch,’ symbolises the School’s evolving legacy and continued commitment to uniting our full community across generations.
Principal Jonathan Walter then spoke to guests, sharing insights from his recent sabbatical and exciting updates about the School, including the Year 10 Carey Zero program and future initiatives. Rev. Tim Edwards, the School’s Lead Chaplain, provided a moment of reflection on the ongoing importance of chaplaincy today, while OCGA President, Sam Ponsford (2017), highlighted the association’s efforts to maintain strong alumni connections.
This event is not only a celebration of the past but also a testament to the strong bonds that continue to connect generations of our close-knit community. It’s a heartfelt reunion that allows everyone to reconnect, reminisce and look forward to the future. We look forward to hosting the next lunch in 2025 with our Esteemed school community, an event that promises to bridge decades of cherished memories and deepen the bonds that unite us across generations!
Kaushini Fernando
Alumni and Community Manager
