On Friday evening, November 6, the Old Paradians’ Association was delighted to welcome members of the graduating Class of 1986 to celebrate the 40th anniversary of their departure from Parade College.

Once again, Eaglemont Cellars provided the perfect setting for the occasion, with the room filled to capacity as 50 Old Paradians came together to reconnect, reminisce and celebrate four decades of friendship and shared memories.

It was particularly pleasing to see so many former teachers join the celebrations, including John Joss, Trish Joss (affectionately remembered as Miss Rooney), John Ramsdale, Peter Rubira, John Nicholls and Jim Seymour. Their presence added a special dimension to the evening, with plenty of stories, laughter and memories shared between teachers and former students.

Amid the laughter and good humour, there was also an opportunity to pause and remember those members of the Class of 1986 who have sadly passed away since leaving the College: Fortunato Baldasso, John Beadle, Damien Bertoli, Jay Cashmore, Danny Jugovic, David Morton and Mark O’Keefe. They remain an important part of the Class of 1986 and will always be remembered by their mates.

While many attendees had not seen one another for almost 40 years, it was wonderful to discover just how many of the ’86 group have maintained regular contact over the years. This is a wonderful reflection of the friendships and camaraderie established during their time at Parade, connections that have endured well beyond the classroom and continued throughout their lives.

A highlight of the evening was hearing from 1986 School Captain, John Tobin and classmate Ross Moulin, who reflected on what it truly means to be an Old Paradian. They spoke of the lifelong friendships forged during their school years and the special bond shared by those who have worn the Purple, Green and Blue. Their words were a timely reminder that while our school days may eventually come to an end, our connection to Parade and to one another never has to.

As the evening drew to a close at 11.00pm, it was clear that many were not quite ready to call it a night. Around 15 gentlemen continued the celebrations at the Old England Hotel, where more stories, laughter and a cleansing ale ensured the reunion extended well into the early hours of Saturday morning.

A special mention must go to Paul Evans, who generously took on the role of official photographer for the evening. His photographs, featured below, beautifully capture the enjoyment, friendship and genuine mateship shared throughout the night. Thanks so much Evo, it was greatly appreciated!

There was certainly a strong feeling amongst those attending that waiting until the 50-year reunion for the next gathering was simply too long. Plans will therefore be underway to bring the group together again in the coming years.

It was also encouraging to hear from several gentlemen interested in giving back to Parade and becoming more involved with the Old Paradians Association. We would warmly welcome anyone wishing to explore opportunities to reconnect with the College and its community. For further information, please contact Steve Philp at steve.philp@parade.vic.edu.au.

Forty years may have passed since the Class of 1986 walked out of the College gates, but the friendships, memories and bonds forged at Parade clearly remain as strong as ever. Being an Old Paradian is about more than the years spent at school, it is about belonging to a community, maintaining lifelong friendships and carrying the spirit of Parade with you wherever life takes you. Once a Paradian, always a Paradian!