After the first luncheon of the year, held in February at the Mail Exchange Hotel, it was a pleasure to return to our regular venue at the RACV Club, where guests were once again welcomed with warmth and hospitality.

Close to 50 attendees gathered to enjoy an excellent meal and hear from our guest speaker, Stephen Beers (1985), Director of Operations at 3AW and Macquarie Sports Radio 1278.

As always, Pat Mount (1962) performed his role as Master of Ceremonies with distinction, welcoming guests and inviting Father Brian Glasheen (1955) to deliver Grace.

Prior to lunch, Stephen Philp (1986) presented the Alumni report, outlining upcoming OPA events over the next two months. These included the 50-year reunion for the Class of 1976 on Friday, 20 March, and the Old Paradians’ Football Club Sportsman’s Lunch featuring Greg Williams and Stephen Kernahan on Friday, 17 April. He also reminded attendees of the OPA Annual General Meeting scheduled for Monday, 23 March, and encouraged all to attend.

Following lunch, Pat invited Stephen Philp to introduce Stephen Beers. Stephen delivered an engaging and insightful presentation, followed by a lively question-and-answer session. Having spent nearly 40 years with 3AW, beginning in a junior role and progressing through the organisation to Station Manager, he offered a unique perspective on the station’s enduring success.

He spoke about 3AW’s strong connection with the people of Melbourne, describing the audience as “The Village,” and emphasised the importance of live, locally driven content. He noted that thousands of listeners tune in each week and feel a genuine sense of participation and community. While FM stations may attract more casual listeners, 3AW benefits from greater depth of listening, with audiences often tuning in for extended periods.

Stephen generously remained after the formal proceedings to engage in further one-on-one discussions with attendees.

Special thanks go to Peter Johnston (1973) for his outstanding efforts in organising another highly successful luncheon.