Diggers Rest residents were among former Sunbury state and high school students dating back to 1959 who gathered on Thursday, December 7, to share stories spanning more than 60 years.
About 12 ex-students gathered from across the country at Houdini’s in Diggers Rest for lunch, with laughs spreading throughout the venue. They gather about every six weeks, travelling from as far as NSW.
Ex-student John White drove three hours from Gippsland and said it’s fantastic to catch up, chat about their lives and where they are currently at.
“We reflect a lot of the memories we had from school… [and] enjoy each other’s company and that we’re still here, because a lot of [people] aren’t,” Mr White said.
“I think it’s recognition of the fact that you’re friendly with each other and spend all your learning years together.
“The bottom line is that schoolmates are lifeline friends and… [we] like to stay in touch.”
While these regular lunches produce thriving gatherings, about five years ago, they were just an idea formed by two ex-students Jacqui Sharman and Pam Burnside.
With the first lunch drawing in three people and a buzz of excitement, arrangements were made to make it a regular event.
Word spread quickly and at times upwards of 17 former school mates would gather at various venues across the region to recall the early days.
Mr White said it is important to maintain these relationships and the support they provide, especially as everyone gets older.
“Albeit we lead different lives but we reconnect and that creates that sense of commareship, friendship and support,” he said.
Zoe Moffatt
