Issuu

NEWSLETTERI NDEX Jul y2001. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 May2002. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 5 Sept ember2003. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 December2004. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 December2005. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59 Jul y2006. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87 June2007. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 08 December2009. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 33 June201 0. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 50 Jul y201 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 64 Febr uar y201 2. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 84 December201 3. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 204 December201 4. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 229 December201 5. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 249 December201 6. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 271 December201 7. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 301 December201 8. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 354 December201 9. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 408 December2020. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 457 December2022. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 486 December2023. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 6 December2024. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 553 Wi nt erEdi t i on2025. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 601 SummerEdi t i on2025. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 604

WACOBU

Wagga Agricultural College Old Boys Union

newsletter PO Box 1078 Wagga Wagga NSW 2650 Tel: (02) 69 241 559

Inside this issue: •Details of next AGM •Reunion details for 2001 •News of Old Boys •Reunion Report for 2000

wacobu@hotmail.com

July 2001

WACOBU EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE PRESIDENT Ros Prangnell Pine Gully Road WAGGA NSW 2650 Tel 02 6933 1260 VICE PRESIDENT Jim Pratley 56 Coleman Street WAGGA NSW 2650 Tel 02 6922 1208 SECRETARY Debby Slinger 25 Harold Street JUNEE NSW 2663 Tel 02 6924 1559 TREASURER Peter Regan PO Box 919 WAGGA NSW 2650 Tel 02 6933 1479

COMMITTEE Jeff Granger PO Box 799 YOUNG NSW 2650 Tel 02 6382 3584

Stuart Kanaley PO Box 26 JUNEE NSW 2663 Tel 02 6924 2400

David Lock RMB 291 The Gap WAGGA NSW 2650 Tel 02 6922 9201

Peter Lockley 62 Gurwood Street WAGGA NSW 2650 Tel 02 6921 3671

Michael Sinclair 129 Kitchener Road TEMORA NSW 2666 Tel 02 6978 1169

Eric Owen “Wandana” Duramana Road EGLINGTON NSW 2795 Tel 02 6337 1526

Craig Warren 129 Kitchener Road TEMORA NSW 2666 Tel 02 6978 1169 Terry Horan Back Mimosa Road TEMORA NSW 2666 Tel 02 6977 4019 Tom Kennaway 2 Kansas Drive WAGGA NSW 2650

Tony Paton RMB 248 WALLACETOWN via WAGGA NSW 2650 Tel 02 6924 6449 Chris Slinger 25 Harold Street JUNEE NSW 2663 Tel 02 6924 1559 Ross Henley 11 Clipper Way WAGGA NSW 2650 Tel 02 6933 1222

PRESIDENTS REPORT MAY 2001 Hi there, Thanks go to Mardi Henley and Deb Slinger for putting together this newsletter - it is an onerous task and much dependent on any information we receive. Our condolences go to the families of 1963 students Mickey Brennan and Tim Bannister and 1962 student John Ritchie who all passed away recently. On a brighter note, a pre-season rugby match was played between Hawksebury and Wagga not long ago in Griffith. The MIA chapter of the HAC Old Boys Union has met annually in March in Griffith for dinner and drinks. The invitation has been opened up to WAC graduates, and several WACOBU members attended last year and this year. This year the HAC committee trialed the idea of a pre-season match between students with much success, despite the atrocious score and the 36 degrees heat. I happened to win one of the raffles - a 1988 HAC 2nds or 3rds football guernsey - I could frame it or ceremoniously burn it!! “The Farm” which was screened by the ABC in March apparently had a rural advisor for the series, Andrew Winterflood - a 1977 graduate. Cheers for now.

Ros Pragnell

Ag College Rugby for 2001

07 July 14 July 21 July 28 July 04 Aug 11 Aug 18 Aug 25 Aug 01 Sept

Southern Competition

McMullen Cup

Waratahs/Aggies Aggies/Albury Chalks/Aggies Aggies/Wagga City Elimination Finals Semi Finals Finals Grand Final Bledisloe Cup - Sydney

Blue Boars/Aggie Motts Aggie Motts/Border Army Young Reds/Aggie Motts Aggie Motts/City Bullseyes

IS YOUR YEAR ... 1951... 1961 ...1971 ...1981 ... 1991... 1996

Reunion Weekend 2001

1951 1961 1971 1981 1991 1996

Saturday 20 October 2001

Coincides with Ag College Race Day Romano’s Restaurant (upsatirs) 7.00pm pre dinner drinks 7.30pm dinner

Sunday 21 October 2001

lunch at Wagga Wagga Winery, Oura

Please RSVP by Friday 12 October 2001.

Response sheet at back of this newsletter.

Contact Kevin or Ross if you’re from 1981

1981 - Kevin Bolitho boschirrigation@albury.net.au Ross Henley rhenley@elders.com.au

FLASHBACk - Ross “Rooster” Henley provided us with the 1983 Grand Final memories we see here.

Col Plater Pat Coughlan Tony Paton Rob Dunkley Jeannie Dunkley Michael Oakes Warwick Date David Clarke Harley Delves Garry Seamer Peter Draper R Iddon R Kobecke B Atkins G Veness I Simpson J Mahon G Kegan

D Appleyard C Beckingham T Hanmer R Bowen F Butler C Lehmann P Robinson J Mellor R Ballantyne S Tomson T Ellwood R Blackmore R Cox E Kulmer J Slatter J Lymbery Tim Hutcheon W D & H O Wills

D Lock N Moody R Thomas A Holmes A Robson J McRae T Fletcher D Bruckner G Bruckner G Condon T De Salis R & M Henley Neil Bruce Phillip Asimus R Prangnell E Maloney K Edyvean A Pursehouse

WACOBU COTTAGE WACOBU Cottage is an accommodation building for agricultural post-graduate students jointly funded by Charles Sturt University - Riverina, and the Wagga Agricultural College Old Boys Union (WACOBU). The WACOBU committee is aiming to sell 1,000 bricks as part of our contribution towards the building. Follow the WACOBU members listed above, and donate a brick or two for WACOBU Cottage.

ONLY $25.00 per brick. We have 1700 members. A “brick” donation will make a significant contribution to the WACOBU Cottage Project.

NEWS of OLD BOYS Ian Preuss (1977) Pinjara Alpacas RMB 16244 Borschmann Road LIMA SOUTH VIC 3673 Tel: (03) 57682549 Email: preuss@cnl.com.au Web: www.pinjaraalpacas.com Sold businesses in Wagga and purchased farm/Alpaca Stud 1/3/00. Since then Angela and I have been flat out getting things up & running the way we like it. We have two children 16 & 17, both at boarding school in Melbourne.

Alison Rowlands 28 Gilruth Street HACKETT ACT 2602.

Bruce Peasley (1968-70) PO Box 702 11 Hopper Street INVERELL NSW 2360.

Greg Condon (1992-1994) PO Box 73 JUNEE NSW 2663.

Tony De Salis (1974-1977) “Soglio” MICHELAGO NSW 2620.

Col Plater 12 Derwent Avenue WAGGA WAGGA NSW 2650. Tel: (02) 69 263 105 Fax: (02) 69 265 258 Email: plater@dow.com Mob: 0427 695900.

Jim Helps “Wyandra” HILLSTON NSW 2675.

Paul Cocking 12 Cheshire Street WAGGA WAGGA NSW 2650.

Paul McCaskie (Beaver) “Kurrajong Vale” GIRRAL NSW 2669. Currently in the UK for around 6 more months, then returning to the farm in West Wyalong.

Geoffrey Bruckner (1992-94) “Ruby Park” RMB 1036 GLEN OAK MAIL via WAGGA WAGGA NSW 2650.

NEWS of OLD BOYS David Sloane has kindly provided us with some memories.... Standing (left - right) Neville Mangelsdorf, Dick Gammie, Ron Iddon, John Mahoney, Wilf Harris, Bob Taylor, Des Stewart, Graham Nichols, John Mitchell, Snow Kendall, John Taffer, Jim Nicklin. Kneeling (left - right) David Sloane, Dave Chapman, Tony Duff, Tony Thurbon, Peter Shearing, Ian Macpherson, Col Brett, Russ Wesslink, Bruce Hart, Bill Millard.

Tony Duff, John Taffer, Ron Iddon and Jim Nicklin.

NEWS of OLD BOYS HAC/WAC Report - Griffith 15 March 2001 Although WAC footy side were no match for HAC on the day - they made up for the loss by winning the Boat Races that evening - keeping the Old Boys amused with their antics and songs. Once again the evening had a great roll up of old HAC’s and WAC’s. WACOBU numbers are increasing yearly at this event. It was held at the Griffith Race course with lots of catching up and enjoyable wine from the raffles. If you live in the area make the effort in 2002 for an enjoyable night.

EMAIL If you have an email address please provide it to us so we can email you this newsletter. This will greatly help our cause to cut down on printing expenses. Also use this address to send information to us for the next newsletter.

wacobu@hotmail.com

OBITUARY Tim Bannister

Michael Brennan

(WAC 1960-63) who passed away in December 2000.

(WAC 1961-63) 11/2/1944 - 27/11/2000

Tim Bannister was raised in the Sydney suburb of Lindfield and attended the Sydney Church of England Grammar School (SHORE), before escaping city life to Wagga Ag.College in 1960.

Michael, who died on the 27 November 2000, at Toowoomba, Queensland, was a graduate of Wagga Wagga Agricultural College during 1961-63. Michael was also a Wagga boy, whose parents, Bill and Nell, operated a real estate business in the city, continuing to live there to the present, as does his brother Tim, a hotel broker.

His contemporaries will well remember his time at Wagga for the colourful lifestyle and friendship. Following his time at Wagga, Tim married Ellen in Sydney, soon after leaving College, before proceeding to Henganofi in the Eastern Highlands of New Guinea, early in 1964, to commence his career as an Agricultural Officer with the Department of Agriculture, Stock and Fisheries. He spent a number of years at that posting during which time his two sons were born. He then was posted to Mt.Hagen in the Western Highlands for a stint before a posting bach to the Eastern Highlands to the Farmer Training Centre at Korofegu. After a period at Korofegu he, once again, returned to Mt.Hagen as a lecturer at the Highlands Agricultural Training Institute. During his period in New Guinea, Tim undertook a M.Ag.Sc. degree before returning to Australia, when the country gained it's Independance in 1975, to set up his newsagency business in North Sydney. Tim will be sadly missed by his many college and work colleagues. Hiscontribution to New Guinea agriculture is well recognised in that country.

On graduation from the College, Mick started his working life as a cadet Valuer with the Snowy Mountains Authority. After about two years he joined the NSW Valuer General’s Dpt, continuing to learn his valuation and property skills during the ten years he was with the organisation (to about 1976). Property Valuation and Advisory work were destined to remain Mick’s lifetime career and he worked at Wyong on the Central Coast of NSW before setting up Michael Brennan & Associates at Toowoomba. This became a successful Valuation & Property Advisory Business. Going back a step, Mick met and married Enid during his time with the Valuer General’s Dpt and youngsters Judi and David and were later joined by Maureen and Michael Jnr. After the move to Toowoomba, Enid worked in the business with Mick. To expand their horizons, they later became part of the substantial Property & Valuation organisation Taylor Byrne, with Mick becoming a Director, managing their Toowoomba and Moree offices.

Thanks to Bob Couchman Mick was well known and respected in the for providing this information. NSW/QLD cotton industry and across the Queensland pastoral and farming communities. He also worked in central and southern NSW. He was at ease with everyone, whether family farmer,company director, council worker or Govt official. Mick’s all round amiability and good humour is well remembered. As a WAC Graduate, Mick was a credit to the College and his contemporaries. During those three years his exploits in the footy team, as half back, and his cheery, affable personality are recalled with fondness. He will be missed. Thanks to Ed Donald for providing this information.

New membership/renewal of membership form (PRINT DETAILS) Name (IN FULL).......................................................................................Date of birth............................................... Address.................................................................................................................................................................... ..............................................................................................................Postcode.................................................... Years at College (From)...................................to...................................... Please find enclosed cheque/money order for: WACOBU joining fee ($30.00)

$.....................

WACOBU annual membership/newsletter fee ($5.00)

$.....................

OBU stickers ($1.00)

$.....................

OBU tie ($30.00)

$.....................

OBU lapel badges ($2.00)

$.....................

WACOBU Centenary hat ($12.00)

$.....................

WACOBU pewter ($50.00)

$.....................

WACOBU goblets ($50.00/pair)

$.....................

WACOBU plain hat ($10.00)

$.....................

“Farm Boys to PHD” ($30.00)

$.....................

Ladies WACOBU shield pendant ($65.00)

$.....................

Video ($30.00)

$.....................

WACOBU plaques ($30.00)

$.....................

WACOBU keyring ($15.00)

$.....................

Brick donation ($25.00)

$..................... Total

$.....................

Make cheques/money orders payable to: WACOBU PO Box 1078 WAGGA WAGGA NSW 2650

Variation of address/personal notes form (PRINT DETAILS) EMAIL address.............................................................................................Date ofbirth........................................... Name (IN FULL)....................................................................................... ....Date...................................................... Address.................................................................................................................................................................... ...................................................................................................................Postcode............................................... Personal notes.......................................................................................................................................................... ................................................................................................................................................................................ ................................................................................................................................................................................ ................................................................................................................................................................................ ................................................................................................................................................................................ ................................................................................................................................................................................ News of other Old Boys (include addresses if possible)............................................................................................... ................................................................................................................................................................................ ................................................................................................................................................................................ ................................................................................................................................................................................ 10................................................................................................................................................................................ ................................................................................................................................................................................

REUNION WEEKEND REGISTRATION FORM Alumni No..................................................Years at College (From)...................................to...................................... Name (IN FULL)......................................................................................................................................................... Address.................................................................................................................................................................... ..............................................................................................................Postcode.................................................... Telephone (H)...............................................(W)......................................Email......................................................... I enclose payment (cheques payable to WACOBU) for

$................................... which covers cost of:-

...................person/s for the Reunion Dinner on Sat 20 October 2001 @ $35.00 each, total $................................ ...................person/s for the Reunion Lunch on Sunday 22 October 2001 (pay on the day) $12.00 for lunch approx. Please complete and return to

Deb Slinger 25 Harold Street JUNEE NSW 2663 or fax to (02) 69 242 400 by Friday 19 October 2001

PLEASE RSVP by Friday 12 October 2001

ARE YOU or YOUR FRIENDS MISSING in ACTION ? Mr Steve Mr Andrews Mr Lindsay Mr Stephen Mr Owen Mr Charles Mr Anthony Mr Scott Mr J Ms Cheryl Mr Kendall Mr Timothy Ms Janet Mrs Jodi Mr Michael Mr Gerald Mr Dennis Mr John Mr David Mr Duncan Mr John Mr Andrew Ms Michelle Mr Alastair Mr Malcolm Mr Geoffrey Mr Laurence Mr B Mr John Mr Richard Mr Andrew Mr Richard Mr Peter Mr Richard Mr Robert Mr Donald

Adams Atkinson Barrington Bennett Best Bish Bradley Brogan Bromley Buggy Byrne Caldow Caldwell Moore Campi Carnie Child Critcher Crouch Cruickshank Dean Dowd Drew Dunham Elliott Faull Fitzpatrick Fletcher Friend Gill Glasson Goode Gorham Graham Guadagnini Hackett

Mr Duncan Mr Mark Mr Ian Mr David Mrs Michelle Mr Bill Ms Jane Ms Julianne Mr Ken Mr Michael Mr Martin Mr Thomas Mr Andrew Mr Neil Miss Kathryn Mrs Carmel Mr Craig Mr Ian Mr D Mr Paul Mr Brenden Mr David H Mr Alexander Mr Neil Ms Anne Miss Susan Mr Craig Mr Paul Mrs Julianne Mr Peter Mr David Ms Kerry-Lyn Mr James Mr John Mr Thomas

Handley Harris Herbert Hilton Hird Hobson Holt Hopkins Huggett Jones Keir Kennaway King Lane Lawrie Le Lay Lihou Linley Luke Mahony McAlister McGhee McKay McKenzie McLachlan Migheli Millar Miller Muddle Musgrave Napier O'Beirne Parker Patterson Paul Peake

Mr James Perrignone Ms Alexis Potts Mr Timothy Ravenhall Ms Christina Richardson Mr Lloyd Ross Mr Bernie Rourke Mr Ian Royds Mrs Sandra Rynehart Mr C Sabine Mr Ian Saunders Ms Christine Scully Mr Gregory Sefton Mr P Sibraa Mr Michael Sinclair Miss Carol Smith Mr Michael Staniford Mr Geoffrey Strom Mr Gary Sutherland Ms Ratchaneekorn Thammajuckul Miss Jennifer Todd Mr Brett Weingarth Mr Stuart Whalan Ms Maria Wheeler Miss Adele Whitaker Mr Neale Whittard Mrs Kelly Wigney Mr Jeffrey Wilkinson Mr Bevan Wilson Ms Lisa Wood Mr Jim Wormsley Mr Rodney Shearer Mr Charles Cashmore Mr Cameron

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING 5 August 2001 Wagga Wagga Winery, Oura Road, Wagga Wagga 11am for AGM 12.30 for lunch (Bring the family) The executive and committee are all prepared to remain in their positions, so no fear of coming away with a job, but we would appreciate your input.

If you would like this document emailed to you in Acrobat PDF format (it will help us cut down on printing expenses) or have further information for us to add to the next newsletter please email:-

wacobu@hotmail.com

PO Box 1078 Wagga Wagga NSW 2650 Tel: (02) 69 241 559

WACOBU

Wagga Agricultural College Old Boys Union

newsletter

May 2002

WACOBU now available on line www.csu.edu.au/division/alumni

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING Sunday 26 May 2002 Wagga Wagga Winery, Oura Road, Wagga Wagga 11am for AGM 12.30 for lunch (Bring the family)

wacobu@hotmail.com

WACOBU EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE David Lock RMB 291 The Gap WAGGA NSW 2650 Tel 02 6922 9201

PRESIDENT

Ros Prangnell Pine Gully Rd WAGGA NSW 2650 Tel 02 6933 1260 VICE PRESIDENT

Jim Pratley 56 Coleman St WAGGA NSW 2650 Tel 02 6922 1208

Michael Sinclair 129 Kitchener Rd TEMORA NSW 2666 Tel 02 6978 1169 Tom Kennaway 2 Kansas Drive WAGGA NSW 2650

SECRETARY

Debby Slinger 25 Harold St JUNEE NSW 2663 Tel 02 6924 1559

Stuart Kanaley PO Box 26 JUNEE NSW 2663 Tel 02 6924 2400

TREASURER

Craig Warren Wesfarmers Landmark 122-124 Hoskins St TEMORA NSW 2666

Peter Regan PO Box 919 WAGGA NSW 2650 Tel 02 6933 1479 COMMITTEE

Jeff Granger PO Box 799 YOUNG NSW 2650 Tel 02 6382 3584

Peter Lockley 62 Gurwood St WAGGA NSW 2650 Tel 02 6921 3671

Tony Paton RMB 248 WALLACETOWN via WAGGA NSW 2650 Tel 02 6924 6449 Chris Slinger 25 Harold St JUNEE NSW 2663 Tel 02 6924 1559 Ross Henley 11 Clipper Way WAGGA NSW 2650 Tel 02 6933 1222 Terry Horan 22 Station Rd ST LEONARDS TAS 7250 Tel 03 6339 2058 John Mahon "Hillview" OURA via WAGGA WAGGA NSW 2650 Tel 69221208 Fax 6922 1200 jmahon@wagga.net.au

Eric Owen “Wandana” Duramana Rd EGLINGTON NSW 2795 Tel 02 6337 1526

PRESIDENTS REPORT May 2002 It is with sadness that in this issue of Old Boys News that I relate to you the passing of Don Joyes. Don died on 11th October, 2001, aged 83, after several weeks in hospital. As you can see by the obituary, Don had an extensive and interesting career. I first met Don as a young female student in the late seventies, when WAC become RCAE. His gentlemanly and kind manner was a salve for this young naïve country girl, and I was pleased to rekindle our friendship when I moved back to Wagga in 1984. Don wasn’t just my close friend, he was close and lifelong friend to most of the students who were at WAC between 1951 and 1977. Up to 1975, all agricultural students did the same course and everyone lived on campus in a unique community. Of course, up to 1974, this was an all-male community. Don often said he had “no kith or kin", as he and Fay were not blessed with children, however I often reminded him of this vast community family that he had – and of the respect and love that we had for him. Don and Fay enjoyed 53 years of marriage – and many, many years of wonderful friendships with the students of the former Wagga Agricultural College. Congratulations and thank you to the 1956’ers who have collectively raised $610 towards WACOBU Cottage. The class of 20 not only produced a magnificent group effort, but also provided an update of their addresses. They challenge other year groups to do the same. In regards to distributing the newsletter, we still intend to make that available via the Web and/or email. Bear with us while we tackle the technology. Just like mail addresses, email addresses change, and we will never have a totally updated list. We appreciate that there are many without internet access, so the hard copy will still be posted. Cheers Ros (rospete@tpg.com.au, ros.prangnell@agric.nsw.gov.au) PS. The committee is considering the idea of having brewed WACOBU’s own product as a fundraiser. Would you be prepared to buy a case of eg, “Old Boys Bitter” for say $50-$55? Can anyone help with donations of the raw products, eg, barley, hops, labels, cartons, cartage?

CURRENT NEWS Agriculture students at Charles Sturt University continue to contribute to the Wagga community - their fund raising efforts benefiting a host of local charities. For a number of years Riding for the Disabled (RDA) has been a beneficiary of the fund raising activities by the Rivcol Union Agriculture Club, made up of students studying agriculture and related courses at CSU. Another $1000 handed over this week will help with ongoing expenses at the Plumpton Road premises, adding to more than $20,000 given in past years. RDA President, Bev Amery, said the continuing support is invaluable. ”They’ve been a wonderful support for us. The students have bought a horse, a tank, and always help out when we have working bees. We have almost finished our new arena and will be needing a big working

bee to finish things off. They have already shown an interest in helping out again this year” she said. Money has also funded horse feed during times of drought and riders’ travelling costs to national competitions. The $1000 donation comes days after the Ag students parted with $10,000 to help a disabled former student purchase a new wheelchair. Peter Worsley was injured as a student whilst playing university rugby for CSU. Since then, he has benefited from funds raised by the Ag Club at the annual Ag Race Day, held in October at the Murrumbidgee Turf Club. Peter is now aiming for a spot in the

2004 Athens Paralympic team as a shooter. He received the cheque from the Ag Club after a charity rugby match on 23 March 2002, between Ag Old Boys and the current First XV. Past community donations from the club include $5000 to the Kidz Kottage Appeal and $2000 towards furnishing the Riverina Radiotherapy Centre in 2001. More than $70,000 has been given to other charities in the past including $5000 to the Radiotherapy Appeal and close to $10,000 to the Wagga Wagga Base Hospital Accident and Emergency Unit. Courtesy of The Leader newspaper, Wagga Wagga, 2 April 2002.

NEWS of OLD BOYS Report on the fourth reunion of the year of 1956 The year of 1956 Graduation had a smorgasbord at the Grange Restaurant Pambula on the Saturday the 13th of October 2001. Approximately 26 attended including spouses and partners. It was a seafood smorgasbord and drinks that everybody enjoyed followed by a barbecue the next day at John Furner's house in Bega. There were maybe 16 of the possible 20 Old Boys present, apologies were received from Jeff and Val Bailey, New Guinea, David Barton Queensland,

Jim Harris and wife, Rex Small and wife and Bob Alexander's wife. Two members are deceased, Bill Love and Tom Barker. All members as far as I know have donated $30.00 to buy a brick to go in the new building. It may be a good idea for all years that have graduated to do something similar. The first of our "Year of Graduation Reunions" was held on our 25th year out 1981, at Ken Packham's at Hurstville and has been followed by two others in Sydney at Ken

Packham's & Val's and Ian Perrett and Margaret's also in Sydney. The next one will be held in five years time which will be our 50th year out from graduation and will probably be held at Jim and Cynthia Piper's place at Wollongong. They have kindly offered. Kind regards, John Furner. 34 Carp Street Bega NSW 2550 Phone: 02 64924 320 E-mail: furnerj@blueskyinternet.com.au

NEWS of OLD BOYS Hugh Holland (1971-73)

John Goodin (1956-58)

PO Box 398, Wee Waa NSW 2388 Email dutch@northnet.com.au After 21 years working in the cotton industry as a corporate cotton agronomist/farm manager, I am now temporarily unemployed after being made redundant when AXA Australia diverted itself of its rural property portfolio. This is an opportunity in life to take a new direction - shall keep you informed.

Highlands 1323 Lawrence Road, Southgate, Grafton NSW 2460 Married, wife Lee, owns 140acres on Clarence River Flats, runs 80 Angus breeders.

Warren Hoye - “Rabbit Hole” (1984-86) 22 Alcheringa Road, Kelso NSW 2795 Accompanied by wife, Varunee, have just commenced work with the United Nations as Peace Project Officer in the Kei Islands of Indonesia. Apart from working with infrastructure restoration and community development. Also enjoying seafood and ocean breezes.

Mark Eisenhauer - “OZ” (1997-80) 97 Waratah Street, Cowra NSW 2794 P 02 6342 2010 F 02 6342 2877 Email ozplants@ix.net.au Sold retail nursery in 1999 and moved to current address to concentrate on growing tubestock trees for farmers/landcare groups. Oz and Carol (nee Walker) have 3 children - Katie (11), Meg (9) and Ben (4).

Ray Cox (1951-53)

“Glengowan” 605 Bulga Road, Wingham NSW 2429 Retired from CSIRO as a Senior Research Scientist. Taken up residence near Wingham,NSW, enjoying a rural lifestyle among other pursuits of fishing, fishing and fishing.......

4 Devlin Street, Ganmain NSW 2702 Still enjoying the school bus run from Ganmain which we purchased when moving to town 3 years ago and still going out to the farm to help with farming activities particularly at the busy times (sowing, shearing and harvest). Also am still doing the woolclassing for several local farmers and wife Jan and I are involved in a number of community and church activities. Blue (Warrick) Wright and his wife Pat from Curtin ACT, recently called and spent a night with us. They had been at a seminar in Wagga.

Matthew Ireson - “Yabby” (1985-87)

Craig Cowell (1992-94)

“Round Box”, HAY NSW 2711 Now married to Sandra, 2 children Lochlan (31/2) and Ellen (18mths). At home running beef cattle.

RMB 150 Old Narrandera Rd, Wagga NSW 2650 Email cgkmcowell@bigpond.com After Uni went backpacking with Kylie in ‘95 for 12 months working in pubs in England and travelling through Europe. Came home in Oct 96 to help Dad for a few weeks and been there ever since. We have 2 daughters Isobel (2 1/2) and Olivia (8 months).

Robert Gault (1960-62)

Robyn Taylor - “Phloem” “Jacaranda”, PO Box 226, Warren NSW 2824 3 children - Annabelle, Jack and Zoe. Currently on maternity leave from Warren Central School where employed as maths/science/ag teacher. Bought 25 acres near Warren and constantly renovating weatherboard house and raising Murray Greys.

Ian Johnson - “Smiley” (1973-76) 21 Drysdale Road, Elderslie NSW 2570 Recently joined Castlegate Holdings Pty Ltd as Business Development Manager. Castlegate specialise in supplying bulk stockfeed commodities to the livestock industries. Also market co-product (by-product) for food and beverage companies. Ray and Wendy Nalder still in Thailand (Bangkok). Ray still with Frito Lay. Peter Woods (WAC about ‘74-’75). ALso joined Castlegate Holdings Pty Ltd to manage grain trading business. Peter Wood’s mobile 0429 451146 or email 4cg@hwy.com.au.

Jeffrey Bunn Unit 4/612 Darling Street, Ballarat VIC 3350 I am currently employed as Gardener at St Patrick’s College, Ballarat, since Sept 2000.

Mike O’Hare (1974-76) “Yirragunji”, Beckom NSW 2665 Married Velia (HAC) in 1982. Two girls Pina (14), and Tessa (10). Still farming away at Beckom amongst the canola, wheat, lamb, lentils and Bathurst Burrs.

Robert Gill (1991-95) 125 Boynton Street, Balranald NSW 2715 Email rgill@elders.com.au Manager at Elders VP Ltd Balranald and really enjoying the challenges of family life with my wife Jayne. The Western River area is developing every year with grapes and cotton now being 50% of my agronomic advice and time management.

CONGRATULATIONS Congratulations to Richard Said and the “Cattle Show Team” from Mt Austin High School, Wagga Wagga.

Alan Anderson (1956-58) 72 Belhaven Road, Lorne NSW 2439 Email aandha@bigpond.com.au Have sold the farm at Canberra and now have a smaller one on the mid north coast.

They won the champion steer on the hoof at the Canberra Royal Show 2002.

BRICK DONATIONS C Bradley

G Kegan

J Bradley

D Appleyard

John Bowen

C Beckingham

John Miller

T Hanmer

A & T Grant

R Bowen

Jeff Granger

F Butler

Jane Granger

C Lehmann

Brian Higgins

P Robinson

Andrew Vile

J Mellor

David Macauley

R Ballantyne

Deb Slinger

S Tomson

K Edyvean

James Grellman

T Ellwood

A Pursehouse

E Miller

R Blackmore

Bob Alexander

J Slater

R Cox

Jeff Bailey

Ken Slade

E Kulmer

Tom Barker (dec)

Chris Slinger

J Slatter

Alan Barton

Peter Regan

J Lymbery

Alan Douglas

The 49ers

Tim Hutcheon

David Elder

Col Plater

W D & H O Wills

Ian Fuller

Pat Coughlan

D Lock

John Furner

Tony Paton

N Moody

Lex Govaars

Rob Dunkley

R Thomas

John Grellman

Jeannie Dunkley

A Holmes

Jim Harris

Michael Oakes

A Robson

Bruce Irvine

Warwick Date

J McRae

Tom Kennaway

David Clarke

T Fletcher

Bill Love (dec)

Harley Delves

D Bruckner

Lawrence Moss

Garry Seamer

G Bruckner

Ken Packham

Peter Draper

G Condon

Ian Perrett

R Iddon

T De Salis

Jim Piper

R Kobecke

R & M Henley

John Peterson

B Atkins

Neil Bruce

Rod Shearer

G Veness

Phillip Asimus

Ross Shepherd

I Simpson

R Prangnell

Rex Small

J Mahon

E Maloney

WACOBU COTTAGE Keith Harris R Gill Alan Anderson Scott Vaessen Michael Beer Craig Cowell Ray Cox M Eisenhauer R Gault Mike O’Hare Norm Sewell Neil Heriot Andrew Kerry Ron Umbers Bill Cowell Tim Hutchinson M and M Oldfield Ian Johnson Steve Manion Allan Holmes Derek Ingold

URGENT PLEASE DONATE WACOBU Cottage is an accommodation building for agricultural post-graduate students jointly funded by Charles Sturt University - Riverina, and the Wagga Agricultural College Old Boys Union (WACOBU). The WACOBU committee is aiming to sell 1,000 bricks as part of our contribution towards the building. Follow the WACOBU members listed above, and donate a brick or two for WACOBU Cottage.

ONLY $25.00 per brick. We have 1700 members. A “brick” donation will make a significant contribution to the WACOBU Cottage Project.

REUNION AT RACE DAY 2001

Don Kirkpatrick, Martin McGee, Glen Whittaker, Greg Sandford, Nic Staines, Kim Sandford, Cathy Pope, Chris & Deb Slinger, Narelle Whittaker, Margaret and Stuart Kanaley. REUNION FOR THE YEAR OF 1981 It was a sensational spring day at the Wagga Ag Race day to reunite after 20 years. Many familiar faces made the effort but a number of visions from the past appeared. Peter Reynolds, Martin McGee (Fec), Alex Calabria (Wog), Michael Pratten (Fox), Glen Whittaker (Groin), Tony Good (Uncle Goody), Nic Staines, Greg Sandford (Sangar), Luisa Sims (Curlewis), Sue Johnson (D9) and Kath Tenison (Pope) made grand appearances. The old usuals were there the Don Kirkpatrick (Big Gobbler), Ross Henley (Rooster), Marg & Stu Kanaley (Maggot & Skin) and Chris & Deb Slinger. Many of the group enjoyed all of the raceday festivities and batted onto Romano’s dining room to relive the last 20 years. Gobbler was up to his old tricks of pinching whatever bottom passed whether it be male or female, Goody had his head butting offspring to demonstrate that rugby starts very young. Fec, Fox, Groin and the Wog all enjoyed revisiting memories of what they did to the grotts and motts way back then….. It was great to have so many return for the catch up…….but hope we all get back for the 25th in 2005. Thanks to Deb Slinger for providing this report.

Reunion Weekend 2002

Saturday 19 October 2002 Coincides with Ag College Race Day Romano’s Restaurant (upstairs) 7.00pm pre dinner drinks 7.30pm dinner Sunday 20 October 2002 lunch at Wagga Wagga Winery, Oura Please RSVP by Friday 11 October 2002. Response sheet at back of this newsletter.

AG COLLEGE RACE DAY 2001

James Brady and Daniel Charters

Kirraly Condon, Alison Rowlands and Alison Hart

Simon King, David Stephens, Nat Luck, Mardi Henley

Maurice Street, David Gooden, Ross Henley, Jeff Angel, Andrew Cooper and Scott Vaessen

Jeffrey Angel and Tamara Robinson

Robert Bell, Jason Tighe, Peter Gileppa, Nic Staines and Andrew McColl

REUNION 1988-1995

The weekend of 23rd March saw the Old Boys and Girls of 88-95 return to the old stomping ground in order to raise some much needed cash for Sac (Peter Worsley) to purchase a new, faster and more manoeuverable wheel chair. To the credit of the Motts and Ag Club, a very thankful Sac was presented with a cheque for $10,000 following Saturday’s rugby game. The real “activities” started on Friday night with a large crowd gathered at the Duck for a few ales and stories of the old days. Thanks to the Motts for the BBQ and entertainment provided (at times quite willingly !!). Friday night turned out to be too much for some, as the crowd drifted slowly to Ag Oval on Saturday afternoon for a friendly game of rugby between the Old Boys and the WAC 1st XV. Many who were sprouting of throwing on a jumper and cutting the Motts to pieces the night before were found seeking the shade of a tree and a hair of the dog. The game started at a furious pace, lasting that way for around 3 minutes, before Mozzie slowed things, deciding to give the Motts a fighting chance and numerous penalties for what must be a whole lot of new rules (thanks for the game Mozzie). The Old Boys seeing that the Motts preferred the frenetic pace decided to slow everything down. However, Gully and the receding Fanbelt didn’t know this and continued to run the Motts in circles, quite often passing their teammates (and Prod the water boy) running the other way.

This turned out to be a masterstroke and confused the Motts enough for rubber man Skeg, and the Desert boot clad Gonzo, to run the Muppet Show out wide. As expected the somewhat slower Old Boys triumphed four tries to two. The motts had some excuse about playing three games in the Wagga knockout that morning, but didn’t realise that if this did not occur then it was 200 burpees for them before each quarter. That night around 120 attended a dinner at the Racecourse, with Professor Jim Pratley providing a very entertaining after dinner speech, aided by the somewhat shy Pick as MC. An auction was held with Westy paying (and then wearing) around $900 for signed Brumbies jumper. Also sold were signed NSW ($700) and Qld ($450) jumpers, while Tnuc reluctantly paid $350 for a dozen wines from Gherkins Toorak wines, surprisingly out doing Cod’s esteemed estate. However Cod’s did have some success, managing to sneak his way back to Lightning Ridge under an alias of a Dowd family friend. Ag Club bought a masterpiece photo of sheep grazing on what is now Boorooma, aka the Chalks side. Many thanks must go to Anton Kowalenko and Goat for organising a great weekend. Done Done Thanks to Andrew Glasson (Patriot) for providing this report.

OBITUARIES ‘Don” Leyton Selwyn Joyes 1918-2001 Another chapter in the history of the former Wagga Agricultural College was closed recently with the death of well known former student liaison officer, Don Joyes. Don, born in New Zealand on 9th June, 1918 as Leyton Selwyn Joyes, enjoyed a varied agricultural career, but it was with young agricultural students where Don found his niche. Don had moved to Wagga with his mother from New Zealand when he was two After completing primary and secondary schooling in Wagga, he completed agricultural tertiary education at Prahan Technical and Longerenong Agricultural Colleges. After graduation, Don jackerooed before being employed by the Victorian Department of Agriculture as a Herd Tester and Recorder. He served as a trooper in the 13th Light Horse Regiment prior to enlisting with the RAAF in 1940. He served 4 years with the RAAF, 18 months of which was active service with the 30th Squadron, Beaufighters in the Pacific region as an Air gunner 1 Observer Pilot. In 1945, the Victorian Department of Agriculture sought his discharge and Don returned to Longerenong Ag College as Junior Resident Housemaster and Assistant Dairy Instructor. He was seconded to Dookie as a Lecturer in 1947 before he had an offer to work for Drug Houses of Australia as a Field Officer. This project finished in 1948 and it was during this time Don met and married Fay McFarland. The food company, Holbrook’s, engaged Don as a Food Buyer and Quality Controller until 1949, when he joined the NSW Department of Agriculture as an Agronomist, stationed at the Yanco Experimental Farm.In 1951 Don was promoted to the newly established Wagga Agricultural College as Lecturer and Housemaster. His main responsibilities were for student welfare and for liaising with industry and the local community. In the same year he established the Wagga Agricultural College Old Boys' Union. In 1975 the Wagga Ag College integrated with the Riverina College of Advanced Education. Don then was transferred to Wagga Agricultural Research Institute as Liaison Officer. However, it was at the Ag College that Don found his niche in life - working with, counselling and generally assisting the students to cope with the hurdles of life and guiding them toward useful and satisfying careers. Can you imagine being house parents of up to 100 boys in an all male institution? Many of these students came from country backgrounds and must have taken a fair bit of controlling, although Don described them as "fine young people." Throughout this period Fay rendered years of outstanding support and care, not only to Don, but also to the students and Fay became a wonderful asset to College life and overall student welfare. Don has recorded and has retold over the last few years his very fond memories of the Wagga Agricultural College days.

Some of these include: • the regular water fights and the day he walked around the corner and collected a full bucket of water in his face. • dining room meal duty - the repeated food fights, the noise, the birthday songs, the food complaints, the lateness for meals. • the day they cleaned out the well at the back of the west block and recovered 840 empty beer bottles and other sundry items. • the night the students led a jersey cow into the assembly hall while a dance was in progress. • students in daggy dress, motorcycle repairs in bedrooms, no sheets or pillowslips on the beds, beer in rooms and whip cracking outbreaks. • the borrowing of Wagga bicycles that turned up at the College from time to time and the nightly tractor and horse trips into the Black Swan. In 1976, to recognise Don's contribution to agriculture, education and to the community of Wagga Wagga, Charles Sturt University named Joyes Hall after him. A stained glass window donated by Don in 1994 now shines in the foyer of this hall. On 9 June 1978, Don at the age of 60 retired here in Wagga Wagga. In Don's retirement years he maintained a keen interest in past and present student activities. He remained active in counselling young people and adults, giving them the motivation to achieve their goals in life and to serve the community. On his retirement, he was further recognised for his contributions and presented with the RCAE Honours Medal for service. Don enjoyed many hobbies and interests, including sailing his own boat, golf, vineyard pruning (for income), counselling and advocating for ExServicemen, pensioners, helping writing resumes, reading (non fiction), classical music, documentary films, home maintenance, gardening, JP duties and Metal Detector Mineral hunting. He was the district welfare officer for the British Youth Migration Scheme. He was also the Southern Councillor for the Chinese Community for 12 years. Don was presented with an Advance Australia Foundation Award by the Governor of NSW in 1993. This award is to recognise individuals or groups who have made an outstanding contribution to the growth and enhancement of Australia, its people and way of life. Another of his very proud moments and recognition came in 1999, when Charles Sturt University nominated Don in the "Walk of Honour". A bronze plaque is now embedded in the Baylis Street pavement, detailing Don's significant 9 contributions to the life of this city.

$.....................

WACOBU annual membership/newsletter fee ($5.00)

$.....................

OBU stickers ($1.00)

$.....................

OBU tie ($30.00)

$.....................

OBU lapel badges ($2.00)

$.....................

WACOBU Centenary hat ($12.00)

$.....................

WACOBU pewter ($50.00)

$.....................

WACOBU goblets ($50.00/pair)

$.....................

WACOBU plain hat ($10.00)

$.....................

“Farm Boys to PHD” ($30.00)

$.....................

Ladies WACOBU shield pendant ($65.00)

$.....................

Video ($30.00)

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WACOBU plaques ($30.00)

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WACOBU keyring ($15.00)

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Brick donation ($25.00)

$..................... Total

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Make cheques/money orders payable to: WACOBU PO Box 1078 WAGGA WAGGA NSW 2650

Variation of address/personal notes form (PRINT DETAILS) EMAIL address.............................................................................................Date of birth.......................................... Name (IN FULL)............................................................................................Date...................................................... Address.................................................................................................................................................................... ...................................................................................................................Postcode............................................... Personal notes.......................................................................................................................................................... ................................................................................................................................................................................ ................................................................................................................................................................................ ................................................................................................................................................................................ ................................................................................................................................................................................ ................................................................................................................................................................................ News of other Old Boys (include addresses if possible)............................................................................................... ................................................................................................................................................................................ ................................................................................................................................................................................ ................................................................................................................................................................................ ................................................................................................................................................................................ 10 ................................................................................................................................................................................

$................................... which covers cost of:-

...................person/s for the Reunion Dinner on Sat 19 October 2002 @ $35.00 each, total $................................ ...................person/s for the Reunion Lunch on Sunday 20 October 2002 (pay on the day) $12.00 for lunch approx. Please complete and return to

Deb Slinger 25 Harold Street JUNEE NSW 2663

PLEASE RSVP by Friday 11 October 2002

ARE YOU or YOUR FRIENDS MISSING in ACTION ? Please contact us so we can update our database Mr Steve Mr Mr Lindsay Mr Stephen Mr Owen Mr Charles Mr Anthony Mr J Ms Cheryl Mr Kendall Mr Timothy Ms Janet Mrs Jodi Mr Michael Mr Gerald Mr Dennis Mr John Mr David Mr Duncan Mr John Ms Michelle Mr Alastair Mr Malcolm Mr Geoffrey Mr Laurence Mr B Mr John Mr Richard Mr Richard Mr Richard Mr Robert Mr Donald Mr Duncan Mr Mark

Adams Andrews Atkinson Barrington Bennett Best Bish Brogan Bromley Buggy Byrne Caldow Caldwell Moore Campi Carnie Child Critcher Crouch Cruickshank Dean Drew Dunham Elliott Faull Fitzpatrick Fletcher Friend Gill Goode Graham Guadagnini Hackett Handley Harris

Mr Ian Mr David Mrs Michelle Mr Bill Ms Jane Ms Julianne Mr Ken Mr Michael Mr Martin Mr Thomas Mr Andrew Mr Neil Miss Kathryn Mrs Carmel Mr Craig Mr Ian Mr D Mr Paul Mr Brenden Mr David H Mr Alexander Mr Neil Ms Anne Miss Susan Mr Craig Mr Paul Mrs Julianne Mr Peter Mr David Ms Kerry-Lyn Mr James Mr John Mr Thomas

Herbert Hilton Hird Hobson Holt Hopkins Huggett Jones Keir Kennaway King Lane Lawrie Le Lay Lihou Linley Luke Mahony McAlister McGhee McKay McKenzie McLachlan Migheli Millar Miller Muddle Musgrave Napier O'Beirne Parker Patterson Paul Peake

Mr James Perrignone Ms Alexis Potts Mr Timothy Ravenhall Ms Christina Richardson Mr Lloyd Ross Mr Bernie Rourke Mr Ian Royds Mrs Sandra Rynehart Mr C Sabine Mr Ian Saunders Ms Christine Scully Mr Gregory Sefton Mr P Sibraa Mr Michael Sinclair Miss Carol Smith Mr Michael Staniford Mr Geoffrey Strom Mr Gary Sutherland Ms Ratchaneekorn Thammajuckul Miss Jennifer Todd Mr Stuart Whalan Ms Maria Wheeler Miss Adele Whitaker Mr Neale Whittard Mrs Kelly Wigney Mr Jeffrey Wilkinson Mr Bevan Wilson Ms Lisa Wood Mr Jim Wormsley Mr Rodney Shearer Mr Charles Cashmore Mr Cameron

alumni@csu.edu.au

PO Box 1078 Wagga Wagga NSW 2650 Tel: (02) 69 241 559

WACOBU newsletter Wagga Agricultural College Old Boys Union September 2003 Reunion Weekend - Saturday 18 October 2003 WACOBU - AGM - 11am in the MTC Meeting Rooms followed by Ag College Race Day at 12pm

WACOBU now available on line - www.csu.edu.au/division/alumni

alumni@csu.edu.au

WACOBU EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE PRESIDENT Ros Prangnell Pine Gully Rd WAGGA WAGGA NSW 2650 Tel 02 6933 1260 VICE PRESIDENT Jim Pratley 56 Coleman St WAGGA WAGGA NSW 2650 Tel 02 6922 1208 SECRETARY Deb Slinger 25 Harold St JUNEE NSW 2663 Tel 02 6924 1559 TREASURER Peter Regan Orange COMMITTEE Jeff Granger PO Box 799 YOUNG NSW 2650 Tel 02 6382 3584

Michael Sinclair 129 Kitchener Rd TEMORA NSW 2666 Tel 02 6978 1169

Tony Paton RMB 248 WALLACETOWN via WAGGA NSW 2650 Tel 02 6924 6449

Tom Kennaway 2 Kansas Drive WAGGA WAGGA NSW 2650

Chris & Deb Slinger 25 Harold St JUNEE NSW 2663 Tel 02 6924 1559

Stuart Kanaley PO Box 26 JUNEE NSW 2663 Tel 02 6924 2400 Craig Warren Wesfarmers Landmark 122-124 Hoskins St TEMORA NSW 2666 Peter Lockley 62 Gurwood St WAGGA WAGGA NSW 2650 Tel 02 6921 3671 Eric Owen “Wandana” Duramana Rd EGLINGTON NSW 2795 Tel 02 6337 1526

Terry Horan 22 Station Rd ST LEONARDS TAS 7250 Tel 03 6339 2058 John Mahon "Hillview" OURA via WAGGA WAGGA NSW 2650 Tel 69221208 Fax 6922 1200 jmahon@wagga.net.au David Lock RMB 291 The Gap WAGGA WAGGA NSW 2650 Tel 02 6922 9201

PRESIDENTS REPORT August 2002 Thanks everyone for your correspondence. About half of all the graduates from 1959 to present have made some form of contact in their life - which only confirms our belief and delight that the WAC aggies are the strongest alumni group. Thanks to Ron Cullen, who picked up on my error in the last newsletter as to when the first females started. Ron goes on to say “the first females came to campus in 1972, with 6 female first year aggie students and a further (approx) 18 female "chalkie" boarders. These women were accommodated in the middle block of the three new dormitory blocks built in 1970 and 71 to the south of Eastern Block. To protect their sensitivities (or those of the College Administration) the urinals were boarded up and shower curtains put in. Given everything else these students were subjected to (sometimes with their permission, sometimes without) I suspect urinals and shower curtains were the least of their concerns. 'Sheepo' (Michelle Hird I think) - one of the six - recently came to public attention in the Sydney Morning Herald when her daughter became one of the first females to join St Pauls (?) College at Sydney University. So history repeats itself." Thanks Ron, administration must not of been that concerned since there were no shower curtains in B Block when I arrived in 1977!

AG RACE DAY 2003 That Time of the year has come around again, the spring race carnival has started, Ag Race Day is on the horizon and plans are underway for another great day. Last year we smashed the record again with over 900 people enjoying the new facilities in the public and champagne bars and those of you who have been before certainly appreciated the step up in facilities. This allowed us better facilities to keep up the food, beer and wine for the lads and ladies. This year, being a rugby world cup year and the Race Day falling on Australia V Romania 4pm we will be screening this on numerous TV screens as well as providing all the usual Race Day lunch, drinks, atmosphere and excitement. Everything is in place and all we need is this lovely spring weather to continue and we are in for a great day at the track. We are pleased to announce we have sourced major sponsorship from The Bridge Tavern to where we will be transporting racegoers after the event. Worn Out West is sponsoring the Fashions on the Field and last years Ag Cup winner “Lets Jive” will be making another appearance.

Sunday will see a recovery BBQ and drinks starting at 11am at the Muddy Duck who is another sponsor this year. The committee has continued with the second tier of tickets for partners who do not wish to have drinks included in their ticket price. These tickets will be exclusively for WACOBU members and family and will allow for entry to the racecourse, lunch and access to the Champagne Bar. The Motts and Grotts have realised that once you leave uni not everyone wants to drink to the point of no return at Race Day. So round up all those people who you have not seen in years and we hope to see you all at the MTC on Caufield Cup Day for the 16th running of the Ag Cup 2003. Prices will be $40 per ticket (prepaid) and $50 (at the gate), entry and lunch ticket $25 and all these can be purchased online at www.rivcoll.com.au or by sending a cheque to Rivcoll Union, PO Box 5313, Wagga Wagga, NSW, 2650. Tickets can also be pre-purchased from the Rivcoll Shop up until Friday 17th October. Bridge Tavern between 10am - 11am 18th October only. Or at the gate from 12pm on Race Day.

Congratulations Many of you would know Rachel George married to David “Pig” Stephens. Rachel has worked at Rivcoll for many years and is actively involved with the Ag College activities and Pig has played and coached in the Ag Rugby teams. They are now the very proud parents of Georgie Patricia who arrived on the 25 August 2003.

AG COLLEGE RUGBY 2003 2003 saw a less than illustrious season for Ag Rugby, with all three grades finishing on the bottom of their respective ladders in the Southern division of the Southern Inland Rugby Union competition. They did fair better in their crossover games against the Northern sides, having good wins against Temora and West Wyalong. A lack of size (apart from WAC old boy, Daniel “Boof” Charters) saw all three grades playing against bigger forward packs. So, if you know of any big fowards, that would like to go to Ag college in 2004, I am sure next years coaching staff would be more than happy to see them. Coaching staff for 2003 included Marty Hogan (1stXV), who some may remember playing for Wagga City a few years back, Mick Friend (2ndXV) also a former Wagga City player and current lecturer at the Uni and Warwick Nightingale (Squid), an old boy, who looked after the Thirsty thirds, with some help from Ross Henley (Rooster). A number of more recent old boys also played for the club during 2003, including Boof, Schwabs, Stook, Enus, Ofu, Dog Guts and Harry to name a few. Apologies to those I missed.

WAC REUNION 1950-52

1950-52 Reunion Standing:- (left to right) Lex Woods, Ian Simos, Bill Gunther, Peter Davis, Derek Hill (1953), Rowan Lang, Athol Wild, Gordon Mitchell, Barrie Clarke, Jim Kemp, Tony Stannard. Front:-

Jim Best (1951), Harry Matthews (Dairy Officer), Rodger Watson, Jim Watson, John England.

On the weekend of 14th September 2002, a 50 year reunion was held for those who attended Wagga Agricultural College during the years 1950-1952. Although Wagga was naturally the sentimental choice of locations, Tamworth was chosen as the most suitable central point for all those attending. The reunion was held at one of the function rooms of the Country Comfort Motel on the Saturday evening and all of the following Sunday at the home of Rowan & Jean Lang in Tamworth.

Apologies were received from Bob & Helen Gordon, Steve Fenton, John & June Bowen (1951). Kevin Tombin had passed away in 2001.

Those in attendance including wives were:Jim Best (1951) Barrie & Di Clarke Peter & June Davis John England Bill Gunther Derek & Pat Hill (1953) Jim & Janet Kemp Rowan & Jean Lang Harry & June Matthews Gordon & Janette Mitchell Ian & Judith Simos Tony & Meg Stannard Jim & Sylvia Watson Rodger & Lois Watson Athol & Trish Wild Lex & Alison Woods

A wonderful time was had by all as everyone gave a short recitation of their life since College days with plenty of yearning & reminiscing. All agreed 50 years had done nothing to dim the great mateship that we all had developed at College in those years, and we all left feeling the reunion had been an absolutely wonderful success. By Jim Watson.

Thanks to Barrie Clarke for turning the idea of a 50th reunion into reality & to Tony Stannard & Rowan Lang (both of Tamworth) for organising the event. Sincere appreciation to Rowan & Jean Lang who had open house all day on the Sunday & provided everyone with great food & hospitality.

(Unfortunately Jim Best has passed away since this reunion - please read his obituary on the following page)

OBITUARY TRIBUTE TO JIM (BLOSSOM) BEST FROM THE 1949 GROUP OF THE WAGGA AGRICULTURAL COLLEGE. In February 1949 a group of young men caught the Riverina Express from Sydney Central bound for Wagga Wagga. The group of 32 were to be the first intake for the newly formed Wagga Agricultural College. Amongst the group were 12 ex servicemen from World War II to be retrained under a Government Repatriation Scheme. The balance were a group of enthusiastic students ranging in ages from 16 to 19 years,one of whom was Jim Best. As this was the first year of W.A.C. conditions were primitive and the old Government experiment farm was unprepared for such a dramatic change. This was still the horse era, the change to tractors having been delayed by the war effort, motor cars were pre war vintage. The College mail was even collected from Bomen railway station in a pony and sulky. The boys quickly settled into their new environment and adapted to the challenge of developing their agricultural skills. As the college was six miles from the city of Wagga, and the nearest girls, transport was a premium! Most of the students had bicycles but several of the ex servicemen had cars and were relied on heavily for a ride to the local dances as well as into town. Despite the age variation from 16 of 37 years, the group blended in and bonded very quickly. Little did we realise that this bonding would develop into life long friendships. Jim (Blossom) brought his nickname with him along with an elbow/shoulder injury that was to restrict his footballing career. He was an outstanding athlete and was involved in every sporting activity that the college undertook which included rugby, cricket, rifle shooting, athletics, etc. When 'Blossom' found he couldn't play rugby due to his injuries he took up refereeing and was very successful regularly handling the matches in the Wagga competition.

Jim was extremely popular both with the students and staff. He had a very easy going, happy nature, and enjoyed every day of his college life. Jim passed all his exams and graduated in 1951 with the Wagga Diploma in Agriculture. It was a proud moment for him when in 1952 he returned to the college and was presented with his Diploma by the Minister for Agriculture. Many of the 1949 year enjoyed the hospitality of the Best family home at Carlton where there was always a bed available when they were passing through Sydney. The other attraction for staying at the Best household was Jim's good looking sisters. Finally, the three wonderful years at college were over and each of us commenced our journey into the future. Career, family and responsibility quickly became a fact of life. The daily contact with each other was replaced with our youthful enthusiastic approach to the challenges ahead, however our memories and friendships would last a life time. Jim was extremely popular with the students in the two years following the 49ers. As recent as September last year he attended the 50th reunion of the 1952 group held at Tamworth. He was warmly received and had a wonderful time. As he caught the train to return home there were tears in his eyes; maybe he knew time was running out. It is ironic that somewhere in the mail is an invitation to Jim to attend the next 49ers reunion to be held at Bowral in September this year. Of the original 32 students 21 are still with us and are in regular contact. Each of them is aware of Jim's passing and I know each will pause at 12 noon today to say goodbye to our special mate. God bless you `Blossom'; may your soul rest in peace. THE W.A.C. 49ers.

WAC REUNION 1971-1973

1971-1973 Reunion Standing:- (left to right) John McClure, Michael Bateman, John Burbidge, Clive Sefton, Don Burbidge, Phil Hawes, Graeme Worboys, Malcolm (Doc) Ward, John McGrath, Chris McGee Front:-

Allan McGufficke, Phil Stomou, Peter Sutton, Graham Nichol, Geoff Spence, Ivan Denyer, Steve Cressey.

17 ex-students and their partners helped Michael Bateman and Phil Stomou celebrate their 50th’s at a very cool Canberra on the long weekend in June 2002. Thanks to Michael for his organization and to the WAC Old Boys and their spouses for making the effort to attend a great function. Most people were easily recognised, although 29 years has seen some physical changes in people and one or two had to re-introduce themselves. Once that was out of the way, there was plenty to catch up on over the odd ale or two. There were farmers and graziers, government field officers, Ag. Chem reps, tree surgeons, timber merchants, ag teachers, college and TAFE lecturers, stipendiary stewards, ex-rural counsellors and wholesale chicken processors and distributors. There was a photo display which did bring back the memories of our years at WAC. Everyone agreed we

had a great time at the college. There was plenty of discussion on the funny and serious side of college life. From famous football victories to food fights, from mots to the introduction of grots, from raids on the chalkies to pub crawls, from kegs by the river to making potent home brews, from lecturers to field trips and dreaded exams, from past college mates to the current times. One thing was evident. We were all good mates at college. No-one could remember any real blues between us. Infact quite a few people have stayed in close contact over the years and remain good mates. This friendship that has remained over 30 years is testimony to the value of an education at Wagga Ag. College. We were all saddened to hear of the passing of Don Joyes-who was a real friend and mentor to all students and pleased to hear Jim Pratley is still on the scene. It’s always great to catch up with your mates and this get together was both rewarding and most enjoyable. The Old Boys are already planning another get together in the near future.

NEWS OF OLD BOYS Maria Cameron Email:- springhills@merriwa.com A quick note from Maria Cameron (Wheeler) or "Rake", 1986-88, to let you know I'm not missing in action - just residing well north at "Spring Hills", Merriwa, on top of the Liverpool Range in the Upper Hunter. We do live way up in the hills but I didn't realise I was keeping that low a profile since leaving Wagga. Anyone (?) reading the Land may have noticed I was a journalist there for a few years, before marrying David Cameron, buying this place, and somewhere along the way having three beautiful daughters and a son (9,6,3 AND 2). Although currently in the midst of drought, we normally run beef cattle, wool cutters and mill timber, in what should be high rainfall range country. Between the farm, pony club, David's campdrafts and polocrosse, kids' social lives, there's not much time for anything else. I've run into a few old boys who have turned up in the area as company reps and occasionally chat to Wayne Golland (Donkey), Catherine Hamilton ('Gasm) and Donna Parker (Holden). Even saw a mott at our local Anzac day ceremony who happened to be wearing a shirt with "Ego yah" across the back - he had just finished at Wagga and I think was wondering how the hell a 30+year old mother of four recognised the WACers war cry. Graeme Hockey (1964) Advises that Richard Gill is on a property “China Walls” at Tooma, NSW, and has had a visit from Neil Warner (1964) from Corlette. Bill Gornall (1964) from Maleny visited a while back while on R & Rlean and mean and about to return to work with the Qld Ambulance Service after a bout with throat cancer. Graeme is a self funded retiree courtesy of the Commonwealth Super Scheme following retirement from the NT Government’s Land, Planning and Environment areas and a stint with the NT Police Juvenile Division in Aboriginal Communities after almost 25 years and reaching 55. Had a month in retirement before “she who must be obeyed” decided that going fishing and such while “swmbo” went off to work daily was not on. Considered commencing with a tour group taking troop carrier loads of female Swedish backpackers camping in Kakadu, but instead, after some intense listening, opted for a new career as a sales consultant (rep actually) for an ag outlet in Darwin and, at present, a 1000km plus radius. Retired from rugby at the end of last season but still into the Golden oldies side of it with all that goes with regular festivals at home and overseas.

Philip Doyle (1954) 700 Upper Orara Rd, Upper Orara, NSW, 2450. Living tough life in the Hinterland of Coffs Harbour, still endeared to beef cattle, staying in front by cell grazing and composite cattle breeding. Anyone like a bull? Seeing demise of agriculture generally on the North Coast. Imbalance city/country hard to take. I remember Don Joyes and his help very clearly. Brian Carter (1958-60) 12 Jasmine Gardens, Jerrabomberra, NSW, 2619. Email:- wombat@effect.net.au It is good to get the newsletter. Thankyou for the account of Don Joyes - Iremember him and his care of us well with gratitude and affection. I am currently Rural Ministry Consultant with Anglican churches in rural Australia; and sponsored by the Bush Church Aid Society. Lloyd Dunlop Email:- Lloyd.Dunlop@dpi.qld.gov.au Have just clicked over 15 years at Goondiwindi and looking forward to retirement. Am in contact with Frank Hawkes, former WAC Orchard lecturer, and now missionary with APCM Fiji, who is learning Hindi; Peter Hicks '67 Toowoomba who sells Nu Steel Homes, and Paul Gardoll with 'Castor and Assoc', Agronomist. Robyn O’Leary (1983) Went to Finlay in 1987, married science teacher Michael in 1990 and now have 2 girls and 2 boys (9, 6 and twin 4 yr old). Currently working 3 days/week teaching Yr 11 Primary Industries, Yr 9 & 10 Ag and Yr 8 Design & Technology. Had good success at Royal Melbourne last year with school steers and hoping to do well this year. Ron Hardy (1977) Farming at Sutton and carting livestock in the local area. Married Robyn from Malanda in 1990 and have stepson, Grant. Stayed in RPA 1998 when Robyn had a liver transplant - I was one very worried husband. All fine now, but would urge everyone to sign donor cards. Ran into Col Karlson at LTA NSW conference in Mudgee in Feb this year. Len Lloyd (1959) Married Pam with 3 adult children, Gavin, David and Angela. Started on the family farm at Coolamon, before joining the Commonwealth Development Bank in 1967. Spent 5 years in Moree before moving to Sydney. Was the Chief Manager, Property Division of the Advance Bank from 1987 to 1996 when St George took over Advance. From 2000 have been a Property Consultant mainly to Abacus Funds Management on property development projects-all in all an interesting and rewarding career. 7

NEWS OF OLD BOYS Stephen Dunn (1968)

Norman Sewell (1966)

Currently in Dili, East Temor working in MAF Livestock Division. David Austin (1951) Is still the editor of “Small Farms” magazine and moved from New Berrima to Callala Bay near Nowra in March. Caught up with Bob Liebmann (1951) last year and seeing “The Von” ( Peter von Drehnem (1951) this year. David remembers Don Joyes as a great bloke- we were his “laddies”. Paul Cocking (1987)

Currently on leave from DLWC and working on the Tasmanian Natural Gas Pipeline project as Senior Environmental Inspector for Duke Energy International. Paul Muddle( 1965) – retired on the shores of Lake Macquarie at Dora Creek. Terry Cracknell (1968) Resigned from the Commonwealth Bank, now with PIBA in Tamworth as Rural Manager. Martin Keir is in Tamworth, with the Commonwealth. David Sloane (1960)

Managing Director of Riverina Wool Testers Pty with 25 staff and over 3000 clients. The company services wool growers in every state and recently started on farm testing “Dial a Micron”. Is a current board member of the Murrumbidgee Turf Club and the Riverina Regional Development Board. Also has a mixed farm at Mangoplah. Jason McClintock (1995) (“Tick”) Works at AgnVet Services in West Wyalong, and sharefarms with parents on family farm at Tallimba. Andrew Dowd (1990) Farming at Gooloogong.

Working part time as a ‘locum’ in Uniting Church parishes in the Riverina and northern Victoria districts which don’t have minister. The rest of my time is spent doing landcare care on the family property at Savernake, near Berrigan. Christopher Leckie (1974-76) Email:- vccchrisl@ozemail.com.au Living in Newcastle with wife Anne & 2 daughters. Working with Victorian Chemical Company as Sales Executive for NSW & QLD. VCC develop & sell Oleo chemicals into ag & industrial markets - our biochem lecturer “Smoothie” would be pleased to know that after 20 years I am now in a company using some of that organic chemistry that he taught us.

ARE YOU or YOUR FRIENDS MISSING in ACTION ? Please contact us so we can update our database Ian Thomas A Phillip G John D William John B B Bruce Richard S D P A Alan Grahame Phil David Ian Warwick Eric Christopher Peter Noel Anthony Belinda Colin Norman Martin Susan Brendan Peter 8

Simos 1952 Dalton 1954 Jones 1957 Walden 1959 Crawford 1961 Stewart 1961 Harber 1962 Pippen 1963 Wallace 1965 Hungerford 1966 Cunnington 1966 Rennard 1966 Kobelke 1966 Weekes 1966 Weissel 1968 McNally 1968 Sargent 1969 Pearce 1969 Salvestrin 1969 Asimus 1969 Alexander 1970 McMillan 1971 Palframan 1971 Miller 1972 McGee 1974 Raward 1974 Kesby 1975 Keech 1975 Pellow 1976 Plater 1976 Clarke 1976 Klein 1977 Brown 1977 Guerin 1978 Scudamore-Smith 1980

Timothy Trong-Hieu Brian Cheryl Francis John John Stephen William Christopher Hugh Kent Martin Graham Matthew Wayne Anthony Gary Donald Ian Nadene Peter Scott Frazer Julie Phillip David Paul Suzanne Yin Mark Garry Gary Richard Ronald

Sneyd Nguyen Welsh Paton Starr Darling O'Connor Brill Kent Wetherall Mayo Rogers McGee Matthews Campbell Stott Snaith O'Neill Knight Fisher Brewer Lane Boothey Slack-Smith Critchley Sheridan Ashworth Gardoll Walsh Lai Clark Ford Duke Eisenkoeck Angel

1980 1980 1981 1981 1981 1981 1981 1981 1982 1983 1983 1983 1983 1984 1984 1984 1985 1985 1986 1986 1986 1986 1986 1987 1987 1987 1988 1988 1988 1989 1991 1992 1992 1992 1992

Ronald Toni James John Warwick Andrew Brent David Jane Noelene Cameron Christopher Deborah James John Katrina Andrew Anna Catherine Denis Helen Karen Reginald Glenn H Ian Justyn Mark Peter Robert Simon Toni Brett

Matson Stockhausen Pennington Sullivan Lawrence McNeill Bourke Oakley Caldicott Johnson Corke Rogers Irvin Mortensen Pearson Goodman Taylor Sharman Murphy McGee Smyth Walker King Campbell Chicken Barrell Baker Hoult Meir Lamont Keall Graham Weingarth

1992 1992 1993 1993 1993 1994 1994 1994 1994 1994 1995 1995 1995 1995 1995 1995 1996 1996 1996 1996 1996 1996 1996 1998

TREVOR FOSDYKE REVEALED! Yes, it appears the elusive Trevor Fosdyke has revealed himself. The origins of an anonymous marriage proposal displayed on the Murrumbidgee River remains shrouded in mystery. A large sign was put on an island in the middle of the Murrumbidgee River near the Gobbabombalin Bridge this week. “I love U Kate. Will you marry me?” the sign said. After making an appeal on yesterday’s front page for information about the identity of the couple involved, The Daily Advertiser received calls from various people claiming to know at least three lucky women named Kate for whom the proposal was intended. However, only one man was committed enough to his young sweetheart to disclose his apparent identity. After years of innuendo, supposition and more sightings than Elvis, Mr Fosdyke has finally been photographed. While allegedly now aged in his sixties - he has been appearing on Riverina Ag College team sheets for years - Foz looks remarkably young for his years and yesterday stated he was 22.

He claims Kate Berry is the love of his life, but she has not yet accepted the romantic offer. Mr Fosdyke said she had chosen to stay away from the media spotlight. The hopeful agricultural science student at Charles Sturt University has been waiting eagerly by the telephone in his swish Trevor waiting Darlow Street residence by the phone - a love nest any young woman would be foolish to reject. Mr Fosdyke said he was not put off by his sweetheart’s indecision, claiming her “wait and see” answer was better than a straight “no”. But if she did eventually say “yes”, Mr Fosdyke said there would definately be no marriage until after the football season. (Story courtesy of The Daily Advertiser)

WACOBU - AGM - Saturday 18th October, 11am in the MTC Meeting Rooms followed by:-

AG RACE DAY 2003 Saturday 18 October 2003 at Murrumbidgee Turf Club, Wagga Wagga

Major sponsor - The Bridge Tavern, Fitzmaurice Street

Tickets (includes entry to course, beer, wine & lunch) Pre-paid $40 at the Rivcoll Shop now - until Friday 17th October or The Bridge Tavern between 10-11am on the Saturday or $50 at the gate from 12pm or entry & lunch only tickets are $25 all tickets can be purchased on line at www.rivcoll.com.au or you can send a cheque to Rivcoll Union, PO Box 5313, Wagga Wagga NSW 2650.

Sunday Recovery Brunch at The Duck 10-11am 9

BRICK DONATIONS C Bradley J Bradley John Bowen John Miller A & T Grant Jeff Granger Jane Granger Brian Higgins Andrew Vile David Macauley Deb Slinger James Grellman E Miller J Slater Ken Slade Chris Slinger Peter Regan The 49ers Col Plater Pat Coughlan Tony Paton Rob Dunkley Jeannie Dunkley Michael Oakes Warwick Date David Clarke Harley Delves Garry Seamer Peter Draper R Iddon R Kobecke B Atkins G Veness I Simpson J Mahon G Kegan D Appleyard C Beckingham T Hanmer R Bowen F Butler

C Lehmann P Robinson J Mellor R Ballantyne S Tomson T Ellwood R Blackmore R Cox E Kulmer J Slatter J Lymbery Tim Hutcheon W D & H O Wills D Lock N Moody R Thomas A Holmes A Robson J McRae T Fletcher D Bruckner G Bruckner G Condon T De Salis R & M Henley Neil Bruce Phillip Asimus R Prangnell E Maloney K Edyvean A Pursehouse Bob Alexander Jeff Bailey Tom Barker (dec) Alan Barton Alan Douglas David Elder Ian Fuller John Furner Lex Govaars John Grellman

Jim Harris Bruce Irvine Tom Kennaway Bill Love (dec) Lawrence Moss Ken Packham Ian Perrett Jim Piper John Peterson Rod Shearer Ross Shepherd Rex Small Keith Harris R Gill Alan Anderson Scott Vaessen Michael Beer Craig Cowell Ray Cox M Eisenhauer R Gault Mike O’Hare Norm Sewell Neil Heriot Andrew Kerry Ron Umbers Bill Cowell Tim Hutchinson

WACOBU COTTAGE M & M Oldfield Ian Johnson Steve Manion Allan Holmes Derek Ingold Colin Woods Stephen Bourke Ron Cullen John Crawford Graeme Worboys Jason McClintock Paul Cocking Simon McFarlance Michael Watt John Walker Colin Brett Stephen Dunn David Alexander Robyn O’Leary John Roberson Lionel Doran David Sloane Terry Cracknell Andrew Dowd David Barrow Graeme Parr Alex Calabria

ONLY $25.00 per brick. We have 1700 members. A “brick” donation will make a significant contribution to the WACOBU Cottage Project. 10

New membership/renewal of membership form (PRINT DETAILS) Name (IN FULL)....................................................................................................................Date of birth.................. Address.................................................................................................................................................................... ...........................................................................................................................................Postcode........................ Years at College (From)...............................................(to)..................................................... Please find enclosed cheque/money order for: WACOBU joining fee ($30.00)

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Make cheques/money orders payable to: WACOBU PO Box 1078 WAGGA WAGGA NSW 2650

Variation of address/personal notes form (PRINT DETAILS) EMAIL address............................................................................................................Date of birth........................... Name (IN FULL)...........................................................................................................Date....................................... Address.................................................................................................................................................................... ..................................................................................................................................Postcode................................ Personal notes.......................................................................................................................................................... ................................................................................................................................................................................ ................................................................................................................................................................................ ................................................................................................................................................................................ ................................................................................................................................................................................ ................................................................................................................................................................................ ................................................................................................................................................................................ ................................................................................................................................................................................ ................................................................................................................................................................................ News of other Old Boys (include addresses if possible)............................................................................................... ................................................................................................................................................................................ .......................................................................................................................................................................... 11

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alumni@csu.edu.au

WACOBU PO Box 1078 Wagga Wagga NSW 2650 Ph 0269 241 559

WACOBU newsletter

Wagga Agricultural College Old Boys Union December 2004 • News of old boys • Reunion - Class of 1949, 1950 and 1974 • Presentation of 1949 Ag Rugby jumper • Photos of Ag Race Day & Careers Day • Memories of “Marilyn” • Reports from Peter Cregan & Ted Wolfe • Ag Rugby report • Crop update

WACOBU newsletter available on line at www.csu.edu.au/division/alumni

COMMITTEE PRESIDENT Warwick Nightingale 100 Crampton Street WAGGA WAGGA NSW 2650 Tel: 0269 319 607

COMMITTEE MEMBERS

David Lock RMB 291 The Gap WAGGA WAGGA NSW 2650 Tel: 0269 229 201

Margaret Kanaley PO Box 26 JUNEE NSW 2663 Tel: 0269 242 400

Michael Vaughan Rosevale Drive WAGGA WAGGA NSW 2650 Tel:0269 261 270

VICE PRESIDENT Stuart Kanaley PO Box 26 JUNEE NSW 2663 Tel: 0269 242 400

Neil Durning PO Box 76 CONDOBOLIN NSW 2877 Mob: 0427 461 011

Chris Slinger 25 Harold Street JUNEE NSW 2663 Tel: 0269 241 559

Ros Prangnell Pine Gully Road WAGGA WAGGA NSW 2650 Tel: 0269 331 260

Felicity Lane 19 Regent Street FORBES NSW 2871 Tel: 0268 512 889

John Mahon “Hillview” OURA NSW 2650 Tel: 0269 221 208

Jason Tighe 80 Twynam Street TEMORA NSW 2666 Tel: 0269 772 004

James Brady PO Box 111 TARCUTTA NSW 2652 Tel: 0269 287 238

Ross Henley 11 Clipper Way WAGGA WAGGA NSW 2650 Tel: 0269 331 222

Stephen Monkley “Werombi” 1103 Oura Rd WAGGA WAGGA NSW 2650 Tel: 0269 218 272

SECRETARY Deb Slinger 25 Harold Street JUNEE NSW 2663 Tel: 0269 241 559 TREASURER Ben Granger PO Box 5680 WAGGA WAGGA NSW 2650 Tel: 0408 612 074

PRESIDENTS REPORT

Well I am pleased to report on a busy and productive period since our last newsletter in August. I would like to extend many thanks to the WACOBU committee for their time and effort. Thanks also to all those that have contributed to WACOBU in terms of memberships, Donations and articles for this newsletter. I would like to make special mention of the following activities & events; Reunions: Congratulations to Jock Munro and class of 1974 on their reunion weekend that coincided with Ag Races a report of the weekend is detailed within. Congratulations also to John Bowen and class of 1949 & 50 for their reunion. Some members of the committee including myself where able to attend the Clock presentation ceremony at Joyes Hall and dinner at Oura winery afterwards. It was a special occasion for the pioneers of Wagga Agricultural College and glad I and others could share the time. Donations: Special mention and thanks to class of 1949 & 1950 for a contribution of $1000 by Bill Baker the 1st President of WACOBU to the foundation for WACOBU cottage presented to us at their reunion. Thanks also to everyone who has made Brick donations and have taken financial membership status. This will all help to meet our ongoing commitment to pay off WACOBU cottage. Rugby Jersey Donation: Thankyou Des Spurway for your very personal contribution to WACOBU. We are now the caretakers of the WAC Rugby’s first 1st XV Captain’s rugby jersey. We will find a fitting place to display this valuable part of Wagga Ag College history. Data base improvement: You should have received a letter asking you to update your contact details. I apologise if you have updated your details a number of times but we hope this process will finalise our information and simple ongoing maintenance can take place as required. Member correspondence: We have had a number of past students purchase memberships, memorabilia and made donations. Apologies if we have not acknowledged your contributions we will endeavour to reply ASAP. Cheese & Wine night postponed: Disappointment over the lack of interest in the Cheese & Wine night that was to be held on the same weekend as 1974 class reunion. Unfortunatley we were unable to commit numbers by the set date to have Lilly Pilly wines across from Leeton. An opportunity may exist down the track to include a number of Old Boys winery products for a tasting evening and we may receive greater support. Involvement with CSU students: WACOBU was able to provide some support to current students over this period. We held a careers day that was well received and provided speakers for First year dinner (John Mahon) and WAC annual dinner (Michael Vaughan). Thanks to all who were involved in these activities. The occassions serve a practical purpose to the students and increase our profile as a club. Sports Weekend: This event will be the major reunion activity in 2005. I encourage those interested to contact Ross Henley for their thoughts on the weekend. I am sure that this occasion has the potential to be a fantastic and memorable occasion. If you have thoughts and ideas please discuss with Ross Henley. The success of the occasion will depend on involvement from you all, not on the involvement of the few in the WACOBU committee. Get your team mates together and put the date aside for the weekend and let us know what you think would help make the weekend a success. Finally I would like to thank Mardi Henely particularly for putting so much of her time and talents into constructing this newsletter, you will agree that it is a fine piece of work. I suggest that amongst all the activities that take place the communication derived from this newsletter is of crucial importance to grow and maintain the momentum of the club. WACOBU looks forward to your thoughts on the Sports weekend and continued support of our new membership structure through new financial members. Please contact us if you are unsure of your membership status. Thankyou - Warwick Nightingale – WACOBU President

NEWS OF OLD BOYS Ian Simos - 1949 judithsimos@bigpond.com

Phillip Sheridan (Pick) - 1987 psheridan@qldbar.asn.au

Over the past 2 years we have attended both a “50’s” and “49’s” Wagga College Old Boys Reunions organised in Tamworth, Bowral and Wagga. These were heaps of fun attended by almost all the class of each year - sadly Jim Watson of Ian’s year died early in 2004.

Now a Barrister in Brisbane, specialising in Agribusiness Law and NativeTitle. Highlight of career thus far is cross examining a self confessed witch and making her cry. She hexxed me. As a result have developed a small tail and a liking for insects, but am learning to live with it.

Our current address is: 20 Threlkeld Drive, CATTAI, NSW, 2756 - Tel: (02)45 728 698 and our email address is above.

See Anton (Guiseppe) Kowalenko and Paul (Goggles) Gardoll (both 1988 Motts) occasionally, which is more often than I would like. Can report that they are both very fat and bald.

We are on a small horse property on the Hawkesbury River which we are in the process of selling. Ian is reasonably fit and well - retired after 30 years in the ABC’s Rural Dept in the early 1990’s - and turned 70 in April this year.

Ray Moir - 1966 raymoir@bigpond.net.au

Phil Hausler (Filthy) 1985-1988 Phil.Hausler@nt.gov.au

Still living in Perth and operating as a Turf Management Consultant with clients in Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia, Brunei and all State of Australia.

I have been living in the Northern Territory since 1989 where I currently work with the NT Government Department of Ag in Extension and Agricultural Development based in Darwin and living in Humpty Doo.

Travelling too much, but with a grandson in Sydney and a grandaughter in Melbourne, my wife loves the frequent flyer points!

Prior to that I managed a Government Research farm 220 km SW of Darwin for 5 years. Married Linda (Arty at CSU) in 1997 and had twin boys Daniel and Mitchell in March 2003.

Still in regular contact with David Aldous (1966) who is now an Assoc Professor at Uni of Melbourne and specialises in turf and sportsfields.

Work with old boy Fergal O’Gara and motts Peter O’Brien (Jed) and Chris Collins.

Peter Bentley-Howard - 1990 Grad Dip App Sc pbentley@tpg.com.au

Bryan Buchanan (Loin) - 1989 buckybj@ozemail.com.au

Retired as Head Teacher Sheep and Wool from the Western Institute on 28 November 2003. With my wife Cheryl we have moved to beautiful Lake Macquarie at Newcastle.

Left Wagga after completing studies (1989) and joined Incitec at Mudgee. Returned to Wagga end of 1991 & have worked for companies such as Nufarm & Syngenta. Bit the bullet in February 2004 & bought a fertilizer business at Ganmain. We now also do Ag. chem & agronomy.

In retirement I hope to spend time catching fish on the lake, continuing community work through Rotary with a special interest in the Youth Exchange Program and landscaping our garden.

Married in 1993 to Rhonda & have 3 children:- Sophie (9), Georgia (6) & Nicholas (3). We live on 250 acre farm at Coolamon.

Peter Beinssen - 1959

MEMORIES FROM 1959

A curious loss of intelligence seems to have occurred in June Sutherland’s interesting volume on the history of WAC (1996 edn), where I am not included as having been awarded a diploma. There is probably a reason for this:I was suspended during my final exams at the end of 1959 because I was to be the first married in our year. The word got out and a party took place and alcohol was consumed on the premises. Subsequently I was granted the first “post examination” in the college’s history. I sat two papers at the Dept Ag in Sydney in January 1960, passed them and was duly awarded the WDA, albeit a couple of months late, which was a few weeks after I had become the first married member of the 59’ers. It seems likely that all this might have been too complicated for the scribes at the time to cope with, and perhaps, if June’s records are right, the fact that I obtained the WDA early in 1960 may have been recorded neither for 1959 nor for 1960. Luckily my subsequent graduations are not in question.

CLASS OF ‘49 PRESENTATION & REUNION R. J. BOWEN’S SPEECH CLOCK PRESENTATION – CHARLES STURT UNIVERSITY 4TH NOVEMBER 2004 In February 1949 a group of young men caught the Riverina Express from Sydney Central bound for Wagga Wagga. Together with others travelling from various country locations the group of 32 were to be the first intake for the newly formed Wagga Agricultural College. Amongst the group were 12 ex servicemen from World War II to be retrained under a Government Repatriation Scheme. The balance were a group of enthusiastic students ranging in ages from 16 to 19 years.

Des Spurway unveils the 1949er’s Clock

As this was the first year of W.A.C. conditions were primitive and the old Government experiment farm was unprepared for such a dramatic change. This was still the horse era, the change to tractors having been delayed by the war effort, motor cars were pre war vintage. The College mail was even collected from Bomen railway station in a pony and sulky. A lot of produce from the farm was consumed in the dining room. This included milk, eggs, poultry, fruit, sheep and an occasional beast. We lived extremely well in 1949, it was only later we heard that the kitchen budget had blown out. The boys quickly settled into their new environment and adapted to the challenge of developing their agricultural skills. As the college was six miles from the city of Wagga, and the nearest girls, transport was a premium! Most of the students had bicycles but several of the ex servicemen had cars and were relied on for a ride to the local dances as well as into town.

Despite the age variation from 16 of 37 years, the group blended in and bonded very quickly. The influence and experience of the ex servicemen had a big impact on the maturity process of the younger students. The spirit and the mateship that developed as the year progressed saw the ex servicemen decide that they would like to complete the three year course at Wagga, however under C.R.T.S. scheme the ex servicemen were to complete their course at H.A.C. and were only scheduled for one year at Wagga. A deputation to the Principal, and an approach to the Minister, failed and the 12 ex servicemen were compelled to start year 2 at the H.A.C. It was a sad day when we said our farewells in December 1949. Despite the break up of the group, the friendships and camaraderie of the 49’ers has continued to this day, some 55 years later. The course developed strong independent individuals who thrived under the challenge of working with limited facilities and equipment. A lot of practical farm work was involved with many early starts on the dairy, poultry, horse and pig sections. We did everything from shearing sheep, classing wool, milking cows and working horse teams. In addition to this we did farm mechanics, bookkeeping and some public speaking thrown in for good measure, in fact the 49’ers had to be good all round at everything. Metalwork, engineering, etc., involved a biweekly morning trip to Wagga Technical College. The Bus Driver was often influenced to stop on the return trip at the Black Swan Hotel so the boys could have a quick beer prior to lunch which inevitably saw us arriving at the dining room late. This was a great annoyance to the Head Steward, Bob Butts, who was one of the special personalities associated with the College in those days. Eventually the bus driver was given the message – no more stops at the Black Swan. The College had limited lecturing staff which resulted in each lecturer having to double up on a number of subjects, even the Principal Dick Doman lectured in agriculture. We have found memories of John Sutherland and Harry Mathews who had big work loads and covered a multiple number of subjects. The balance between theory and practical the accountability and responsibility to attend all lectures, demonstrations and practical work produced individuals that were destined to succeed in their chosen vocations. Of the original 32 students, 6 returned to the land, 10 took up positions in various Government departments, a further 6 went to agricultural associated industries and 8 entered the commercial world. In addition the Group produced one Politician, one Land Developer, two media personalities and a number of Public Company Directors. At the conclusion of our last lecture in 1951 the Principal, Dick Doman, made the comment that we were a pretty mixed bunch but the only one with a potential to become Prime Minister was Owen Thompson, nicknamed Curly. Curly had a short stint as a cadet valuer, then took off to the Northern Territory where he became a jackaroo/drover. At this stage Curly decided that he would like to start a journalistic career at Glen Innes in northern NSW. Later he moved to Sydney and joined the News Group and became one of Rupert Murdochs top men rising to the position of Chief Editor of The Australian. Later Curly and a Partner acquired The Truth newspaper in Melbourne and a number of radio stations.

R. J. BOWEN’S SPEECH - continued....... Despite the mix of vocations, every one of the 49’ers retained some tie to the land and/or associated industries together with a great loyalty to W.A.C. In addition, without exception, they became good Citizens, good contributors and leaders in their chosen fields. There is no doubt that the training at the College provided the base for their success. Today we celebrate the commencement of W.A.C. and the passing 55 years since the official opening on the 16th September 1949 by the Honourable E. H. Graham, M.L.A., Minister for Agriculture. We acknowledge the University’s co-operation in allowing us to pay tribute to the foundation year of W.A.C. and thank the staff for your participation and hospitality. We, the 49’ers are amazed that from this humble beginning has grown the Charles Sturt University of which agriculture remains a major faculty in the available courses and the aig spirit has continued throughout those years. I understand that there is still a strong demand for Wagga Aig Graduates in the work place and I have been advised that all 2003 Aig Graduates have been placed in agricultural related employment. The inclusion of Vet Science commencing next year is another major step forward in the growth of C.S.U. I understand this will be a six year course with over 450 applicants applying to fill 45 positions in Year 1. The idea of a memorial to record the 49 year and the official opening of W.A.C. was initiated by Des Spurway. Des, who played a major role in the establishment of Rugby in Wagga was an outstanding full back and Captained combined country in 1949. He was also the Captain of the first 15 as well as the first President of the Students Representative Council. Combining Des’s idea, Alex McLennan’s enthusiasm and the generosity of the 49’ers has enabled us to make this tribute to the history of the University. I would like to also acknowledge the assistance of Karen Jamieson and John Mahon whose help and encouragement has enabled us to bring this occasion to fruition. Finally Alex McLennan who has worked tirelessly to help me complete this project. It is indeed fitting that the clock and plaque is located next to Don Joyes who was well known to all of us and apart from his work for the students, the college and the University, he was a great supporter of the O.B.U. and worked tirelessly in the early years of its establishment. Don’s widow, Fay, sends her apologies as failing health does not permit her to attend but had been delighted to receive our invitation. I would like now to present our memorial to the University commemorating the opening of the W.A.C. in September 1949 and ask Des Spurway to unveil the clock and read the commemorative plaque.

Past and present WACOBU President’s

Bill Baker, Warwick Nightingale, Alex McLennan, Jim Kemp, John Bowen and John Mahon

CLASS OF ‘49 PRESENTATION & REUNION REPORT ON THE 49’ERS CLOCK PRESENTATION TO CHARLES STURT UNIVERSITY AND REUNION – WAGGA - 4TH NOVEMBER 2004. On the afternoon of the 3rd we gathered at the Palm & Pawn, North Wagga. A very enjoyable few hours were spent in the garden meeting old friends and catching up on each others activities. This was followed by a casual dinner of some 25 people which was a very pleasant start to this special reunion. On Thursday morning the numbers increased to 32 which was made up of 12 x 49’ers, 5 x 50’s and partners plus our special guest June Mathews. At 10:00 a.m. the group visited the R.A.A.F. Base at Forrest Hills as guests of Ted Hayes’ son Wing Commander Stephen Hayes. Morning tea was provided followed by a tour of the base and a commentary on the training procedures and an inspection of the facilities. On conclusion a vote of thanks to Stephen and staff was given by Fred Benecke and carried by acclamation. The visit to the base was an interesting and educational experience for all concerned. This was followed by lunch at The Astor motor inn then back to the motel for a quick change prior to our visit to the college/university. On driving through the campus it was amazing to see the changes from the early days of W.A.C. The Charles Sturt University now caters for in excess of 35,000 students obviously this includes overseas students in affiliated Institutions. There is still a large agricultural faculty operating and C.S.U. aig graduates are in demand with 100% of 2003 graduates being employed in agriculturally related positions. The presentation of the commemorative clock and plaque took place in the Joyes Hall annexe at 3:00 p.m. The Head of Campus, Professor David Green, welcomed us and gave an interesting address and expressed the appreciation of the University for the presentation. Professor Green, in his address, placed great importance on the history and tradition of W.A.C. and the role the 49’ers had played. John Bowen responded and in his comments talked about life as a student in the early days of W.A.C describing the facilities, staff and a number of humorous episodes from the past. He also made mention of the career break up of the 49’ers and their chosen vocations. He also emphasised the important grounding that students had received in preparation for their future. Finally John thanked John Mahon (Old Boy and University Councillor) and Karen Jamieson (Executive Assistant to Professor Green) for their assistance in organising the clock presentation. John also acknowledged Alex McLennan for his help and assistance. Des Spurway then unveiled the plaque and read the inscription. It was his original idea that we should make a presentation to the University to record the history of the opening of W.A.C. and its foundation students. Professor David Green accepted the presentation on behalf of C.S.U. and invited us to join him for afternoon tea which included some very nice C.S.U. wines. Later we all took the opportunity to inspect the honour boards located in the Sutherland laboratories which record all W.A.C. graduates and O.B.U. presidents. Dinner that evening was at the Wagga Wagga winery where a top night was had by all. Guests attending were Professor David Green (Head of C.S.U. Campus), Professor Peter Cregan (W.A.C. Old Boy and Head of the School of Agriculture and newly created Vet Science), Professor Ted Wolfe, June Mathews, Wing Commander Hayes, O.B.U. President Warwick Nightingale, Secretary Deb Slinger, Committee Member Ross Henley and wife W.A.C.O.B.U newsletter editor Mardi Henley and John Mahon (Old Boy and Member of C.S.U. Council). Des Spurway proposed the loyal toast and called for a minutes silence for our deceased members. Later in the evening Des presented his 1949 football jumper to Warwick Nightingale. Des was 1st Captain of W.A.C. 1st XV, in fact captained combined country in the same year. Alex McLennan proposed the toast to W.A.C. and C.S.U. and Ted Wolfe responded appropriately. Ian Simos gave an update on the 1950 year of which five were present that evening. He made special tribute to Jim Watson who passed away early this year. Professor Peter Cregan gave us a run down on what is happening at the C.S.U. and in particular the new degree in Vet Science to commence in 2005. This will be a six year course with 45 students being accepted for the first intake from applications of approximately 450. The course will concentrate principally on large animals but will include subjects such as communication and business principles with the object of producing a very balanced, skilled graduate. John Mahon spoke on the history of W.A.C.O.B.U. cottage which is a 50:50 project between O.B.U. and the University and provides accommodation for students doing post graduate studies. Bill Baker, 1st President of the W.A.C.O.B.U., then presented Warwick Nightingale, current President, with a Bank cheque of $1,000.00 towards the fund from the 49’ers. Warwick responded and thanked Bill and the 49’ers for the donation. That concluded the formal proceedings and everyone settled in to enjoy the balance of the evening. In conclusion, our visit back to the college/university was a wonderful experience. The welcome we received from the Head of Campus, David Green, and his staff made this occasion very special for all those present. The tradition of W.A.C. still lives on but few could believe from this small college has grown an institution of size and reputation of C.S.U. As old boys we are proud that we were part of it and we will watch the future development with great interest. VIA TRITA VIA TUTA

A GENEROUS AG RUGBY GIFT Des Spurway wrote to Ross and I with great interest towards the “Reunion of Sports” to be held June long weekend 2005. He has generously provided us with photos from some of the first AG College Rugby games in 19491951. We were absolutely thrilled that Des presented the WACOBU Committee with his very own Rugby jumper from 1949 when he was Captain of the First XV. We will have it framed so it can be displayed at Sutherland Labs.

The handsome Captain of WAC Rugby Des Spurway, 1949

Des Spurway, 2004

Des kept us company at the 1949er’s dinner and told many stories of the good old days at WAC. It truly was a pleasure to be invited to share their reunion in Wagga and to hear the history of the Classes of 1949 and 1950. Mardi Henley

Wagga Ag College 1st XV - 1949

Back L-R:- J.T Best, J.A Thornton*, P.H Drummond, R.B Wearne, D.W Spurway* (Capt), A.B McLennan*, K.L Triffitt, C.R Dickson*, R.R.J Bowen, D.P Bryant. Front L-R:- R.J Learmont, W.I Laidlman*, J. Ballard, D. Erickson, C.R Dunn*, B.A Higgins, J.F Murphy. Coaches:- Dudley Taylor, Stan Power. * Ex-servicemen HIGHLIGHTS Matches Vs - Gordon Sydney 1st Grade, Duntroon, Hawksebury Ag, Teaches College. Des Spurway selected to Captain combined Country Vs Sydneyas lead up to selecting NSW Team.

AG RACE DAY 2004

Tim Sides, Ben Granger, Warwick Nightingale, Steven Bourke

Paul McCaskie, Neil Durning, Garth Wickson, Frank Corbett, James Brady

A fine day greeted a record crowd of race goers, estimated at over 3000 people, at the Murrumbidgee Turf Club, for the 17th Annual Ag Race Day. Around 1600 pre paid tickets were sold, with the remainder being sold at the gate. Licensing police changed the unlimited drinks slightly this year, with 15 ‘tickets’ being issued as you arrived, and you were able to get more tickets if you presented yourself as reasonably sober to staff (unlikely). This didn’t present a problem as there were people willing to give away their unused tickets, especially those chalks from over the hill, who as we all know cant handle their piss and prefer to drink ‘Latte’s’ The beer and the goon and juice flowed freely from 11:30 til 5pm, when security started to herd the rather inebriated patrons from the turf club. Most people then got onto the buses running from the track into town, and the Bridge Tavern and the Duck did not know what had hit them! KFC was also a very popular establishment with a wait for 15 minutes not uncommon. Recovery at the ‘Duck’ is reported to be a success but no-one really knows what happened. Please support Ag club’s major sponsor the ‘Duck’ and have a drink with ‘Marilyn’. Cheers - Bernie Byrnes

Drew Braithwaite and Wes Greig

Stuart Osmotherley

AG RACE DAY 2004

The Class of 1974 held their 30 year Reunion at Ag Race Day Back row (L-R) - Peter Matup, Dennis Greensill, Jim Ross, Al Sylvester Middle - Tony Voller, Brian Ricketts, Tony Grant, Jock Munro, Jack Murray, Steve Gell, Will Goldfinch, Michael Oakes Front (kneeling) - Geoff Pierce, Bill Cowell, Allan Jones

Saturday the 16th began with breakfast and a well received address by Prof Jim Pratley, who began his WAC career in our first year. Current staff member Tony Dunn of similar vintage also attended, along with Owen and Keith Lysaght. The races were most enjoyable despite us being a “tad” older than most of the large crowd of fashionable patrons. We were touched and greatly amused by the reverence shown by the “Motts” towards their mature “Uncles”. The days activities wound up with dinner at the ‘Pavilion’. Sunday brunch at the ‘Magpie’s Nest’, saw the conclusion ofa most enjoyable weekend, and the promise to meet again in 2009. 74 Aggies please send email addresses to The_Brae@bigpond.com Jock Munro - 1974

REUNIONS 2005 Is it time for you to organise a reunion for your year? The Class of 1980 & 1985 are holding reunions - is anyone else? Please let us know any details ASAP so we can advertise it for you in the next newsletter. 8

MEMORIES OF “MARILYN” Ross Stockings & Bill Gornall - 1966 Bill has kindly supplied a story & photo which will feature in the next newsletter.

Ken Ryall - 1970 Re the legend as I know it (WAC 1968/70) Marilyn - was a trophy between the USA armed services up until ? when it started doing the circuit between Wagga and Hawkesbury - Yanco College even got in to the act when I was at Wagga. There were all sorts of “rules” about how she was to be displayed - these were attached to the back of the photo eg she was always to be in a place readily accessible. When I was in first year at Wagga the frame - hung over the fire place in the main common room - it was wired into in the fire alarm. She usually “went” the weekend that the other College visited to play the annual game of Rugby.

Robert Bell, Simon King, Craig Whiting were excited to discover MARILYN at The Black Swan Hotel after AG Race Day - 16.10.04

Ray Moir - 1966 I remember the original in 1965 being in colour and living at Dookie College. Ross Stockings (and ?) hitch hiked (not many of us had a car back then!!) to Dookie and in the middle of the night retrieved her and hitch hiked back to Wagga with her where she was displayed in the common room. I know little more but if you have contact details for Ross Stockings I am sure he will know the full history as he was a devoted Marilyn fan.

Tink Kilkee - 1967 I first became acquainted with Marilyn back in 1965 during my first year at WAC. On the Anzac weekend a few of us travelled to Dookie via Melborne to retrieve her only to find that some one had been there the night before & had repossessed her. Later as I recall Ross Stockings and Bill Gornall repossessed her back into the WAC fold. We followed the set of rules and so our security in those days was unsophisticated to what goes on today. It was only about 2 months ago that an ex Orange Ag student mentioned the name “Marilyn” and she was in Orange only sometime earlier and they were surprised that I knew of her existance. I still have a photo of her in my year valette so it is great that she has returned again to Wagga.

My year cheated when I was in third year we put her in a metal frame and bolted her to the wall above a stair case. When Hawkesbury visited they actually brought some detonators with them and tried to “blow” her off the wall - unsuccessfully. But a large crowbar in the middle of the night did the trick and she went back to Hawkesbury. I understand that the original - this photo ain’t the original it was in colour - was burnt by “townies” at Hawkesbury.

Graham Callaghan - 1986 Just further to the last report, she was at Hawkesbury when we had a rugby intercol there in 1986 it was under guard of Motts for the 24 hours while we there. It was bolted to the wall in their common room where they had pool tables and the Motts were to stay there to make sure it never went missing. I am sure that not long after this (a month or so) some of our team went back there and it was not in place so couldn’t be removed. I believe before it was at Hawkesbury in 1986 it was at Duntroon (this was the story at the time).

MEMORIES OF “MARILYN” David Alexander - 1970 WE certainly had her bolted to the wall in 1969 / 70 and all hell broke out when Hawkesbury tried stealing her one night (without luck).

Bruce Smith - 1970 I can give you exact details of “Marilyn” being rescued from the clutches of Hawkesbury. October 1968 Andrew Whitelaw and myself hitchhiked from Wagga to Richmond, late friday afternoon, with the intention of arriving latish at HAC. At the time Andrew’s brother in law was stationed at Richmond RAAF, so we went to their house and dressed in RAAF overalls and off to the campus we marched. Arriving around 2 or 3am there was still some movement about but it was mostly people stumbling home very very intoxicated. We located “Marilyn” affixed to the ceiling of the common room in the middle of Southee block, some 12 feet in the air. This proposed some difficulty for a little while but eventually we stood a lounge on it’s end and I lifted Andy onto my shoulders and he removed her from the ceiling. We quickly got out of the HAC and with “Marilyn” wrapped in a grey blanket with immediately commenced to hitch our way back to Wagga. We took many precautions on the way back scrutinising anybody who stopped to pick us up, so as to ensure they were not Aggies from Richmond. We arrived back Saturday before midday and managed to get a few hours sleepbecause that night was the grand final for the Colts competition. I don’tremember who won the football, but the tennis club erupted when we held up”Marilyn”. I am not sure how long she stayed at Wagga after that but I believe she moved on to Roseworthy??

Stewart MacLennan - 1971 My 69 - 71 memories are based on a story that the 1949 photo originally belonged to the US air force but had some how been snaffled around the end of the War by Australian troops. I do not recall how it became the property of those studying agriculture - maybe it was their accommodating nature, or eye for fine photography. Go to this site to learn about the US history of the pic and its value:www.marilynfineart.com/pose6.html In about 1970 it was at Yanco Ag College and a group of WAC students made a night time raid. A combination of SAS style surprise tactics and blood curdling threats were used in the effort to locate the picture. It was brought back to WAC and fixed behind a metal grill bolted to the wall in the Doman block. I think HAC was its next home but am not sure. I am sure you will be able to fill the newsletter with the stories you receive!

AGGIES WAR CRY

Ego yah, ego yah, The true story is as follows:-

is the reunion of sports including AG RUGBY, NETBALL, HOCKEY, SOCCER etc but yet again this event will NOT occur if there is no support ! Contact Ross Henley 11 Clipper Way, Wagga Wagga NSW 2650 (02)69 331 222 or email mardi31s@mac.com

I think it was probably either 1955 or 1956 that we had a competition between all contributors or contributors from each of the Years. This was held at an SRC meeting and judged by the students present and our year’s presentation was selected as the best.

Oompah oompah,

This was not an accident as we had quite a bit of practice and the Canberra Grammar School warcry was used as the basis for the WAC war cry. With a team of three (as I remember it) well practised participants from our year (1956) we won the day and I was quite surprised that he has lasted all this time. That was the way it was, BELIEVE IT OR NOT.

Yakka yakka,Yah. John Furner - 1956

AG RUGBY WEBSITE

www.agrugby.rugbynet.com.au

Anthrow poppygai,

Finally up and running – AG RUGBY is now online… Complete with news items, points of interest, the latest controversy, photos and links – this is possibly one of the best sites on the www. When prompted for comment after tasking the site, Mr Gordon Bray suggested - “I am intrigued”. This innovative communiqué covers the whole scene of Ag Rugby and poses interactive fields suitable for the whole family. Soon to be included will be two tipping competitions – one encompassing the 2005 Super 12 (14) Comp and a second and possibly more demanding one based on the LOCAL SIRU Competition…(Keep in mind that we want sponsors to donate a prize for the winners).

Tarranakka Woppigai, During the season, we intend to include… Player Profiles Match Reports Comp Ladder Comp Results Social Activities And much, much more…

Wagga Ag., Wagga Ag. If you wish to peruse images of these fine, able-bodied athletes in their prime than check out the new website http://www.agrugby.rugbynet.com.au

Yah yah yah. Save it to your “favourites”… 11

AG RUGBY PREZZO NIGHT 2004 On Friday 15 October 2004, Ag Rugby Presentation night was held at the MTC. 108 people were in attendance to hear from guest speaker Matt O’Connor, assistance coach of the ACT Brumbies. He received a typical Ag college welcome, and then later on in the night was sent home to his wife, in a state he had not experienced for some time, i.e DRUNK. From Presentations, it was onto the Bridge Tavern for more celebratory drinks. Then upholding the tradition, it was down to the Murrumbidgee Gentlemen’s Club for Dawn Kegs, and race day preparation, the highlight being Badger driving a ute up a tree. A great night/morning was had by all!

AG RUGBY PRESIDENT’S REPORT

Season 2004 was not the most successful year for us on the paddock, however not once did the Aggie’s give up. The season looked promising with more than sixty players turning up to training. We played one trial game against the Geurie goats, although missing out on a win; we were given the opportunity of seeing the new talent in our club. This seasons first years are very talented football players, now possessing a years experience in first grade they will be valuable members of Ag Rugby. Coaches for 2004 were Marty Hogan and Mick Friend. Without these two blokes experience and direction the club would not survive. Mick and Marty’s ability to slip into the jumper at time of need is also appreciated. A big thankyou also goes out to fitness fanatic Jim Virgona, for putting us through many enjoyable sessions. As with past years, the holidays were tough. I must express my thanks to the blokes that came back every week to play at least one hundred and fifty minutes of footy in one day. On that note I would like to thank the 17 blokes that took on Griffith in two grades. At least five of the players were carrying injuries, with one finishing the last 20 minutes with two busted shoulders. It is the big hearts of these players that makes this club great. Financially, season 2004 was a very successful year. Big thanks go out to Drench Gun and our major sponsor Pat Gurr at the Bridge tavern for running the WAC super draw. The club was also privileged to pick up another sponsorship through BASF. Ag rugby would also like to extend it’s appreciation to our sponsors Toll Auto logistics, McKnicle contracting, KFC and the Rivcoll union. Thankyou to Rivcoll’s club officer Fiona Henderson for your guidance and support. Thanks also go out to the support of the Netballers and Sundae and his committee for their support at games and help with our sponsors and ladies day. To the 2004 committee, Termite, Tim and Johno, I express my thanks for your support and hard work throughout the season. A special thanks goes out to super secretary Bernie Byrnes for his constant support and dedication to the club. A special mention goes out to Free Styler for his organisation of the end of season footy trip. Free Styler has been a great leader for this club and will be missed in the 2005 season. We wish you the best for your’e future career and rugby endeavours. Format for next years competition is still up in the air, though whatever happens I feel that Ag Rugby will be able to form a good platform for the 2005 season. Our three tries to nil lead in the start of our last game against the chalks shows that WAC will be back stronger than ever in 2005. All the best to the 2005 committee, Im sure they will keep this club going strong on and off the paddock. Ego Yah - Ben Roberts

WACOBU WINE & CHEESE NIGHT We received this little gem when we emailed the WACOBU email list to say the Wine & Cheese Night had been cancelled due to lack of support:-

Good to see that attempts to lift the tone of WAC gatherings are still dealt with harshly by the mob. Wine comes in a box and cheese in slices that fit a sandwich. “Cocktail Party” sounded very upmarket until the drinks were mixed in a garbage bin and the tables were slid upon. Try “Kegs, chops and circle work at the MGC”. You’ll get a better response. Keep trying - Phillip Sheridan - Pic

REPORT FROM PETER CREGAN

Here is some info on the new BVSc course

We have appointed Professor Kym Abbott to be Director of the veterinary program and he is now hard at work to put the program in place. For our first intake in 2005 we have received 447 applications for the 45 available places and we are now in the process of selecting students on the basis of their questionnaire response, interviews and academic performance- see below for criteria etc. For the next newsletter I will be able to provide full details of how our recruitment /selection process worked and more detail about the course.

General information The veterinary science course at CSU is a six year degree program which will prepare you for a career in veterinary practice or any of the many other avenues of employment available to veterinary graduates. When you complete this course, you will have developed skills in the diagnosis and management of disease in all common species of farm animals (cattle, sheep, pigs and poultry) and companion animals (horses, dogs, cats, and others). As a result of the unique structure of the CSU course, you will have particular aptitude, skills and knowledge for working in the farm animal industries. To achieve this, the course provides a solid grounding in agricultural production systems and the integration of nutrition, genetics, economics and epidemiology into the management of herds and flocks. The CSU course recognises the role of veterinarians in ensuring the safety of animal products for human consumption and the welfare of animals in livestock production systems. In addition to your scientific and technical training, you will also develop a range of life skills and business skills which will help you in your work as a rural veterinarian.

Selection Criteria: • High level academic capability. • A demonstrated interest in, and commitment to, rural Australia, veterinary science and animal production. • An understanding of the unique, ethical and practical issues that confront veterinarians concerned with rural practice and animal production. • The capacity to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.

A selection of frequently asked questions about CSU Veterinary Sciences 1. How many places are available each year? There will be around 45 places available each year. 2. Are there any prerequisite subjects? There are no formal prerequisites for the Veterinary Science course at CSU, but as it is a science based course, we assume that students will have studied mathematics and chemistry at Year 12 level. If you have not studied Chemistry at Year 12 level, we strongly recommend that you undertake a Study Link course. 3. What UAI/ENTER score do I need to get in? Your academic record (UAI/ENTER or previous university study) only becomes relevant if you succeeded in the questionnaire and interview. We anticipate that entry to the course will be very competitive and expect that a score around 90, or GPA of around 65, will be required. 4. What will the questionnaire be about? The purpose of the questionnaire is to find out about your interest in, and commitment to, rural veterinary practice. You may be able to provide evidence of this through your family background, work (including school work experience, parttime jobs and voluntary work), and special interests. 5. Will all applicants be called for an interview? No. Applicants will be selected for interview on the basis of their questionnaire. 6. Why is the Bachelor of Veterinary Sciences at CSU one year longer than other veterinary science courses? The extra year enables us to provide a broader course that includes areas such as communication, business management and agriculture and an increased emphasis on production animals as well as the traditional curriculum of veterinary science courses. 7. How many contact hours are involved? You will have to attend lectures, tutorials and practical classes for approximately 26 hours per week. 8. How much clinical time is involved and where is it conducted? Clinical activities will be incorporated in each year of the course, starting with a few hours related to your subject content in first year. These will build throughout the course, and culminate in extensive clinical rotations in your final year. You will undertake your placements in regional veterinary practices.

REPORT FROM TED WOLFE

Evolution rather than revolution in agricultural education Comments provided by Emeritus Professor Ted Wolfe

The rationalisation of degree-level agricultural education continues in Australia. On November 9, the Vice Chancellor of Charles Sturt University (CSU), Professor Ian Goulter, announced that the current Orange Campus of the University of Sydney would become a campus of CSU from 2005. Furthermore, the University of Western Sydney is carefully reviewing its options for agricultural and environmental education at its Hawkesbury campus, and it intends to offer voluntary redundancy packages. Further afield, the University of Melbourne indicated that from 2005 it would offer fulltime courses in rural education from only one of its five country campuses, due to low enrolments and accumulated financial losses of more than $15 million. At the vocational level, the Murrumbidgee College of Agriculture transferred some full-time courses to Tocal and, following reports of the ‘poor performance’ of four agricultural colleges in Queensland, the Council of Dalby Agricultural College appointed a financial administrator. These developments are the latest in a series of rationalisation moves that were catalysed by the expansion of the Australian university system (1989) and the McColl review of agricultural education (1991). Muresk Agricultural College near Northam in WA became part of Curtin University in 1987, Gatton Agricultural College became the Gatton Campus of the University of Queensland in 1990, and Roseworthy Agricultural College was integrated into the University of Adelaide from 1991. In 1997, the Victorian College of Agriculture and Horticulture formally merged with the University of Melbourne, affecting agricultural education activities at Burnley, Dookie, Horsham (Longerenong), Glen Ormiston (Warrnambool), Sale (McMillan) and Werribee (Gilbert Chandler). In NSW, the overall situation in university-level education in agriculture has fortunately lacked some of the speed, drama and rhetoric that have accompanied changes in other States. Developments were slower, in part due to the regional complexity of NSW, where at one time there were 6 universities providing agricultural education. However, significant changes and consolidation have occurred. In 1994, Orange Agricultural College left UNE for the University of Sydney, while in 1996 UNSW decided to close the Department of Wool and Animal Sciences. For two good reasons, the slower pace of adjustment in NSW was fortuitous. First, for several years the demand for graduates in agricultural and agribusiness disciplines has outstripped supply. In NSW, the supply of university graduates in agriculture and related sciences has risen steadily, with the numbers of graduates emanating from the University of Sydney and Charles Sturt University being particularly strong. For example, from the CSU School of Agriculture in 2004, the graduates from Bachelor degrees in Agriculture numbered 41, Agribusiness 7, Equine Studies 23 and Environmental Horticulture 4. These numbers may have been more had there not been made a decision to restrict the development of horticulture and agribusiness courses at the Wagga campus, to create student places for the CSU degree program in Veterinary Science, which begins in 2005. However, the decision has helped create a complementarity between the rural management courses at Orange and the technically oriented nature of the Agriculture course strands at Wagga (agriculture, agronomy, animal production, horticulture, irrigation). Graduates in 2004 from related courses at Wagga, provided by other Schools in the Faculty of Science and Agriculture, included Environmental Science (28), Food Science (18), Viticulture (25) and Wine Science (44). [Courses in rural pharmacy and nursing will continue at Orange.] Second, the quiet evolution that is taking place in agricultural education in NSW, rather than a forced revolution, has preserved some of the important diversity that has always been a feature of degree-level agricultural courses in NSW. The unique features of the CSU Wagga and Orange courses, mentioned previously, are important. So too are the characteristics of 4-year graduates in Agricultural Science, Agricultural Economics, Resource Economics and Animal Science from the University of Sydney, and the attributes and perspectives of Rural Science and Agriculture graduates from the University of New England. A further source of diversity, well worth preserving, is the emphasis on systems agriculture at the University of Western Sydney, where problem solving has been a notable and important component of the curriculum. Currently, despite the difficult conditions being experienced in parts of regional Australia, and the downsizing of Departments of Primary Industry in NSW and Victoria due to changing government priorities, there are abundant employment prospects for graduates from agriculture and agribusiness courses. An acceptance by employers of the need for and value of commercial agronomists in rural areas has continued, and this growth has since been joined by a strong industry interest in graduates from the agribusiness and farm employment sectors, as well as an appreciation of the potential of graduates in animal production. Agricultural graduates also find careers as teachers, in Landcare and environmental occupations, in medical and scientific research, and in applied disciplines such as forensic science. One factor that counts for CSU graduates is that many are willing to go to some of the more remote areas of NSW, Australia and the world to take up employment offers. Currently, there are 3 ‘aggies’ participating in a Study Abroad program that CSU shares with the University of Delaware and North Dakota State University, and many graduates head off for work experience in foreign lands immediately after the graduation ceremony each April. Hopefully, WACOBU members, along with graduates from Orange, CSU and other NSW universities, will maintain their usual goodwill and take a special interest in the future of agricultural education. Adjustments are necessary as a consequence of the processes of change, not only in the agriculture itself but also in the funding of universities. For a time, the spotlight will be on the successful integration of the Orange campus into CSU. Ted Wolfe was Head of the School of Agriculture from 1990 to 1997. Since retiring in 2001, he has maintained his interests in agriculture, agricultural education and research. Currently, Professor Jim Pratley is the Dean of the Faculty of Science and Agriculture at CSU. Associate Professor Peter Cregan is the Head of the School of Agricultural and Veterinary Sciences at CSU, and Professor Kevin Parton is Dean and Head of Campus at Orange.

CAREERS DAY Danny Parnell Warwick Nightingale Ross Henley Michael Vaughan

John Lucas

Phil Hando

Dougald Powell

Deb Slinger

WAC students of 2nd & 3rd year, WACOBU representatives and guest speakers attend Careers Day 2004. On Wednesday the 13 of October, Warwick Nightingale and the WACOBU committee organised a “Careers Day” at uni for the agriculture students. The guest speakers were past Wagga Agriculture College graduates and included:• John Lucas - Terrabyte • Phil Hando and Danny Parnell - British American Tobacco • Michael Vaughan - AWB Limited • Dougald Powell - Landmark • Deb Slinger - Department of Primary Industries • Ross Henley - Riverina Co-op. All the presenters gave an insight into their careers (past & present) since completing university at Wagga Agricultural College. This gave the students an interesting guide to career prospects available to students with an agriculture degree from Wagga and was greatly appreciated. Later we all moved back to the Ag Tavern for a few drinks thanks to WACOBU and got to meet the presenters in a less formal manner. Special thanks to the presenters for giving up their time to speak, many students took a lot out of the day and was well worth attending and thank you to Warwick and the WACOBU committee for organising a great day on behalf of the students. Adrian Englefield – President of the Agriculture Club 2004

CROP UPDATE

WACOBU Crop Fundraiser David Lock has informed me that we are potentially looking at 70 to 80 tonne of good malting Barley. Late rains have benefited the crop and this forecast is a pleasing given a season that was starting to promise very little. I have sent letters to various agribusiness suppliers in the hope that we may obtain some sponsorship to cover costs. Once again thankyou to David Lock for this opportunity and we hope for a favourable harvest. Warwick Nightingale.

WACOBU COTTATGE URGENT - PLEASE DONATE - ONLY $25.00 per brick. WACOBU Cottage is an accommodation building for agricultural post-graduate students jointly funded by Charles Sturt University - Riverina, and the Wagga Agricultural College Old Boys Union (WACOBU). The WACOBU committee is aiming to sell 1,000 bricks as part of our contribution towards the building. Follow the WACOBU members listed above, and donate a brick or two for WACOBU Cottage. We have 1700 members. A brick donation will make a significant contribution to the WACOBU Cottage Project. WACOBU HOUSE Craig Bradley Jenny Bradley John Bowen John Miller A & T Grant Jeff Granger Jane Granger Brian Higgins Andrew Vile David Macauley Deb Slinger James Grellman E Miller J Slater Ken Slade Chris Slinger Peter Regan The 49ers Col Plater Pat Coughlan Tony Paton Rob Dunkley Jeannie Dunkley Michael Oakes Warwick Date David Clarke Harley Delves Garry Seamer Peter Draper R Iddon R Kobecke B Atkins G Veness I Simpson J Mahon G Kegan D Appleyard C Beckingham

T Hanmer R Bowen F Butler C Lehmann P Robinson J Mellor R Ballantyne S Tomson T Ellwood R Blackmore R Cox E Kulmer J Slatter J Lymbery Tim Hutcheon W D & H O Wills D Lock N Moody R Thomas A Holmes A Robson J McRae T Fletcher D Bruckner G Bruckner G Condon T De Salis R & M Henley Neil Bruce Phillip Asimus R Prangnell E Moloney K Edyvean A Pursehouse Bob Alexander Jeff Bailey Tom Barker (dec) Alan Barton

Alan Douglas David Elder Ian Fuller John Furner Lex Govaars John Grellman Jim Harris Bruce Irvine Tom Kennaway Bill Love (dec) Lawrence Moss Ken Packham Ian Perrett Jim Piper John Peterson Rod Shearer Ross Shepherd Rex Small Keith Harris R Gill Alan Anderson Scott Vaessen Michael Beer Craig Cowell Ray Cox M Eisenhauer R Gault Mike O’Hare Norm Sewell Neil Heriot Andrew Kerry Ron Umbers Bill Cowell Tim Hutchinson M & M Oldfield Ian Johnson Steve Manion Allan Holmes 16

Derek Ingold Colin Woods Stephen Bourke Ron Cullen John Crawford Graeme Worboys Jason McClintock Paul Cocking Simon McFarlance Michael Watt John Walker Colin Brett Stephen Dunn David Alexander Robyn O’Leary John Roberson Lionel Doran David Sloane Terry Cracknell Andrew Dowd David Barrow Graeme Parr Alex Calabria James Madden Fergal O’Gara Phil Howsler Jock Munro Peter Beinssen Andrew Glasson Jock Munroe Graham Quade Richard Hayes Bruce Grady Allan Silvester Peter Neilson Class of 1949/1950 Wayne Barry

Maurice Woodman Raymond Cox Chris Armstrong Ben & Samantha Granger Tim Condon Michael Oldfield John Armstrong Tom Armstrong David Alexander Geoffrey Paton Caroline & John Betts

100,000 95,000 90,000 85,000

80,000

75,000

70,000

65,000

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50,000 50,000 45,000 40,000 35,000 30,000 25,000 20,000 15,000 10,000 5,000 0

WACOBU MEMORABILIA

Name.......................................................................................................................................................................... Address...................................................................................................................................................................... ........................................................................................................................Postcode............................................ Date of birth.........................................Years at College (From)................(to)...................................................... Please find enclosed cheque/money order for: • WACOBU stickers ($1.00) • WACOBU tie ($30.00) • WACOBU lapel badges ($2.00) • WACOBU Centenary hat ($12.00) • WACOBU pewter ($50.00) • WACOBU plain hat ($10.00) • “Farm Boys to PHD” ($30.00) • Ladies WACOBU shield pendant ($65.00) • Video ($30.00) • WACOBU plaques ($30.00) • WACOBU keyring ($15.00) Total

$.................... $.................... $.................... $.................... $.................... $.................... $.................... $.................... $.................... $.................... $.................... $....................

Make cheques/money orders payable to: WACOBU, Po Box 1078, WAGGAWAGGA NSW 2650 Variation of address/personal notes form (PRINT DETAILS). EMAIL address......................................................................................................................................................... Name (IN FULL)........................................................................................................................................................ Address..............................................................................................................................Postcode...................... Personal notes.......................................................................................................................................................... ..................................................................................................................................................................................... ....................................................................................................................................................................................

CREDIT CARD PAYMENT for WACOBU MEMBERSHIP & MEMORABILIA

Name (IN FULL)..........................................................................Address............................................................... ................................................................................Postcode.......................Telephone......................................... MEMBERSHIP PAYMENT MEMORABILIA PAYMENT Please debit my credit card for $....................... MASTERCARD / VISA / BANKCARD / AMEX

Name on card....................................................................................................................................................... Expiry date................................Signature...........................................................................................................

FAX TO - 02 63 384 766

WACOBU MEMBERSHIP Name...................................................................................... WACOBU MEMBERSHIP DETAILS Address................................................................................. ..............................................................Postcode................. Years at College...................................................................

The executive of WACOBU and Alumni office met recently to discuss our WACOBU memberships. It was proposed and unanimously accepted that a white, gold and life WACOBU membership be provided for our members.

Date of Birth.......................................

The difference between Alumni Membership and WACOBU Membership is to be a donation to WACOBU.

Please find enclosed cheque/money order for:

White WACOBU membership $10 annually

• WHITE Membership fee ($10.00)

$.................

• GOLD Membership fee ($100.00)

$.................

• LIFE Membership ($400.00)

$.................

• Donation ($25.00)

$.................

Total

$.................

(paid in the replied paid envelope) • WACOBU newsletter • 20% discount on all CSU wines • one complimentary copy of the University Alumni magazine • notification of all reunions for your year or course

Gold WACOBU membership $100 annually

(paid in replied paid envelope) • WACOBU newsletter • donation to WACOBU Make cheques/money orders payable to: • one complimentary copy of the University Alumni magazine • notification of all reunions for your year or course Charles Sturt University • 10% discount on post graduate fees CSU c/o Alumni Office/WACOBU • 25% discount on all award winning CSU wines • priority for your children and grandchildren to be allocated Charles Sturt University places in University residences for their first year of study • use of University facilities (excluding the library) at Panorama Avenue, BATHURST NSW 2795 preferential rates • the option to apply for Alumni membership to the CSU libraries Variation of address/personal notes form • access to the Bathurst Campus’ Centre for Professional (PRINT DETAILS). Development at preferential rates • 10% discount on fees/charges associated with attending Name...................................................................................... a reunion Address.................................................................................. • special christmas wine offer ..............................................................Postcode.................. • any other special benefits or offers that are negotiated on behalf of members

EMAIL address.....................................................................

................................................................................................. Life Gold WACOBU Membership $400 (paid in replied paid envelope)

Personal notes...................................................................... • this includes all benefits of a Gold Membership but only .................................................................................................

paid once.

................................................................................................. If you unsure if your membership is up to date please .................................................................................................

contact Ben Granger, WACOBU Treasurer, on 0408 612 074.

................................................................................................. The Alumni will also provide assistance for the WACOBU executive with the collection of annual membership

................................................................................................. payments, assisting organisation of reunions, collection ................................................................................................. of money from fundraisers and most importantly insurance cover which we have paid ourselves over the past ten

................................................................................................. years. All of this assistance will allow the volunteer ................................................................................................. executive to place time into fundraising for the WACOBU Cottage and scholarship fund.

E M A I L If you have an email address (and any of other old boys) please email the address below so I can put you on the email list to receive future WACOBU newsletters via emailed PDF’s. This will greatly help our cause to cut down on printing expenses. So far we have around 260 addresses. We are still in the process of updating the current address list so that you do not receive an email and printed version - this will take a while with 1800 addresses - so I apologise if you receive both but hopefully this will not occur next time - let us know if it does.

If you have any information for the next newsletter email Mardi Henley:mardi31s@mac.com

WACOBU PO Box 1078 Wagga Wagga NSW 2650 Tel: 02 6931 9607

WACOBU newsletter

Wagga Agricultural College Old Boys Union

the BIG edition

DECEMBER 2005 • News of Old Boys • Tribute to Eric Owens • Reunion of Sports Weekend 2005 Report • AG Race Day 2005 Report & 1995 Reunion Report • 1966 Reunion • Notice of upcoming 1958 “50 Year Reunion” • Report by Prof. Ted Wolfe • Final “Marilyn” story • Report on WACOBU/CSU Dinner November 2005 • Dig Deep Campaign and Crop Fundraiser Reports • Membership Report

Jeff Angel

James Brady

Stuart Osmotherley

COMMITTEE PRESIDENT Warwick Nightingale 100 Crampton Street WAGGA WAGGA NSW 2650 Tel: 02 6931 9607 warwick.nightingale@landmark.com.au VICE PRESIDENT Stuart Kanaley PO Box 26 JUNEE NSW 2663 Tel: 02 6924 2400 margstu@dragnet.com.au SECRETARY James Brady PO Box 111 TARCUTTA NSW 2652 Tel: 02 6928 7238 tarcutta@ruralco.com.au TREASURER Ben Granger PO Box 5680 WAGGA WAGGA NSW 2650 Tel: 0408 612 074 Ben.grang@bigpond.com COMMUNICATIONS Mardi Henley 11 Clipper Way WAGGA WAGGA NSW 2650 Tel: 02 6933 1222 mardi31s@mac.com COMMITTEE MEMBERS

PRESIDENTS REPORT Well it’s been a busy 12 months and the size of this newsletter is a reflection of this, which once again has been compiled in an excellent fashion by Mardi Henley. Recent times have been exciting for WACOBU with many great accomplishments under the club’s belt; • An improved membership program has been initiated with Alumni and current financial memberships stand at over 250, a considerable improvement on the few that we commenced with. WACOBU database has been overhauled with great time and effort resulting in a more accurate delivery of information to members by both mail and email • A very successful 50 years of Ag Rugby reunion was hosted with over 200 spectators to the Rugby match and approximately 120 guests to the evening dinner which contributed some $5000 to the Cottage fund. • The weekend of the reunion culminated in the successful completion of the long running WACOBU cottage project on the back of another crop courtesy of David Lock and the very successful Dig Deep Campaign initiating a dollar for dollar donation that raised some $30 000 in a period of approximately 6 months • WACOBU office has been relocated into the Sutherland lab building and work is in progress to build memorabilia collection and upkeep existing displays Future activities; • We are in communication with Alumni to create a WACOBU website that will be linked to current CSU ALUMNI site. This web site will I hope be a forum for both communication and also a platform where businesses of past students or other industry bodies can post positions of employment or other information as required • The continued focus on increasing financial member numbers is a continual aim of the committee, with constant attention to member benefits under review to reward our members and make it worth while to join • It has been brought to our attention that the honour boards and memorial garden are in need of attention and this will be the destination of the clubs funds. In the meantime we will consider the next long term project that is to be determined in conjunction with CSU Alumni, CSU Staff and the members of WACOBU.

John Mahon “Hillview” OURA NSW 2650 Tel: 02 6922 1208

I would like to take this opportunity in this report to note the contributions of all of the WACOBU committee for there commitment and time that has realised such a successful 12 months for the club and the support that has rallied amongst the ranks of WACOBU members that ultimately has enabled the club to be so successful in recent times. Special thanks are forwarded to Deb Slinger who for many years has been involved with WACOBU and I suggest has helped keep the club intact. Deb has retired her position as Secretary and I welcome James Brady to the position and look forward to his contributions in the future.

Stephen Monkley “Werombi” 1103 Oura Rd WAGGA WAGGA NSW 2650 Tel: 02 6921 8272

I note also the tremendous efforts of Wagga Agricultural Club that has recently received much press locally for the donation of $20000 to the WaggaBase Hospital Spinal unit. Congratulations to Termite and boys and girls of Ag Club.

Margaret Kanaley PO Box 26 JUNEE NSW 2663 Tel: 02 6924 2400

Happy Christmas to all our members and their familes, WACOBU looks forward to hearing from you in the coming year and may it bring you all happiness and success.

Deb & Chris Slinger 25 Harold Street JUNEE NSW 2663 Tel: 02 6924 1559

Warwick Nightingale – President WACOBU

NEWS OF OLD BOYS Rob Willis - 1977 mthsystems@bigpond.com Anne and I would like to say hi to everyone. We live in Warialda, been towny’s now for 10 years after leaving sheep farming. We run an Industrial Laundry to NW and NEW England areas. Have four great kids Amy 21, Tom 19, Meg 17, Kate 14.

Tony Keech - 1977 arkeech@mgs.vic.edu.au I am currently working in Melbourne, teaching at Melbourne Grammar School, and yes they dont have Ag. Spent from 1996 to 1999 at the Geelong Grammar Timbertop Campus teaching Ag and introducing a Sustainable and permaculture course there.

Allan Casey - 1974 caseyk@ix.net.au

An old boy in the making - Henry Sides

Allan and Kerry living in Orange and sons David and Paul living/working in Sydney/Wollongong area. Allan is working at Orange Agricultural Institute (NSW DPI) and Kerry at Molong Central School.

Bruce Ramsey “83” – 1982 bruce.ramsey@incitecpivot.com.au Jenny and I with our three kids, Hayden, Gemma and Cameron have been in Wagga for 10 years now since leaving the Dept of Ag Victoria in 1995. We moved to Wagga with Pivot Fertilisers and I am currently Regional Agronomist with Incitec Pivot Ltd.

David Macauley - “Drawbar”- 1993 hamiltonmacauley@bigpond.com

Cameron and I are members of the Wagga Wagga Field Archers and recently competed in the National Australian Bowhunters Association (ABA) Safari held at Charleville, Qld during the Easter break.

As for me I’m working on the family farm at Junee Reefs, which has just suffered another dry October. However November is proving to be a little wetter so we should salvage something of the season. I now live in Junee where it seems my spare time is taken up helping to run the Roundhouse Museum. Sadly, this takes priority over landscaping around the house and a shed full of ‘projects’.

Cameron took out the ABA “cubs” freestyle limited F2 class, after coming 2nd last year, and backed this up with a win in the 3D category for the second year running. I was lucky enough to take “gold” in the Bowhunter Unlimited F1 (A grade) category, after winning the F2 class in 2003, and “silver” in the 3D competition this year.

Bart Gannon - 1966 bartnpam@bargann.com.au

Archery is great family sport and hopefully we will be competing in the International Field Archery Association, world championships in 2005 being held at “Wide Bay Archers” at Harvey Bay Qld.

Celebrations I became a grandfather for the first time in October. Pam & I welcome Steve & Kayo’s daughter Miyaka to the clan.

If anyone is interested in getting started in archery please contact me and I will help where I can – it’s never to late, as I discovered when I joined the local club in order to give the kids a go.

Bruce Rennard (1966) recently tied the knot with .........whom he met in South America while on missionary work.

Tel: 02 69265561 Mob: 0428 694705 Fax: 02 69 265533

IN MEMORY of ERIC OWENS 24 March 1937 to 24 April 2005 Eric Owens, a well known Bathurst identity, lost his battle with cancer and passed away on the 24th April 2005. Eric attended W.A.C. from 1953 to 1955 graduating in 1956. He was a long serving committee member of the WACOBU and a great supporter. It has been acknowledged that Eric attended more Wagga reunions than any other Old Boy. He was a solid citizen and a great contributor to both the O.B.U. and the Bathurst community. Eric will be sadly missed by all that knew him. Eric’s passing was acknowledged in the Western Advocate by the Trotting Fraternity on the 4th May 2005 and in the Rural Roundup on the 5th May 2005. Sincere sympathies are extended to his wife Sue and their family from the Committee and Members of the WACOBU. The following eulogy delivered at the service by his cousin, Belle Bendall, aptly describes Eric and his life. If you were to ask me “Who was Eric Owens?” I would have to answer; “He was my cousin”. But Eric was much more than that. He was a significant figure in my life for 68 years. He was my true friend, my confidant, a great favourite of my children as they were growing up and always a support when things went wrong. Eric was born in Bathurst where he received his early education. He went on to Wagga Agricultural College, where he extended his knowledge and experience of the land as well as making lasting friendships with a number of his fellow students. He continued his association with the college and its ex students returning whenever it was possible to attend reunions and renew old friendships. When he completed his studies he came back to Bathurst to help his father, Laurie who was recovering from spinal surgery and he took over the lion’s share of the work on Laurie’s properties at Evans Plains and Wallaroi. In 1960 he married Sue Talberg and at first they lived in Bathurst, later moving to their first house on White Rock Road. Some of us thought he would never leave this road as he built and lived in three houses at different sites, always on White Rock Road and all named Wandana. If you were writing to Eric, you never had to look up the address. It never varied from Wandana, White Rock Road. I’m told he earned the title of “The White Rock Road Developer” and it was appropriate. It was in these houses he and Sue reared their three children, Karen, Peter and Vickie. In the meantime Eric had purchased the property on the Macquarie River flats and was regularly driving loads of his produce, mainly cauliflowers, to the markets, first at Haymarket and then at Flemington in Sydney and this was the beginning of his love of truck driving and the trucks became bigger and better as the years progressed. On the trips to Sydney, he would amuse himself outwitting the transport inspectors. On one occasion, when the police were targeting the truckies for what Eric considered petty offences, e.g. a broken tail light, he organised his mates and a convoy of trucks about a mile long drove to Sydney, all impeccably turned out, within the speed limit and driving all the way at the correct distance apart. This caused havoc and held up traffic for miles back. When they reached the markets they were met by a police officer, wearing, to quote Eric, “more gold braid than a South American general”, who admonished them never to do that again. They didn’t need to as they were no longer hassled by officialdom. Ever the activist, he joined the Water Users’ Association and through this he managed to get a better allocation of water for himself and other irrigators along the Macquarie. His battles with Edgells were legend as he sought and often gained a better deal for the market gardeners.

IN MEMORY of ERIC OWENS Eventually he sold the market garden and the third White Rock Road house and moved to properties, first on the Duramana Road and finally Mt Rankin Road and, of course, both were named Wandana. Here he developed his interest in stock dealing which he continued until his illness overtook him. One of his great pleasures was harness racing and he took an active interest in the Bathurst Trotting Club, serving on the committee for a number of years and so he continued a tradition of the Owens family that went back for three generations. A stand at the Bathurst show ground was named the Owens stand in recognition of the family’s service to the club. He started off as a strapper when his father was driving. When he was old enough he graduated to driving and had success at his first outing which was at Katoomba. Before he went out on the track, Laurie gave him his instructions. “Go to the front and keep improving your position.” Eric followed the advice and it paid off on the narrow Katoomba course. It must have appealed to him as he often passed it on to young family members, whether they were competing in athletic events, swimming carnivals or even a hockey match. Later on, he bought and bred several of his own horses, racing them in the family colours of black and white. His interests were wide and diverse. He served on the committee of the Fruit and Vegetable Grower’s Association and was its vice president for many years. He was prominent in the Bathurst Lion’s Club and other local organisations, Land Care and the Showground Trust to name two of them. Eric also liked to travel and he particularly enjoyed camping trips with Sue and their friends to the far reaches of outback Australia. Not only did he know every road and laneway in the local district but he was familiar with much of the continent as well. He seemed happiest behind the wheel of a vehicle. He had a dry sense of humour and delighted in his own brand of Aussie expressions using them often to amuse and sometimes confuse the youngsters. He loved a bit of fun and was always ready to put his hand up for a celebration. But best of all he will be remembered by family and friends for his generous hospitality and willingness to offer help wherever he saw a need. When his time of need came and he was so sick these qualities were acknowledged by the assistance offered him by so many. I would specially mention the patient and loving care with which Sue nursed him and we extend to her and Karen and Pete, Peter and Mary Lou and Vickie our deepest affection and sympathy. Recently I was speaking to a family member who said of Eric “He was like a rock, strong and reliable and you just thought he would always be there.” Sadly he is no longer there and it remains now for us to say goodbye and thanks for a store of treasured memories. May he rest in peace. All Saints Cathedral Bathurst - 28.4.05 Thank you to John Bowen for providing us with this tribute to Eric

WACOBU REUNION 11 June 2005 - REPORT Bring out the driza bones and gumboots, we broke the drought with a tremendous gathering of over 200 spectators despite heavy rains that fell on the day marking the long awaited start to the 2005 winter cropping season also. The weather did keep the numbers a little lower than had been expected however those in attendance where well catered for with plenty of dry marquee

The crowd enjoying the rugby

space along with a BBQ and bar organised and ran by the students. It was great to see many familiar faces enjoying the rare opportunity to catch up with their friends, many travelled considerable distances to be there on the day. It was equally pleasing to see some excellent Rugby played in good forwards weathers to see

Kieran O’Keefe referees the Ag Vs West Wyalong game

Ag Rugby come out with a win on the day.

James Madden (Silo), Tim Minehan (Medsy), Martin McGee (Fec) and Rowan Wood (Toothpick)

REUNION REPORT

Kym Sutherland (Beaker), his friend Anita and Hamish Cullenward (Poop)

Bob Conolly, Lachlan and Steve Sutherland

Mick Millard, Luxton Walker, Jim Wright, Ben Purcell and Tate Heggaton

REUNION REPORT

Dominic Dillon (Slug), Steven Monkley (Agar), David Hilton (Wombat), Peter Wearne (Handpiece) and Lachlan Simpson

Neil Durning (Pid), Richard Neagle (Filth), Jeff Angel (Cuka)

Murray Haddrill, Warwick Nightingale, Ken Triffitt

REUNION DINNER REPORT We finally managed to get everyone on the buses departing the Bridge Hotel for the University in the evening, piped in with great style by Jock Munroe. Close to 120 people gathered after the great day at the rugby to continue the celebrations and recognise some of the history and memories that hasmade the club what it is today. The well-attended dinner was pleasing to see after much effort by Mardi Henley and Deb Slinger particularly, in making the evening a success. The evening was well run with constant entertainment and direction provided by the very gifted orator, FOX who performed the function of MC for the evening. A highlight of the evening was to receive into WACOBU memorabilia a great gift of Des Tony Gelling presents Ken Triffitt with the 1st XV Spurway’s personal Rugby Jumper that he wore in 1949 as jumper worn by 1949 Captain of WAC Des Spurway Captain of WAC Rugby’s very first Rugby team.

David Hilton (Wombat), Leonie Scarlett and Peter Madden (Smutt)

The jumper was presented by Ken Triffit and Murray Haddrill on behalf of DesSpurway and the class of 1949 & 50.The jumper was accepted by Tony Gelling a past student and past representative Rugby player for Australia. The presentation was marked by words from both Ken Triffitt and Tony Gelling that were both sincere and appreciated by all present on the evening. The Jumper is now displayed in Sutherland Laboratory building amongst other memorabilia, if you are around drop in, it looks great. The evening was made all the more enjoyable with assistance from CSU ALUMNI and the generous contribution of fine wines consumed on the evening courtesy of past students now in the wine and viticulture industry. I would like to thank Jason Odea, Mark Sims, Peter Cregan, Richard Neagle, Rosie Dorney, Paul Geddes, Robert Bruno and Adrian Englefield for there generostity. With all the support the evening was not only a very enjoyable one but a success in that it was able to raise some $5000 that went to the WACOBU cottage appeal.

Greg Condon (Skeg), Stuart McDonald (Spiffy), Steven Burke (Gears) and Kieran Hawker (Turps)

Julie O’Keefe, Alex (Keen) and Joanne Calabria

Steven Monkley (Agar), Brett Smith (Kat), Robert Taylor (Cysty), John Duff and Col Medway (Goat)

REUNION DINNER

Chris Slinger, Mark Sims (Tref) and Chris Callow (Nematode) Martin McGee (Fec) and Bernie Rorke (Goliath)

Marg Kanaley

Stuart Kanaley (Skin) and Col Plater (Simon)

Peter McCann (Crusher), Michael Hunt and Rowan Wood (Toothpick)

REUNION DINNER

Ross Henley (Rooster)

Jock Munro really topped off the evening by piping everyone out of the function through the University and down to catch the bus into town . -Thanks Jock - Great work !! Richard Said (Boobs)

Thank you so much to everyone who attended the rugby and the dinner! And thank you to Michael Meredith (Breezy) for some great pics.

AG RACE DAY 2005 Wagga Ag Club held its 18th Annual Race Day on the 15th of October 2005. Despite weather forecasters predicting rain for the day all week, we were blessed with fantastic weather. Over 2000 people flocked to the MTC, and of that 1600 people purchased the Ag Club drink and meal ticket. This is another 50-100 people up on last year, so it is great to see that it is still growing, and is now the second largest race event on the MTC calendar. The only limitation for the expansion of the event now looks like the current facilities, mainly bar and toilets (although the toilets are optional). Over 70 kegs were consumed in a period of just under 5 hours (mainly by the more seasoned drinkers!). One of the highlights for the day was the ‘fashion of the field’. It was hotly contested and I think that some of the ladies thought there was a ‘shortest mini skirt’ field, however I didn’t hear any complaints. The Race Day is now recognised as one of the best on the country circuit and it is fantastic to see many people travel long distances to the event. What is even better is that they are coming back the next year with a few more of their friends. The future of the Ag Race Day is very bright. We were lucky to again receive kind sponsorship from The Bridge, The Duck, Kennards Hire, Wagga Work Wear and Rivcoll student association and would like to sincerely thank them for their support. I would also like to thank the other committee members, Becci Robson and James Christie for their work. All round it was a great day and we were able to raise over $25,000 for Peter Worsley and Wagga charities, despite ever increasing costs. Thankyou for your support and I hope to see you all at the races next year. Ego Yah Bernie Byrnes Ag Race Day President 2005

WAGGA AG RACE DAY is quickly becoming a “family day” for many old boys and girls.

Anna and Warwick Nightingale with daughter Emily.

Tim Sides with son Henry

AG RACE DAY 2005 - MONEY RAISED

Committee President Bernie Byrnes hands over the cheque to nursing unit manager Coral Wilson, and rehabilitation physicians Dr Louis Baggio and Dr Genevieve Brady.

Wagga Agricultural Club gives a generous helping hand to hospital The Wagga Agricultural Club donated $20 000 to Wagga Base Hospital’s rehabilitation unit yesterday after a successful 2005 Ag Race Day. Ag Race Day was established in 1988 to raise funds for student Peter Worsely who had his neck broken playing rugby union for Wagga Agricultural College. The annual event has raised well over $100 000 for Peter, enabling him to compete in the last 3 Paralympic Games. The Ag Race Day Committee recognised the need for spinal patients to have suitable facilities locally so proceeds from this year’s event has been donated to the hospital’s rehab unit, allowing them to purchase vital equipment such as a hoist, electric beds, wheel chairs and pressure area cushions. Nursing manager of the rehab unit, Coral Wilson is thrilled to receive such a generous donation. “The equipment we are able to purchase now means that we can transfer our patients more safely for both them and our staff”, she said. Committee President Bernie Byrnes is extremely happy with the growing popularity of the event which is now the Murrumbidgee Turf Club’s second biggest annual race meeting. Source:- Wagga Daily Advertiser (12/11/05)

AG RACE DAY - REUNION OF 1995 On the eve of this years Ag Races the Motts and Grotts of 1993 had a reunion. This reunion was to mark 10 years since they were supposed to graduate. In attendance was Foreskin, Fubar, Ester, Lingus, Snafu, Schnapp, Tar, CD, Minge and Mangrove and respective partners. Shoulda couldn’t attend having just given birth to twins and Springer couldn’t attend as his wife was about to have a baby. An enjoyable evening was had by all and most were able to make it to the races the next day. Snafu went to Presso kegs and was in bed while the races were on. Lingus tried a beer at the races and couldn’t attempt another. The weekend of reminiscing, drinking and general good times was topped off when Fubar and Kate finally announced their engagement. Bec Osmotherley

GROUP SHOT of 1995 enjoying the evening after Race Day

SPRING REUNION - CLASS OF ‘66

L-R Back Row:- Mick Duck, Dick Kobelke, Lenja Kobelke, Bart Gannon, Denise Duck, Jill Dutton, Neil Warner Peter Polack, Cathy Meares, Tony Meares Middle:Coryl Clough, Bruce Rennard, David Hazlett, Annette Sirec, Pam Gannon, Richard Dutton, Kaye Aldous, Sue Warner, Margaret Polack, Ros Medway, Stu Whalan Front:David Aldous, Roger Clough, Nev Semmler, Pam Semmler, Gerry Bolla, Col Rathbone, Lynne Bolla, Geoff Bushby, Barry Medway Over the NSW long weekend (October 4-7, 2002) the year of 1966 met at the home of Bart & Pam Gannon in Oakville near Windsor. They included Neville & Pam Semmler, Peter & Margaret Pollock, Dick & Lenja Kobelke, David & Kaye Aldous, Col Rathbone, Richard & Jill Dutton, Mick & Denise Duck, David Hazlett, Bruce Rennard, Bart & Pam Gannon, Gerry & Lynne Bolla, Barry & Ros Medway, Geoff Bushby, Ray Moir, Tony & Cathy Meares, Neil & Sue Warner, Stuart Whalan and Roger & Coryl Clough. Apologies were received from Ray & Deb Clarke, Charlie & Peta Smithwick, Geoff & Vida Howe, Teddy Cornell, Graeme & Phil Hockey, Chris Lord, Barry & Sandra Cunnington, Ronnie Rathbone, Chris Moir, Judy Whalan, Nick Knight and Ross & Marg Stockings. Not a bad number for the year that finished Wagga Agricultural College at or around 36 years ago. All looked pretty healthy, acknowledging the fact that four colleagues have since passed on - Pete Ferris, John Heckendorff, Geoff Townsend, and Tony Pfall. The photograph shows all the guys and their partners at the reunion dinner at the Windsor Golf and Country Club. Many thanks to Bart and Pam Gannon for organising the meals, drinks, accommodation, and atmosphere and generally opening their home to this lot who had come from as far as Perth and Melbourne for the reunion. Plans are well advanced for the next reunion probably at the Bollas on the NSW Central Coast. Both Bart Gannon (bartnpam@bargann.com.au) and Gerry Bolla (gerry.bolla@agric.nsw.gov.au) are the main contacts, so if there are other ‘66 (staff and students) out there get in touch. The group has a web-site as a work in progress www.waggaag66.info so we can all keep in contact between reunions. Bart Gannon - 1966

NEWS FROM IAN PERRETT - 1956 1. The class of 56 has been having reunions every five years for some time now and these have been taking place in various family homes. John Furner has coordinated the process throughout and the attendances have been excellent. Jim and Cynthia Piper have offered to host the fifty year reunion at their Wollongong home: their offer has been accepted unanimously, a date around October next year will be finalised shortly and circulated thereafter. 2. Ross Shepherd from the class of 56 has been the driving force behind the establishment of the Narromine Air Museum. This was opened recently by Buzz Aldrin, the second man on the moon, and the opening ceremony featured a ‘fly by’ by a replica of the original Wright Brothers aircraft. The museum is a great concept and should be visited by anyone going through Narromine. Ian Perrett - 1956

UPCOMING 1958 REUNION set for 2008 I think it is time that we consider planning a reunion of the group that finished Wagga in 1958. We can go about this in 2 ways and I would like your initial feelings on which you favour. 1. There were a number of those who started in 1956 (the exceptions being if I recall “Barearse” Ellwood & Lloyd Beeby who joined us in 2nd year in 1957) and who fell away over the 3 years. Names of these who come to mind include Alf Fittler, Warren Tyson, Allan Massey, Phil Goldrick & Dave Luff. If we held a reunion next year to celebrate the start of our time at Wagga, then it would be good to see those whom we enjoyed their company even if it was not for all the 3 years. 2. Alternatively we could hold off till 2009 and have a reunion to coincide with the aggies graduation that year. At this time the above questions are only going to those for whom the WACOBU Committee has an email or postal address. Therefore if you see anyone please pass on the question. As for myself, I retired in December 2003 after leaving the Ag Chemical business in 2000, and when Denise and I sold our cruise / travel agency to Flight Centre. We have moved to Avoca Beach on the NSW Central Coast. Feel free to contact me at:Tel (02) 43 811 566 or 0412 413404 Email rossden@bigpond.net.au Regards - Ross Blackmore

CLASS OF 1978

Michael Meredith sent in this photo of 1978 - some of you might recognise some faces 15

ERITREAN PROJECT REPORT by TED WOLFE Wagga scientists involved in Eritrean Project provided from Australia to enhance degree-level programs in agricultural education.

Can you remember the Cormo Express incident in 2003, when 57,000 sheep for Saudi Arabia were refused permission to land? The country that resolved the fate of the sheep was Eritrea, a country of 4.2 million people located on the Red Sea opposite Saudi Arabia.

Alison and Ted had an exciting visit, with a particular focus on activities at Halhale Farm, the headquarters of the National Agricultural Research Institute situated 40 km south of Asmara. At one point, they joined officials in a 500 km transect by helicopter over the main agro-ecological zones of Eritrea.

As part of an MOU signed by Agriculture Minister Warren Truss in May 2005, the Australian Government will assist Eritrea build capacity in agriculture. Like Australia, much of Eritrea is semiarid and Australian agricultural technology may be useful.

“We were impressed with both the progress made to develop decentralised agricultural research, extension and education facilities, and the positive attitude of the Eritrean scientists that we met”, they said.

Two Wagga scientists, Dr Alison Bowman of NSW DPI’s Wagga Wagga Agricultural Institute and Professor Ted Wolfe of CSU’s School of Agricultural and Veterinary Sciences, recently completed a short visit to Eritrea to evaluate the current status of agriculture in Eritrea.

Current issues in Eritrean agriculture include the low productivity of the livestock and crop production systems; the importance of enhancing food security; a serious conflict between livestock grazing and crop production, particularly towards the end of autumn (before the opening rains); and land degradation due overgrazing and deforestation.

The objective of the visit, which was funded by the Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, was to pinpoint potentially useful contributions from Australian research, expertise and experience in dryland agriculture. These areas could be the focus of further technical capacity building to assist Eritrea increase its agricultural capacity and improve the management of land and water resources.

A series of preliminary recommendations were made concerning possible Australian assistance to the country’s National Agricultural Research Institute, to help planners and scientists deal with the main issues.

In a companion project, 2 scientists from South Australia assessed what assistance could be

RIRDC Rural Women’s Award goes to a WACOBU Member Source: www.ruralwomensaward.gov.au

Jenny Bradley from Armatree was named the 2005 RIRDC Rural Women’s Award Winner at a special Gala Dinner and Presentation held in February at Parliament House in Sydney. Jenny, and husband Craig, run a mixed farming enterprise in the State’s Central West. Jenny won the Award in recognition of her efforts in lamb marketing, and her role in supporting rural communities.

Jenny graduated from Wagga Ag College in 1982 and WACOBU congratulates her on this achievement - GREAT WORK!! 16

MEMORIES OF “MARILYN” by Bill Gornall

Ross Stockings and Bill Gornall hold the original “Marilyn” in 1966 As usual we would present well-groomed with college blazer and tie. This time however we would pretend to be ex-students from Inverolachy School (St Michael’s north-east of Goulburn), working on farms and checking out Dookie for possible enrolment there. (Inverolachy also had a green blazer and I knew a little of the place because of cross-country competitions when my Canberra school had competed). We’d also require our haversacks, sleeping rolls and a little food.

Sometime in April 1966......... Ross Stockings and I discussed “Marilyn” during a cross-country jog. “Marilyn” was a fairly large (3ft x 2ft) reproduction nude painting of the late Marilyn Munroe. This particular copy had travelled far, including the US Army, Navy, Airforce and Marines and ? RAAF in South Australia. Hawkesbury NSW “stole” the picture from Duntroon in 1958. Longeranong (Vic), Dookie (Vic) and Wagga also saw her. To the dismay of students at Wagga she had just been taken from our college.

Friday we attended our college’s annual Diploma Day Ball, always a good do. The NOMADS from Sydney provided the latest in dance music which didn’t stop until 2.30am. Before hitting the sack in the early hours we raided the kitchen for trip supplies.

A number of “rules” applied to this prized possessions: • the picture could only be folded in half once • new possessor had to notify last holder of its new location (institution) • it had to be displayed and not locked up.

Saturday dawned fine - a perfect star - nothing much worse when hitch-hiking than to stand in the rain waiting for a lift. Dookie lay 260km south between Benalla and Shepparton. We departed after breakfast and Ross’s father drove us to the Narrandera turnoff south-east of Wagga, near Kapooka (Army Recruit Training).

Brief details of its new journey were documented on the back. Generally “Marilyn” resided in one place for many months, sometimes years. We had received notice this day that she was back in Dookie Agricultural College - taken during the Easter break. A long weekend was 3 days away and we thought we would make a move then to retrieve her. So it was “Marilyn” or bust. If we were caught......it was not worth dwelling on.

We commenced hitch-hiking from there and at the halfway mark in Albury scored a free lunch in a cafe where Ross knew the owners. Three short lifts took us along a back road from Benalla to Dookie’s boundary. We had arrived in 6 1/2 hours. We explained to these last benefactors our (bogus) reason for being there. One driver said it was a pretty good idea to see a place (of intended learning) first hand, and as he had a blazer at home he’d try it one day too!

To simply drive in, hope to find her and get clear away we reckoned a hit-and-miss method. So we prepared plans, based on our hitch hiking experience of nearly 20,000 miles covered over long weekends and trips home during our stay at college so far.

MEMORIES OF “MARILYN” On Dookie’s eastern boundary we stashed our blazers and gear in tall grass and then managed a lift right into the college complex. We encountered some first year students near the main entrance building. To these we also said we were just out of school and were checking Dookie for prospective enrolment. For the remaining two hours of good light, two of these helpful fellows showed us just about everything there was to see at Dookie within walking distance. In fifteen minutes we were shown to the doorway of one of three common rooms. It was on the third storey. When we went to venture inside it, our hosts were a bit hesitant and said we’d better not, as it belonged to the third year students and first years weren’t allowed in. A quick peek confirmed our raised suspicions. On the top of the piano stood “Marilyn”, encased in a glass frame made by students at our college. We showed apparent amazement at the picture while checking for possible booby trap/burglar alarms. Our aides proudly told us how they had knocked it off from Wagga Agricultural College recently - we “schoolboys” had never dreamt of such escapades before! We commented that the common room was a beauty and continued to appear interested as the students took us walking through the irrigation, pig and dairy sections. We held our tongues - it was difficult not to comment. The shearing shed was locked thank goodness. Late in the arvo we said goodbye to our hosts, thanked them profusely and said we would walk to the front gate where a friend was going to collect us. Instead, in the dusk we headed east through paddocks to our stashed gear about 4km distance. We ate some grub, dozed from 7pm ‘til midnight in the tall grass by the roadside and then packed up our gear and hid it once more. Everything was wet with dew and a light mist covered the fields.

After he left we could hear people coming up and going along the corridor, and the sounds of laughter and shouting in various rooms along it. This continued for ages. Sometimes we stood up to restore circulation to our sore posteriors. Ross moved in next door to my cubicle and we’d whisper to each other across the top of our partition, or underneath until the arrival of another visitor dictated that we cease. Silence.........quietly we moved towards the corridor. Great, all asleep at last! Stealthily onwards towards the stairs, at the opposite end to the one’s we’d entered via. They were closer. Whoa there! More voices coming up the stairs behind us. Back to the ablutions block and relative safety. More laughter and tales from the occupants of the urinals and neighboring cubicles. Some blokes really brag, don’t they? We held our laughter. Perhaps that’s overstating the situation. Let’s face it - we weren’t really enjoying the party anyway! Once again all quiet. Another quick peep beneath the partition walls to verify empty cubicles. Out into the corridor, and a repeat performance! Cars just kept arriving, unloading their drunken passengers who seemed to be all accommodated on this floor! More bladders relieved and some technicolour yawns. Not doing much for our anxiety. 4am and all is well. Left our loos once more, crept past sleeping students, some doors open, down to the bottom floor and at last outside the building. Cold and dark.....should we? We ran to the other end of the block, raced up the (original) stairs and while Ross kept lookout I lifted “Marilyn” off her stand. All clear. We bolted, down the stairs and about 300 metres to a hayshed. Here we quickly removed the glass frame, deposited it under some bales, folded the picture in half, and took off for the eastern boundary, hoping that no alarm had been raised!

We reached the boundary safely and located our haversacks. It was still some-what dark so we killed time by breakfasting on vegemite balls: prepared beforehand and made by spreading butter and vegemite onto a fresh slice of bread and kneading this into a small bolus. Very filling and a spacesaver in a I had just poked my head in when some young fit student began haversack.. A glow on the eastern horizon heralded the sun bounding up the winding staircase below us. There was no time rising and we hit the road. Whenever we heard a vehicle to grab the picture. We flashed along the third level corridor, approaching, from either direction, we’d hide “Marilyn” in case passing many open bedroom doors. Some of these showed students were looking for us. A farmer in a valiant going to students inside, but to them luckily we presented as a blur. Albury picked us up. At Benalla I left Ross and headed for More people entered the building. With hearts pounding and a couple of days in Melbourne. Ross continued to Wagga, adrenaline pumping we earnestly sought escape. hid the picture under his mattress at college, and spent The bloke behind on the stairs was coming to the top floor also some days at his home near Gilgandra. and was almost to our level. Another open door presented itself We asked permission of our supervisor of practical training to to the right, the toilet/shower room. This was make or break. Phew - no one at the urinal! A solitary soul on a seat about change our fieldwork roster on Wednesday afternoon. We were halfway along, door closed thankfully. We picked the last and rostered on livestock duties and wanted workshop. However, third last of about ten toilet cubicles. Not a really good idea, for Alec Nicoll had to have a good reason for change. When he close on our heals followed someone who took up the cubicle heard what we had done, he applauded and gave us the whole between us. A few seconds of his obviously happy mood and afternoon off. He told us that he had been in the Hawkesbury slurred speech branded him more than slightly inebriated. team to lift “Marilyn” from Duntroon. (In later years Alec hosted Time 1.30am. Others lined up along the urinal and we sat the ABC’s Sunday programme “Australia All Over”). We made a quietly, listening to their stories. So close yet so far! We were frame in the workshop. surrounded by football teams in the senior dormitory. Following their footy matches, these blokes had been to a 21st birthday Wednesday night in the college dining room ......Ross party in Shepparton, a good one by the sounds of things. and I were urged to go and bring “Marilyn” inside. So The fellow eventually vacated the cubicle between us, to be we carried her in wraps up the aisle to the top stage replaced by another. for display. The 130 or so students went wild with their In the moonlight we retraced out steps to the main complex at Dookie. All was quiet and dark as we entered the foyer. Quickly we reached the open doorway to the third year common room. The light was on inside.

The urinal was not occupied now, so the new arrival was probably asking us what we reckoned of the party! We bunged on a drunken slur and some dry retching and he took pity on us and shut up.

applause: the noise was deafening!! Banging cutlery on tables was the order of the day - no food fights tonight. A notation of our feat was duly written on the back of the picture and Dookie was advised of her whereabouts.

CSU DINNER FOR WACOBU COTTAGE The evening marked the official completion of the WACOBU cottage project that had commenced almost 10 years ago. It was well attended with close to 40 people in attendance, including the Vice Chancellor Ian Goulter and a number of other special guests. It was pleasing to note that some 8 past students and wives attended the dinner from the class of 1949 and 1950. The formalities where brief with an introduction by myself as president of WACOBU, John Mahon then summarized the history of the cottage project from conception to the final completion of the project spanning a period of almost 10 years. A formal announcement of completion with a toast was made to CSU by myself and a reply from Vice Chancellor Ian Goulter and Professor Jim Prately concluded the formalities. The evening highlighted the contribution of all those that had made the project a success, in particular the activites over the past 12 months. The long running WACOBU crop program that has been responsible for significant contributions over the years, thanks primarily to John Francis and David lock who where in attendance The Dig Deep Campaign, where a past student initiated the donation of a dollar for every dollar raised towards the cottage. This campaign saw a sum close to $30 000 raised in the months leading up to the reunion dinner which in it self raise some $5000. Corporate donations where received by Ron Finemore of Riverina Bandag and Incitec Pivot organised by past students in their employment. The bulk of the funds came in conjunction with the anonymous donor from the combined generosity of all the members of WACOBU that came together and delivered. I would like to acknowledge and thank all those that contributed sums big and small, both over the years to the brick fund and recently in the Dig Deep campaign. It was ultimately a ground swell of support from all members of WACOBU that made the campaign successful, it is sure to hold the club in good stead for the future. The WACOBU cottage project saw the raising of some $100 000 in total and it serves as a permanent reminder of WACOBU on the campus in the presence of brick and mortar. The cottage is available for post graduate accommodation, please enquire to the university if you require further information regarding it’s use and function. Finally special thanks to Ben Granger our treasurer that has spent lots of time transferring monies to the university and liaising with CSU ALUMNI to ensure all funds where accounted for. Special thanks also to Mardi Henley responsible for all the communication to and from it’s members in various ways and Deb Slinger and John Mahon who have liased with the University and have been involved, working hard for WACOBU over many years. Thank you to all the committee members for there time and effort.

WACOBU COTTAGE WACOBU Cottage is a joint project between the Wagga Agricultural Old Boys Union (WACOBU) and Charles Sturt University. It has been initiated as a fitting commemoration of a centenary of agricultural education on the present site of the campus. It provides a permanent link between past, present and future students and their education in agricultural science on the Wagga Wagga campus. The building project evolved from consultations between WACOBU, students and staff of the School of Agriculture on the need for an on campus residence for senior undergraduate and postgraduate students. WACOBU cottage is designed to meet this need and provides a self-contained unit for visiting fellows and their families during short tenures at the University. WACOBU was established in 1951 by the first students graduating from Wagga Agricultural College to maintain contact between themselves as they left for destinations right across Australia. These days, WACOBU continues the role of keeping ex-students in touch with each other through a newsletter distributed several times a year and staging various year and occasional reunions. An annual “Careers Day” for students in their final year features mainly WACOBU members giving advice on career prospects and experiences of a wide range of occupations. WACOBU Cottage represents WACOBU’s ongoing involvement in and commitment to the development of Charles Sturt University and its role in agricultural education.

CROP UPDATE The crop of 2004 produced a crop of Baudin barley in one of the toughest growing seasons Wagga has ever experienced. Thanks to the generosity and commitment of david Lock it was successfully completed and rasied over $5000 to the cottage fund. The crop was helped along to success by contributions by supply and Agribusiness companies that covered cropping cost. These companies include Sumitomo crop protection, Dow agro science, Agrichem fertilizers, Landmark and Cropcare. David Lock has since moved to to Brisbane and I wish David and his wife Ann all the best as they enjoy the company of family members in Queensland.

DONATIONS to BRICK CAMPAIGN Thank you to the following people for their Brick Donations Bob Alexander

Warwick Date

Neil Heriot

Peter Neilson

J Slatter

David Alexander

T De Salis

Kathy Hertel

Warwick Nightingale

Deb & Chris Slinger

Alan Anderson

Harley Delves

Brian Higgins

Kerry Anderson

Ian Donald

Allen Holmes

Fergal O’Gara

Rex Small

D Appleyard

Lionel Doran

Phil Howsler

Mike O’Hare

Des Spurway

Tim Hutcheon

Robyn O’Leary

June Sutherland

Chris Armstrong

David Sloane

John Armstrong

Alan Douglas

Tim Hutchinson

Michael Oakes

Tom Armstrong

Andrew Dowd

R Iddon

M & M Oldfield

R Thomas

Phillip Asimus

Peter Draper

Derek Ingold

Michael Oldfield

S Tomson

B Atkins

Rob Dunkley

Bruce Irvine

H Orchiston

Jeannie Dunkley Jeff Bailey

Stephen Dunn

Ron Umbers Ian Johnson

R Ballantyne

Ken Packham Graeme Parr

Scott Vaessen

Tom Barker (dec)

Terry Edis

G Kegan

David Paton

G Veness

David Barrow

K Edyvean

Tom Kennaway

Geoffrey Paton

Andrew Vile

Alan Barton

M Eisenhauer

Andrew Kerry

Tony Paton

Tony Voller

Wayne Barry

David Elder

George Kinniburgh

David Peasley

C Beckingham

T Ellwood

R Kobecke

Ian Perrett

John Walker

Michael Beer

David Elworthy

E Kulmer

John Peterson

Michael Watt

Peter Beinssen

C Lehmann

W D & H O Wills

Caroline & John Betts

Bruce Ferguson

D Lock

Jim Piper

Maurice Woodman

R Blackmore

Daryl Finch

Bill Love (dec)

Col Plater

Ted Wolfe

Gerald Bolla (x1)

T Fletcher

J Lymbery

R Prangnell

Colin Woods

Stephen Bourke

Ian Fuller

Simon Proust

Graeme Worboys

John Bowen

John Furner

Craig & Jenny Bradley

David Macauley

A Pursehouse

James Madden

Colin Brett

R Gault

J Mahon

Neil Bruce

Rodney Gestier

Steve Manion

D Bruckner

R Gill

Harry Matthews (dec)

Peter Regan

Alex Smith

G Bruckner

Andrew Glasson

Don McCaffery

Brian Ricketts

in the memory

F Butler

Lex Govaars

Jason McClintock

John Roberson

of Paddy McCook

Bruce Grady

Jillian McCormack

P Robinson

and Ivan (Sam) Moses

Alex Calabria

Jeff Granger

Simon McFarlance

A Robson

David Clarke

Jane Granger

Margaret McGuire

Allan Ross

Paul Cocking

Ben & Samantha Granger

J McRae

G Condon

A & T Grant

Tony Meares

Garry Seamer

Tim Condon

James Grellman

Barry Medway

Norm Sewell

Class of ‘49

Pat Coughlan

John Grellman

J Mellor

Rod Shearer

Class of ‘49 & ‘50

John Miller

Ross Shepherd

Craig Cowell

Graham Quade

Bill Cowell

T Hanmer

E Miller

John Sheriff

Raymond Cox

Jim Harris

E Moloney

Allan Silvester

Terry Cracknell

Keith Harris

Nick Moody

I Simpson

John Crawford

Richard Hayes

Lawrence Moss

Ken Slade

Ron Cullen

R & M Henley

Jock Munro

J Slater

THE DIG DEEP CAMPAIGN 2005 As you would all be aware by now we have reached our target and are currently finalising payment on WACOBU cottage. This project has been ongoing for a number of years and due to the hard work by committee members over the years and the generous donations received we can hand the cottage over to Charles Sturt University. The finalisation of this project reminds us all of the camaraderie that Wagga Agricultural College has installed in us which allows us to come together from all walks WACOBU HOUSE of life to achieve a milestone such as this. On behalf of the WACOBU committee I would like to thank you all for your generous donations. The dig deep campaign alone raised a total of $29 525.00 and with money from memberships, the crop fundraiser and the reunion dinner along with brick donations we have reached our goal. Again I thank you for your generous donations to this worthwhile project and I look forward to your continuing support in years to come. Without the support of our Old Boy network we would not be able to achieve goals such as this. Ben Granger Treasurer - WACOBU NB. I am aware that there are still a number of receipts outstanding for donations. I do apologise for this and we are endeavouring to get everything finalised as soon as possible. Thankyou

Thank you to the following people for their DIG DEEP Donations David Alexander Wayne Barry Michael Beer Charles Bell Kevin Bolitho William Booth R J Bowen James Brady Ian Braithwaite Duff Brothers David Bryant John Burbidge Donald Caldwell Andrew Carmichael Cheryl Cartwright Allan Casey Greg Condon Timothy Condon Patrick Coughlan Terry Cracknell Alice Crawford Brett Dalliston Phillip Doyle Peter Drummond Robert Edgerley Terry Edis Rob Edgerley Tony Ellwood

Warwick Ford Greg Fulljamas David Franks John Furner Will Goldfinch David & Heidi Gooden Bruce Grady

(The Late) Harry Mathews Kevin Melmeth Neil Menzies John Millard Jock Munro Warwick NIghtingale David Noad Dominic Nowlan

Rob & Alison Hart Kieran Hawker Richard Hayes Ross & Mardi Henley Ian Herbert Terry & Fiona Horan Justin Hughes Michael Hunt James Hunter

(The Late) Eric Owens Andrew Perkins Ian Perrett Colin Plater

Stuart & Margaret Kanaley Don Kirkpatrick

Allan Ross Alison Rowlands Neil Schirmer Jerrod Shields Tim Sides Michael Sinclair Deb & Chris Slinger Colin Sparke Des Spurway Anthony Stannard Michael Stout Andrew Strahley Maurice Street

Jenni Lamond Neil Lane Raymond Learmont David Macauley Donald McCaffery Peter McCann lan McGufficke Tom McKeon Ian McLeod David Marsden

Kathy & Phil Tenison Barbara Thornton Ken Triffitt Michael Vaughan Birgitte Verbeek Tony Voller Peter Von Drehnen Craig Warren Graham Watt William Wesslink Robert James Wickson John Winn Colin Wood Lex Graham Woods Rowan Woods Alexander Wright CORPORATE DONATIONS Ron Finemore (Riverina Bandag) Brett Smith (Incitec Pivot LTD)

NEW WACOBU MEMBERSHIP STRUCTURE Following the letter that was sent earlier regarding updating WACOBU database and on going cooperation with CSU Alumni we have received good responses. An item that has been in the back of our minds and has now been brought to the forefront is how to handle existing life memberships that have been taken out in the past. Firstly I thank all those that have contacted us to make enquiries regarding this issue and we feel that it is important and that we need to address it. The situation is that we have negotiated with Alumni to give those past students of Wagga Ag College an option to become a financial member of WACOBU and receive the benefits that we have negotiated with Alumni. There are 3 levels being White, Gold and Life Gold membership, each having associated benefits that we have listed in past newsletters and the recent letter that was distributed. Existing Life memberships purchased from WACOBU in the past gave the members limited benefits, including Newsletter and notification of reunions. Life memberships have been sold in the past for various fees over the years ranging from $30 to $50 and even dating back to pre decimal currency. The funds from these memberships have no doubt gone to good use with the club in the past and I thank you for contributing. As of one year ago we discovered that WACOBU had very few current financial members, totalling approximately 10 out of approximately 1600 people. There was also the situation that some past students had actually purchased life memberships of Alumni to gain benefits for such items as priority allocation to University residences for children and grand children and discounts of post-graduate fees amongst other benefits. The reality is if WACOBU is to remain a viable club we need financial members and in recognition of this we have negotiated attractive member benefits with Alumni. Through this process we hope to encourage an increase of memberships through WACOBU and gain benefits for past students and benefits through cash flow for your club WACOBU. WACOBU will continue to recognize life memberships and it will be noted in future newsletters on the membership page that there are 4 levels of membership with different benefits associated to each level. These levels are (1) Life, (2) White annual, (3) Gold Annual and (4) Gold Life membership, for details please see membership page of this newsletter. In 2006 we will be expanding our Financial membership base and correcting our newsletter database which is an ongoing concern. WACOBU needs financial members to cover simple costs like sending a newsletter out that may total as much as $2000. Any surplus funds in the meantime will go towards future projects that will be determined in conjunction with members of WACOBU and CSU Alumni. We look forward to receiving your financial membership in 2006 and look forward to a strong and viable future for WACOBU. Yours faithfully Warwick Nightingale – President WACOBU

EXPLANATION of WACOBU MEMBERSHIPS WACOBU MEMBERSHIP DETAILS The executive of WACOBU and Alumni office met recently to discuss our WACOBU memberships. It was proposed and unanimously accepted that a white, gold and life WACOBU membership be provided for our members.

Life membership (old system) • WACOBU newsletter • notification of all reunions for your year or course

White WACOBU membership $10 annually • WACOBU newsletter • 20% discount on all CSU wines • one complimentary copy of the University Alumni magazine • notification of all reunions for your year or course

Gold WACOBU membership $100 annually • WACOBU newsletter • donation to WACOBU • one complimentary copy of the University Alumni magazine • notification of all reunions for your year or course • 10% discount on post graduate fees CSU • 25% discount on all award winning CSU wines • priority for your children and grandchildren to be allocated places in University residences for their first year of study • use of University facilities (excluding the library) at preferential rates • the option to apply for Alumni membership to the CSU libraries • access to the Bathurst Campus’ Centre for Professional Development at preferential rates • 10% discount on fees/charges associated with attending a reunion • special christmas wine offer • any other special benefits or offers that are negotiated on behalf of members

As can be seen, there are now “additional” levels of membership offered through the CSU Alumni office. The “WHITE WACOBU”, “GOLD WACOBU” and “LIFE GOLD WACOBU” memberships are a level of membership that have an extended range of benefits. The offer made by the CSU Alumni Association now is for a new level of membership to the ORIGINAL WACOBU “LIFE” MEMBERSHIP. Those of you who already have existing “LIFE” membership of WACOBU will still receive the original benefits which was, and still is, only receiving WACOBU newsletters and assistance in organising reunions. Membership forms can be found at the back of this newsletter.

Life GOLD WACOBU Membership $400 • this includes all benefits of a Gold Membership but only paid once.

WACOBU MEMORABILIA

$....................

• WACOBU tie ($30.00)

$....................

• WACOBU lapel badges ($2.00)

$....................

• WACOBU Centenary hat ($12.00)

$....................

• WACOBU pewter ($50.00)

$....................

• WACOBU plain hat ($10.00)

$....................

• “Farm Boys to PHD” ($30.00)

$....................

• Ladies WACOBU shield pendant ($65.00)

$....................

• Video ($30.00)

$....................

• WACOBU plaques ($30.00)

$....................

• WACOBU keyring ($15.00)

$....................

Total

$....................

Make cheques/money orders payable to:

WACOBU

Po Box 1078, WAGGA WAGGA NSW 2650

CREDIT CARD PAYMENT for WACOBU MEMORABLIA Name (IN FULL)..........................................................................Address...................................................................... ........................................................................................Postcode..........................Telephone......................................

MEMORABILIA PAYMENT Please debit my credit card for $....................... MASTERCARD / VISA / BANKCARD / AMEX

FAX TO - 02 63 384 766

WACOBU MEMBERSHIP Name...................................................................................... Variation of address/personal notes form Address................................................................................. ..............................................................Postcode..................

(PRINT DETAILS). Name...................................................................................... Address..................................................................................

Years at College.................................................................... ..............................................................Postcode.................. EMAIL address.....................................................................

Date of Birth................... Please find enclosed cheque/money order for:

................................................................................................. Personal notes......................................................................

• WHITE Membership fee ($10.00)

$.................

.................................................................................................

• GOLD Membership fee ($100.00)

$.................

.................................................................................................

• LIFE GOLD Membership ($400.00)

$.................

Total

$.................

Make cheques/money orders payable to:

Charles Sturt University ALUMNI c/o Alumni Office/WACOBU

................................................................................................. ................................................................................................. ................................................................................................. ................................................................................................. ................................................................................................. ................................................................................................. .................................................................................................

Charles Sturt University

.................................................................................................

Panorama Avenue

.................................................................................................

BATHURST NSW 2795

................................................................................................. .................................................................................................

CREDIT CARD PAYMENT for WACOBU MEMBERSHIP Name (IN FULL)..........................................................................Address.............................................................................. ... .......................................................................................Postcode..........................Telephone...........................................

MEMBERSHIP PAYMENT Please debit my credit card for $....................... MASTERCARD / VISA / BANKCARD / AMEX

FAX TO - 02 63 384 766

Return address: Charles Sturt University c/o Alumni Office/WACOBU Charles Sturt University Panorama Avenue BATHURST NSW 2795

place sticker here

WACOBU PO Box 1078 WAGGA WAGGA NSW 2650 Tel: 02 6931 9607

WACOBU newsletter Wagga Agricultural College Old Boys Union JULY 2006

Organise your year to have a REUNION @ AG RACE DAY Saturday 21 October 2006

WACOBU newsletters also available on line at www.csu.edu.au/division/alumni

AG COLLEGE RACE DAY 2006

WACOBU REUNION @ AG RACE DAY

Saturday 21 October 2006 12 noon at the Champagne Bar Murrumbidgee Turf Club - WAGGA WAGGA

Ticket Options (must be prepaid): Single Ticket: $40 includes entry, beer, wine, BBQ lunch Drinker & Driver Ticket: $60 includes 1 x Single Ticket plus 1 x Driver ticket which includes entry, soft drink & lunch Kids Ticket: Under 18’s are free of charge & will receive soft drink & lunch Single tickets only will be available at the gate at a cost of $50 each 1

AG COLLEGE RACE DAY 2006 PURCHASE of TICKETS for entryPREPAID to WACOBU CHAMPAGNE BAR EVENT Complete the form and post in with your cheque/money order or credit card details to WACOBU PO BOX 1078 WAGGA WAGGA NSW 2650

Further information contact Rachel Stephens on 02 6933 2044 (BH)

RSVP by FRIDAY 13 OCTOBER 2006 Name.............................................................................................................................................................................................. Address......................................................................................................................................................................................... ..................................................................................................................................................Postcode.....................................

Single Ticket / S

Drinker + Driver Ticket / S

Number of KIDS

Please debit my credit card for $........................................................MASTERCARD / VISA / BANKCARD / AMEX

Name on card.............................................................................................................................................................................. Expiry date.........................................Signature.........................................................................................................................

DO NOT FAX TO ALUMNI OFFICE - PLEASE POST TO WACOBU

THANK YOU FROM PETER WORSELEY - SAC Dear Ag. Club, I wish to thank the Raceday Committee, current Motts and Grotts plus WAC old boys/girls who had anything to do with making Ag. race day such a roaring success. Who would have thought all those years ago an idea of “1080” (Greg Veness) and pushed along by “Pic” (Phil Sheridan) would have grown to be one of the best inland Race days. I sincerely thank all involved for the generous cheques that have been donated to me since Ag. Races began. These donations have gone towards a new electric wheelchair, a manual chair, vehicle modifications, lead up and competing in 3 paralympic games, hoists, on-going homecare and numerous costs associated with living with a high level spinal injury. Again, I wish to express my gratitude for your support. Regards Peter "Sac" & Michelle Worsley 2

WACOBU COMMITTEE WACOBU COMMITTEE

PRESIDENTS REPORT

PRESIDENT Warwick Nightingale Tel: 02 6931 9607 warwick.nightingale@landmark.com.au

Welcome to another great issue of WACOBU newsletter compiled with the talents and effort of Mardi Henley. The recent activities have been relatively quite compared to last year, which witnessed the occasion of the Rugby reunion weekend and the completion of the WACOBU Centenary Cottage project.

VICE PRESIDENT Stuart Kanaley Tel: 069242400 margstu@dragnet.com.au SECRETARY James Brady Tel: 02 6928 7238 tarcutta@ruralco.com.au TREASURER Ben Granger Tel: 0428 612 074 Ben.grang@bigpond.com COMMUNICATIONS Mardi Henley Tel: 02 6933 1222 mardi31s@mac.com COMMITTEE MEMBERS Deb & Chris Slinger Tel: 0269 241 559 theslingers@iprimus.com.au John Mahon Tel: 02 6922 1208 jmahon@wagga.net.au Stephen Monkley Tel: 02 6921 8272 stephen@heritageseeds.com.au

There is still plenty of activity in the club and current planning is progressing for future projects. I would like to make note of the following: WACOBU MARQUEE for Ag Race Day It has been supported by the committee that we progress to organise a marquee at Ag Race Day. This is in response to a desire to create a suitable environment for past students and their families to return to Wagga for a weekend and enjoy the day at a safe distance from the current student population. It is planned primarily as a social event, however any funds raised will go to supporting WACOBU and its endeavours. We are currently negotiating some sponsorship from agribusiness to support this event. I invite any business wishing to be represented on the day to contact WACOBU and provide financial support where possible. Website Construction in progress I have been informed by CSU Alumni that a new website is being created that will include WACOBU as an Alumni chapter. The construction is taking place in 2 stages. Stage 1 will be completed soon involving mainly access to newsletters. Stage 2 will involve links to associated sites like Ag Rugby, memorabilia section, membership renewal, members profile and news. Another section will be included that I feel will be of great benefit is a Career hub, this area will be available for posting position vacancies and links to business of past students. If you wish to be kept updated with these developments you can visit http://www.csu.edu.au/division/alumni/kit.htm Charles Sturt University Alumni web address and complete a “Keeping in touch form”. Fundraising and projects There are currently no commitments for funds and no organised fundraising events. We encourage suggestions from WACOBU members to provide direction for future endeavours and the means to complete them. Current ideas include a 2nd year Good Citizen Scholarship and infrastructure projects for CSU Wagga campus. 49ers Book

Margaret Kanaley Tel: 02 69242400 margstu@dragnet.com.au

Congratulations to John Bowen and the 49ers on the release of their new book. I have gratefully received a copy and I can guarantee that it is a great read. I encourage you to purchase a copy from John (see details on page opposite).

Neil Durning Tel: 0427 461 011 neildurning@agnvet.com.au

New Committee members

Jeff Angel Tel: 0427 830 003 jeff.angel@elders.com.au Scott Boothey Tel: 0427 267 849 SABoothey@dow.com Craig Whiting Tel: 02 6922 5112 whitings4@dodo.com.au

I would like to welcome our new committee members including Jeff Angel, Scott Boothey, Craig Whiting and Neil Durning. They are proving to be a source of great support and fresh ideas. We are grateful to all the committee members for their time and effort, it is through this and the active involvement of our members that will ensure that WACOBU survives and thrives. Enough from me, on behalf of WACOBU committee, especially Mardi Henley, enjoy your reading. Please keep involved in your club and keep sending us your news. News of past students is a key component of this newsletter. All the best and look forward to seeing you all at the Ag Race Day WACOBU Marquee in October. Warwick Nightingale - PRESIDENT of WACOBU

NEWS OF OLD BOYS JOHN BOWEN rjbowen@bowennational.com I have been working on a book about the WAC 49ers for over a year and it is now hot off the press. The book tells the story of the first year of WAC together with reference to the sporting activities, humorous incidents, etc., There is information on the various reunions held over 55 years concluding with the clock presentation in 2004 and the rugby weekend in 2005. In addition there is an individual life and career path on each of the 1949 students together with background on many of the staff members. Anyone interested in the early history of WAC will find the book both informative and entertaining. Copies will be available from John Bowen, PO Box 940, Gosford NSW 2250 at a cost of $25.00 which includes packaging and postage. IAN SIMOS judithsimos@bigpond.com Ian has asked me to let you know that we are enjoying our retirement in SCONE in the Upper Hunter Valley and look forward to getting together sometime again with the rest of the '49/1950 mob!! Wonder if John Bowen is organising anything?!! Pleased to see anyone travelling through Scone of course.

PETER’S 60TH - Neil Warner, Bart Gannon, Peter Polack, David Hazlett, Tony Meares, Nev Semmler BART GANNON bartnpam@bargann.com.au

1964-1966 are having a 40TH REUNION Friday, Saturday & Sunday 3-5 November 2006 Location: Gerry & Lyn Bolla, 150 Bruce Crescent, Wallarah NSW 2259 (was Warnervale ‘til it became gentrified). Will be snail mailing our list as email address list has become increasingly obsolete with the roll out of broadband. So will need to appeal to WACOBU recipients to email updated information direct to me (address above) - Gerry does not have a computer!!!! HOTBOX REACHES THE AGE OF WISDOM Peter Polack (1964-66) turned 60 and retired early January this year. Margaret also retired from teaching so a joint celebration blasted the Black Hill (Nr Newcastle) neighbourhood. A wandering jazz band, splendid food and copious drinkables were consumed by Bart & Pam Gannon, David Hazlett, Neil & Sue Warner, Tony & Cathy Meares and Neville & Pam Semmler.

NEWS OF OLD BOYS

KYM SUTHERLAND - “Beaker” texas.station@bigpond.com On 22 April 2006 Beaker and his Dutch fiancé Anita where married in the garden of 'Gibraltar' on Texas Station. It was a beautiful day with a few WAC men in attendance including the best man Poop, Testie, Felcher, Snafu, Gomer, Stains and their partners. The reception was in the garden as well and turned into a great party, lasting well into the night. Beaker managed to stay awake throughout and delighted in seeing Snafu pass out half way through Poops speech. Stains brought back memories of bygone days tucking into a cask of claret early in the morning. Beaker and Anita plan to keep on running cattle in the Texas Area and start a family before to long. KEIRAN HAWKER shieran@tpg.com.au We have had our third child, little Eden Jayne born 27/2/06. New little sister for Ellis 6 and Lara 3. People like to hear about those sorts of things. All going well, sold our house and looking for a farm around Cowra, meanwhile renting a farm house. DAVID ALEXANDER alexan1@optusnet.com.au Steve & Julie Dunn WAC 70 have returned to Australia after spending 8 of the last 10 years in East Timor. Steve has returned to the NSW Dept of Primary Industry HO in Orange. They have their Gunnedah home on the market. Both are stocking up on winter woollies after all those years in the tropics. Our next WAC 70 reunion which has been held every 2 years since 1970 will be held in Broken Hill in 2007 "If Jeff & Judy Woods WAC70 won't come to us then we'll all go to see them".

NEWS OF OLD BOYS PETER BEINSSEN beinssen@bigpond.com David and Ann Lock, after 45 years of farming at The Gap, a short distance north of CSU's Wagga campus pulled the pin, sold the farm and moved to Anstead in Brisbane's outer west. We are regularly in touch with Tim and Sue Harbutt of Kenmore, nearby and Peter and Beryl Beinssen of Minyama on the Sunshine Coast and on a recent visit to Newcastle caught up with Ian and Dorothy Mashman. All have developed the Grey Nomad syndrome and may be seen dragging caravans or piloting tent topped Cruisers around the country side mostly in unusual and hard to reach locations. In the photo (left to right) 59'ers Tim Harbutt, Peter Beinssen, Ann Lock and me taken at our place in January 2006.

Any 59ers or similar vintage Aggies are more than welcome, just get in touch on the net via:-lockda@bigpond.net.au

50TH REUNION WEEKEND - possibilities so far.....12 midday Saturday 7th October 2006 & Sunday morning coffee Mangerton it is in October 2006, the 1956's from the Wagga Agricultural College will meet together at Jim and Cynthia's place at Mangerton. The idea seems to be that we'll have caterers and everyone will pay their share when the fee is worked out. Saturday at around 12 o'clock the show will start where we'll have lunch and bring along any memorabilia that might be interesting to us all. Sunday morning, cup of tea or coffee before we head off home. Possibly the date may be negotiable but not if there are too many conflicting alternatives it may be different. Cynthia has mentioned it will be a lovely time to visit the coastal resort of lovely Wollongong. If we haven't got your e-mail address, and you have one you might send it to us: JOHN FURNER JIM PIPER 34 Carp Street 18 Norman Street No doubt there will be more lineouts Bega NSW 2550 Mangerton NSW 2500 won and longer goals kicked than Tel: 0264 924 320 Tel: 042 297571 ever happened on the field all those furnerj@acr.net.au pipersplace@bigpond.com

years ago but it will be a lot of fun Ian Perrett LOST OLD BOY - JEFF BAILEY

If anyone knows the whereabout of Jeff please send an email to John Furner at furnerj@acr.net.au with his contact details as his year is organisig the above reunion. He was on the North Coast of New South Wales but may have gone back to New Guinea where he was working with an American Bible Translation organisation with his wife Val, before he retired to the North Coast.

June Sutherland’s website launched by daughter Rene Sutherland She wrote “From Farmboys to PHD’s” which can be ordered from WACOBU (see WACOBU Memorabilia - pg 17) www.junestor y.com.au/Pages/Publications.html With voluntary student unionism (VSU) coming into effect as of 1st July 2006, the food outlet, Cafe Tav will be closing its doors for the final time at 3.30pm on Friday 30th June 2006. The Tavern bar will remain open as per usual. Rivcoll would like to thank all the students and staff that have patronised Cafe Tav over the past 26 years. 6

NEWS OF OLD BOYS RICHARD REDFERN Richard@redferncoles.com.au

65er’s Reunion is held in Canberra late last year Canberra was the host city for the reunion of the 65’ers late last year. Organised by Peter Catling and Richard Redfern, the gettogether was a great success. Many wives were in attendance and added greatly to the fun and visits down memory lane. For some of those attending it was the first time they had been together since finishing college in 65. Despite a long term search, the organisers were unable to locate David Barrow prior to the reunion , however, he was located a few days after the re-union .He is living in the Mudgee / Rylstone area growing Shiraz grapes and planning his retirement in the next year or two. He has vowed to attend our next reunion in Coffs Harbour - (2008). Those in attendance in Canberra were: -Lindsay Cartwright (Newcastle); Bruce Cole-Clark (Grafton); Ross Coomber (Coffs Harbour); Pete Catling (Canberra) Keith Black, Bill Noad and Bob Gown (Dubbo); Dave Plant (Angaston SA); Alan Hartwig (Wagga); Geoff Stacy (Tumut); Jack Leonard (Port Macquarie); Phil Martin (Gosford); John's Serjeantson ( Bateman's Bay); Bert Green (Leeton); Murray Nott (Cheltenham) Bill Sheaffe (Booligal); Ron Southwell (Beerwah); Vyner Smithwich (Talmalmo); Richard Cantrill (Orange) and Richard Redfern (Canberra). Unable to attend the reunion were Bruce Scott (Yamba); John Wallace (Narrabri); Peter Rohan (Warwick); Richard Vickers (Canberra); Joe Cummins (Orange) and Andrew Humphries (Coonabarabran). Sadly we lost our great colleague Graham Kelso shortly after our previous reunion in Dubbo in 2003. All of the above represent a mix of retired, “almost retired” and those who are keeping the wheels of industry rolling. All are in good health and enjoying “the run home”. Regards - Richard Redfern ROSS BLACKMORE rossden@bigpond.net.au One bit of news is that Bob Roberts (he finished a year after me in 1959) has sold his well known & highly regarded Huntington Estate Wines at Mudgee after 30+ years of getting gold medals galore and rave reports in the Australian Newspaper year in and out from James Halliday. I got a call this morning from Adrian (Arch) Hausler (1958) where he is “house minding” a property out of Taroom in Central Queensland. He has done this before and loves the chance to go bush from his retirement home on the Gold Coast. I felt this may be of interest in the old boy’s news section....also:1958 REUNION I have spoken to Arch and Ed Schultz after you put a notice in the Newsletter about a reunion of the class that finished in 1958 getting together after 50 years. Both were of the view that we do it sooner as we are not getting any younger and at that gathering plan for a big reunion to coincide with Graduation Day in 2009…50 years on from getting our WDA’s. Could you please put another note in the Newsletter asking for any of my year to call me on 02 43811566 or by email on rossden@bigpond.net.au Many thanks - Ross MICHAEL OAKES - “Dookie” mox@mcmedia.com.au Have been thinking of drafting up something from stuff I have and can remember about Marilyn from the point of view of Dookie College 1970-72, but haven't. In the mid 70's, met a bloke I had known ten years earlier who had since gone through Hawkesbury. He reckoned Marilyn was destroyed by a small anti traditional element from within the College. Not quite the same as "official" reports that came out of Hawkesbury.

POINT OF INTEREST from TED WOLFE Ted Wolfe informed us of CSU executive proposals to disestablish the current Faculty of Science & Agriculture (FSA) and merge this Faculty with the Faculty of Health Sciences. There has even been an idea floated that the current School of Agricultural and Veterinary Sciences SAVS also be dis-established and replaced by a School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, with the remaining part of Agriculture merging with Viticulture to form a new School. While School members do not necessarily oppose a new faculty of Agriculture and Health Sciences, they are unanimously opposed to the foolish idea of splitting SAVS. While the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Professor Ross Chambers, has indicated that there will be no splits or mergers that are strongly opposed, there are many academics in SAVS who remain concerned about the possibility of major disruption. A split School is certain to be detrimental to future profile of CSU in agricultural education. Other complicating factors are Jim Pratley’s (Dean, FSA) probable retirement in June 2006, and the changes that might follow the amalgamation of FSA with health. Jim Pratley, Ted Wolfe & John Mahon are concerned. Ted Wolfe and John Mahon want WACOBU members to be aware of this threat to split SAVS, and to voice their opinion strongly if, later in winter, the split proposal is put before the new Faculty Dean or the CSU Council. Ted Wolfe will be away overseas until July 26 but will try to keep WACOBU members posted on developments. He will email relevant news to all members of WACOBU should the need arise. It is important that Ted gets this message across to the club and the potential impact this will have on the survival of the School of Agricultural and Veterinary Sciences and the courses that it provides (including several strands in the BSc (Agriculture) degree, Equine Studies and Veterinary Science).

SAVS is the only School in the country that has Agriculture and Veterinary science together.

CHALKIES & AGGIES

A POSSIBLE REUNION Interested? in a gathering of those who attended RCAE in the years 1975-1985 The ball is finally gaining momentum - but there is a-way to go yet. I ask that everybody makes an effort to contact two or three others - then perhaps we will get enough bodies to make this proposed reunion a worthwhile exercise. The first suggested date of mid 2006 is probably a long gone memory. Another date will be proposed when we gather enough names of interested people. Keep up the good work - go forth and multiply (I think someone else may have said that)

Please send all replies via email to Wal Murray bgsfx@ix.net.au and if you have photos - include them please

COMMITTEE Wal Murray

1978 - 1981

T 02 6337 6700

E bgsfx@ix.net.au

Debbie (Pearson) Littlewood 1977 - 1981

T 02 6921 1350

E debrahirst@hotmail.com

Greg Auhl

1978 - 1981

T 02 6332 4228

E auhl_02@optusnet.com.au

Pat Coughlan - “Bundah”

1978 - 1985

T 02 6364 2238

E coughlan@ix.net.au

KOKODA TRACK 2007 WACOBU ARE SEEKING EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST from old boys & girls and / or their partners for a JUNE OR JULY 2007 KOKODA TRACK EXPEDITION The trek would take approximately 10 days and then followed by a few days of volunteer aid work in a village laocated close to the Kokoda Track. ANY INFORMATION FROM PAST TREKKERS WOULD BE GLADLY APPRECIATED, INCLUDING PNG CONTACTS, COSTS, TOUR COMPANIES RECOMMENDED, PLACES OF INTEREST ETC. More details to follow when numbers are more definate and the finer points have been discussed by persons willing to participate. FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT JAMES BRADY - “Yuc” 0412 608 839 WEBSITES OF INTEREST ARE AS FOLLOWS : WWW.KOKODASPIRIT.COM WWW.KOKODATRACKFOUNDATION.ORG WWW.KOKODATREKS.COM WWW.DCXP.COM WWW.TOOGEETREKS.COM

AGRICULTURAL CLUB AG RACE DAY 2006

AG RUGBY REPORT 2006 First Grade Report Ag rugby started the year with pre-season training revolving around the usual social BBQ.Numbers were good and enthusiasm high as the club looked towards their first round game on April 6 against the girls in pink. After being nudged out by the chalks (7-17) in the first round we conceded another close loss to Temora (15-20) and then Griffith (10-17) in the following weeks. Although we lost the first 3 on the trot, spirits were still high and coach Chris “Muddy” Waters remained confident as he could feel that a good win was coming.The following weeks proved this with convincing wins against Waratahs (29-10), Grenfell (39-7), Albury (26-7), Young (10-0) and the Hay Cutters (29-5).This weekend we battle West Wyalong at West Wyalong during uni holidays, with Wagga City (away), Condobolin (away), Tumut (home) and Cootamundra (Illabo) to come.

Second Grade With no third grade this year the mighty seconds were handed the drinking responsibilities of the club. An early cry for coaching staff saw Stook and myself (“Pid”) take up the call to arms. We began the year as combined captain coaches, which was aborted after approximately 15 minutes of football against a much younger and fitter reddies outfit where we lost 0-36. In keeping with the firsts we lost the next 2 games as well Temora 15-24 and Griffith 0-25. But with consistent improvement each week, we could tell a win wasn’t that far away. It couldn’t have come at a better time with an 11-0 victory over the Waratahs completing a 2 grade white-wash of the former champions.The following weeks saw a win against Albury (12-0) and forfeits from Grenfell and Young with a loss to Leeton (5-22) recently. We are looking forward to the coming games, particularly those when the motts come back from uni holidays and the coaching staff can retire again. Neil Durning - “Pid” 2nd Grade Coach

Wagga Ag Vs Tumut Bulls Ladies’ and Sponsors’ Day 2006 to be held at 1:30pm on Saturday July 29 at Beres Ellwood Oval, Charles Sturt Uni, Wagga for a 1:45pm 2nd XV start and a 3:15pm 1st XV start $10 per head - refreshments and snacks provided proceeds from the day will be donated to charity RSVP

WAC Rugby Executive

by Tuesday July 25 Alix McFarland Tel: 0419 694 538 email: aemcf@bigpond.com

Pres: Tony Elliott V. Pres: Sandy Beggs Sec: Harry Fitzgibbon Treas: James Smith

If anyone has any old footy related photos that they would like to see on the Ag Rugby Website, then please send them through to marty_hogan@toll.com.au For all the latest news from WAC visit

www.agrugby.rugbynet.com.au 11

SAM Sam Cummins 1987 – 2006 Sadly, the June long weekend saw the club in its darkest hours with the news that Sam Cummins (“Qusay”) had taken his own life. Sam was our star five-eight, mott mate to many and mate to all. He had those rare qualities that inspired others to look to him for leadership and endeared him to all he met. Unfortunately, no-one knew his true burdens or could prevent this tragedy. The backs “Q ball” call will never quite be the same again. Sam “Qusay” Cummins, safe passage and may you rest in peace. Our thoughts are with his family in Crookwell, NSW. Neil Durning - PID

JOHN John Slatter 1961 – 1963 John passed away on 29th June 2006, after a short illness. At the time of his death, John was Manager, Crop Support, for Pulse Australia, the umbrella body for the Australian grain legume industry. He was based in Toowoomba, but travelled widely throughout Australia promoting improved production and marketing of pulse crops. John was widely admired for his organising abilities and the enthusiasm with which he went about his job. He had great rapport with growers as well as members of the marketing and processing sectors of the grain legume industry and will be sadly missed by all who dealt with him. We extend our deepest sympathy to his family. John Mahon 12

FUNDRAISING IDEAS The WACOBU Committee would like to hear from you Please take the time to complete the form below and tell us what you would like WACOBU to do next regarding fundraising we have been considering a Scholarship for a WAC student - or do you have other thoughts? or email Warwick via warwick.nightingale@landmark.com.au using a similar layout - thanks..... Title

First Name

Surname

Address City

State

P-code

Email Telephone Suggestions:....................................................................................................................................................................................... .......................................................................................................................................................................................................... ........................................................................................................................................................................................................... ........................................................................................................................................................................................................... ........................................................................................................................................................................................................... Please return to WACOBU PO BOX 1078 WAGGA WAGGA NSW 2650

ADVERTISEMENT TUBE-LINE SILAGE WRAPPING

• round and square bales • cheaper than individual wrapping • air-tight between bales • friendly and professional job • servicing all areas Neil Durning Tel 0427 461 011 neildurning@agnvet.com.au ABN 57 644 915 682

If you wish to advertise your business in the WACOBU Newsletter or your company does contact Warwick Nightingale for a price guide 13

WAC FISHING

A days fishing at Wollundry Lagoon was enjoyed by Simon (“Acme”) and Pipi Coddington, Max Hatty, Ben Hogg (“Sirus”), Taylor Hogg, Thomas Whiting, George Hatty, Rob Hart (“Gilligan”), Andrew Hatty (“Daisy”), Rob Hart’s nephew and the infamous Craig Whiting (“Coit”).

INTERESTED IN BECOMING A MEMBER? WAC Fishing is once again up and running with a committee comprising a mixture of Old Boys and current Mott’s, and this time it is about giving old boys (girls) and Mott’s (and Grotts) alike an opportunity to get together for a few beers, some fishing and most of all a good excuse to get a leave pass throughout the year. The reformed WAC fishing is aiming to have a number of organized fishing trips and get together’s throughout the year with not only WACMEN involvement but also some family orientated events. To ensure the success of the reformed club and to help with establishment costs (Insurance etc) we are offering for a limited time the chance to be a Foundation Member of WAC Fishing at a one up cost of $100 and $20 annually there after, for this your name will be for added to the founding members board (Based at the Duck) along with other treats and trips to be organized pending level of membership interest. For all other memberships it will be $50 annually general members and $40 Student members. Payments for WAC Fishing Foundation memberships need to be received by the 31st July 2006, with payment details below. If anyone wants more info please contact myself on Mobile 0427 700581, or George Sims “PTO” Treasurer, WAC Fishing (details below). Tight Lines Craig Whiting - “Coit” PS Don’t forget to talk to your Mott and Grott mates to join up. Internet banking BSB: 082-811 Account number: 794591294 Mail cheque payable to WAC Fishing Club WAC Fishing Club C/- George Sims, Treasurer 32A Halloran Street WAGGA WAGGA NSW 2650 thewbute@hotmail.com Name........................................................................................................Mott name............................................................................... Address.................................................................................................................................................................................................... Email.........................................................................................................Phone number........................................................................ If anyone has any queries regarding any of the above please to do not hesitate to contact me at the above email or on 0408494834. Cheers - George Sims - “PTO” - Treasurer - WAC Fishing ..............(NEXT MEETING - 1 August 2006 at the “Muddy Duck” at 7PM)

TRESASURER’S REPORT As the president has mentioned this year has been relatively steady on the fund raising side of things for the start of this year. But the beginning of the year did see the final payment for the WACOBU cottage project go through to CSU. It was a feeling of achievement that we should all share to see that zero balance owing on the final invoice. Again I would like to thank all those that donated to allow us WACOBU to achieve this goal. I am aware that some people may not have received receipts for there donation and I do apologise for this. If you have not received a receipt and would like one please contact me via email at bengrang@bigpond.net.au and I will organise to get one to you. Our membership is still growing we currently have 144 financial member’s being a mixture of Gold Life, Gold, White and those existing life members. I would encourage all past students to join WACOBU and take advantages of the benefits of being a member. I have included a list below of our current financial members. If your name is not on the list and you believe that you are a member please contact us so we can rectify this situation. If you would like to join please complete the attached form. We still have an array of WACOBU memorabilia for sale. To order simply complete the attached form and return with payment. The goods will be sent as soon as payment is received. Hope to see you all at the races Ben Granger - Treasurer of WACOBU MEMBERSHIP Adams, Mr Mark Andrews, Mr Josh Armanini, Mr. Robert John Barnes, Mr. Stephen John Barry, Mr. Wayne Patrick James Barton, Mr Alan Beaton, Mr. Scott Ashley Beeby, Mr Lloyd Betts, Mr. John E Black, Mr Keith Blackmore, Mr Ross Bolla, Mr. Gerald Kurt Booth, Mr. William G Boothey, Mr. Scott Alexander Bourke, Mr Steven Braithwaite, Mr. Ian Geffrey Bruce, Mr Neil Casey, Mr. Allan Edward Chisholm, Mrs Helen Clifton, Mr. Graeme Roland Cloros, Mr. David William Condon, Mr. Timothy John Conolly, Mr. Robert David Cowell, Mr William Croft, Mrs Kerry Ann Cullen, Mr. Ronald Gwynne Date, Mr Warwick

Douglas, Mr. Mark Wayne Dunn, Mr. Cassidy Robert Edgerley, Mr. Robert Edis, Mr Terry Elliott, Mr. Ross A Ferguson, Mr. Bruce David Finch, Mr. Daryl James Ford, Mr. Warwick Alan Furner, Mr John Glasson, Mr Andrew Glenn, Mr. Christopher James Glover, Mr. Andrew Bruce Gornall, Mr John Grady, Mr. Bruce Chapman Granger, Mr Benjamin John Grellman, Mr. James C Hambridge, Mr. Alan Lynn Harper, Mr. John Derek Hart, Mr Robert Hatty, Mr Andrew Hayes, Mr Richard Henley, Mr. Ross Holmes, A R Keegan, Mr. Gregory M Kingston, Mr Charles Kinniburgh, Mr George Kinsella, Ms Wendy Joan Kirsop, Mr. Bruce William

Knight, Mr. Nigel Charles Kobelke, Mr. Richard N Lane, Mr. Peter Gerard Lenghaus, Mr. Stephen John Lowe, Mr. Kerry John Luke, Mr David Macalpine, Mr. Geoffrey Austin Macaulay, Mr David Mahon, Mr John Maxey, Mr. Roderic McCaffery, Mr. Donald Wayne McClintock, Mr Jason Traves McCormick, Ms Jillian Therese McDonald, Mr Stephen McKelvie-Hill, Ms Tracy McLennan, Mr. Alexander B McLeod, Mr. Ian Ross McMullen, Mr. Bernard Joseph Menzies, Mr. Neil Andrew Millard, Mr Graham Moloney, Mr John Moody, Mr. Nicholas Neilson, Mr. Peter Scott Nightingale, Mr Warwick O'Connor, Mr. Mark Vincent O'Hare, Mr. Michael O'Neill, Mr. Gary Oakes, Mr. Michael George

MEMBERSHIP Oldfield, Mr. Michael Gordon Oldfield, Mrs Michelle Denise Orchiston, Dr. Hector Douglas Parr, Mr. Graeme James Peake, Mr. Thomas Peasley, Mr. Bruce A Perrett, Mr Ian Pickette, Mr. Warwick Plater, Mr. Colin Leslie Polack, Mr Peter Preuss, Mr. Ian Michael Richardson, Mr. Ian Elsworth Roberson, Mr. John Arthur Ross, Mr. Allan Frederick Ryan, Mr. David William

Sabine, Mr Charles Sefton, Mr Gregory Serjeantson, Mr. John Charles Sewell, Mr. Norman Thomas Sheridan, Mr. Terry Sherriff, Mr Ian Sides, Mr. Timothy John Fyson Slade, Mr. Kenneth Champney Smithwick, Mr Gordon Somers, Mr. Gary John Sowerby, Mr. Neil Stewart Spackman, Mr Brian Sparke, Mr. Colin Street, Mr Maurice Thomson, Mr. Stewart Walter

Thornton, Mr. John Alan Vaessen, Mr Scott Walden, Mr. Philip Walker, Mr. Alexander Wesslink, Mr. William Russell Wickson, Mr Garth Wilkinson, Mr. Roger Wolfe, Professor Edwin Woodman, Mr. Maurice Andrew Worboys, Mr. Graeme Ronald MEMBERSHIPS CURRENTLY : 15 GOLD LIFE 7 GOLD annual 101 WHITE annual 21 Existing life

MEMBERSHIP STRUCTURE LIFE MEMBERSHIP (old system) • WACOBU newsletter • notification of all reunions for your year or course

• 10% discount on fees/charges associated with attending a reunion • special christmas wine offer • any other special benefits or offers that are negotiated on behalf of members

WHITE WACOBU membership $10 annually • WACOBU newsletter • 20% discount on all CSU wines • one complimentary copy of the University Alumni magazine • notification of all reunions for your year or course

LIFE GOLD WACOBU Membership $400 • this includes all benefits of a Gold Membership but only paid once. As can be seen, there are now “additional” levels of membership offered through the CSU Alumni office.

GOLD WACOBU membership $100 annually • WACOBU newsletter • donation to WACOBU • one complimentary copy of the University Alumni magazine • notification of all reunions for your year or course • 10% discount on post graduate fees CSU • 25% discount on all award winning CSU wines • priority for your children and grandchildren to be allocated places in University residences for their first year of study • use of University facilities (excluding the library) at preferential rates • the option to apply for Alumni membership to the CSU libraries • access to the Bathurst Campus’ Centre for Professional Development at preferential rates

The “WHITE WACOBU”, “GOLD WACOBU” and “LIFE GOLD WACOBU” memberships are a level of membership that have an extended range of benefits. The offer made by the CSU Alumni Association now is for a new level of membership to the ORIGINAL WACOBU “LIFE” MEMBERSHIP. Those of you who already have existing “LIFE” membership of WACOBU will still receive the original benefits which was, and still is, only receiving WACOBU newsletters and assistance in organising reunions. Membership forms can be found at theback of this newsletter.

WACOBU - MEMORABLIA Name................................................................................................................................................................................................ Address............................................................................................................................................................................................ ......................................................................................................................................................Postcode.................................... Date of birth.........................................Years at College (From)..........................................(to).................................................. Please find enclosed cheque/money order for: • WACOBU car stickers

$ 1.00

$....................

• WACOBU tie

$ 30.00

$....................

• WACOBU lapel badges

$ 2.00

$....................

• WACOBU Centenary hat

$ 12.00

$....................

• WACOBU pewter

$ 50.00

$....................

• WACOBU plain hat

$ 10.00

$....................

• “Farm Boys to PHD”

$ 30.00

$....................

• Ladies WACOBU shield pendant

$ 65.00

$....................

• Video

$ 30.00

$....................

• WACOBU plaques

$ 30.00

$....................

• WACOBU keyring

$ 15.00

$....................

Total

$....................

Make cheques/money orders payable to: WACOBU, Po Box 1078, WAGGA WAGGA, NSW, 2650

WACOBU - MEMORABLIA Name.................................................................................................................................................................................................... Address................................................................................................................................................................................................ .................................................................................................................................................Postcode............................................ MEMORABILIA PAYMENT Please debit my credit card for $.............................................................. MASTERCARD / VISA / BANKCARD / AMEX

Name on card..................................................................................................................................................................................... Expiry date................................................Signature..........................................................................................................................

FAX TO - 02 6338 4766 17

WACOBU - MEMBERSHIP Name......................................................................................

Variation of address/personal notes form (PRINT DETAILS).

Address................................................................................. ..............................................................Postcode..................

Name...................................................................................... Address.................................................................................. ..............................................................Postcode..................

Years at College....................................................................

EMAIL address..................................................................... .................................................................................................

Date of Birth...................

Personal notes......................................................................

Please find enclosed cheque/money order for:

................................................................................................. .................................................................................................

• WHITE Membership fee ($10.00)

$.................

• GOLD Membership fee ($100.00)

$.................

• LIFE GOLD Membership ($400.00)

$.................

Total $.................

................................................................................................. .................................................................................................

Make cheques/money orders payable to: Charles Sturt University ALUMNI c/o Alumni Office/WACOBU Charles Sturt University Panorama AvenueBATHURST NSW 2795

WACOBU - MEMBERSHIP Name.................................................................................................................................................................................................... Address................................................................................................................................................................................................ .................................................................................................................................................Postcode............................................ MEMBERSHIP PAYMENT Please debit my credit card for $.............................................................. MASTERCARD / VISA / BANKCARD / AMEX

Name on card..................................................................................................................................................................................... Expiry date................................................Signature..........................................................................................................................

FAX TO - 02 6338 4766 18

We will only be producing one newsletter per year due to the high cost of printing and postage. To add information to the next newsletter please email Mardi mardi31s@mac.com A L S O - if you have received this newsletter via a friend please email us directly with your details so we can add you to the WACOBU database.

WACOBU PO Box 1078 WAGGA WAGGA NSW 2650 Tel: 02 6933 1222

WACOBU newsletter Wagga Agricultural College Old Boys Union JUNE 2007

Organise your year to have a

REUNION @ AG RACE DAY Saturday 20th October 2007

Enjoying AG RACE DAY 2006 - Patrick Moloney (Ooday), James O'Connor (Morgan), Sandford Beggs (Geasel), Stacey Moffitt (Hoover) WACOBU newsletters: http://news.csu.edu.au/alumni/director/publications/wacobu_newsletter.cfm

WAC Rugby - www.agrugby.rugbynet.com.au

WACOBU COMMITTEE WACOBU COMMITTEE

PRESIDENTS REPORT

PRESIDENT Warwick Nightingale Tel: 02 6931 9607 warwick.nightingale@landmark.com.au

Hello to everyone and welcome to another great edition of the WACOBU newsletter.

VICE PRESIDENT Stuart Kanaley Tel: 069242400 margstu@dragnet.com.au SECRETARY James Brady james.brady@elders.com.au

WACOBU are pleased to announce the commencement of a scholarship program with the School of Agriculture & Veterinarian Science. I would like to congratulate Heath McWhirter on his success with the scholarship who is a worthy recipient. I would also like to thank those other students that applied, who were all of high calibre. We wish them all well in their studies. WACOBU views scholarships as a worthwhile positive contribution to CSU and we intend to maintain our commitment to this program well into the future. I must make

TREASURER Ben Granger Tel: 0428 612 074 bengrang@bigpond.net.au

mention that WACOBU does rely heavily on the support of it’s members, through memberships and various associated activities to continue it’s commitments. Thankyou to those that have contiributed to the content of this newsletter through

COMMUNICATIONS Mardi Henley Tel: 02 6933 1222 wacobu@mac.com

COMMITTEE MEMBERS Deb & Chris Slinger Tel: 0269 241 559 Deb.Slinger@dpi.nsw.gov.au John Mahon Tel: 02 6922 1208 jmahon@wagga.net.au Margaret Kanaley Tel: 02 69242400 margstu@dragnet.com.au Neil Durning Tel: 0427 461 011 neildurning@agnvet.com.au Jeff Angel Tel: 0427 830 003 jeff.angel@elders.com.au

News of Old Boys, Reunion reports and other specific articles. The newsletter is increasingly relied upon by many past students as a valuable way to maintain contact and communications with their peers. The newsletter, thanks to Mardi Henley’s specific efforts and time is now a wide spread and wide read publication. WACOBU would welcome any enquiry regarding advertising of business and positions vacant in association with the Old Boy network. Funds would be well utilised ensuring the ongoing publication of this great newsletter. As you will read the WACOBU involvement in Ag Race Day2006 was a great success, with many past students enjoying the new arrangement with the current students. An exclusive area of the race course facilities has been set aside for WACOBU and Ag Club to catch up with old college mates and enjoy the great atmosphere that comes with Ag Race Day. We hope to get continued support from past students as the involvement will be ongoing between WACOBU and the student race day committee. Finally it is with great sadness that I make note of the passing of 2 great men from the class of 1949, John Bowen and Alex McClennan. The current WACOBU committee have been privileged to have been associated with them over the years. On behalf of

Scott Boothey Tel: 0427 267 849 SABoothey@dow.com

WACOBU I offer the friends and families of John & Alex our deepest sympathy.

Craig Whiting Tel: 02 6922 5112 craig.whiting@summit-agro.com.au

prosperous. Look forward to hearing from you all.

On behalf of the WACOBU committee we hope this newsletter finds you well and

by Warwick Nightingale - PRESIDENT of WACOBU

ALEX MCLENNAN – 1926-2007

Warwick Nightingale, John Bowen, Des Spurway and Alex McLennan in 2004 at the 1949er’s reunion It is with great regret and sadness that we report the death of Alexander Brian McLennan FAIAST (formerly FARAC) on Monday 14th May at the age of 81 after a short illness. After serving in the RAAF between 1943 and 1945 Alex was a graduate of Wagga Agricultural College and Hawkesbury Agricultural College, finishing his studies in 1951. Between 1952 and 1972 he developed his career in agriculture from a Shearing Shed Overseer to a Branch Manager with Farmers & Graziers. This was then followed by 5 years with Anglo Chemical group as Agricultural Manager – in particular being instrumental in the development of the foam spray system to reduce spray drift. In 1977 Alex joined the NSW State Rail Authority as their inaugural Agronomist with responsibility for reserve vegetation management along the extensive rail network throughout NSW. This role saw him exhibit an extraordinary ability to negotiate and co-ordinate activities between government bodies such as State Rail and neighboring General Purpose and Weeds County Councils which in major part resulted in significant co-operative advances being made in the destruction and control of weeds in the Macquarie River Catchments Areas. During that period he served on the Macquarie Valley Noxious Plants Advisory Committee. In the 1990s he operated a consultancy practice in agronomic and spraying advice which assisted in many Integrated Pesticide management programmes utilizing latest technologies in adjuvant usage and reduction in the environmental impacts of weed and insect control programmes. Alex was a long serving Committee member of the Australian Weed Society and the founding President of the Agricultural Technologists of Australasia (ATA) and on the state selection panel of their very successful Australasian register of Agricultural Consultants. He was created a fellow of The Australasian Register of Agricultural Consultants in 1996 and remained a Director of ATA from its inception to its amalgamation in 1997. He was a member of the amalgamation committee which saw ATA and AIAS amalgamate in 1997 to form the AIAST – a move which probably saved the AIAS from liquidation and produced a single body (the AIAST including AAAC) that represented all levels of graduates from Colleges and Universities in Australia. In 1998 he was created a Fellow of the AIAST. He continued to serve on the NSW Branch Committee of the AIAST right up until 2005. Alex was a distinguished applied agriculturalist who gave of his time unstintingly for the benefit of his profession right up until a few months prior to his terminal illness and his passing forms part of the closing chapter in an era of applied practitioners which saw and facilitated boom times in Australian agriculture. He was a tireless enthusiast and acknowledged exponent of the profession of agriculture throughout his life - promoting the profession at School Careers nights right up until recent years. He is survived by his wife Taity, daughter Kim, son Mark and his family. There is no doubt he will be sorely missed by all who knew him. - Written by Chris Russell FAIAST - provided by Dr Ted Wolfe

JOHN BOWEN – 1931-2007

Introduction provided by Dr Ted Wolfe On January 11, 2007, the Anglican Church at Gosford was packed with the family and friends of John Bowen. WACOBU and CSU were represented at the funeral by John Mahon and Professor Ted Wolfe. As a mark of respect, I arranged a special wreath from WACOBU. John was a vital person who fostered camaraderie amongst the original ‘49ers, who became the first and most cohesive group to graduate from the Wagga Agricultural College. He played a strong role in the resurgence of WACOBU following the creation of Charles Sturt University in 1989. Proof of his interest in and commitment to exists in the form of WACOBU Cottage, a project that in 1996 marked the centenary of agricultural education at Wagga. On 25th October 2006, John hosted a reunion of his comrades at Gosford. At that time, it was clear that neither he nor Alex McLennan were in good health. As always, John was the perfect host. John Bowen was an inspiration to all graduates of the agricultural course at Wagga, embracing the years of WAC, RCAE, RMIHE and CSU. We shall ensure that his memory lives on in the future activities of WACOBU.

Richard John Bowen known at College as Bosha and later as R.J. departed W.A.C. in December 1951 in old Buick car powered by kerosene. On the luggage rack at the rear was a crate containing a Tamworth Boar purchased from the College piggery. R.J. set forth for Tumbi Umbi with steering held together with fencing wire – there were no volunteers to join him on the trip north. Attempting to farm on a small uneconomic area was a real challenge with lots of hard work for little reward. R.J. married June in 1954 and son Ken was born in 1956 and daughter Sue 1958. An opportunity came up to assist the local carrier picking up vegetables produced in the area and this led R.J. into his first step into transport. During the season R.J. bought a bigger truck and transferred his milking cows to a neighbour. When the season finished there was no work so R.J. tried interstate cartage which was very marginal. A new direction was needed and with June’s influence he looked for opportunities closer to home. In 1958 R.J. purchased the Sungold orange contract carting from Gosford to Sydney and worked hard at increasing the back loading. This was very successful and the business

JOHN BOWEN – 1931-2007 established Big Yango Poll Hereford stud. When Sue married Ian Hendry a second property was purchased in 1981 at Denman on the Hunter to finish the stock. During the 80’s and early 90’s a successful bull sale was held each year.

quickly expanded. By 1963 there were five trucks and three subcontractors and business was good. R.J. got the chance to go to the U.S. and June ran the business in his absence. An idea developed from this trip and that was to build a group of businesses around the transport company to provide cartage that was secure. Little did Bowens realise that some of the new businesses would outgrow the transport company. By 1970 the group was involved in transport, fuel distribution, sand mining, tyre sales and retreading and a dredging operation.

In the early 90’s the freight operations were sold and R.J.’s son Ken took over the running of the petroleum business with R.J. remaining as Chairman, Bowen Petroleum Services became a joint venture with Caltex. In 2003 the balance of the business was sold to Caltex. At this stage B.P.S. was supplying in excess of 100 service stations and had a turn over of approximately $120 million per annum. B.P.S. was one of the first companies to blend ethanol in petrol and did this successfully throughout the 90’s.

Also during this period R.J. was a committee man and later President of the W.A.C.O.B.U. Over the next 40 years, together with Alex McLennan, they jointly organised all of the 49 reunion functions.

In 1994 R.J. received the Australian Technologists of Australasia Award for contributions to Australian agriculture in the fields of rural transport and agri business.

As time progressed the sand leases became exhausted and the main emphasis moved to fuel. By the 1980’s Bowens had developed a huge petroleum business supplying service stations, industrial business and farmers. A brand name ‘Bogas’ became a feature of the business.

In 1996 Bowens acquired 100% of a large dairy operation at Dunkeld near Bathurst and Ian and Sue took over the running of the farm. With the advent of deregulation the decision was taken to convert the dairy to a beef feedlot. After 30 years Big Yango was sold to the National Parks and Wildlife Service and the beef breeders relocated to Dunkeld. Steers from Dunkeld Farms have performed well at the Sydney R.A.S. with winners in their classes and a champion in the last three consecutive years (2003, 2004 and 2005).

Being one of the first Amoco Agents in Australia R.J. met and became firm friends with Ron Finemore who headed up Finemores Transport and Petroleum. In the late 70’s Finemores went into receivership. In 1983 R.J. and Ron organised a syndicate to buy the company and pay out the creditors. R.J. became the Chairman until Finemores moved into the public company arena and remained on the board until 1998.

In 2000 Bowens acquired 100% interest in the Bathurst Motor Inn followed by the purchase of Gosford Motor Inn in 2003.

During the 70’s R.J. became Senior Vice President of the L.D.R.T.A. and was heavily involved in trying to resolve the great transport blockade and in 1981 R.J. was appointed a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Transport.

In reading through the draft it has occurred to R.J. that no mention is made of his bad decisions. In each case it was a matter of getting involved in businesses in which he had no prior experience and where he backed the wrong person:–

In the 80’s he was N.S.W. President of A.P.A.D.A. and spearheaded the fight with the T.W.U. and the famous Laidley case which almost stopped the nation. This dispute was over allowing Agents tankers into city terminals to obtain their supplies. The use of Section 45D under the Trade Practises Act was not sufficient to win the day and A.P.A.D.A. was thrown out of the industrial court, however with support from The Frazer Government and Tony Street Minister for Industrial Relations, A.P.A.D.A. was readmitted and a negotiated settlement was finally reached with the T.W.U. This was a major win for the Fuel Agents of Australia.

Trading in gold futures; International freight forwarding customs; A small airline based in Cairns; and Investing in a Trustee company involved in rural projects. R.J. has always said the practical education he received at W.A.C. gave him an edge in business and together with hard work and the support of his family has resulted in the creation of a highly successful business.

Following the Laidley dispute A.P.A.D.A. grew rapidly and established its own insurance arm OAMPS of which R.J. was a Director. In 1983 OAMPS sent the Managing Director and R.J. to the U.S.A. and England to launch their overseas arm.

2005 sees R.J. taking things a little easier although still being Chairman of the Group. The family has now increased by seven grandchildren and two great grandchildren who bring a lot of pleasure to John and June.

Despite all this activity R.J. found time in 1973 to buy a cattle property in the lower Hunter where together with June

RECIPIENT OF THE 2007 WACOBU SCHOLARSHIP

Vice President Stuart Kanaley with recipient Heath McWhirter, and Mardi Henley after the at the CSU Scholarship Ceremony. entails working at one Twynam's 16 properties each holiday. I am currently Ag Club president for 2007 and since first year of With the program I have been to seven of the properties and have university I have been involved with both Ag Club and Ag Rugby had experiences ranging from animal production to various dry which has led to me finding more friends with the same interests land and irrigated cropping systems. The company also involves us as me within the university. I joined these clubs to become more in the annual budgets and crop reviews. Gaining this cadetship has involved with uni life. been very satisfying not only because I beat many applicants when I am a founding member of WAC Fishing Club and have played a applying for it but I have also had the opportunity to travel most of major part in the establishment of the club as well as being on the New South Wales and been exposed to a wide range of different executive committee for two positions. The fishing club is enterprises as well as meeting and networking with a variety of independent of the university and has the aim of connecting past people in the industry. Ag College students currently working in the agricultural industry One other recent achievement is being accepted into CSU with current students who are completing their degree. The club exchange program. I am leaving in August to do six months study also acts as a mechanism for keeping people in touch once they have finished their degree. Currently the club has 62 members and at Trent university in Canada. I think that traveling overseas will enable me to broaden my skills particularly those relating to the we gained sponsorship from Fishing World, The Black Swan Hotel and South Wagga Butchery. What motivated me is the lack of such organisation of the trip such as flights and accommodation as well as the subjects that I will be undertaking at Trent. I also believe that a club which caters for both current and past students. an opportunity such as an exchange will increase my confidence I am currently a member of the NSW Young Farmers Association as I will be thrown in the deep end and will have to work a lot of and was a delegate at the annual Young Farmers Forum in Sydney things out myself, which I am really looking forward to. last year. Within the meetings, topics and issues that were Long Term Goal: I hope to become a leader in my chosen field of discussed include Ag Start, superannuation, Federal and State agriculture and improve water efficiencies within cropping politics, agricultural policy development and leadership skills. I thoroughly enjoyed this experience as I met many people of similar systems. This can be achieved through the gaining of knowledge through further studies. age and interests and look forward to attending next year. I have also recently became a member of the young irrigators network. Social Goal: I aim to be involved in local community groups and be My biggest achievement to date is gaining a position on the a valued member of the community. In the short term this can be Twynam Pastoral Company cadetship scheme which I commenced achieved by becoming more actively involved in Ag Club by in 2004. Once the "cadet" has been selected for the program, they becoming a member on the executive committee. In the long term must complete 12 months as a Jackeroo on one of Twynam's I hope to have a voice and a valued opinion within the New South properties. I spent my 12 months at the company's Merino stud in Hay (Mungadal). When the cadet has begun university the program Wales Farmers Federation. Provided by Heath McWhirter 4

WACOBU SCHOLARSHIP DRIVE The WACOBU Scholarship is granted to a student who will be enrolled in the second, third or fourth year of a full-time undergraduate degree within the School of Agricultural & Veterinary Sciences. Students are invited in second semester to apply for the WACOBU Scholarship offered through the Charles Sturt Foundation. Applicants must be able to demonstrate: • sound academic performance; and • positive contribution to furthering the interests of agriculture students within the School through sporting, social or University activities. • eligible students must be commencing the 2nd, 3rd or 4th year of an agriculturally-focussed course • sons or daughters of WACOBU members are especially encouraged to apply. If you wish to make a donation towards the Scholarship please complete the following and send to WACOBU. We have to raise $1000 per year to cover this cost. For further information please contact the Scholarships Officer, Karen Jamieson on telephone (02) 6933 2221 or email kjamieson@csu.edu.au

Name................................................................................................................................................................................................ Address............................................................................................................................................................................................ ......................................................................................................................................................Postcode.................................... Date of birth.........................................Years at College (From)..........................................(to).................................................. Please find enclosed cheque/money order for: • DONATION TO SCHOLARSHIP

$....................

Make cheques/money orders payable to: CHARLES STURT UNIVERSITY Post to:- CHARLES STURT UNIVERSITY - Attention KAREN JAMIESON, Executive Assistant to the Head of Wagga Wagga Campus, James Hagan Court, Locked Bag 588, WAGGA WAGGA, NSW, 2678

DONATION TO WACOBU SCHOLARSHIP Name.................................................................................................................................................................................................... Address................................................................................................................................................................................................ .................................................................................................................................................Postcode............................................ SCHOLARSHIP PAYMENT Please debit my credit card for $.............................................................. MASTERCARD / VISA / BANKCARD

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FAX - (02) 6933 2060 - ATTENTION KAREN JAMIESON 5

SCHOLARSHIP CEREMONY 74 Scholarships were awarded at Charles Sturt University’s Wagga Campus on the 16 May 2007 - the children of the following Old Boys circa 1981 were recipients:-

Margaret and Stuart (Skin) Kanaley with their son James who received the Waerawi Farming Co Scholarship. James is a first year Bachelor of Science (Agriculture) student.

Richard Said (Boobs) with his twin daughters Lauren and Jessica who each received a Rotary Club of Wagga Wagga Wollundry Scholarship. Lauren and Jessica are first year Veterinarian students. 6

JOHN MAHON RECEIVES AWARD Companion of the University On April 20th the CSU Council conferred on John Mahon the award of Companion of the University for services to the University. John graduated with a Diploma in Agriculture from the Wagga Agricultural College in 1962. During his changes in career he maintained his links with the Wagga Agricultural College through his involvement with the WACOBU. On his return to Wagga to ive in 1975 he increased this involvement with WACOBU. He has been President and Secretary on several occasions, including the turbulent period when the College was amalgamated with the RCAE. John was the main instigator of the fundraising effort for WACOBU cottage, the postgraduate accommodation complex which opened in 1996, the centenary year of agricultural education in Wagga Wagga. John’s expertise on the WACOBU committee and his wide industry knowledge led to his nomination for various other committees of the University over the years. In 1997 he became a member of the Farm Management Committee, a position that he still holds, and also the Board of Governors of Charles Sturt University, the governing body of the University which was renamed the Council of Charles Sturt University in 1999. John held a position on the Council until 9th December 2005. He has held various positions on committees of Council over the years. John was a member of the Personnel Committee from September 1999 until November 2003, at which time the committee was disbanded. He was the Deputy Chair of the Compliance and Commercial Activities Committee from July 2004 until December 2005 and a member of the Audit and Risk Committee from August 2000 until May 2004. John has held the position of Presiding Officer of the Wagga Wagga Campus Advisory Committee, which evolved into the Wagga Wagga Campus Regional Consultative Committee and he was the CSU Council member on this committee. At various time he has been a member of student general misconduct appeal panels and also staff grievance panels. John has also been a member of the Farrer Centre, the conservations farming research facility, since 1992. John continues to be a member of several of the University committees demonstrating his commitment to both the University and the WACOBU. Provided by Elizabeth Mahon

49ers REUNION - Ted Wolfe Hello everyone, Informally representing SAVS, WACOBU and CSU, I attended last Wednesday night a dinner in Gosford to mark what may be one of the last major gatherings of the original students of the college/university, the 49ers. This group of men comprised the first intake of students into Wagga Agricultural College, in 1949. The group of 33 students, some of whom were exservicemen (as old as 37) and some who were fresh out of school (as young as 16), have maintained their original bond with a series of reunions (56) over the years. Present at Gosford were 45-50 people, comprising around 20 of the originals, plus partners and a few others. The host, as always, was John Bowen and his wife

June, who arranged a BBQ at their home, a boat cruise on Brisbane Water and a dinner at the Sicilian Restaurant. The 49ers have taken a special interest in developments in the School of Agricultural and Veterinary Sciences. They contributed generously to the funding of WACOBU House and to the installation of a commemorative clock in Joyes Hall. The family of one of the group, Colin Lawrence (1932-97), provide an annual prize in Agriculture in his memory. At the Gosford dinner, which was attended by past-Principal Brian Atkins (who was at home with the many octagenarians present), all of the participants were interested in developments in SAVS, such as 'How is the veterinary degree going?' , 'Where is Peter Cregan these days?' and 'How bad is the drought down there?'. I replied that the School was as busy and 7

successful as ever, but the drought is a bad one. They were surprised to hear that the Wagga water restrictions are minor compared to what they apparently experience in other locations. The 49ers were appreciative of the occasional issue of the WACOBU newsletter sent to them, plus the emails that are sent out by Mardi Henley (WACOBU) keeping them in touch. They sent their warm regards to David Green, Karen Jamieson, Jim Pratley, Mardi Henley, Warwick Nightingale, John Mahon and all staff and students of SAVS. With assistance from several people, John Bowen produced and recently released a book that outlines the history of WAC and the 49ers, plus a story on each member of the group. I will place this book in the SAVS Amenity Room for November. If anyone would like a copy of the book, please see me. Provided by Dr Ted Wolfe

WAC – 49ers REUNION WAC 49ers REUNION: 24th – 25th OCTOBER 2006 This report was provided by John Bowen just before he passed away.

The group appreciated the email from Warwick Nightingale (president of the WACOBU) expressing his apologies and extending his best wishes to all present. There were also apologies from Chancellor Lawrie Willett, Vice-Chancellor Prof. Ian Goulter, Prof. David Green, John Mahon, Karen Jamieson, David Bryant, Des Spurway, Mardi and Ross Henley, Peter and June Davis, Nan Dickson and Alan Thornton.

There was a large gathering of old boys and partners from the ‘49 and ‘50 era which could well be the last gathering of the group. We were delighted with the response from the 50’s year and also the 51 year was represented by Jim and Margo Grellman.

There was general acknowledgement and appreciation expressed for the work that went into producing the book (The 49 Story). John Bowen complimented Des Spurway on his efforts in raising funds towards the cost of producing the book. At the same time he acknowledged the 49ers for their generous contributions to this project.

The first function on the evening of the 24th was a BBQ at the Bowen’s house where 48 people sat down for dinner. It was a very casual evening which enabled everyone to renew old friendships. Brian Atkins (ex principal WAC) was seen wearing a South African rugby jumper – this was completely out of character as Brian is well known as a Wallaby supporter. As the evening was cool and Brian needed a jumper and John effectively ‘set him up’ with a Springbok special.

Congratulations were extended to Gordon Mitchell on receipt of his award of The Order of Australia and also Janet Kemp (wife of Jim Kemp) who had received the same award. These high achieving citizens are deserving of this special recognition.

Duncan and Rosalie Dyer, friends of the Bowen’s, volunteered their help for the evening with Duncan doing a great job on the BBQ and Rosalie assisting June and the other ladies in the kitchen.

Tony Stannard arrived at the dinner in his original WAC blazer with his colours IXV 1950-51-52. Tony was the hooker for the team. To the best of my knowledge there are only two original blazers in good condition which still fit their owners. The other belongs to Col Sparke.

Morning tea was served at the Gosford Motor Inn on Wednesday the 25th and everyone enjoyed viewing John Bowen’s memorabilia from college days, the trucking, fuel and farming industries. There was particular interest in the old WAC photos and newspaper clippings. Jim Grellman was amazed to find a picture of he and John in their speedo’s at the 1951 swimming carnival at Junee.

There were many enquiries regarding the health of Bill Gunther. Bill a ‘50’s student and an ex Wallaby was seriously injured when hit by a car in Newcastle. Bill Baker advised seeing Gundy in a nursing home at Orange several weeks prior to the reunion and advised that he was not well at all. By coincidence on Saturday night the 28th October, Brian Atkins met Bill Gunther at church in the Port Stephens area. Brian has advised that Gundy was much improved. It appears that friends had brought him to the area for a break from Orange. Lets hope Bill continues to improve.

In the afternoon everyone enjoyed a luncheon cruise on the broadwater which was very relaxing and enabled us to spend quality time with each other. There was a quick run through the rip at Ettalong and into open water before returning to explore the other areas in the eastern section of the broadwater finally arriving back at Gosford at 3.15pm.

Conclusion:

That evening a dinner was held at Café Sicilian restaurant where some pre-dinner music was enjoyed by all in fact there was some singing a long with the old nostalgic numbers.

What a function! In attendance we had one ex principal (Brian Atkins), four ex presidents of the WACOBU (Bill Baker, Alex McLennan, Jim Kemp and John Bowen), one ex Cattle Officer (Col Levick) from the college and a current professor of CSU (Ted Wolfe), two recipients of the Order of Australia and a great cross section of old boys from all walks of life. It is wonderful that this group has maintained contact with CSU and WACOBU over some 57 years. Time is moving on and the organizers are slowing down so a repeat of this special function is doubtful. As a group we are enthralled with the growth and expansion of CSU and the ongoing success of the agricultural graduates. The continuation of the success of WACOBU (which was first established in 1952) is no doubt due to a very active young enthusiastic executive team which is to be highly commended. May both these trends continue indefinitely into the future.

John Bowen chaired the dinner and introduced Brian Atkins (ex principal WAC) who moved to toast WAC and CSU with the response from Prof. Ted Wolfe. Ted has recently returned from Canberra where he was appointed a Fellow of the Australian Institute of Agriculture, Science and Technology. He was in fine form and captured everyone’s attention with information relating to the growth and the ongoing changes at CSU. There was particular interest in the development of the Vet Science Course and changes in the Agricultural area. Numerous old boys took the opportunity to speak and express their appreciation of the organization of the reunion. This culminated in Ted Hayes presenting a photo to John Bowen taken the previous evening together with a card signed by all present. 8

WAC – 49ers REUNION The following were in attendance: ‘49ers Bill & Rita Baker Fred & Marg. Benecke John & June Bowen Peter Drummond Murray & Evelyn Haddrill Ted & Justine Hayes Brian & Betty Higgins Ian & Marjorie Laidlaw Laura Laidlaw Ray Learmont Alex & Taytie McLennan Peter Robinson Barry & Rita Smart Col & Marie Sparke Audrey Stephens Ken & Joan Triffitt

‘50’s ‘51 Barrie & Diana Clarke Jim & Margo Grellman Bob & Helen Gordon Jim & Janet Kemp Gordon & Janette Mitchell Ian & Judith Simos Tony & Meg Stannard Lex & Alison Woods

Ex Staff Brian & Judy Atkins Col & Dot Levick CSU Prof. Ted Wolfe

Part of the 1949er group disembarking from the Lady Kendall at Gosford 25.10.2006

1ST YEAR’S OF 1956 WAC - 50 YEAR REUNION On November 23/24 last year, 16 “old” boys (out of 24 who finished in 1958) and wives had a reunion on the WAC campus to celebrate 50years since they arrived at WAC as “young men” in 1956.

Ross Blackmore. Ross spent all his working life in the Agricultural Chemical industry in both WA and NSW. He also became a partner in wife Denise’s travel business which specialised in the Cruise market. They are now retired at Avoca Beach.

This was only the second time that the group had got together since leaving WAC and all voted it a great success.

Beres Ellwood. Beres still maintains a close relationship with many of his year and was a great help in the tracking down of some lost names. He was and continues to be involved in the meat trade. He and Laura live in Canberra. It gave us all a lot of pride to see the sign proclaiming the “Beres Ellwood Oval” sitting in the middle of the CSU Campus.

Every graduate from the year, with the exception of Bruce Dircks who sadly passed away a few years ago, were tracked down from as far North as the Atherton Tablelands behind Cairns to the MIA in the South. On the first evening of the reunion the group enjoyed a dinner in the Chancellors Room at Charles Sturt with David Green, Head of Campus being a gracious host. He and current President of WACOBU, Warwick Nightingale gave an update of the Faculty and the role that the Old Boys Association plays.

Ian Embury. Ian had a career with the NSW Dept of Ag around the State as well as time in the family retail business. He is soon to be involved with the NT TAFE in Alice Springs, but will maintain his home at Boambee (near Coffs Harbour). Dick Frew. Dick spent many years with Australian Fertilizers and then started up his own Advertising Company when he had many AG related clients. He and Daphnie are now retired at Hawks Nest.

The following day, we had a bus tour of the Campus and all agreed that the facilities are right up-to-date and something that we could all be proud of and that we were among the first students that had laid a solid foundation for a “world class” centre of excellence in Agricultural Education. That evening a delightful dinner was held at the Riverine Club in Wagga.

Dick Gilfillan. After running a mixed farm at Coonabarabran for many years, bad health forced Dick back to Sydney where he did a number of jobs including working with the Australian Tax Office. He and Anne are now retired in his old home at Lindfield, where he grew up.

The 1958 Group would like to state that the resounding success of the reunion would not have been achieved without the professional co-operation of all the staff of CSU, especially Karen Jamieson, who as a CSU Aggie graduate did us all proud.

John Goodin. After a career with Unilever (he was based in the Solomon Islands at one stage) and Australian Fertilizers, he had many years in Non-Ag business activities. He and Lee are now breeding Wagyu beef on their property just outside of Grafton.

Some details of the year are shown below: Andy Anderson. After running sheep out the back of Bourke and back on the family Canberra property, Andy and Helen have now retired to Lorne which is just South of Port Macquarie.

Adrian Hausler. “Arch” after WAC returned to the family farm at West Wyalong before moving north to take up a mixed property at Warialda. He is now living on the Gold Coast in between “house sitting” a property out of Taroom in Central Queensland.

Jeff Armstrong. After retiring in 1999 from lecturing at Murrumbidgee College of Agriculture, he and Gwen decided to settle in Leeton. They now spend time travelling and seeing their children who live in Newcastle and Jimboomba.

John Hunt. John returned to the family farm at Lockhart which has expanded over the years. John and Lynette moved off the farm into Lockhart six years ago to let their boys run the day-today operations.

Chris Badgery-Parker. Chris has led a mixed and varied life since walking out of the gates of WAC. After many years with WD&HO Wills as a Tobacco Buyer, buying leaf around the world, he left in the early seventies to try out new opportunities. This was mainly with Mission Australia where he did 24 wonderful years of work. Then from October 1999 he completed a 14,110 km round Australia push-bike trip over a 13 month period. During the trip he met Maureen in Perth and they now live in the Atherton Tablelands.

Ian McGuiness. “Joe” moved back to Bigga for many years before he and Judy (Joe met Judy Hardwick while at WAC) moved to a place near Boorowa. In addition to cropping and sheep/cattle, Joe is still very big with horses both for stock work and polo. Ken McKenzie. After a spell in the NT, Ken returned to live in Blayney with Betty. Ken could not make the reunion at the last moment as he got a diagnosis of cancer. All is well from the last report received.

Lloyd Beeby. After a career in cattle management, feedlots, livestock exports & the meat trade (including 2 stints in Iran & Bahrain) he and Jacqui live in contented retirement in Bonville near Coffs Harbour.

John Mossman. John is still a resident of Southern NSW, we assume not only from his Aussie Rules upbringing, but for his

1ST YEAR’S OF 1956 WAC - 50 YEAR REUNION that Alan told us that Wil had passed away 2 years ago. He is now retired at Curl Curl, but is still active now as an author. His second book “Persian Expedition” was published in February.

work with the Rice Industry in Griffith. He and Kay threw themselves into the reunion by Kay being our unofficial photographer over the two days. Jim Patterson. Jim and June lived in Dubbo from 1960 until 1988, Jim as a Livestock buyer and running a 1,000 acre mixed farm. They now live in the Eastern Suburbs of Sydney where Jim works in the property market. He could not make the reunion due to recent successful surgery.

Ian Sully. “Sull” couldn’t make it to the reunion but sent his regards. After WAC he farmed two irrigation properties in Wagga, and then branched out into gravel and concrete operations again in Wagga. He now resides in Willoughby and is still active in a number of enterprises.

Ed Schultz. Ed and his partner, Jenny, helped greatly with the reunion as they live in Wagga. Ed over the years built up a high reputation in the stock feed business both with international companies as well as his own business in Wagga. He is now retired.

Dick Whitfield. After a time with the NSW Soil Conservation Department, Dick moved into similar work in the ACT where he is still active. He and Helen reside in Lyons. He has since the reunion visited Ken & Betty McKenzie in Blayney.

Warwick Selvey. Our year’s participant at an Olympic Games has gone on to other things in the world of being an Osteopath and Chiropractor as well as practicing Acupuncture. He and Jaunita recently moved from the Gold Coast to Inverell where he now practices in Moree and Inverell.

David Williamson. Dave left WAC to return to the family farm at Erina on the Central Coast. These days he and Peggy still live on the family farm where they also have a road-side store on the Entrance Road. He is a future millionaire as the farm is now surrounded by prime residential land.

Alan Stewart. While at WAC Alan purchased a piece of good country near Tarcutta, where you might recall he headed off in his Land Rover every spare moment. After renting/selling the place he and Wil moved to Sydney where Alan became the Local Member for Manly in the NSW Parliament. It was with sadness

Col Wood. Col moved from Holbrook to Grenfell where he and Pip have an excellent property which is now mainly run by their son, but they are still active in the business. Provided by Ross Blackmore

In front of the Old Dairy (now a lecture room) some of Australia's finest (!) relive memories of 5am dairy duty 50 years ago.

Back row L-R: Ian (Joe) McGuiness, Alan (Andy) Anderson, David Williamson, Dick Gilfillan, Ed Schulz, Lloyd Beeby, Dick Whitfield, Adrian (Arch) Hausler, and Beres Ellwood. Front row L-R: Ross Blackmore, Dick Frew, Ian Embury, John Mossman, Alan Stewart and John Goodin.

1956 WAC - 50 YEAR REUNION SINCE GRADUATING Jim and Cynthia Piper put on a great party for our 50th year since graduating from Wagga Agricultural College. The party was at the lovely home of Jim and Cynthia Piper at Mangerton in Wollongong. We had two days beginning at 12 noon on Saturday, the seventh of October 2006, with a get-together and lunch, a few drinks, including Wagga Uni wine and plenty of food. The Pipers made us all feel welcome. A lot of hard work went into organising the event and I'm sure Jim and Cynthia are pleased it went so well and we had 17 out of 19 of the boys there on the Saturday and one more on the Sunday (David Elder came on Sunday morning). There were 29 people including partners and wives on Saturday, most came back for a cuppa next morning, completing a wonderful weekend. Those present were as follows:Bob & Carmalita Alexander Alan & Eileen Douglas David Elder Ian & Wendy Fuller John Furner Lex & Carmel Govaars John & Jenny Grellman Jim & Margie Harris Bruce & Liz Irvine Tom & Heather Kennaway Lawrence Moss Ken & Val Packham Ian & Margaret Perrett Jim & Cynthia Piper John & Judy Peterson Rod & Helen Shearer Ross & Sarah Shepherd Jeff & Val Bailey

Ken Packham and Jim Piper (the host)

Bob Alexander

(couldn't be there) Alan Barton Our departed Mates: Tom Barker - Bill Love - Rex Small. Those who could not make it:David Barton from central Queensland, who apologised, but said "itwas just a bit too far to go".

Lex Govaars, Ian Fuller and Ken Packham

Jeff Bailey received his letter only one day before because it went via New Guinea to the North Coast of New South Wales. Hopefully he will be there next time, which will be at Wagga around the same time of the year in two years time, probably with a luncheon in town at Wagga and visit to the old haunts (considerably changed) at the University and farm (that was). Three of the Oldboys have gone, Bill Love, Tom Barker and Rex Small. Bill Love died 1957, Tom Barker around 1982 and Rex about four years ago approximately 2002. Provided by John Furner

1956 WAC - 50 YEAR REUNION SINCE GRADUATING

Back row: Tom Kennaway (Newcastle), Alan Douglas (Benambra), Bruce Irvine (Narromine), John Peterson (Sydney), Larry Moss (Gundagai), Lex Govaars (Canberra), Ian Fuller (Wellington), John Grellman (Wee Waa), Bob Alexander (Beelbangera), Jim Piper (Mangerton). Sitting left to right: Ken Packham (Sydney), Jim Harris (Barraba), Rodney Shearer (Singleton), Ian Perrett (St Ives), John Furner (Bega) and Ross Shepherd (Narromine).

.....and their partners - thanks girls for all of your hard work !

NEWS OF OLD BOYS

WACOBU Committee Member Neil Durning (Pid) married Sara Mendham on the 10 March 2007

Congratulations !

CATCH ! Caught at lake Tinaroo (north QLD) on the 27 February 2007 111cm - 51lb - Barramundi Caught on Pfluger President bait caster with 20lb line, Shimano Xcell rod, and storm soft plastic. Fish of a lifetime!!! Best Regards ANGAS SWANN (CEREBRAL)

NEWS OF OLD BOYS IAN MASHMAN - 1959 Email: imashman@bigpond.net.au

BRENT BOURKE - (SMEG) - 1997 Email: sallybourke76@hotmail.com

Currently semi-retired but do some Real Estate Valuation work and the occassional Agricultural Tour for Quadrant Australia (AgTour Australia/Agritour merger).

Has now had his second child, Zara which is a sister to Millie. Is working for NPWS based in Jindabyne, and during winter is on full time ski patrol at Perisher Blue. Apparently he looks a fine figure in the thermals!

DAVID PEASLEY - 1970 Email: peasleyhort@bigpond.com

MARK PEARCE - (DUNG FUNNEL) - 1997

Looking forward to the biennial reunion at Broken Hill for our year WAC’70.

Married to Clare and has recently celebrated the birth of their first child Lucy. He is running the family property at Yaven Creek near Adelong, and reports that cattle have not died of bloat in the Autumn for a very long time.

Working with tropical and sub-tropical fruit industries conducting field trials, providing technical support to industry, managing R&D programs.

TOM ARMSTRONG - (SHAKER) - 1997 Has recently returned home to Sydney from a 2 year stint based in London, and also celebrated the birth of their first child, Charlotte. Is currently running the kitchen and house duties while his wife Julie, is the bread winner.

Specialty aread:- bananas, passionfruit, avacados & coffee. Sold my avacado & mango farm on 2003 to concentrate on consultancy/trial work.

ANDREW BELL - (CLAP) - 1997 Email: andrew.bell@landmark.com.au

COL MEDWAY - (GOAT) - 1990 Email: colin.medway@landmark.com.au

Has just moved from Albury to Young to manage a couple of surrounding Landmark stores. Has also just celebrated the birth of his daughter Lila in 2006. Reports are that Belly has pulled on the boots again, but only in second grade I am assured.

Happily living in Yass, married to Meagan, with children Prue (5) and Tom (3) and Hamish born Oct 06. Celebrated ten years last year of running our small family business Landmark Copeland Medway. Happily (Meagan not so happy) ploughing the profits into farming losses as we lease the family farm and employ dad. (Barry Medway '66er) took over just as the drought started and wool prices crashed. His timing is impeccable, mine......well you be the judge?

GEOFF MINCHIN - (FONC) - 1997 Has returned home from an extended working holiday in Europe in 2005, and is based in Boorowa, working for the Lachlan CMA.

MICHAEL OAKES - (DOOKIE) - 1974 RE: Allan Jones - MONGY - 1974

RCAE

He is still at "Brentwood" Deniliquin, between Conargo and Wanganella. As it is sometimes confused with another "Brentwood" around Blighty area,using PO Box 1088 DENILIQUIN 2710 is preferable. Mailman still delivers stuff in PO box to roadside box. His daughter is currently studying vet science at CSU.

Reunion is being held Easter 2008 contact Wal Murray via bgsfx@ix.net.au for futher information

JAMES BRADY - (YUC) - 1997 Email: james.brady@elders.com.au Has just begun work in may 2007 as the Senior Agronomist and Animal Nutritionist at Elders Cootamundra after 4 years at Tarcutta Rural Supplies. In his spare time he and his wife, Bianca, are running a cropping and sheep operation at Eurongilly. After being married to Bianca last year they are expecting their first child in late June.

WAC Rugby - www.agrugby.rugbynet.com.au 15

AG RACE DAY 2006

Kate Eastman & Daniel Charters (Boof)

Angas Swann (Cerebral) & fiancee Melissa Napoli

Tony Paton (Spud), Blowie, Scott Callaghan (Moona), Tim Condon (Enzyme), Steven Periera (Snuff), Maurice Woodman (Polo) & Peter Madden (Smut)

Meika Croker, James O'Conner (Morgan), Harry Fitzgibbon, Amanda Cooper (Panda), Melissa Fitzgibbon, Josh Strahorn (Strags) 16

AG RACE DAY 2006

Rob Hart (Gilligan) and Juliette

Greg Condon (Skeg) and Charlie

Robyn Troldahl (Boomer) & Cynthia Callaghan (Onga)

Tim Sides (Chloe) & Oliver

Neil Menzies (Gonzo) , Phil Harvey (Dope) and Rachel Lawrence 17

AG RACE DAY 2007

20th ANNIVERSARY Saturday 20 October 2007 12 noon at the Champagne Bar M urrumbidgee Turf Club - WAGGA WAGGA

Ticket Options (must be prepaid): Single Tickets prepaid:

$50 - includes entry, beer, wine, BBQ lunch Drinker & Driver Ticket prepaid:

$65 - includes 1 x Single Ticket plus 1 x Driver ticket which includes entry, soft drink & lunch

Kids Ticket: Under 18’s are free of charge & will receive soft drink & lunch

Single tickets at the gate -

will be available at a cost of $55 each no entry to Champagne Bar if bought at gate

WACOBU AG RACE DAY TICKETS PREPAID PURCHASE of TICKETS for entry to

WACOBU CHAMPAGNE BAR EVENT Complete the form and post or fax with your cheque/money order

PLEASE MAKE CHEQUES PAYABLE TO:- Charles Sturt University or credit card details to:-

Charles Sturt University Division of Student Services c/-Peta Williams Locked Bag 588 Wagga Wagga NSW 2678

FAX to Peta on (02) 69 332 032 Name.............................................................................................................................................................................................. Address......................................................................................................................................................................................... ..................................................................................................................................................Postcode.....................................

Single Ticket / S

Drinker + Driver Ticket / S

Number of KIDS

Please debit my credit card for $........................................................MASTERCARD / VISA / BANKCARD

Name on card.............................................................................................................................................................................. Expiry date.........................................Signature.........................................................................................................................

RSVP by FRIDAY

OCTOBER 2007

Your tickets will be available at both entrances to the MTC or Peta Williams ph: (02) 6933 2031 (bh) or email pmwilliams@csu.edu.au

AG RUGBY

12 May 2007 - Ag 3rd grade Vs RAAF:- with yellow “V” jumper, Tim Sides (Chloe) was one of the Old Boys who “enjoyed” a run After a somewhat up and down pre season campaign Ag College opened the much anticipated 2007 season against Wagga City in round 1 of the Southern Inland Rugby competition. After a couple of early tries to City we were behind the eight ball from word go. The boys worked themselves back into the game through some slick work from five eighth Dan Maloney and centre Jacob Belgrove and some nice rolling mauls from the forwards to trail by 2 at half time. This was about the end of it for Aggies as the holiday break and lack of fitness caught up with us and a well drilled and fit City side added two more second half tries to seal the win by fourteen. Second grade was a similar story with a lack of fitness and lot of lads playing together for the first time going down 7 – 0.

boys new we had a tough job ahead. After a relatively alcohol free Friday night, second grade finally seemed to click and after a couple of well executed tries won 14 – 7. The first grade game was a tough affair with the first half being a see-sawing affair. Both teams had plenty of chances in the first stanza only to be stopped by some great scrambling defence or the final pass going to ground. With the game on the line Ag College responded well and two tries to second rower Aaron Seaman after good lead up work by Rhys Duncan and Peter Armstrong had the Aggies tails up. Griffith bounced back but some solid defensive work saw Aggies come away with a well deserved 28 – 14 win. Last weekend saw the might of Ag College venture into town to take on the Waratahs. Again the second grade boys showed plenty of improvement to take out a solid 36 – 10 victory. The first grade game was one that certainly had the crowd bemused. Tahs had enough ball to win ten games of football in the first half but still trailed 7 -5 at the break. The Ag College attack was looking a bit scrappy but whether this was due to the amount of defence they had to undertake or not, they tried to make it count when they had scoring opportunities. Tahs took the lead mid way through the second half with a penalty but Ag College responded with one of their own to be leading by 2 with 15 minutes to go. A final try to centre James O’Conner sealed the win for Aggies in what was a workman like win.

From here SIRU postponed the next game verses the chalks so it was of to Albury with a couple of weeks training and a reality check from City under our belt. Second grade started their game off well but that’s about where the positives ended. Soundly beaten we decided it was back to the drawing board for seconds and rejoiced that Wagga Gold Cup only comes ones a year. First grade got away to a flyer with Jacob Belgrove scoring an intercept try which was capitalised on by the forwards when hooker Gus Winterflood scored off a rolling maul not long after. Despite the good start we continually let Albury back into the game and it wasn’t until the final minutes that the game was sealed by another Belgrove try. All up it was an unconvincing win but a huge improvement on the City game.

Overall it’s been a good start to the season and hopes are high for some good future performances. Thanks to the old boys whom have strapped the boots on for the third grade games so far. Ego Yah - Provided by Jason Tighe (Stook)

Next on the hit list was the much vaunted Griffith Blacks. Tipped to be there at the business end of the season in both grades the 20

1st YEAR - 1974

Names kindly pro vided by Marty O'Rourke (Mum) Back row; Max Campbell, Clive Hehir, Mike O'Hare, Keith Hay, unidentified (head turned), Karon Snowdon, Willy Chang, Cris Leckie (Dribble), Ian Johnson (Smiley), Marty O'Rourke (Mum), Steve Holmes (Mister Chat), Liz Mackay 4 people in small row; Ross Kingham (in blue shirt), Fred Byrne, Wendy Keppie and Justin Toohey (Rosebud - with arm in cast) Middle Row; unidentified (half body), Ian Douglas, Peter Graham, Alistair McLeod, Sally Barker, Mal Langfield, Ron Forsyth, Steve Ryan, Michelle Fuller, Bronwyn Lord, Geoff Tarr, unidentified (half body) 3 people in small row; Tony De Salis, Kingsley Picker and Nadia Dinning Front Row; John Harper, Lance Gardiner, Graham Thompson, Peter Dixon-Hughes

FUTURE WAC MEN

Future WAC Fisherman - Thomas & James Whiting - sons of Craig (Coit) & Deanne 21

TREASURERS REPORT Our club continues to remain financial largely due to the support of member’s renewing there membership. We currently have 151 financial members’ which is only a small percentage of those that have graduated over the years. To continue to remain viable we need more financial members. If you know old boys or girls that have not signed up please forward them a copy of this newsletter. A White Membership is only $10 a year. These finances allow us to bring this newsletter to you and fund other running costs. We also have an ongoing commitment to fund our scholarship so donations will be gladly accepted for this purpose. We still have a range of WACOBU memorabilia available for purchase. If you have any questions in relation to memberships or your current membership status please contact me via email or on the phone number provided. All the best for a wet and prosperous year. Ben Granger - Treasurer of WACOBU (bengrang@bigpond.net.au)

Please send stories for the next newsletter to:-

wacobu@mac.com If you have received this newsletter via a friend or by post and you have an email address, please email us directly with your details so we can add you to the WACOBU database. Previous newsletters are available at http://news.csu.edu.au/alumni/director/publications/wacobu_newsletter.cfm

NEW MEMBERSHIP STRUCTURE LIFE MEMBERSHIP (old system) • WACOBU newsletter • notification of all reunions for your year or course

• special christmas wine offer • any other special benefits or offers that are negotiated on behalf of members

The “WHITE WACOBU”, “GOLD WACOBU” and “LIFE GOLD WACOBU” memberships are a level of membership that have an extended range of benefits. The offer made by the CSU Alumni Association now is for a new level of membership to the ORIGINAL WACOBU “LIFE” MEMBERSHIP. Those of you who already have existing “LIFE” membership of WACOBU will still receive the original benefits which was, and still is, only receiving WACOBU newsletters and assistance in organising reunions. The Membership form is on the next page. Please provide us with your email address so that this is an easier process for communications. Also update your email address when there is a change. 22

WACOBU - MEMBERSHIP Name......................................................................................

Variation of address/personal notes form (PRINT DETAILS).

Address.................................................................................

Name...................................................................................... Address..................................................................................

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Please find enclosed cheque/money order for:

................................................................................................. • WHITE Membership fee ($10.00)

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Make cheques/money orders payable to: Charles Sturt University ALUMNI c/o Alumni Office/WACOBU Charles Sturt University Panorama AvenueBATHURST NSW 2795

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FAX TO - 02 6338 4766 23

$ 1.00

$....................

• WACOBU tie

$ 30.00

$....................

• WACOBU lapel badges

$ 2.00

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• WACOBU Centenary hat

$ 12.00

$....................

• WACOBU pewter

$ 50.00

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• WACOBU plain hat

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$ 65.00

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WACOBU

P.O. Box 1092 WAGGA WAGGA NSW 2650

WACOBU News Newsletter from the Wagga Agricultural College Old Boys Union DECEMBER 2009

Peter Worsley Vehicle Fundraising effort See page 3

Mathew “Ked” Duff, Neil “Bodsa” Lane, Debbie “Nipple” Platts (Kull) 20 years on, collecting for Peter Worsley (‘Sac’)

WACOBU newsletters: http://news.csu.edu.au/alumni/director/publications/wacobu_newsletter.cfm

WAC Rugby - www.agrugby.rugbynet.com.

WACOBU COMMITTEE

MESSAGE FROM THE VICE-CHANCELLOR

PRESIDENT Stuart Kanaley (‘ 79–‘82) Tel: 069242400 margstu@aussieb.com.au

Professor Ian Goulter Vice-Chancellor

VICE PRESIDENT Warwick Nightingale (‘ 92–‘ 94) Tel: 0458 273 188 wnightingale@deltaagribusiness.com.au SECRETARY James Brady (‘94–‘ 97) Tel. 69245287 jamesbrady@seedforce.com TREASURER Ros Prangnell (‘ 75–’ 77) Tel. 69331260 ros.prangnell@dpi.nsw.gov.au COMMITTEE MEMBERS Ben Granger (‘ 92–‘ 94) bengrang@bigpond.net.au Chris Slinger (‘ 78–‘ 81) Tel. 69241559 chris.slinger@bigpond.com Craig Cowell (‘ 92–’ 94) craig.cowell@bigpond.com Craig Whiting (‘ 92–‘ 94) Tel. 0427 755323 whitings4@dodo.com.au Deb Slinger (‘ 79–‘ 81) Tel. 69241559 / 0427 026207 deb.slinger@dpi.nsw.gov.au Jeff Angel (‘ 95–’ 97) Jeff.Angel@elders.com.au John Mahon (‘ 59–‘ 61) Tel. 69221208 / 0428 694089 jmahon@wagga.net.au Ross Henley (‘ 79–’ 82) Tel. 69331222 ross@riverina.coop Sean Roberts (‘ 91–‘ 93) Tel. 0428 264876 sean.roberts@syngenta.com Ted Wolfe Tel. 69224347 TWolfe@csu.edu.au

It’s been a particularly busy time for the University as we celebrate our 20th year.

20th Anniversary dinner

The University marked its 20th year in style with a gala dinner attended by graduates from the University and our predecessor colleges. The event was one of several on our 20th Anniversary Events Calendar.

CSU part of the education revolution

Following the Review of Australian Higher Education, the Federal Government has unveiled a range of changes to the landscape of higher education. The Government’s targets include increasing work skills and lifting participation in higher education, particularly amongst people from low socio-economic circumstances and rural and regional Australia. In this environment of change Charles Sturt University is committed to ensuring that the needs of rural and regional Australia remain on the national agenda. The key to success in the new environment, for both regional and metropolitan universities, is having the courses that students want to study. There is a misconception that all Australians have genuine choice when it comes to higher education options. At this point in time there is not genuine choice in university opportunity in Australia. There are still a number of courses for which students from regional communities must travel to capital cities in order to study. Genuine choice has a range of dimensions including the capacity to choose between programs based on cost, proximity of the location from which the course is offered and accessibility of alternative or competing course options. However, there is a range of other, what I call ‘social’ aspects of genuine choice. For example, the choice to live at or near home while studying, the choice to retain connections to communities and friends, including attending university with your friends, or the choice to undertake a program that reﬂects the student’s values and aspirations. Yes, performance funding will reward how well you deliver the programs and meet student needs, but the key driver for genuine student choice remains the availability, in regional Australia, of the course the student wants to study. The criteria for performance funding are likely to include participation and success of students from low socio-economic backgrounds as well as contribution to workforce needs. Universities providing education and research in regional locations are well positioned to achieve against both these criteria, particularly in the provision of a skilled workforce to regional communities. We have time and time again demonstrated that students who enrol for the full period of their degree in universities located in regional communities are invariably recruited and retained in regional locations in far higher proportions than those trained in other locations.

University Advancement

As an alumnus of Charles Sturt University and its predecessor colleges, you are part of a global social network. To allow greater connectivity, we’ve been working on a University Advancement Project. You’ll hear more about this over time. Keep in touch with us and let our alumni staff know how you’re progressing in life. I’m always fascinated at the diverse pathways our graduates have taken to secure interesting careers and ﬁnd their place in society. Your success underscores that having a Charles Sturt University degree in hand allows you to open many different doors to meaningful roles in society.

PETER WORSLEY VEHICLE FUNDRAISING EFFORT

Motts and Grott of 1989: Andrew O’Neill, Michelle Worsley, Susie Dowd (Hill), PeterbWorsley, Andrew Dowd, Duncan Sinclair, Stuart Osmotherly, James Vickers, Brian Spackman, Debbie Platts (Kull), Neil Lane, Brendon Kleineschafer, Peter O’Brien, Mathew Duff, Jason Southwell

Continued overleaf

A Message from Peter

†

To his great credit , Peter returned to study with the motts of 1989 , subsequently graduating , and serving with the NSW Ag Dept. at Orange. He is a familiar ﬁgure , piloting his tricycle about town. However this is individual transport only , and Peter has long harboured a desire to be fully independent with a motor vehicle capable of transporting his family.

In 1987 a young Mott known as “Sac” pulled on the green and gold jersey for the big game against Rivcoll. The injury he sustained prevented him from removing his own jumper that afternoon.Peters’ jumper was cut off, but the the colours stuck. The ‘”green and gold” has inﬂuenced his life to varying degrees since , even as he faced the enormous personal challenges set by his injury.

WACOBU would like to wish its members

Regarding our phone conversation this morning. Can you please convey my utmost thanks to the WAC old boys and those current Motts and Grotts who rattled buckets and harassed raceday patrons as they came into and left the turf club. I can not tell you how grateful I am that the WAC old boys and current WACers Raceday committee has offered to help offset the cost of my new vehicle. Without their assistance I would not have even considered purchasing a self drive car, the all up cost of just over $200k puts projects like this completely out of reach of the average bloke on the street. I don’t think anyone can really comprehend the difference this vehicle will make to mine and my families lives. Having to rely on someone to drive me is extremely limiting and frustrating. Being independently mobile again will be very liberating for my whole family. Thank you very much again. Peter, Michelle, Monique and Ella Worsley ( ofﬁce ph. 63913606, peter.worsley@industry.nsw.

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year 3

PETER WORSLEY VEHICLE FUNDRAISING EFFORT His close friends amongst the 1989 motts have relayed this to the OBU who have passed it on to the Ag Race Day Committee. Peter has in the past encouraged the Ag Race committee to lend support for other causes. Currently , however , the Ag Race Committee have renewed their focus on support for Peter in view of his vehicle “project” as he likes to call it. Old boys rallied at the gates of the MTC to rattle the buckets for additional support on race day , led by the WACOBU Committee and 1989 1st year. The total cost of Peters’ project is daunting , as the Chrysler Voyager requires ﬂoorpan rebuilding at approx. $80,000 , and highly specialised controls a further $80000. Overall his family vehicle will be at least 5 times the value of a regular family vehicle. Not surprisingly , Peter informs us insurance is difﬁcult. His Tamworth broker has the only acceptable offer at over $3000. Again about 5 times what many of us would pay on a conventional vehicle. As word has spread of the fundraising effort , requests have been made for direct credit details , as so many former students can’t make it to the race day , or would like to help out in a more substantial way .

WACOBU Newsletter Editor Graeme Worboys (1973) has volunteered to be the editor for the newsletter. Any old boys with news stories, photographs, upcoming events and reunion news are asked to contact Graeme. It is planned to have two issues each year – April and November. Graeme’s contact details are; Graeme Worboys PO Box 95, Cootamundra NSW 2590 Ph/fax: (02) 69 422 538 Mob: 0412 107 850 E-mail: gandsworboys@bigpond.com

Passing of Bill Gunther Ian Mashman (1959) passed on this note I read in the local paper today of Bill’s passing. (Age 77 years) He attended WAC circa 1952/54 but I may be wrong on those years. I only knew Bill casually, when he was a Stock & Station Agent in Millthorpe but in many ways he has been a colorful character throughout his life. He represented Australia as a Wallaby and played NSW country for many years I believe. He was well known in the livestock industry over many areas of NSW & Queensland. In 1998 he was involved in a serious road accident at Salt Ash (about 23 /24 December) and spent 18 months in & out of hospital, and never really fully recovered. He is survived by two daughters Julie & Ann Margaret. His funeral was held in Orange with burial in the Molong cemetery.

Please email Ros Prangnell ros.prangnell@industry.nsw.gov.au and put in subject line… I have transferred $X by EFT to WACOBU for eg, Sac Appeal A receipt can then be issued.

REUNION FOR WACOBU ‘66 September 2009

Graeme (Hock) did a great job in compiling the resumes on all of the 1964-66 class, which he provided to all. Apologies were received from Bob Barwell (Uralla, NSW), Geoff Bushby (Dubbo, NSW), Ray & Debbie Clarke (Carroll, NSW), Max and Carol Cook (Narrabri, NSW), Barry & Sandra Cunnington (Bilambil, NSW), John and Pam von Drehnen, Warrandyte, Victoria), Terry & Gail Ellis (Camden Head, NSW), Dick Gill (Tooma, NSW), Reg Hill (Ballarat, Victoria), Roger & Kerriean Hood (Parkes, NSW), Barry Hungerford (Casino, NSW), Ray Jeffrey (Balmain, NSW), Nick & Jill Knight (Sunnybank, Queensland and Launceston, Tasmania), Noel & Sharon Linder (Newport, NSW), Chris and Ann Lord (Evatt, ACT), Graeme & Gail Martin (Tenambit, NSW), Tony & Kathy Meares (Wymah via Albury, NSW), Colin and Jacquie Mew (Narrabri, NSW), Warwick & Carol Pickette (Ulamambri, NSW), Bruce & Vilma Rennard (Santiago, Chile), Charlie & Peta Smithwick (Albury, NSW), Graeme & Lorraine Thomson (Clair, NSW), David Thorold (Rabaul, PNG), Frank & Leah Watson (Queanbeyan, NSW), Stewart and Jay Weekes (Narraween, NSW), Murray & Jane Weir (Golden Beach, Queensland), Andrew Humphrey (Coonabarabran, NSW), Peter Meier (Pitt Town, NSW), and Stuart and Judy Whalan (Bateau Bay, NSW).

Over the Western Australian long weekend of Friday 25th September – Monday 28th, 2009, the year of the class of 196466 met at the Woodman Point Holiday Park, Munster, which is about 10 km south of the City of Fremantle to celebrate some 43 years since graduation or in other cases earlier departures. Included among the bunch were Bart & Pam Gannon (Oakville, NSW), Neville & Pam Semmler (Diamond Beach, NSW), Peter Pollock (Black Hill, NSW), Dick & Lenja Kobelke (Warriewood, NSW), David & Kaye Aldous (Ormiston, Queensland), Col and Roni Rathbone (Kiama, NSW), Richard & Jill Dutton (Mona Vale, NSW), Mick & Denise Duck (Collector, NSW), David Hazlett and friend Victoria (Bringelly, NSW), Gerry & Lynne Bolla (Wallarah, NSW), Barry & Ros Medway (Gunning, NSW), Ray & Christine Moir (Bateman, Western Australia), Neil Warner (Crawford River, NSW), Roger Clough (Leeton, NSW on his way to Mauritius), Geoff Cornell (Tallebudgera Valley, Queensland), Bill Gornall (Golden Beach, Queensland and Apia, Samoa), Greg Harris and Catherine Hawkins (Reid, ACT), Graeme & Philipa Hockey (Bayview, NT), Geoff and Vida Howe (Latham, ACT), Bruce and Beth Irvine (Wagga Wagga, NSW), Ross & Jenny Stockings (Gilgandra, NSW), and Roger Wee (Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia).

We salute the guys from Wagga who have since departed this earth; namely Peter Ferris, John Heckendorf, John Howard, Tony Pfahl, and Geoff Townsend, and we would really like to know the where-a-bouts of John Balfe and Col Maybury. The weekend started with happy hour and BBQ at the Woodman Point Holiday Park with a sausage sizzle in the same area. Saturday saw the group bus it from Woodman Point for a tour of the Perth coast, beaches, Swan River and Kings Park with lunch at Hilary’s Marina. Six-thirty pm on the same day came pre-dinner drinks and a great Reunion Dinner in the Galley Restaurant at the Fremantle Sailing Club dancing to the live music of Barry Gee until 11.00 pm. Sunday saw us on board the charter boat “Reef Affair” which left from East Jetty, Fremantle for a cruise and on-board lunch around the Swan River. Monday was a free day where some drove off to

On the road around Fremantle

REUNION FOR WACOBU ‘66 Margaret River to enjoy the wineries, others to see the sites of Freemantle, and still others off to Northam to lock in for their hot-air balloon ride on the Tuesday morning. Many thanks to Ray and Christine Moir and Dick and Lenja for organising the meals, drinks, accommodation, and atmosphere and generally opening up Fremantle for us, and to Geoff Howe for offering his ballooning experience Plans are well advanced for the next reunion at Ross and Jenny Stockings in 2012 with Ross being the main contact on rsj2827@hotmail.com or Kerrie@kerriephipps.com). So if there are other ‘66 (staff and students) out there get in touch and plan ahead for 2012. P.S. March 21-22 at Narooma with 49 booked now makes this the largest gathering so far ?

Bill, Ross and Marilyn Monroe

One historic picture – the return of Marilyn – Saturday 26th September, 2009

‘66 September 2009

Dancing partners Gerry and Graeme

THE SCHOOL OF AGRICULTURAL AND WINE SCIENCES

Our proud Thehistory... School of Agricultural and Wine Sciences … our proud history 1892 Wagga Experimental Farm

1896 First students 1947 Wagga Teachers College

1949 Wagga Agricultural College

1970 School of Applied Science Riverina College of Advanced Education

1970 Wagga Agricultural College (CAE)

School of Science & Technology

1976 Riverina College of Advanced Education

School of Agriculture

School of Science & Technology

1986 Riverina-Murray Institute of Higher Education

School of Agriculture

1989 Charles Sturt University

School of Agriculture

School of Wine & Food Science

Charles Sturt University

School of Agriculture

School of Wine & Food Science

Charles Sturt University

2005, School of Agricultural & Veterinary Sciences

School of Science & Technology

1973 Orange Agricultural College

1989 Orange Agricultural College, University of New England

1994 Orange Agricultural College, University of Sydney

2000 Faculty of Rural Management, University of Sydney

2008 School of Animal & Veterinary Sciences

2005 School of Rural Management, Charles Sturt University

2008 School of Agricultural & Wine Sciences, Charles Sturt University Wagga Wagga & Orange

2009 WACOBU SCHOLARSHIP Fourth year Veterinary Science student Tristan Robinson was selected from a field of fourty applicants for the 2009 OBU Scholarship. James Brady and Sean Roberts conducted the final interviews after our Committee reduced the list to 5. The lifetime achievements of all applicants leaves the reviewers full of praise for the current generation of students. Coming from a farm at Benalla, Tristan has made a valued contribution to student life on campus, having served as President of the Veterinary Students Association this year. The VSA join with the Ag Club to host an annual Winter Dinner, and are closely affiliated at other events. Tristan was pleased to receive the scholarship “Thank you for your organisations’ generosity in offering such a scholarship to students. “Scholarships have definitely eased the financial strain faced by many students studying at university such as myself. “It has been a busy year for me, and I am happy with the way things are going, balancing work , play and study. “There have been plenty of events to organise, but I have managed to designate enough time to my studies to achieve some pleasing results,” said Tristan.

Stuart Kanaley with Tristan Robinson, 2009 WACOBU Scholarship recipient

The scholarship is only possible with the continued and valued support of individuals and year groups.

1970 Year Reunion

It represents a legacy linking former students with those currently studying and experiencing ﬁnancial hardship. Each year group gathering for a special reunion could consider directing some funds toward the scholarship for that year.

The Wagga Ag College 1970 graduates have a reunion every two years, and they just get bigger and better.

The scholarship can only become a permanent feature when sufﬁcient funds have been pooled.

23 graduates and most of their wives spent four days in March on the coast catching up.

A further goal is to provide for additional scholarships when funds allow.

In earlier years, we used to meet, drink, and kick a football around, but lately we have been more sedate. After touring Mogo Zoo on Friday, we went to the craft shops at Central Tilba on Saturday morning, and lunched at the beautiful gardens in Central Tilba, before stopping at a dairy farm in the afternoon (we just can’t get away from those cows!) Sunday evening we met again for dinner, and a sing-along. Aggies with fertile imaginations offered prizes for golf and ﬁshing trophies -- I can’t devulge any more on that subject without getting into trouble. On Monday, those of us heading south met at Wilton’s farm for lunch and we already look forward to meeting in 2011, at Murwillumbah, NSW Ann Herbert

1971–73 REUNION

1971-73 Old Boys on their guided tour of their old digs at CSU on Sunday October 18. Back (l-r): Ian Baird, John Burbidge, Don Burbidge, Stewart Thomson, Chris McGee, John McClure, Eugene Maloney, Graeme Worboys, Alan McGufﬁcke, Ian Braithwaite, Front (l-r): Steve Macdonald, Geoff Spence The 1971 - 1973 Old Boys, the ﬁnal year of graduates listed on the Wagga Agricultural College graduation board in the Sutherland Laboratories Building, held a reunion in Wagga to coincide with the Ag College Raceday on October 17 and 18.

The group appreciated the help of WACOBU President Stuart Kanaley in coordinating our race day activities and John Kent and Julie Clements from CSU School of Agricultural and Wine Sciences in organising Sunday’s brunch and guided tour.

Old Boys and their partners enjoyed a day at the races followed by dinner at the Wagga RSL Club.

John gave a run down on the current set up at CSU and stressed the importance of WAC in the history of the university.

‘‘71-73 On Sunday a brunch and tour of their old digs at WAC and a taste of the CSU Winery was enjoyed.

The group also gave a generous donation to the Peter Worsley appeal, organised by WACOBU.

12 Old Boys attended, with 8 apologies and it was a good opportunity for everyone to catch up and discuss the good times at WAC and beyond.

Those old boys who attended were: Ian Baird, Ian Braithwaite, Don Burbidge, John Burbidge, Steve Macdonald, John McClure, Chis McGee, Alan McGufﬁcke, Eugene Maloney, Geoff Spence, Stewart Thomson and Graeme Worboys.

The wives and partners also had a great chin wag and even participated in the Fashions on the Field competition at the races!

The group is planning to hold a 40th get together in 2013. EGO YAH!

With some memorabilia on display, the Kulpana magazine and a CD and DVD produced of our days at WAC, good memories ﬂooded back from their time at the college, that ﬁnished 36 years ago.

Graeme Worboys

AG COLLEGE RACEDAY — A HUGE SUCCESS

A rose amongst the thorns! Barb MacTaggart joined fellow ex-WAC Old Boys from the late 1970’s Neil Schirmer, Peter Draper, Bill Marshall, Andrew Winterﬂood, Rob Willis, Tony Paton, Kevin Melmeth, Col Plater, Alan Henley, John Shuter at the races. October 17 attracted almost 6000 people to the Wagga racecourse for Ag College Raceday and the large crowd enjoyed the racing and other attractions on Caulﬁeld Cup day. The day has become the MTC’s second biggest annual event behind the Wagga Gold Cup.

The WACOBU had a successful charity fundraiser for Peter Worsley with over $10,000 raised to help the cost of improving Pete’s independence. Thank you to everyone who contributed to this important fundraiser!

Christine Williams, MTC CEO, said the day was an outstanding success with the large crowd enjoying their day out at the Wagga racecourse.

The 1971-73 Old Boys and their partners had a reunion and Spud Paton and Col Plater organised a group from their era, joining in with plenty of other old boys from other years in enjoying the day.

For many ex-WAC students and current CSU students it was a chance to catch up with mates and enjoy a social day at the races.

The Ag College Race Day Committee deserves our congratulations for their hard work in forging a strong partnership with the MTC to put on this day each year.

All race-goers donned their best attire and joined in to make it a fun day at the races.

Lets hope this partnership continues in the future.

Fashions on the Field was also a very popular event.

Attending the races with their 1971-73 Old Boys husbands were Sandra Worboys, Colleen Braithwaite, Elizabeth McGufﬁcke and Barbara Burbidge.

Mark down Caulﬁeld Cup day 2010 in your calendar for Ag College Raceday at the MTC.

WACOBU President Stuart Kanaley with Mark Harris at the races

WAC 1974 REUNION REPORT

Tranquil Vale, Hunter Valley 15 and 16th August,2009.

Jock Munro and his trusty bagpipes

Back Row: Allan Sylvester, Jim Ross, Denis Greensill, Trevor Newman, Jack Murray ,Marion Kudrinsky. Middle Row: Jock Munro, Geoff Pierce, Steve Gell, Tony Grant, Bill Speirs, Helen Riek, Michele Gairn, Peter Matus, Bill Mahon, Will Goldﬁnch. Front Row: Mark Yelland, Norm Clark, Janet Caldow (Anthony), Bill Cowell, Michael Oakes (Dookie), Tony Voller. Steve and Jenny Gell hosted a most enjoyable reunion for 1974 graduates in the Hunter Valley,

on DVD by Trevor Newman. (We were clearly reminded of the dastardly fashionable long hair in vogue at the time!).

using their cellar door and accommodation facility ‘Tranquil Vale’ at Lochinvar via Maitland as a base.

This was a truly wonderful weekend where 25 members of our year and their partners came together and once more enjoyed each other’s company and fellowship and we experienced the same closeness that was apparent and well recognised during our wonderful years at Wagga Ag College.

Blessed with perfect weather on the Saturday morning we bussed to Tinklers Winery at Pokolbin for wine tasting and an informative talk on the Hunter wine industry by owner Ian Tinkler, a Hawkesbury old boy and of ‘74 vintage like ourselves.

‘74

This was followed by a delicious luncheon at ‘Tatler’s, Pokolbin in extremely pleasant surrounds where we continued to ‘catch up’ and reminisce.

A brilliant day was capped with a memorable dinner at ‘Maddies’ in East Maitland with much laughter and story telling. The ‘skirl’ of the bagpipes was heard once more as the evening drew to a close. On Sunday morning, amidst beautiful surrounds and more glorious weather, Steve and Jenny hosted a farewell brunch and we also viewed photos of our college days, put together

It was pleasing to see a 100 per cent ‘roll up’ of the ladies who graduated from our year; Janet Caldow(Anthony),Michele Gairn, Merrilee Gemmel(Morris) and Helen Riek. These four ladies hold a special place in the history of the college as they were the inaugural female graduates. Steve and Jenny proved to be the perfect hosts and our thanks go to them for making their facilities available and organising such a wonderful program. Until we meet again in 2014. Jock Munro.

AG RUGBY

Wagga Ag College First Grade Premiers 2009 Wagga Ag College brought Wagga Waratahs 34 match undefeated run to a screeching halt when they took out the Southern Inland Rugby Union Grand Final 27-24 at Conolly Rugby Complex, Wagga. In another thrilling decider a penalty goal to Ag College fullback Shahid Khafan with two minutes remaining gave Aggies their second Premiership in three years and ended a golden run for the undefeated Minor Premiers Waratahs, who will have nightmares about the second half of what was an absolutely sensational Grand Final decider. For the fourth year in a row the Grand Final winner only emerged within the ﬁnal three minutes of the game and it was a contest that had spectators with their hearts in their mouths as both teams provided a memorable ﬁnale to the SIRU season.

Photos Courtesy Of Wagga Daily Advertiser

Waratahs led 10-7 at half time and when they extended their leading margin to 10 points after only four minutes of the second half it looked as though the Ag. College dream may have ended and Waratahs would put their opposition to sleep as they had done on a regular basis throughout the season. However Ag College fought back superbly and in fact with 10 minutes remaining in the Grand Final they were calling the shots as both teams were locked at 17 all and territorially and possession wise it was all Ag. College - who looked to have the raging hot favourites on their knees. Ag College coach Mick Friend could only shower praise on his troops after a memorable ﬁghtback and last minute win. “This is about the most unreal feeling I have ever had and the players were sensational today.

Rhys Duncan – Captain of the WAC First Grade XV with the 2009 Southern Inland Rugby Premiership trophy after the team’s stunning win over the previously undefeated Wagga Waratahs.

“Each and everyone of them showed incredible character on the big stage today but behind it all we had this huge self belief in ourselves that we could pull it off.

“It was obviously a very intense Grand Final today but we went on the ﬁeld with an aggressive attitude and a never say die committment to each other”.

“Our last six weeks of the season have been very successful and even our loss to Waratahs in Week 1 of the Finals taught us a lot of lessons about ourselves and how well we had to play for the rest of the Finals series to take out the Premiership.”. “At half time we knew we had a big chance of knocking them off because we had the wind at our backs and we knew that they would run it at us for the next 40 minutes”.

“It will probably take a few days to sink in that we have won the Premiership but the smiles on everyone’s faces keeps telling me that it is not a dream and the Premiership is ours,” said Mick Friend.

“Whilst we were ready for their running game we still had our tactics in place when they (Waratahs) decided to use the boot in the second half instead of their running legs”.

Wagga Waratahs coach Richard Skellern was understandably devastated with the ﬁnal outcome but praised both Ag. College and his team for their efforts.

“I must admit I was heart broken for the players when Waratahs scored their last converted try with four minutes remaining but we still had a lot more to give and maybe Waratahs underestimated the Ag College spirit which was alive and kicking for the entire 80 minutes today”.

“Ag College were more hungrier than us today and we didn’t ﬁnish off a lot of our plays. “They stuck it to us for the full 80 minutes which no side has been able to do this year.

AG RUGBY The conversion from the side line by fullback Shahid Khalfan gave his team an early 7-0 lead but 10 minutes later Waratah’s centre Scott Hannaford levelled the scores after he ﬁnished off a counter attacking raid featuring winger Xavier Chigwidden and winger Matt Joseph. A penalty goal to Waratah’s breakaway Ian Croft in the 30th minute gave his side a 10-7 lead and they held that advantage until half time. At the break Skellern told his players to run the ball back at Ag. College every time they kicked to them whilst Friend urged his players to leave nothing in reserve and play out the ﬁnal 40 minutes to the end.

“I was disappointed with our second half performance because we went away from our game plan. “The plan was to run it at them for the final 40 minutes but we kicked away too much possession and Ag College kept pinning us in our territory with their return kicks. “Our discipline in the last half also let us down and we just gave away too many easy metres as the penalties against us mounted. “The players deserved better today but we have had a great couple of seasons and they should be extremely proud of their efforts,” said Skellern. Ag College drew first blood in the Grand Final when their hooker Stu Geard plunged over out wide in the seventh minute after the Ag College forward pack flexed their muscles near the Waratah’s try line.

After half time Khalfan missed a penalty attempt in the 44th minute to level the scores but two minutes later Waratah’s centre Ryan Moseby put Ag. College on their back sides with a beautiful try after fullback Pat Barrett and winger Matt Joseph combined to leave the Ag. College defence out wide at sixes and sevens. The conversion by Croft gave Waratahs some much needed breathing space but from that moment right through to their last try in the 76th minute Ag. College took control of the 2009 decider. Although Ag College didn’t score their next points until the 53rd minute they had Waratahs under constant pressure as their kicking game and forward dominance began to frustrate the Minor Premiers. Ag. College ﬁve eight Dan Maloney put his team within 3 points of the lead when he dashed under the posts from 15 metres out as the Waratah’s defence stood off him as he ran.

AG RUGBY Waratahs won the scrum but they spilt the ball out wide and Ag College gleefully kicked the ball into touch and mad celebrations began to take place on the field as Aggies Supporters sprinted onto the field to celebrate with their heroes. Ag. College thoroughly deserved their victory because they kept their composure when it mattered whereas the Waratah’s machine spluttered when the pressure was applied. Best for Ag.College were Shahid Khalfan at fullback who was awarded the Rivcoll Old Boy’s Medal for the best player on the ground, half back Peter Armstrong who controlled the game beautifully at the rucks and mauls and breakaway James Whitely who from the first minute until the 80th minute was superb with his aggressive tackling and hard work at the breakdowns. Ag. College five eighth Dan Maloney also deserves special mention for his clever kicking game and his solo try which sparked his team’s comeback.

A penalty goal to Khalfan in the 60 th minute levelled the scores at 17 all and it was a matter of spectators at the Ground fastening their seat belts for an engrossing ﬁnal 20 minutes.

WAC win SIRU 3rd Grade Premiership

Ag College in that period dominated the game as Waratahs struggled to get out of their territory with some poor kicking options and elementary knock ons when they had possession. Ag College on the other hand were more composed and as the minutes ticked away they looked certain to be the next team to score.

The 3rd XV won the SIRU 3rd Grade Premiership in dramatic fashion, winning in extra time 12-10 over arch rivals Rivcoll. Actually, the win was very reminiscent of the 1st grade win over the Reddies in 2007.

A lineout win against the throw with ﬁve minutes to go however was the catalyst for Waratahs to make their move and with Joseph again dominant out wide it was eventually replacement forward Hugh Palmer who plunged over near the posts off an inside ball from Chigwidden close to the line which gave them a 24-17 lead and they(Waratahs) looked to have ended the Ag College fairy tale.

After one try each in normal time, WAC scored a converted try in extra time for a 12 – 5 lead only to see Rivcoll come back for a late try which they failed to convert, giving the Aggies a two point win. The win was all the sweeter as the Ag boys were generally a younger inexperienced outﬁt helped by a sprinkling of glory seeking Old Boys

Almost immediately with the minutes ticking away Ag. College took a free kick on half way and with the ball spread wide Khalfan loomed up to take a ball at his ankles before sending an inside ball to an unmarked Ag College centre Joe Reynolds who burst over from 15 metres out to give his side one last shot at a memorable victory.

including Daniel ‘Boof’ Charters, Jason ‘Stook’ Tighe, Jon Medway, Nathan ‘Bum’ Reynolds, who made brief cameo appearances as replicas of their former selves!

With the scores locked at 24 all extra time was looming but a penalty against Waratahs for interfering with Khalfan on a return kick gave the best on ground hero one last chance for victory which he took in his stride with a penalty goal from 30 metres out and 10 metres to the side of the posts.

The Reddies had a team boasting more experience and ﬁrepower, including Mel Tui and former Fijian rep. Joe Tora, who played at Grifﬁth, Temora and Rivcoll as a paid player and busted through many young Aggies over the past 18 years.

Waratahs had about 30 seconds left to conjure up a late try from the kick off and they were actually awarded a penalty for offside play about 40 metres out from the Ag College posts but they surprisingly declined the opportunity for a Penalty shot at Goal and chose the scrum option 20 metres out from the Ag. College try line instead.

However that famous WAC spirit was evident on the ﬁeld once again and the Thirsty Thirds came home with the silverware. Congratulations!!

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WACOBU News Newsletter from the Wagga Agricultural College Old Boys Union JUNE 2010

John Harper - wins Pride of Australia medal See page 3

HAVING A LAUGH: pictured are Scott Cam, John Harper and country music singer James Blundell Photo courtesy of Cootamundra Herald

WACOBU newsletters: http://news.csu.edu.au/alumni/director/publications/wacobu_newsletter.cfm

WAC Rugby - www.agrugby.rugbynet.com.

WACOBU COMMITTEE PRESIDENT Stuart Kanaley (‘ 79–‘82) Tel: 069242400 margstu@aussieb.com.au VICE PRESIDENT Warwick Nightingale (‘ 92–‘ 94) Tel: 0458 273 188 wnightingale@deltaagribusiness.com.au SECRETARY James Brady (‘94–‘ 97) Tel. 69245287 jamesbrady@seedforce.com

MESSAGE FROM THE EDITOR In this newsletter there are articles and news that reﬂect the strong traditions of Wagga Agricultural College, the tremendous achievements of many Old Boys, the bonds of friendship that exist between former students and and the importance of rugby and sport in general to the College. For many Old Boys, their achievements in life are great but John Harper (better known as China) from the class of 1974, has received some well deserved recognition for his outstanding work in his “Mate helping Mate” program. The program which helps people recognise and deal with depression in the farming community came from China’s personal experiences in dealing with the prolonged drought on his farm.

TREASURER Ros Prangnell (‘ 75–’ 77) Tel. 69331260 ros.prangnell@dpi.nsw.gov.au

John took the view that he could help others in his own community deal with depression as farmers struggled to cope with the drought and the impact and toll it took on individual farmers, their families and whole rural communities.

COMMITTEE MEMBERS Ben Granger (‘ 92–‘ 94) bengrang@bigpond.net.au

Starting out helping others in his own community of Stockinbingal, John’s initiative has grown to cover many rural communities with “China” travelling to towns all over the country to spread the word that depression could be overcome with the help of others in the community.

Chris Slinger (‘ 78–‘ 81) Tel. 69241559 chris.slinger@bigpond.com Craig Cowell (‘ 92–’ 94) craig.cowell@bigpond.com Craig Whiting (‘ 92–‘ 94) Tel. 0427 755323 whitings4@dodo.com.au Deb Slinger (‘ 79–‘ 81) Tel. 69241559 / 0427 026207 deb.slinger@dpi.nsw.gov.au

John’s style of presentation at these meetings has been a major reason for the success of the program. Talking in ‘farmer’s’ language has been a key reason for the huge interest in the program. Congratulations John on your tremendous contribution to helping many farmers and other people in rural communities overcome depression or better cope with this disease. John has created a network of people that are now helping others in the wider community. Networking is one great strength of WACOBU that should be used to advantage by Old Boys.

Jeff Angel (‘ 95–’ 97) Jeff.Angel@elders.com.au

Our Old Boys network needs to remain strong and be used to help and provide support and information for both ex-students and current students.

John Mahon (‘ 59–‘ 61) Tel. 69221208 / 0428 694089 jmahon@wagga.net.au

This network can be used in many ways and ex-students are urged to keep in contact with WACOBU and the School of Agricultural and Wine Sciences (SAWS) to keep networking alive within our great community.

Ross Henley (‘ 79–’ 82) Tel. 69331222 ross@riverina.coop

John’s motto – mate helping mate should also apply to WACOBU.

Sean Roberts (‘ 91–‘ 93) Tel. 0428 264876 sean.roberts@syngenta.com

Editor

Graeme Worboys

Ted Wolfe Tel. 69224347 TWolfe@csu.edu.au

Photo courtesy of Cootamundra Herald

JOHN HARPER WINS PRIDE OF AUSTRALIA MEDAL

IN JOHN’S HONOUR: pictured at the filming of Random Acts of Kindness which celebrates the dedicated work done by John Harper were, the Harper clan with host of the show Scott Cam, from left are, Jane Murphy, Michelle Harper, John Harper, Scott Cam, Lauren Harper and Carly Harper. and John was stunned when Scott Cam arrived at his property with a camera crew. Always humble, when he arrived at the Stockinbingal Recreation Ground in front of a crowd of 300 friends, family and fellow community members that he was one of them. “The reason I do any of this is because of you,” he said. John’s story is not a short-lived one. While best known for his creation of the ‘Mate helping Mate’ program which served to ensure farmers were remaining social and not sinking into depression that no-one could blame them for given the agricultural climate of late, his kind-hearted, generous nature is well known. John’s ‘Mate helping Mate’ program was established after he was diagnosed with depression, following successive years of drought and failed crops. Never taking much notice of his own mental health, John once told people close to him he was shocked to find out he may be depressed, not ever thinking it may be the case. This spurred him into action, recruiting a number of local farmers to join him in fun, social activities. The program went from strength to strength with St Vincent De Paul eventually picking up the concept and creating a DVD to help farmers near and far. The national television show gave national exposure to the ‘Mate helping Mate’ concept and encouraged other regional towns to pick it up. Country singer James Blundell provided entertainment on the day, telling the crowd he had met John previously and the ideas John spoke about made a lot of sense. The final surprise of the day was a brand new SS Commodore ute for John. Mr Cam said he knew how many kilometres John travelled and now he could travel in style. John Harper – ‘China’ – congratulations from WACOBU !!

Wagga Ag College Old Boy and Stockinbingal farmer John Harper (‘China’) collected the Pride of Australia medal for Community Spirit following his successful ‘Mate helping Mate’ initiative, which has been a great success in assisting farmers overcome depression. The Pride of Australia Medal aims to honour everyday Australians, the unsung heroes in our communities making extraordinary contributions to the Australian way of life and not always getting the acknowledgment they deserve. John visits rural towns, getting troubled farmers together to talk over their problems and has made a real difference to the lives of many people with this unique method of dealing with a serious problem. John is an Old Boy of Wagga Agricultural College and has farmed at Stockinbingal for some time. He also operates a school bus run, often using this vehicle to collect farmers and take them to meetings. There is a free Mate helping Mate DVD available, which gives viewers an insight into how the program came about and its beneﬁts to farmers, their families and the rural community in general. John was further honoured on the television program ‘Random Acts of Kindness’ for his inspirational work helping fellow farmers through the drought. Almost the whole of Stockinbingal turned out at the local recreation ground to pay tribute to John and thank him for his work in the community. The village has a population of 244 and host of the program Scott Cam said it was amazing to ﬁnd someone with the strength and heart of John, known affectionately by the Stock community as ‘China’. John had no idea he was to be honoured by the television show and his wife Michelle and daughters kept the big secret

OBITUARIES IMPORTANT CHANGES FOR WACOBU

Passing of Alan L Douglas

After a short but brave struggle with cancer, Alan passed away 17th September, 2009, aged 72. He attended WAC circa 1953-56 and was a member of the premiership winning 2nd XV, 1956.

NEW CSU On-Line Alumni Community

Alan was educated in Canberra, prior to attending Wagga. Following his graduation he settled on a cattle/sheep property outside of Benambra, Victoria, where he and Eileen raised their family.

CSU has announced a reform of the way it interacts with its alumni.

He became well known as a district luminary whilst running the local Post Ofﬁce and was fully committed to assisting the South East Gippsland community. As such he was appointed a JP and served on the Country Fire Authority. He was made a life member of the CFA in recognition of his dedicated services. Similarly he was also awarded the Commonwealth Ambulance Service Medal at the Australia Day presentation in 2002.

It brings a major change with the closure of the former Alumni ofﬁce in Bathurst, to be replaced by a University Advancement Unit. There is a Faculty based approach. The Faculty of Science has appointed a Faculty Advancement Ofﬁcer, Debbie Thackray, who happens to be located on the Wagga Wagga campus.

The respect and appreciation of Alan’s community services, was fully acknowledged at his funeral in the Benambra township. I was honoured to represent the 56’ers at the event.

As part of this development a considerable sum of money has been invested in implementing new software to interface with past students.

He is survived by his wife Eileen, sons John, Peter, daughter Wendy and grandchildren Sally, Jake, Ben, Emily, Alexandra and Hamish.

WACOBU has been assured this will be a positive step in communication and interaction between CSU, Old Boys and WACOBU. We look forward to seeing these innovations as they mature.

We shall all miss the characteristic quick wit and endless sense of humour at our regular re-unions which largely reﬂected the make up of the man we all knew as SHOLTO .

You are invited to register with on-line Alumni Community and report back to us on your experiences.

Passing of Ian Fuller (Butch)

We are yet to learn how we adapt the site for our purposes You will hear much more of this, both from WACOBU and CSU, as the University Advancement Unit settles in.

Ian Fuller arrived at WAC from Shore in 1954 with an outstanding reputation as a sprinter and rugby player which he added to during his time at college. Known to everyone as Butch, he participated in many aspects of College life, and was a winger in the ﬁrst WAC team to win the district rugby premiership in 1955. He was a successful in the College athletics championships and was a member of the relay team carrying the torch to Melbourne for the 1956 Olympics.

WACOBU Financial Membership One of the changes involves CSU deleting its Gold Alumni membership categories, recognising all its alumni equally without the membership contribution formerly required.

However it is as a person he is best remembered by his college contemporaries. Possessed with an outgoing and strong personality, he was generous in his friendships, and had a great love of the land.

WACOBU linked its membership to the Alumni Gold membership package. As these have been suspended, NEW life memberships with WACOBU are also suspended whilst the committee reviews the situation.

After graduating in 1956 Butch returned to the family property at Wellington which he ran successfully for many years.

Monies will now also go through our Treasurer, rather than the Bathurst ofﬁce.

He was happily married to Suzanne and Butch was in a good space generally until Suzanne was involved in a tragic car accident from which she never recovered.

Cheque or EFT with internet banking will be the payment options as WACOBU does not have credit card facilities.

In his later life he was very happily partnered by Wendy, who is well and affectionately known to Butch’s wide circle of friends.

Internet banking details are shown separately to the relevant forms.

In retirement they bought a riverside house near Wyong, where they lived until shortly before Butch passed away early in May. His funeral was attended by a number of his college friends, who presented a green and gold wreath on behalf of the Class of 56.

Honour for Ted Wolfe

Ted Wolfe - Ted is on the left, standing with with guest speakers Alexandra Gartmann (CEO Birchip Cropping Group) and Lloyd Kingham (NSW I&I) at a conference called A Dry Argument held at CSU. Behind the 3 people is one of the beautiful trees located in the Wagga Ag College precinct. Emeritus Professor Edwin Charles (Ted) Wolfe has just been awarded through the Australian Institute of Agricultural Science and Technology “The Australian Medal of Agricultural Science”.

WACOBU Newsletter Editor

The Australian Medal of Agricultural Science is awarded in recognition of outstanding achievement by persons who, in the opinion of the Board, have made outstanding, speciﬁc contributions to the advancement of agriculture and natural resource management.

Graeme Worboys (1973) is the editor for the newsletter. Any old boys with news stories, photographs, upcoming events and reunion news are asked to contact Graeme. It is planned to have two issues each year.

As research scientist, research manager and educator, Ted Wolfe has had a lifetime commitment to Australian agriculture and pasture science.

Graeme’s contact details are; Graeme Worboys PO Box 95, Cootamundra NSW 2590 Ph/fax: (02) 69 422 538 Mob: 0407 060 890 E-mail: gandsworboys@bigpond.com

A genuine `all-rounder �, Ted has made great and remarkably diverse contributions in agronomy, animal health, pasture ecology, plant breeding, pasture improvement and pasture/crop interactions. Based always in rural Australia, Ted Wolfe has focussed strongly on practical problems, resulting in rapid uptake of his ﬁndings by primary producers. Congratulations to Ted on this well deserved and outstanding achievement.

COTTON INDUSTRY AWARDS 2009 Australian Cotton Industry Awards 2009 Monsanto Grower of the Year Winner: Andrew Pursehouse The 2009 Australian Cotton Industry Awards, held in August at Narrabri, showcased and rewarded the significant achievements made by the cotton industry’s growers, researchers, young achievers, and other key individuals. Despite the ongoing drought conditions in several regions, the overall mood of the Awards was positive, and dinner provided ample opportunity for growers, industry supporters, researchers to mingle throughout the night. Monsanto has sponsored the awards for the last four years, it is an occasion for people to come together to acknowledge the positive contribution that all Awards nominees have made to the cotton industry and the communities in which they live. The deserving winner of the 2009 Monsanto Cotton Grower of the Year Award, was Andrew Pursehouse. Andrew Pursehouse considers cotton the most exciting and profitable crop to grow on his property Breeza Station, and he believes that the “high risk and high reward” crop is well worth the challenge. Andrew rotates cotton with grain crops, and a typical summer sequence on the irrigation land is two thirds cotton and one third corn. To maximise crop quality, Andrew maintains a high attention to detail to ensure quality issues are addressed, and uses an intensive agronomic service on Breeza Station that provides regular checks and records of each field and collates paddock histories. Due to a reduction in groundwater allocations, Andrew has implemented a range of water use efficiency practices on Breeza Station including laser levelling on irrigation and dryland crop areas, long fallowing, and implementing no-till and controlled traffic practices. He has also undertaken various soil improvement measures, and fenced off riparian and native vegetation areas. Andrew is proud to be part of an industry that is implementing best management practices, and has worked with the team at Breeza Station to achieve BMP accreditation. By being aware of BMP procedures and requirements, Andrew has implemented a variety of changes on the farm including pest management and farm safety measures. Andrew is actively involved in the cotton community as President of the Breeza Progress Association, a member of the Upper Namoi Cotton Growers’ Association and was President of the Upper Namoi Water Users’ Association. He has been involved in the NSW groundwater reallocation process and is committed to the ongoing success of the irrigation industry. Andrew has also participated in Cotton Seed Distributors’ dryland variety trials and is a contributor with researchers from the Myall Vale Research Station. Andrew believes that Australian cotton is some of the highest quality cotton in the world, and through research, investment and the work of committed growers, the industry will continue to improve in the years to come.

Congratulations to Andrew and Cindy Pursehouse of “Breeza Station” who have won the annual Upper Namoi Cotton Grower of the year competi tion. The crop entered was a 50ha field of Sicot 71BR, planted on the 12th October. Andrew’s current crop is 100% Bollgard II, with about a 50-50 mix of Roundup Ready Flex to Roundup Ready cotton. Andrew’s crop had 3 in crop irrigations with some good falls of rain to back it up. The irrigation deficit was 65mm for the initial irrigation and subsequent irrigations at 85mm based on neutron probe readings. With the good early rainfall to get the crop away, the intense heat over January into February, coupled with low insect pressures, led to very high fruit retention and good boll counts, which has helped the crop push through to defoliation earlier than in previous seasons. The crop had no pre plant residual herbicides, with a roundup application pre sowing. The Roundup Ready cotton had a roundup ready herbicide application over the top at the four true leaf stage. This was followed by a shielded spray and minimal chipping for some flea bane. The Roundup Ready Flex va- rieties had three applications of Roundup Ready herbicide at varying stages with the last over the top application at 16 nodes. The average plant stand across Andrew’s crop was 11.5 plants per metre. The majority of nitrogen was pre applied up front, with a side dress and some water run urea to top up a couple of fields. Most of the crop was long fallowed out of wheat into cotton. As far as insects were concerned, a mite spray in early January of Pegasus and organophosphate application at the end of the season for green veggie bugs was all that was applied. At this stage the crop has had its first pass defoliation, using a Dropp liquid and Finish mix, with picking expected to commence early to mid April. Many WAC old boys have been prominent in the cotton/ irrigation scene who have made noteable contributions like Hugh (Dutch) Holland, Bill Cowell, Neil Sowerby, Jack Murray,the Tandou boys Smith and Taylor and Glenn Whittaker (79 – 81) who has been Chair of Macquarie Food and Fibre, as well as being a prominent consultant and grower at Warren.

WAGGA AG COLLEGE CELEBRATES 60 YEARS OF SPORT

GOOD FRIENDS: (from left) James Madden, Ross Henley, Mardi Henley, Jillian McCormick and Rob McCormick enjoy the night during the Aggies Ball at the Wagga RSL Club.

Celebrations on Beres Ellwood Oval

competition with an emphatic 54-0 win over an opposition that never stopped trying.

Wagga Ag College celebrated 60 years of sport on May 22 with a special day of rugby at Beres Ellwood Oval and a black tie dinner at the Wagga RSL Club that attracted over 350 guests.

The defending premiers played an exciting brand of rugby and scored eight tries with their ace goal kicker full-back Shahid Khalfan showing why he is the best in the business, kicking seven conversions.

Ag College played traditional arch rival Rivcoll in three grades on their home turf, named after ex-student and former Wallaby Beres Ellwood.

The Second XV also displayed ﬁne attacking skills in their 33-7 win. In a high standard game, their tries featured many phases of play and a real team effort.

A large crowd containing many old boys and their families attended the rugby and were not disappointed by the display of spirit shown by the players currently representing Ag College Rugby.

Third grade also had a good win, 26-5 and to show the depth of talent in Ag College Rugby a fourth grade match against Wagga Waratahs resulted in a comfortable win.

It was also pleasing to see strong support from a hard working committee headed by Nick McCarthy and an enthusiastic committee.

A great set of results for club! Good luck for the rest of the season.

The current players did not let their supporters down by winning the three games in ﬁne fashion against the “Reddies”. The First XV showed they will once again be a force in the

The WAC Old Boys also played a match against RIvcoll, with former players showing they had lost some of their speed but not their skill and spirit with a strong effort.

WAGGA AG COLLEGE CELEBRATES 60 YEARS OF SPORT

ROSE AMONG THORNS: Aggies Ball committee members (from left) Ben Woodhouse, Chris Stott, Cameron Rosser, Helen Woodhouse, Nick McCarthy, Robbie Harris and Peter Armstrong at the RSL club on Saturday night. Photo by Addison Hamilton

1965 WAC Reunion

Wagga RSL CLub At the Wagga RSL Club over 350 people enjoyed an evening of reminiscing and fellowship in celebrating 60 years of sport at Ag College. Special guest was former Wallaby prop Tony Daly. Old Boys Graeme Worboys (1970’s), Tim Condon (1980’s) Greg Condon (1990’s) and Dan Charters (2000’s) spoke of their time at Ag College and the importance of Ag College rugby to them and their team mates. The values of mateship, team spirit and playing an exciting brand of rugby have always been the hallmarks of Ag College rugby – and these values are still shown by current teams. The importance of the rugby club in ensuring the name Wagga Ag College does not disappear from the history books was also stressed. A special auction of 15 Ag College Rugby jumpers, a fully signed 2010 ACT Brumbies jumper and a fully signed 2009 Wallaby jumper helped raise funds for WAC Rugby. The success and development of women’s sport in the College’s history was also not forgotten and at present a very successful netball club operates with excellent player numbers. Congratulations to the organisers of the dinner - it was an outstanding success with many old boys enjoying catching up with former team mates over a few ales toasting the special memories of playing rugby for Ag College.

Ted Wolfe has advised of a reunion of the 1965 WAC graduates. Ted met with Allan and Lee Hartwig, who are organising the reunion to be held on the weekend of November 6 and 7 this year. Allan and Lee are anticipating a group of about 50 people, including partners. The weekend’s activities include an afternoon tea gathering on Saturday with a dinner at the Country Comfort Motel where John Kent (Head of SAWS) and Stuart Kanaley (President WACOBU) will be invited to join the graduates. Ted Wolfe and Julie Clements will organise a tour of CSU on the Sunday that includes: * a muster at 10 am at the ﬂagpole, Agriculture Campus with a bus tour and a walking tour of Agriculture buildings, Graham Building, East Block and West Block and Joyes Hall. * a lunch at the Conference Centre. * a winery tour and wine/cheese tasting at 2pm at CSU Winery Allan and Lee Hartwig can be contacted on (02) 6922 9415 or at ahartwig@activ8.net.au for more information.

NEWS OF OLD BOYS Drew Braithwaite (2001)

Brett Smith “Kat” 82 - 85

Grifﬁth farmer and agronomist, Drew Braithwaite recently led a trade development mission to China to investigate the potential markets for Australian soft wheats. The two week mission was made possible through the Australian China Agricultural Cooperation Agreement a program funded jointly by the Australian and Chinese Governments. The two week mission involved travel from Beijing and southwards down China’s east coast through Shanghai, Jiangsu province - the major soft wheat growing province in China and south into Guangdong province. Drew is hoping to develop niche soft wheat markets and differentiate the product from hard wheat grown across the area and throughout Australia. The trip was an ideal opportunity to develop trade contacts and new buyer relationships which will lead to the development of local jobs, help maximise returns to growers and increase competition in the Australian wheat industry. Contact Drew on 0427634232 or dbraith01@yahoo.com. au for more details on the trip.

Just a quick update to let you know that I have accepted a role with Penrice Soda Ash as General Manager, Chemicals Business. Penrice is an Adelaide based ex Orica business that is Australia’s only producer of Soda Ash ( sodium carbonate – glass production and sodium bicarbonate – food, pharmaceutical, cleaning etc ) targeting both domestic and international markets. They also have mining and quarrying interests. Although largely outside of Agriculture, the role should nicely round off the CV for the next stage whenever or whatever that might be. I will certainly miss the routine of kids, school , gym, pizza oven building, consulting and supporting my wife Leeora with establishing a new business. The last few months has seen a number of fantastic opportunities offered and some serious decision making (staying in Adelaide was important for a number of reasons ) but the most rewarding has been the family time, my recommendation to anyone in the same position is don’t rush it! Brett N Smith General Manager - Chemicals Business Penrice Soda Products Pty Ltd Solvay Road, Osborne SA 5017 Phone: 0412 630015 e-mail: Brett.Smith@penrice.com.au |

Careers Fair The students from the CSU Schools of Agricultural and Wine Sciences, and Animal and Veterinary Sciences are organising an annual Agricultural and Animal Industries Careers Fair. In attendance on the day will be over 200 students enrolled in the Animal, Veterinary, Agricultural, Agribusiness, Horticulture, Equine, Wine and Viticulture degree programs.

From the early 1970’s

At the celebrations for 60 years of sport at Wagga Ag College, many former old boys - who were students from the early 1970’s, made the trip back to Beres Ellwood Oval and the Wagga RSL Club to catch up and celebrate this wonderful milestone for the College.

Your are invited to participate in this event.

The following ﬁne WAC rugby players who celebrated rugby premierships in 1972 and 1973 and wins over Hawkesbury Ag College in the annual “grudge match” in a tremendous couple of years for WAC rugby.

The students are keen to organise this Fair to help choose possible careers and elective subjects for the remaining years of study. It is also a great way to establish contacts with industry, gain opportunities for work experience/placement and to improve employment prospects upon graduation.

Graeme Clifton, Terry Coates, Tony Grant, John Maloney, (Wheatbags) – who watched his son Dan play ﬁve-eight for the Aggies First XV, Jock Munro, Andrew Norton-Knight, Jim Ross and Graeme Worboys. Five of these Old Boys – Tony (Canowindra), John (Junee), Jock (Rankins Springs), Andrew (Forbes) and Jim (Holbrook) are still on the land! Graeme Clifton (Queanbeyan), Terry at Cowra (where he manages the Cowra Research Station) and Graeme Worboys at Cootamundra.

The Fair will be held at the Charles Sturt University’s Joyes Hall in Wagga Wagga on Wednesday, 4th August and will run from 4pm, concluding with a BBQ at the end of formal proceedings. The format for the evening will be 4 or 5 speakers who will provide their views on employment and commencing careers. For represented organisations the evening will provide the opportunity for a brief introduction to your business in order to facilitate discussions with students during the BBQ. Students will receive on the day a booklet containing details of attending organisations. We would be delighted if you could provide details of your organisation and future opportunities regarding employment of new graduates.

Lex Govaars Lex let the WACOBU know that the 56’ers are getting together at Soldiers Point, NSW during a midweek timeframe on October 20-22 this year. The show is being organised by John Grellman and as always we expect a great couple of days. Unfortunately we have lost Alan Douglas, who passed away September 17, 2009.

Please email this information with your RSVP. Regretfully this year, due to space limitations, we are only able to accept the ﬁrst 35 companies. Direct any questions to Crystall Swarbrick cswarb01@postofﬁce.csu.edu.au.

NEWS FROM THE SCHOOL OF AGRICULTURAL AND WINE SCIENCES (SAWS) Research, Development and Extension. This highlighted the dire straits of Australian capacity in Agriculture research, development and extension and the crucial role this plays in ﬁnding solutions to world food security, biosecurity, human health and nutrition, environmental management, water management and adapting to climate change.

1. Link with Nuffield Cootamundra farmer and Nuffield board member Hugh Roberts and Professor Nick Klomp (Dean of the Faculty of Science) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Nuffield and CSU.

2. Papua New Guinea

7. PIEF

Dr Maia Wamala, Dr Gariba Danbaro and Mr Ronnie Dotaona from the Department of Agriculture of the Papua New Guinea University of Technology (PNGUT) visited Wagga Campus to form collaborative links between the institutions. Follow up activities to include the drafting of MOU between institutions, staff from PNGUT to begin PhD studies at Charles Sturt University, collaborative research, staff and student exchange for industrial training.

The Primary Industries Education Foundation (PIEF) held a national workshop to establish the key roles and objectives for the Foundation. PIEF represents all primary industries and their associated supply chains with the exception of mining. Attending the workshop were representatives from the TAFE sector, government departments (industry and education), high school principals, and a considerable number of Agriculture teachers (and Ag teacher associations) from all parts of the country. Overall Australian university representation was small with Dr John Harper and Dr Alison Southwell attending on behalf of the School and CSU.

3. Australian Council of Deans of Agriculture Associate Professor John Kent attended the Autumn meeting of the Australian Council of Deans of Agriculture.

A major outcome from the workshop was the identiﬁcation of PIEF’s key roles;

Some of the issues highlighted included: * the need to build capacity in Ag Research and Education.

* To be the consulting body for government on all issues associated with Agricultural education at the State and National level

* Universities contribute 70% of all publications in Agriculture.

* To provide quality standards on resources developed for Agricultural education through the development of an endorsement brand (similar to the heart tick)

* Universities undertake considerable activity in extension which is unfunded.

* To assist with the development and coordination of initiatives that improves Agricultural1 education across Schools and the wider community. SAWS made strong links with High School Ag teachers and NSW Ag Teachers Association President Phil Hurst and was able to demonstrate through our range of initiatives and level of organisation that we are actively promoting agriculture to increase enrolments.

* There are around 600-650 ﬁrst year enrolments in ag related courses across all universities; of these, 250 are with our school.

4. International symposium Chris Steel attended the XV international Botrytis Symposium. Botrytis is responsible for grey mould of grapes and causes major crop losses worldwide. Chris presented some of his recent research between botrytis and other organisms responsible for grape berry rots. He also visited laboratories at INRA and the University of Bordeaux in France.

8. Study tours Dr Alison Southwell and Dr Jason Condon will take a group of third year Agriculture students to Vietnam on a study tour. Professor David Kemp and Dr Shevahn Telfser will take a group of second and third year Agricultural Business Management students to China on a study tour.

5. Biosecurity conference Associate Professor John Kent recently attended the Global Biosecurity Congress in Brisbane which highlighted the critical role of biosecurity for Australian Agriculture and the role CSU plays in this.

9. Careers Fair - August 4 For all students in the Schools of Agricultural and Wine Sciences and School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences. CSU is now now taking expressions of interest from industry personnel to be involved in this Careers Fair Contact Julie Clements for details

6. National Summit on Agriculture Research, Development and Extension Associate Professor John Kent, Professor Jim Pratley, Professor Deirdre Lemerle, Professor David Kemp and Scott Glyde attended a National Summit on Agricultural

Email: jclements@csu.edu.au

1970-72 WACers

The 1970-72 crew: Terry Coates (Cowra), Barry Woolacott (Bredbo), lecturer and rugby coach Marty Doran (Gundaroo), Graeme Clifton (Queanbeyan), Attila Babos (Yass), David Seaton (Canberra), Ralph Wilson (Tumut), John Irwin (Grifﬁth) and Michael Rafferty (Cairns).

1964-66 WACOBU REUNION

A group of 1970-72 Wacers, mainly from South-Western NSW and their wives met on Saturday May 1 and caught up with their ex- Economics lecturer and rugby coach Marty Doran.

April 9-10 2011

The next reunion for the 1964-66 old boys will be at Jenny and Sox Stockings at “Warrawee” Gilgandra, NSW over the weekend of 9 and 10th April 2011.

A relaxed luncheon at the Canberra Botanical Gardens (venue organised by Dave Seaton) and then on to Brumbies v’s Reds game afterwards allowed time for a great yarn or two.

The reunion is for all who started their WAC time in 1964 no matter when they moved on as well as any from other years who would care to join in.

Dave Seaton won the fashion stakes still ﬁtting into his College blazer and Attila Babbos and Michael Rafferty moulded around the famous WAC rugby jumper.

The same offer is for administrative and teaching staff at the time.

Actually Michael dropped in to catch up with old mates as part of his around Australia holiday.

Interested people should contact Graeme Hockey on e-mail philhockey@hotmail.com

Everyone was pleased to see Marty Doran and discuss those famous rugby wins and the not-so-famous economics lectures in the early 1970’s.

1960 GRADUATION YEAR REUNION

Marty (who coached successive WAC First Grade Premiership winning sides in 1972-73) is dealing with some health issues and he really appreciated the support from the WAC crew in Canberra. Everyone involved with the WACOBU is asked to support Marty.

On Saturday and Sunday August 28 and 29 at Wagga over 30 WAC Old Boys and partners will catch up – to celebrate 50 years of life after Wagga Ag College.

The Old Boys (except Michael Rafferty who hails from Cairns!) really enjoyed watching the Brumbies thrash the Reds 32-12 and saw some exciting running rugby reminiscent of their days playing for WAC.

On Saturday August 28 a tour of the old stamping grounds is planned along with time for reminiscing and a dinner at the Carriage House Motel and a get together on Sunday will provide a great opportunity for everyone to celebrate a very important milestone.

Terry Coates and Graeme Clifton also made the trip to Wagga to enjoy the celebration of 60 years of sport at WAC.

Congratulations Old Boys and we look forward to getting a full report on the weekend for the Christmas newsletter. Contact Bruce Hart (02) 62312483 or hart5@netspeed. com.au for any information on the weekend.

It was a great get-together for students who kicked off the WAC education 40 years ago!

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WACOBU Merchandise To order, print Order Form below and fax to: 02 6338 4766

From Farm Boys to PhDs Book - $30.00

WAC 49er’s Book POA

WAC 100 Years Video - $30.00

WACOBU Centenary Cap - $12.00

WACOBU Pewter Mug - $50.00

WACOBU Lapel Badge - $2.00

WACOBU Wall Plaque - $30.00

WACOBU Sloppy-joe Price - TBA

WACOBU Tie $30.00

Ladies WACOBU Pendant $6.50

Ladies WACOBU Shield Pendant $65.00

WACOBU Keyring $15.00

Please note: pictures DO NOT represent actual size of items 12

WACOBU Car sticker $1.00

WACOBUORDER Merchandise WACOBU MERCHANDISE: FORM Order Form

Name............................................................................................................................................................................................... Address........................................................................................................................................................................................... .....................................................................................................................................................Postcode.................................... Date of birth......................................... Years at College (From)..........................................(to).................................................. Item

Cost

WACOBU car sticker WACOBU tie

$1.00 $30.00

WACOBU lapel badge

$2.00

WACOBU Centenary hat

$12.00

“Farm Boys to PHD” Book

$30.00

WACOBU Pewter Mug “ WAC 49ers Book

$50.00

Video

$30.00

WACOBU wall plaque

$30.00

Ladies WACOBU pendant

$6.50

Ladies WACOBU shield pendant

$65.00

WACOBU keyrin

$15.00

No. required

Tot al $

POA

TOTAL = Please find enclosed cheque/money order for:

$ __________________________________________

Make cheques/money or pay by EFT (see electronic banking details next page) cheques/money orders orders payable payable to to:WACOBU WACOBU Post Wagga NSW 26502650 or FAX to: 02 6338 4766 WAGGA, NSW, Post to: to: PO PO Box Box 1092 1078,Wagga WAGGA