1972 Reunion

It was a weekend full of highlights for the class of 72. A good turnout of 35 people enjoyed a memorable reunion at the end of March in Whanganui which was organised by Dave and Lorraine Taylor.

The get together dinner in the Maria Lane Café saw the decibel rating rise significantly. The evening concluded with many enjoying the stroll back to the motel at the northern end of Victoria Avenue.

Saturday morning was relaxed with options including a tour and interesting commentary of the historic Putiki Church. Many visited the local Farmers Market beside the river and were able to explore the local art and glass shops in the vicinity of the riverbank and take advantage of the "Open Studios" weekend on in the city. A large number of local and visiting artists of varied medium had their work on display and for sale. Whanganui also features numerous examples of outdoor wall art which required a tour guide to find. The energetic few were able to walk up the Durie Hill steps or take the historic lift to view the city from Durie Hill Tower. Others took the opportunity for a round of golf.  The morning concluded with a leisurely lunch at the Rutland Hotel.

We congregated at the residence of our hosts, Dave and Lorraine, to enjoy collegiality and outdoor games. This was followed by a catered dinner in a marquee in the garden. The French inspired menu was cooked on site by local chefs.

Sunday’s first highlight was a return trip up the river to Upokongaro for lunch. We enjoyed the history of the M.V. Wairua and the skipper’s commentary which gave insight into the history of travel inland from Whanganui.

The visit to Bushy Park north of Whanganui for dinner at the homestead was preceded by a wander around the gardens and walking tracks in bush. Bushy Park is a fully fenced 89 hectare wildlife forest sanctuary with a significant population of native birds to enjoy.

The incoming weather warnings forced the cancellation of the much anticipated planned trip on Monday by jet boat from Pipiriki to the “The Bridge to Nowhere”.

Attendees at the 1972 reunion, pictured above.

Standing from left to right: Jim Edwards, John Thurston, Dennis Scott, Keith Thompson, Dave Lilley, Murray Gibb, Terry Murphy, Mike Maley, John Knowles, John McLachlan, John Whitley, Bill Bishop, Dave Taylor, Alex Hayward, Ghee Yong Tan.

Seated in front: Lorne Revis, Jon Le Gal, Helen Bishop, Alan Julian.