1969-1970 Rural Science Reunion

After the first three attempts at holding a reunion for this combined group were abandoned due to COVID, it finally took place in Canberra on Thursday 22 to Saturday 24 September.

27 Rural Scientists and 15 partners came together for a really enjoyable time with a dinner at the historic Kurrajong Hotel and excursions to a variety of attractions including Canberra’s famous Floriade, the National Library of Australia, the Australian War Memorial, the Museum of Australian Democracy, the National Gallery of Australia, Canberra’s Arboretum, and the National Museum of Australia.

Interesting as these were, they were not the best part of the reunion.  That was catching up and reminiscing with those with whom many years ago we had spent countless hours together in all day lectures and pracs, but in many cases not seen since.

A real highlight was the presence of Gonzalo Perez del Castillo (always known as ‘Pancho’) who joined us after a 40 hour flight from Uruguay. Pancho was also in Australia to receive his 2021 Distinguished Alumni Award from the Chancellor and Interim Vice-Chancellor at UNE on 29 September.

Having found the special bonds from UNE have stood the test of 50 plus years, the 1969 and 1970 Rural Science groups are now planning our next reunion for two or three years time – before most of us reach the big 80!

- Bert Mowbray