2009 Founders day Melbourne, Australia

Outside the evening was damp, and light rain continued to fall softly as the patrons in all their fine regalia descended from their cars, navigated the many puddles, (not bothering too much for their shoes, but lets keep the hair in place), and hurried to the safety of the venue for tonight’s celebrations. But the weather outside only served to contrast with the bright and cheerful atmosphere inside, with the tables and chairs set out and adorned with starched linen and coloured bunting, and a selection of good wine and spirits to warm even the coldest of individuals and loosen them up even before things got really started. This year La Martiniere 174th anniversary was celebrated at the “Golden Sands” a very gracefully appointed function venue located approximately 15 Km east of Melbourne CBD. The evening commenced with a meet and greet session, where one slapped the back of some, kissed others or shook a hand while staring into the face of someone familiar from the past but whose name evades instant recognition. The night then progressed with foxtrots, possibly quicksteps or for those unable to resist or impatient, a very slow rock’n’roll. Gordon Bruce performed the duties of an MC with perfection, thanking all for their presence and introduced Ms Winnie Perkins, to say grace before dinner. Winnie attended Lucknow La Martiniere sometime in the 30s. She subsequently worked at the school and held the position as Matron for several years leaving in 1979/80. Dinner was sumptuous by any standard, an was an aromatic cuisine of curries, rice and noodle dishes and various accompaniments, served in elegant style and in sufficient quantities to ensure no one could possibly remain hungry. This was later followed by a choice of desserts to sweeten and titillate the palate. Music of the evening was provided by both a 4 piece band called the “ The Hitch Hikers” and the “Lone Star” who provided great music and had the floor always filled with dancing couples doing everything from smooth smooching to pure thumping raw hide rock n roll. As a special treat, two very young dancers displayed their considerable talents emulating the intricate steps of the late Michael Jackson, and entertained the spell bound audience who could only respond with the intensity of their applause. Also attending as a special guest was Ms Gloria Jean Moore who has researched and written several books on the Anglo Indian community, their background, history and culture. Although Gloria was not a student of La Martiniere, she has over the years had a long relationship with the college. Two other guests who were present were: Chiro Mukerjea (Calcutta LMC) who once played in the Davis Cup and at Wimbledon, and William Lyons (Lucknow LMC), whose javelin record is still stands. After the main dinner, and presumably before some became too intoxicated with the rapid events of the evening, all Martinians present, assembled on the dance floor and with much gusto, proceeded to sing the School song. If there was a slight break between verses, it was not that the words were forgotten, but perhaps to catch a breath for the next decibel delivery. As the evening wore on, there was more dancing, a number of raffles was drawn with handsome prizes given away. Towards the end of the evening ex Martinians stood up in groups depending on the year when they had left school, and it ranged from the “Peter Sampayo” the youngest having left in year 2005 to Winni Perkins and Elmo Valient who had left in 1942. To conclude, it was another great evening to remember, but like all great evenings, there are a number of people who have worked hard to make this happen. Special thanks to Gordon Bruce and Gordon Cropp and others whose names are not specifically mentioned but whose efforts are recognised. Finally it was a value for money event and we all look forward to next year on 11 September for a similar celebration in 2010, and a final celebration to be held in Perth on 24 September 2010. Cheers Ian Andrews

Carl Rowlands, Lorraine Rowlands, Ian and Delphine Coady (Gasper) Colleen and William Lyons Lynda Andrews, Gordon Cropp, Sandra Cropp and Ian Andrews Brian Foran (1960), Algy Blanche (GCM 1961), Ian Andrews, Delphine Coady (Gasper), Judy Shelverton (1966)(Oxford), Heather Coelho (Green), ? , ? , Raj Menon (1963), Gordon Cropp (1960) (Best Sportsman), ? , Elmo Valant (1942) Best Sportsman Chiradeep Mukherji (1968?)