On a crisp winter’s afternoon in August, 60 Ascham Old Girls arrived at Glenrock for our inaugural Goldies event. This new initiative is a heartfelt celebration of our cherished 80 years and older AOGs, who we now affectionately refer to as our ‘Goldies’. It’s a wonderful opportunity to pay tribute to the rich legacy of our past generations and to celebrate those endearing friendships nurtured during their School days.
The day began with high tea and champagne served in Glenrock on gold-trimmed crockery and cut crystal glasses, befitting the occasion. The room was filled with nostalgic conversation and joyous reunions among old friends. Our guests travelled from as far as Queensland, country NSW, Victoria and Tasmania, with the oldest attendee being an impressive 92 years old.
Our Goldies were treated to two delightful performances from our Senior School musical ensembles and were gifted golden daffodils from our Hillingdon students. Head of School Andrew Powell presented an overview of ‘Blueprint. For our future’—Ascham’s Masterplan, which captivated them all. This marked a stark contrast to the Goldies’ Ascham days of draughty Boarding Houses and tiny School Hall, where the current Tennis Courts now stand. The formalities concluded with a student-led tour of the HSC Art Show in the Packer Foyer. The Goldies were amazed at the detail, subject matter and talent of our students.
As the afternoon drew to a close, the Ascham Facilities team in their buggies escorted the ladies to White Gate, providing both entertainment and much-welcomed assistance.
The overwhelming feedback from our Goldies about this inaugural event in their honour conveyed how special they felt being acknowledged by Ascham in this way. There is already much anticipation for next year’s event in August 2024!
Thoughts from attendees:
‘I have always been grateful for the education I was given at Ascham and after Andrew Powell’s talk I am convinced future generations of Goldies will feel the same.’ Diane Cox (Sharp 1959)
‘As an Old Girl who was both a day girl and a boarder, I remember my years at the School with gratitude for the friends and fun we enjoyed and appreciation for the role the Dalton Plan played in my life. My daughter is also a proud Ascham Old Girl and we hope my granddaughter may have an opportunity to attend in a few years’ time.’ Tonia Godhard AM (Davis 1958)
‘As an inaugural event I am sure it will now be an important part of the year for all Ascham Old Girls as we will be able to catch up with so many students we would normally hardly ever see. I am quite sure I felt 10 years younger after attending!’ Ursula Woodhouse (Finlay 1953)
