Old Collegians

Hello again,

I had the opportunity to meet and talk with Wayne Manoni (1986-1987 past student, prefect) at a funeral in Dardanup just recently. He was Master of Ceremonies of the funeral service for his cousin Noeleen Bode (nee Manoni). He informed me that he had changed employment and gave me his new email address so that he could keep in touch with the Old Collegians Association.

It was heartening and wonderful to witness the thousands of people – young and old – attending the Anzac Day parades and ceremonies throughout Australia. It reminded me of our parade squad of cadets performing our duty at the Denmark War Memorial in 1953 and 1954 and I found it quite an emotional memory. It made me feel proud to be an Australian, also having family in the army in World War II who served in Syria, New Guinea and Malaysia, Singapore added another factor. Lest We Forget. 

I have had an enquiry from Martin Mader (1982-1983 past student. Life member, name on Honour Wall) regarding past students accessing polo shirts and caps to wear at Open Day and reunions. There are 5 different logos over the years – DSA, DAJHS, DADHS, (Agricultural wings) DAC and WACOA Denmark. The logos have to be digitised at a clothing outlet at a cost. 

The 1982-1983 group are intending to celebrate a 40 year reunion at his year’s Open Day at the college (5th August). Martin would like all participants to wear a cap and shirt with logo for the occasion. Please contact Martin on 0417 945 484 to order yours. 

On Thursday 20th April, Ray Giblett (1954-1955 past student), was featured on the ABC 7.30 Report. The report concerned the sad situation of aged care homes closing in NSW. On a brighter note, Ray’s grandson has been drafted by the GWS Giants football club. We will be following his development. Poppa Ray would be so proud that he is following in Ray’s footsteps in football. You may remember that Ray was a champion premiership player and coach of East Perth as well as clubs in Broken Hill, West Torrens and Tasmania. He also represented WA and Tasmania in state games against Victoria.

Vale George Dogget. George’s funeral was held in Perth on 13th May, followed by a private cremation. He was a 1951-1952 past student and lived in Nollamara. He was 86 years old. His brother, Tom, went to Denmark a year earlier so for one year they were together at the school. Tom was a prefect in 1951. Before that they both attended Mt Helena state school. I wasn’t able to connect with his family but would appreciate it if anyone can provide George’s life history. May he Rest in Peace. 

Reminder to those students from 1952 to 1956 and relatives of the deceased that we are holding a 70 year reunion in Denmark from 26th to 29th October. The main event will be on Saturday 28th the old school area. Please let me know if you’re intending to come along. Phone: 0428 526 398, email: hisylvi@bigpond.com. If you would like a shirt and/or cap. These can be obtained from Barefoot Clothing in Albany – Phone: 9841 7432.

As always - get your name on the honour wall - contact us to have your name added. Contacts are: Wendy Sutton 0419 048 694; Marjorie Morrison 9848 1633; Delys Ravenhill 0427 408 051 or myself 0428 526 398, email: hisylvi@bigpond.com.

Cheers

Don McCausland