OV Overseas Reunion in Sydney

The first reunion for those local to Sydney, Headmaster Gareth Doodes welcomed a wonderful mix from the OV community, from the 1960s to 2010s!

Although OV Peter Watson (S 38-41) had also hoped to join the dinner, as he was unable to his grandson kindly came in his ‘stead as Peter was very keen for his connection with the School to be represented.

Two of the OVs present, David Allen (Ch 80-80) and Andrew Erratt (S 80-80) had only been at King’s for two terms during the Sixth Form, which was thanks to an exchange scheme from Armidale School, NSW. Despite their short stints at King’s, they both had very happy memories of their time and some great friends made and were delighted to be part of the OV Reunion.

It was great for OV and former Head of School Joe Fowles (Cl 05-12) to be able to join the reunion in Sydney – he is in Australia on a sabbatical and due to this was missing his own 10 Year Reunion!

Showing how closely knit the OV family is, Gareth and the OVs were messaging OV and Hon OVs back in the UK during the dinner, many of whom hadn’t been in touch for years. A wonderful opportunity to rekindle friendships.

Gareth gave all present an update on the School, its vision, mission and values, which was followed by OV Jamie Mackie (Os 75-85) who gave a lovely and heartfelt speech. In return, it was wonderful for Gareth to have this opportunity to connect with OVs from across the globe, noting how geography does not detract from the King’s DNA, which runs through the OV family.

Gareth added, “It truly was a great evening, full of laughter, friendship and fantastic memories, and I felt privileged to be part of this overseas OV family.

“I found it particularly fascinating to learn about the incredibly varied career paths that had been taken by the 21 OVs present, from hospitality to utilities, the law and finance to health and fitness. This clearly demonstrates that a King’s education really does set you up for life, wherever it may take you!”

Many of the OVs at the reunion were not aware there was such a great contingent of OVs local to them, but thanks to the dinner they are now connected and hope to regularly keep in touch.

You can more see photos from the reunion in our Gallery.