Our Junior Campus Library, the Margaret Duckworth Resource Centre, was abuzz on 28 May as members of the Arden community gathered to celebrate 100 years of Arden and officially launch our Centenary publication, The Spirit of Arden. It was wonderful to have alumni from the 1950s through to the present day joining in the celebrations. 

The celebrations began with a welcome from our Princpal, Mr Justin Beckett, who spoke about our School being a light on a hill in the community for 100 years. Our Chair of Council, Mr Santino Dimarco, said grace, after which time the scrumptious high tea was served by our Prefects, SRC students and members of the Catering Club. Alumni chattered away, reconnected with friends and classmates, and shared stories from their days at Arden. The display, featuring photographs from the Arden Archives, was also enjoyed by those in attendance.  

The Spirit of Arden was launched by Arden alumna and School Archivist, Mrs Morwenna Dixon. Featuring profiles of 100 individuals who used their God-given gifts, talents and resources to benefit Arden, the publication captures the essence, culture and history of our School. Excerpts from the publication were read aloud by current students.

It was the first time that many alumni had returned to Arden since their school days and many took the opportunity to tour the School. The tour, lead by our Head of Junior Campus, Mr David Watkins, envoked many memories and comments such as 'Wow, how the School has changed!' and 'That building wasn't here in my day!'. Alumni then travelled on Buster, the Arden school bus, over to our Secondary Campus for a tour of the Essex Building led by Mr Matthew Mallison, our Head of Middle School.

We hope to make the Eucalyptus Luncheon an annual event in the school calendar, and we look forward to welcoming many more alumni back to Arden for this special event next year. Please click below to watch highlights from the day.

 It is not too late to order your copy of The Spirit of Arden. Copies can be purchased through the Arden Alumni Association SHOP.