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Calrossy recently welcomed back alumni for its second bi-annual Red Vs Blue Alumni Weekend, an event that honours school traditions, celebrates lifelong friendships, and raises funds for the Calrossy Foundation Scholarship Fund.
The weekend began with a welcome function on Friday night at the William Cowper Campus, featuring Wallaby legend Mark Ella AM, underscoring the sense of community that characterises Calrossy. Saturday’s events were dedicated to the memory of Eli Kelly, Class of 2020, a beloved Calrossy alumnus from Gunnedah who tragically passed away earlier this year in a mining accident. In a touching tribute, Calrossy’s under-14 girls and under-16 boys took on Gunnedah Rugby Club in honour of Kelly’s roots, bringing together friends and family in a meaningful display of remembrance.
Head of Enrolments and Community, Lisa Hinwood, spoke on the importance of the weekend,
“This event is actually about community more than anything else, as well as honouring those who have been part of our Calrossy family.”
The event drew up to 600 people to Scully Park, where alumni and junior teams of Red and Blue faced off in a series of spirited rugby matches. The games were held in a lively setting, with live music, also featuring Calrossy alumni, and a festive atmosphere. Jean Littlewood, a Calrossy alumna and now a GP in Wellington, made the trip to Tamworth to play for the Old Girls’ Blue team. Her standout performance earned her the Wendy Wheeldon Trophy for Player of the Match.
“It was wonderful to reconnect with friends and meet some of the younger girls on their own rugby journeys,” Littlewood shared.
Captained by Jess Middlemiss, the Old Girls’ Blue team claimed victory, winning the Thistle Shield with a 32-14 win. Middlemiss, who also coached the under-14 girls’ team earlier in the day, remarked, “You play hard for your team colours, but it’s really all about enjoying the day and connecting with old friends.”
On the men’s side, the Old Boys’ Red team secured the Cowper Shield in a competitive and well-fought match, with Riley Catts receiving the Bruce Vietch Memorial Award for his contributions on the field.
Following the rugby games, alumni and guests gathered for an evening function, where team shirts and other items were auctioned to raise further funds for the Calrossy Foundation. The auction saw enthusiastic participation, with alumni and community members contributing generously to the School’s scholarship fund, reinforcing the weekend’s theme of giving back.
With its blend of tribute, spirited competition, and fundraising, the Red Vs Blue Alumni Weekend has become a cherished tradition within the Calrossy community.
For more information on the Calrossy Foundation or Calrossy Scholarships or upcoming alumni events, please visit calrossy.nsw.edu.au .
There are full photo galleries available of this event, please see links below.
Under 14 girls Calrossy V Gunnedah