Alumni Update

Youthrive Victoria Alumni Footy Event

The sun was shining down on the city of Melbourne on the chilly afternoon of May the 26th as by the seventh gate of the MCG a group of Youthrive alumni steadily amassed.  Laughter and an excited murmur could be heard by those passing by as old friends and new greeted each other warmly, sharing tales of their journeys from far and from near.

As three o’clock drew close one could sense the anticipation building, the time to enter this magnificent stadium was upon us, for at that hour two teams would step forth onto the hallowed turf to compete in a game of Australian rules football.

The long-suffering Saints of St. Kilda, craving the taste of victory were to boldly oppose the formidable Melbourne Demons in what would prove to be a gripping contest.  Both sides eager to get the better of one another in search of the sought after percentage and points that could prove essential in the season to come.

It was with little difficulty that we found our general admission seats, up high above the field on level four just shy of the nosebleeds.

As the game progressed and the mighty Demons demonstrated that they were in fact a trifle mightier than the side from St. Kilda, the alumni present engaged in much conversation with minds focused more on the goings on outside the field of play and on the new hobbies, studies and other varied endeavours pursued since last they met.

It was with heavy hearts that as the ‘Grand Old Flag’ echoed around the stands we stepped back through the turnstiles and bid our farewells, with the promise that we soon would meet again.  Then turning on their heels this group of alumni headed forth on their own paths home, leaving the dark silhouette of the stadium behind them as into the night they did stroll.  At its conclusion, it could be agreed that a delightful afternoon was shared by all, even the Saints supporters!

Written by Charlie Farrell

 

The Youthrive Victoria Ball

It was great to be back at the Creswick Hall for this year’s Youthrive Victoria Ball. We had a delicious BBQ, followed by a fantastic night boot scooting with Mick the muso.

It was a special time of catching up with old friends and making new ones. Learning the dances together prompted many laughs. Keeping the tradition alive, many of us camped at the holiday park despite the sub-zero weather.

A big thank you goes to Cat and Charlie for their great work on organising the ball – the decorations, including stand-alone cacti, really set the scene. Thanks to all the alumni who donned their cowboy boots and gave the dancing a go!

We hope to see everyone next year.