More than 500 members of the Scotch Family community gathered on Friday 29 May for the 2026 OSCA Annual Dinner, marking a milestone celebration of 175 years of Scotch College and the enduring strength of its Cardinal Thread.
A special sense of occasion filled the room as Old Boys and members of the wider Scotch Family came together to honour the Scotch’s rich history. The evening opened in stirring fashion with the entrance of the Old Scotch Pipes and Drums, setting the tone for a night steeped in tradition, reflection and camaraderie.
Guests were treated to a dynamic program with MC, Dugald McWilliams (’90), whose energy and humour carried the evening. A highlight of the evening was the traditional Calling of the Years – Gus Hawthorne (’54), aged 91, was the oldest Old Boy in the room.
The audience was also privileged to hear from Scotch’s oldest Old Boy, Bill Morgan (’34), aged 110, who appeared via a pre-recorded video message.
Watch Bill’s message here:
The formalities continued with Charlie Veitch (’19) performing a spirited Address to a Haggis. OSCA President Matthew Guthridge (’91) then spoke about OSCA’s vital role in supporting Old Boys through networking, reunions and initiatives such as the “Life After School” program, with a renewed focus on mental health support to ensure alumni “thrive beyond the school gates.”
Guest of Honour, Craig Drummond (’78), shared reflections on his time at Scotch, including his early experiences as a boarder and the sacrifices his family made to support his education. Now Chairman of Transurban, the Australian Foundation Investment Company and the Ian Potter Foundation—and recently appointed Chairman of the AFL Commission—Drummond offered insights into leadership, risk-taking and community. He also spoke candidly about the importance of family, noting that the most significant decision in life is “who you come home to.”
Scotch College Principal, Dr Scott Marsh provided an update on the College, highlighting recent achievements including Scotch’s first APS Athletics win in 48 years and the introduction of the Morrison Cup, celebrating the shared heritage between Scotch College and Geelong College. He also reinforced the importance of student wellbeing and mental health initiatives, before energising the room with his now-traditional rendition of I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles), accompanied by bagpipes—an uplifting finale that had the entire audience on its feet.
As the formal program concluded, guests enjoyed the traditional singing that closed the evening, before settling into a relaxed atmosphere of drinks, conversation and reconnection. The night provided Old Boys with the opportunity to rekindle friendships, share memories and celebrate the enduring bonds formed through their time at Scotch.
The 2026 OSCA Annual Dinner was a fitting tribute to 175 years of Scotch College. The evening honoured the past while reinforcing the strength and unity of its community for generations to come.
Photographs from the night are now available on OSCAConnect.
