This year's annual Quondam Lunch was undoubtedly our busiest yet: not only did we have a stunning piano recital from UV pupil Scarlett Brandman, we were also treated to a presentation by Class of 2017 Travel Scholarship winner Ruby MacGregor.

The event began auspiciously with bright blue skies and a champagne reception in the school library, where alumni of all ages, some of whom hadn't returned to the school in decades, re-acquainted themselves with former peers. Included in the gathering were 16 former staff; also returning was alumna Judith Neuling, who flew in especially from Germany.

With lunch well underway, Ruby MacGregor took to the stage to deliver a presentation about her recent trip to Vietnam, where she taught kindergarten children in Ho Chi Miah City. Ruby, winner of the 2019 Quondam Travel Scholarship, chose Vietnam as "it's in desperate need of volunteers in many areas due to the effects of recent war and I wanted to make the biggest impact I could." You can read the full report of Ruby’s trip on page 16.

Chair of Quondam Susanne Nedas addressed the audience, speaking of the importance of keeping connected and building upon existing relationships with fellow alumni.

The event ended on a jubilant note; UV pianist Scarlett Brandman, introduced by Quondam Committee Secretary Alison Edelshain, performed a skilled and emotive piano recital, drawing the day to a close.

With grateful thanks to all who helped make the day a success.