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July 01, 2010 Dear All, June 02, 2010 Hello Everybody, 2. The Rugby Fixtures of STC Mount have also been placed on our Thomian World Wide Calendar of Events - http://www.stcg62group.org/Noticeboard.htm 3. The Guru Prize Giving was on May 26, 2010 and the Chief Guest was, Warden STC Mount, Rev. John Puddefoot. Images of this Important Event are uploaded.- http://www.stcg62group.org/GE_STCG_Prize_Giving_May_2010.htm 4. Reminiscences of Gurutalawa - written By Peter Weerakoon; Memories of Gurutalawa - written By Lanka Nesiah and Bertie Wijesinha -The Precious Legend - written by Rohan Wijesinghe are placed under the link 'Articles'. http://www.stcg62group.org/Articles_Memoirs_Reflections.htm Please inform us in the event of a change in your Contact Details. Your comments and observations are most welcome. Warm Regards, Lakshman Jayatilaka May 14, 2010 Hello Everybody, 1. This brings the latest updates etc on our Web Site done on May
12,2010 - http://www.stcg62group.org/index.htm 4. The STC OBA Australia has informed us of their "Annual
Dinner Dance, on August 14,2010 at the Park Hyatt, in Melbourne."
5. The Rugby Fixtures of STC Mount have been placed as above on our Thomian World Wide Calendar of Events - http://www.stcg62group.org/Noticeboard.htm 6. The Guru Prize Giving will be on May 26, 2010 and the Chief Guest would be, Warden STC Mount, Rev. John Puddefoot. 7. The Headmaster Reported "the sudden death of Sarath Kumara, one of the chief cooks at STC Guru. He was one of the most loyal and dedicated of the support staff and I am going to feel his loss very much,particularly in the catering department. He was honest and hardworking and for nearly 15 years (if I am right) did not take a single holiday. His father too had served Guru for many years".
Please also inform us the Contact Details of any of your friends who would like to be on our Mailing List, inter alia to be kept informed of Guru News and Developments etc. Please inform us in the event of a change in your Contact Details. Your comments and observations are most welcome. Warm Regards, Lakshman Jayatilaka
February 25, 2010 Hello Everybody, 1 This brings the latest updates etc on our Web Site done on February 22 & 23, 2010 - http://www.stcg62group.org/index.htm 2. The Annual Re- Union Celebration of Old Boys & the AGM of the STC Guru OBA took place during the weekend February 19-21st 2010. On entry each Old Boy was handed over a Note of Welcome from the Headmaster. A new Code of Conduct had been introduced this year, and the Headmaster solicited the support and co-operation of all Old Boys in conforming to the guidelines laid down. A Wrist Band was issued to all Old Boys at the point of entry, so that "Strangers" and "Gate Crashers" could be denied entry. Only members of the OBA were permitted entry. A sum of Rs.2000/- was levied against the Food & other incidental expenses to be incurred by the College, and towards an exgratia payment for the support staff. This innovative procedure proved very effective. A total of 179 Old Boys participated this year. 96 members had arrived in time for dinner on Friday. By Breakfast time Saturday, 133 had registered, and for lunch on Saturday the numbers swelled to 172. 151 Members attended the AGM of the OBA. In the Cricket Match between Old Boys and Present Boys the Old Boys won the toss. Having been put in to bat, the present boys were all out for 170 runs. In their allotted 20 Overs, the Old Boys could reply with only 149 runs and were all out in the 17th over. Trophies were awarded as follows: W A N Silva of the Present Boys for Best Batsman & Best Bowler; Rameeshan of the Old Boys for Best Batsman; Dasmal Liyanage of the Old Boys for Best Bowler; W A N Silva of the Present Boys for Man of the Match. The Basket Ball match was won by the Old Boys 28:26. In Swimming the Old Boys won the Medley Relay against the Present Boys. In the Volley Ball match 02 games were won by the Old Boys and one by the Support Staff. Whilst the Service was going on in the College Chapel the planting of a 100 fruit trees with the idea of reviving the Orchard,( which was the dream of Mrs.Mary Hayman on her last visit to College), was taking place. The Fellowship and the Formal Dinner took place as usual with a live band providing the music. The Education Faculty Committee led by Wansapriya Gunaseela spearheaded a Project strongly supported by Senior Vice President Prabhath Jayasundara for the supply to College of a Multi- Media Projector with the Screen. They also donated 15 White Boards with a large stock of Marker Pens and Ink for use in the Class Rooms. Upali Jayatilaka, a Mount Thomian donated 06 Paintings for the Headmaster's Office. These presentations were made on Saturday morning. The presence on the Campus of about 75 Boys and Girls during the Re-Union Celebrations to witness the Cricket Match, the Swimming Meet, the Basket Ball and Volley Ball Matches added colour and a sense of normalcy to all these events and proceedings taking place, as in the good old days of the Hayman era, unlike what has been happening in the last 02 decades when almost the entire Boarding was given a more or less compulsory Mid Term holiday, and the Old Boys moved in to the Guru Campus which had taken a Ghost Town atmosphere sans the Boys who infused life to the place. Special mention must be made of the Refurbishment of the Swimming Pool now available with clean water for swimming which added lustre to the entrance of the College. Once the Tiling, Lighting, Diving Boards and Landscaping are completed the Pool and its environs would greatly enhance the beauty and value of the School. At the AGM the following were elected Office Bearers without a contest. Senior Vice President– Christo Gonawela; Vice Presidents- Nihal Wanniarachchi, Krishantha Weerawardena, M.Thirumurugamoorthy; Secretary - Milinda Hettiarachchi; Treasurer -S. Rajmohan; Assistant Secretary-A D Sandakelum; and Assistant Treasurer -Thanura Fernando. The Headmaster and his Staff together with the OBA Ex-Co and Organising Committee for the Re- Union celebrations had blended well and co-ordinated superbly to put in place a well prepared Programme to make the Event an outstanding success. The New Code of Conduct as well as the production of the Membership Card compulsory to gain entry also went a long way to enable a smooth and trouble free Celebration. The quality of the food and service was exceptionally good and received the approbation of all participants. In short all Old Boys participating were full of praise for the Chief Architect and the Man Behind the Scene- Headmaster, Fr. Marc Billimoria. 3. The Headmaster had written previously to Old Boys with regard to development work etc at Guru. Those who attended the Re-Union Celebrations could see for themselves the improvements effected since he took over. One could sense a note of expectancy in the air. Many Old Boys who had previously written off Guru as a lost cause have rallied round the energetic Headmaster, who could be said, is moving heaven and earth towards the revival of Guru. A well prepared Report was presented by the Headmaster to the Old Boys at the AGM, which was well received. Perhaps in continuation of this same spirit and sense of urgency a High Powered, Energetic, Efficient and Dynamic Leadership to the Ex-Co was elected to Office to lend muscle and support the Headmaster to the hilt.
4. We suggest that Old Boys interested in continuing to assist Guru contact the Headmaster with their Offers of Support. 5.The Uva Thomian Big Match will be on March 27, 2010 at the Bandarawela Esplanade. 6. The Guru Prize Giving will be on May 26, 2010 and the Chief Guest would be, Warden STC Mount, Rev. John Puddefoot. 7.The 131st Battle of the Blues (Royal-Thomian 03 Day Cricket Match)
is due to be played on March 11, 12, & 13, 2010. The 35th Limited
Overs Royal – Thomian Cricket Match is due to be played on
March 20, 2010. The Venue for both Matches will be the S. S. C. Please feel free to forward this and future Circular E-mails to any other Old Thomians and Well Wishers who may be interested in receiving same. Please also inform us the Contact Details of any of your friends who would like to be on our Mailing List, inter alia to be kept informed of Guru News and Developments etc. Please inform us in the event of a change in your Contact Details. Your comments and observations are most welcome. Warm Regards, Lakshman Jayatilaka Residence: No. 23, 1st Lane, Kirillapone, February 07, 2010 1. This brings the latest updates etc on our Web Site done on January 12, 18, 20, 21, 23 & 28, and February 03,06 & 07, 2010 - http://www.stcg62group.org/index.htm 2. In continuation of our practice and as the 48th in the series, which commenced in 2001 the last Circular Mail of January 05, 2010 sent out to Old Boys and Well Wishers of Guru as regards the last updates, etc has been placed in the link “News Letters & Circulars”. - http://www.stcg62group.org/circulars.htm
3. The Calendar of Events on the “Home Page” is updated with all Thomian Events World Wide. We continue to receive Flyers, Notices, E-mails with Thomian News etc etc from Old Thomian Branches in Sri Lanka & elsewhere as well as Old Thomians & Well Wishers from time to time. These are placed on our Home page for the easy reference of all those browsing our site. - http://www.stcg62group.org/index.htm 4. The 4th issue of the Members’ Directory of the Guru OBA has been revised, updated and issued on August 23, 2009, priced at Rs. 500. It could be purchased from; Moorthy – 0773290192 / Dinusha – 0773312131 or Dhayabaran – 0777778443. 5. We report with regret the demise of Roy Winter who was in College with us in our time. He was residing in Australia at the time of his death. We received large number of mails conveying this information and sharing their grief and thoughts with us. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Anne and the rest of the family. The funeral will be on Tuesday, February 09th 2010 at the Boyd Chapel, Springvale Botanical Cemetery, Princes Highway, SPRINGVALE with a Service commencing at 3:45 PM. 6. The 131st Battle of the Blues (Royal-Thomian 03 Day Cricket
Match) is due to be played on March 11, 12, & 13, 2010. The
35th Limited Overs Royal – Thomian Cricket Match is due to
be played on March 20, 2010. The Venue for both Matches will be
the S. S. C. 7. The Annual Re- Union of Old Boys & the AGM of the STC Guru OBA takes place during the weekend February 19-21st 2010. The Usual Programme of Events has been arranged including the Cricket Match between the College Team and the Old Boys; the Volleyball Match between the Support Staff and Old Boys; the AGM in the Foster Hall to be followed by Fellowship and thereafter a Formal Dinner followed by the Thanksgiving Service in the College Chapel on Sunday Morning. New Security arrangements have been put in place by the Headmaster. The traditional Events and Programme will be in place. The OBA will strictly enforce the Dress Code and Code of Conduct. 8. The College Annual Sports meet will take place on February 19, 2009. 9. The Headmaster has written to Old Boys with regard to development work etc at Guru on the following lines:- Dear Old Thomian, STC GURUTALAWA INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME Warm greetings from Guru.
I have decided to write to you as I know many of you old boys of STC at Gurutalawa and indeed of STC at Mount Lavinia are not aware of the steps that have been taken to raise standards here at the unique campus of S. Thomas' College in the hills of Uva. Despite continued limitations we are taking one step at a time to pursue the goals and ideals that made this great school what it was and can be again.
Since January 2007 there have been many improvements effected that have enhanced the quality of life for those who live here as students or staff and undoubtedly contributed to the continual raising of standards at Guru. For your information I am including below a list of the major items of our Infrastructure Development Programme that we have attended to during the period up to December 2009 to improve the infrastructure and facilities we offer Guru Thomians.
I have deliberately not referred to the improvement of standards in other spheres of life at Guru about which I have elaborated in my Prize Day Reports and annual Report at the STCG OBA AGMs of 2008 & 2009. Needless to say there have been considerable strides taken.
With funds contributed by the Bishop, Board of Governors, Old Boys and Friends of Guru.
1. The Water Problem that plagued the school in the past has been solved to a great extent by the restoration of unused storage tanks and the utilization of the deep well and other wells on the campus. 2. The kitchen, dining room and toilets of the Headmaster's Bungalow were renovated. 3. The Chaplain's Rooms adjoining the Chapel and occupied by Revd H. C. Goodchild were provided with a brand new toilet and bathroom. 4. Brand new Night Toilets with up to date facilities were installed in all the dormitories [other than the former Winchester (now Hayman Junior) by the Basket Ball Court, Illangakoon near the Sick Room (part of the old Dining Hall) and Jayasinghe by the Stores] with the help and support of the OBAs in the UK, Australia and Sri Lanka. 5. A brand new set of day toilets and wash rooms for the Junior Dormitories were opened in 2008 thanks to the efforts of the STCG OBA in its 50th anniversary year. 6. The roof of Read Junior was given extensive repairs although only the timber could be replaced due to the cost. 7. The Davidson Dormitory by the Headmaster's Bungalow was restored and rewired and is now being used to house the aesthetic subjects, agriculture and practical technical skills classrooms. 8. A model classroom was renovated and furnished in the Middle School by an old boy. 9. The former Chummery that was in a state of dilapidation and on the verge of being demolished was converted into the stables for the four horses donated by Mr. Jacques Huyghebaert who functioned as Advisor on the revival of Guru and overlooked the infrastructure development programme in 2007 & 2008. 10. The drainage system of the Keble & Blanchard dormitories was completely replaced. 11. An entirely new set of toilets and wash rooms was erected for the Blanchard Dormitory for Girls at Keble by Ladies' College, Colombo. 12. The Staff Quarters allotted to Mr V. W. Dikkumbura was restored with funds provided by an old boy. 13. New school-time toilets were built for the girls and boys of the Middle and Upper School and for the main Staff Room in the Upper School by Brandix. 14. The College Office was computerised and networked with funds from an old boy. 15. Two Dialog TV connections were provided for the students by an old boy and a parent. 16. The 'Isolation Room' of the Sick Room that was once the home of Dr and Mrs Hayman has been given a new look and now serves as the College Guest Room that can be booked by old boys, parents and others for short stays. 17. 5 brand new Computers were purchased for the IT Unit with funds from the OBA in Canada. 18. 50 new desks and chairs were provided through funds from the OBA in California. 19. Iron Bunk Beds were provided by an old boy in Australia through the STCG OBA. 20. The College Bakery was recommissioned and a dough mixer was donated to the bakery by an old boy through the STCG OBA. 21. A multi chopper was donated by an old boy for the purpose of making our own compost etc out of our large amounts of waste available on the campus. 22. A new sound system, vestments, altar linen, hangings, hymn books and bibles were provided for the Chapel by an old boy.
With Funds from Sherborne School (Dr R. L. Hayman's alma mater in the UK)
23. Pavements and drains were constructed for the Keble dormitory block, the Keble classrooms, the main Dining Hall, the Middle School and Upper School classroom blocks. 24. A new Chummery for single male staff was opened below the Simon Perera Block of Classrooms and houses 6 to 8 single male staff. 25. The entire roof of the Upper School block was replaced with new timber and asbestos sheets. 26. The Middle School classrooms were renovated. 27. A platform was erected in the Dining Hall for the High Table on the lines of the old Dining Hall. 28. A dining room was put up in the space between the kitchen and squash court for the Support. Staff to have their meals and an Office Room for the Food Warden was put up in the Pantry. 29. A ceiling was installed for the entire Office Section while the Exam Room was enlarged. 30. A Duplo Machine and Computer were purchased for the purpose of Examination work. 31. The roof of the Lower School classroom block was repaired and replaced where necessary. 32. The roof of the Keble Dormitory was repaired and repainted.
At present there are three major projects for which I am trying to raise funds as priorities.
1. The upgrading and renovation of the Swimming Pool – Phase 1 is almost over at a cost of 2 million rupees donated by three or four old boys. Phase 2 requires at least 1.8 million to 2 million. Once completed the Guru Pool will not only have a new look, but as the only pool in the area will be able to generate an income for maintenance etc. 2. Urgent repairs to the Headmaster's Van and College Van that will cost approximately Rs 250,000/- per vehicle. 3. The upgrading of the IT Unit with Broadband, new computers et al – Rs 510,000/-
The long term wish list includes the following:
1. Replacing of the roofs of the remaining Junior Dormitories 2. New day toilets for the Senior Dormitories and the Primary Dormitories on par with those of the Junior Dormitories. 3. Renovation of single staff accommodation for lady teachers at Keble 4. Repairs to and renovations of the various bungalows and quarters for married staff 5. Renovation of the College Hall 6. More double (bunk) beds for the dormitories 7. More desks and chairs for the classrooms 8. Repainting of the Chapel and polishing of the Chapel furnishings in time for the 65th anniversary of the Chapel in December. 9. Upgrading of all classrooms with a large white board, shelves and a cupboard for each class.
These are projects that may be taken up by individual old boys or Class Groups. Should you feel inclined to support your alma mater and join with us in the raising of standards over the next two years, please contact me to find out how you can be of help or how you could send a donation for the projects identified as priorities for this year. Be assured that donations received will be utilised only for the purpose for which they are made and all donations will be duly acknowledged and receipted.
“Our College has not reared us without expecting from us in return some nurture fee. She has given us nurture in order that she might engage for herself our best energies and talent, permitting us to use for our needs so much and so much only as she does not require for her own. The College needs your help to survive. Every Old Boy must give the College the nurture fee he owes.” [Warden Neville de Alwis to the Old Boys of STC ML, 1984]
Gurutalawians, you owe Guru a nurture fee and I look forward to your collaboration and solidarity.
ESTO PERPETUA! Warm regards, The Revd Marc Billimoria Headmaster
We suggest that Old Boys interested contact the Headmaster with their Offers of Support. 10. The Cricket Fixtures of STC Mount have been placed on our Thomian World Wide Calendar of Events - http://www.stcg62group.org/Noticeboard.htm 11. The Uva Thomian Big Match will be on March 27, 2010 at the Bandarawela Esplanade. 12. The Guru Prize Giving will be on May 26, 2010 and the Chief Guest would be, Warden STC Mount, Rev. John Puddefoot.
Please feel free to forward this and future Circular E-mails to any other Old Thomians and Well Wishers who may be interested in receiving same. Please also inform us the Contact Details of any of your friends who would like to be on our Mailing List, inter alia to be kept informed of Guru News and Developments etc. Please inform us in the event of a change in your Contact Details. Your comments and observations are most welcome. Warm Regards, Lakshman Jayatilaka Residence: No. 23, 1st Lane, Kirillapone,
Hello Everybody, 1. Firstly I wish each and every one of you A Very Happy New Year. 2. Secondly I bring the latest updates etc on our Web Site done on December 23, 28 2009 & January 05, 2010 - http://www.stcg62group.org/index.htm 3. In continuation of our practise and as the 47th in the series, which commenced in 2001 the last Circular Mail of December 04, 2009 sent out to Old Boys and Well Wishers of Guru as regards the last updates, etc has been placed in the link “News Letters & Circulars”. - http://www.stcg62group.org/circulars.htm 4. The Calendar of Events on the “Home Page” is updated with all Thomian Events World Wide. We continue to receive Flyers, Notices, E-mails with Thomian News etc etc from Old Thomian Branches in Sri Lanka & elsewhere as well as Old Thomians & Well Wishers from time to time. These are placed on our Home page for the easy reference of all those browsing our site. - http://www.stcg62group.org/index.htm 5. The 4th issue of the Members’ Directory of the Guru OBA has been revised, updated and issued on August 23, 2009, priced at Rs. 500. It could be purchased from; Moorthy – 0773290192 / Dinusha – 0773312131 or Dhayabaran – 0777778443 6. The 131st Battle of the Blues (Royal-Thomian 03 Day Cricket Match) is due to be played on March 11, 12, & 13, 2010. The 35th Limited Overs Royal – Thomian Cricket Match is due to be played on March 20, 2010. The Venue for both Matches will be the S. S. C. 7. An Article by an Old Thomian titled “The Hills are Alive!” sent to us by the Head Master of STCG has been placed in the link “Articles”. -http://www.stcg62group.org/PDF/Articles/57_STC_GURU_ARTICLE.pdf 8. Another Article by Richard Brohier titled “The Power of One” on Warden S. J. Anandanayagam of STC Mount and sent to us by Ana Amaranath of our Group now domiciled in Sydney has also been placed in the link “Articles” - http://www.stcg62group.org/PDF/Articles/58_Warden_S.pdf 9. We wish to Acknowledge and Thank all those who have been regularly sending us Articles, Newsletters, Photos, News Items of interest, & E-mails etc to share with other Old Boys through the medium of our Website. Aluwihare Merril; Amaranath Ananda (Aus); Ariyaratna Ariy (Hongkong); Chapman Astrid (Aus); Connor Jim (Aus); Dissanayaka Muditha(UK); Ginige Daya (Canada); Jayasinghe Andy (UK); Jayatilaka Upali (UK); Jinasena Prasad (Canada); Liyanage Mahendra (Bakka) (USA); Munasinghe Brig. Bandula (B. Muna); Nilaweera Harish (UK); Pillai George (USA); Raj Mohan S.; Salgado Padma (Canada); Wanigasekara Bandu; Wanniarachchi Nihal; Weerakoon Peter (Aus); Wirekoon Anil (Canada); Ziard Sinnen, are some of those who have been regularly contributing. Please feel free to forward this and future Circular E-mails to any other Old Thomians and Well Wishers who may be interested in receiving same. Please also inform us the Contact Details of any of your friends who would like to be on our Mailing List, inter alia to be kept informed of Guru News and Developments etc. Please inform us in the event of a change in your Contact Details. Your comments and observations are most welcome. Warm Regards, Lakshman Jayatilaka Residence: No. 23, 1st Lane, Kirillapone,
December 10, 2009 Hello Everybody, 10. The STC OBA of California will be having a Family Christmas
Event at the Simeon Park on Saturday, December 19, 2009. The Childrens
Party will be from 6 – 7.30 p.m. Thereafter it will be a Hopper
Combo from 8 – 9 p.m. A Traditional Sing Along & Dance
will take place from 9 – 12 p.m. You may refer our home page
for the relevant flyer- http://www.stcg62group.org/index.htm
December 04, 2009 Hello Everybody, 2. We have received from Ziard Sinnen a few Images taken on the occasion of the Cricket Sixes Carnival organized by the Guru OBA and which was held on August 23, 2009 at the NCC Grounds. These have been placed in the Gallery of Events – http://www.stcg62group.org/GE_STC_Guru_Cricket_Tournament_Aug_2009.htm 3. B. Munasinghe (B. Muna) has once again sent us a few Images taken in College, as far back as 1950 including 2 Images of the Pool. These have been placed in the Gallery of Events under “Old Images of Guru”. - http://www.stcg62group.org/GE_Old_Images_of_Guru.htm 4. An Invitation to view the STC OBA Australia Branch Webmaster’s Photo Album of the Outback Night held on November 28, 2009 which we have received. This has been placed in the “Home Page” under “Foreign”. - http://picasaweb.google.com.au/stcobaaust.webmaster/OutbackNiteDinnerDanceNov2009?feat=email# 5. S. Rajmohan, go- getter or organizer of any Event Thomian, has
delivered to us a number of Images of the Fellowship Dinner organized
by the Guru OBA and held at Palm Beach Hotel, on Saturday November
28, 2009. These have been placed in the Gallery of Events –
6. In continuation of our practise and as the 45th in the series, which commenced in 2007 the last Circular Mail of November 30, 2009 sent out to Old Boys and Well Wishers of Guru as regards the last updates, etc has been placed in the link “News Letters & Circulars”. - http://www.stcg62group.org/circulars.htm 7. “The Blue & Black Cracker”, the Annual X’mas Rendezvous presented by the Thomian Society of Colombo will be on Wednesday December 16, 2009 at The Galadari Hotel from 9 p.m. onwards. Tickets are priced at Rs. 2,900. Music will be provided by the Bands, Gypsies & Pearl. The Event will be compered by that Evergreen Dr. Vijaya Corea. Christmas Carols will be provided by the Police Band. For Reservations, Call; Sudath - 0773215440 / Prakash - 0777424979 / Ranmal - 0777366385 8. The Calendar of Events on the “Home Page” is updated with all Thomian Events World Wide. We continue to receive Flyers, Notices, etc etc from Old Thomian Branches in Sri Lanka & elsewhere from time to time which are placed on our Home page for the easy reference of all those browsing our site. - http://www.stcg62group.org/Noticeboard.htm 9. In the Local scene the Traditional Festivals of Carols and Nine Lessons are scheduled at the Chapel of Transfiguration in STC Mount Lavinia on December 06, 2009 and At the Chapel of the Good Shepherd in STC Bandarawela on Decmber 06, 2009. 10. The 4th issue of the Members’ Directory of the Guru OBA has been revised, updated and issued on August 23, 2009, priced at Rs. 500. It could be purchased from; Moorthy – 0773290192 / Dinusha – 0773312131 / Dhayabaran – 0777778443 11. The 131st Battle of the Blues (Royal-Thomian 03 Day Cricket Match) is due to be played on March 11, 12, & 13, 2010. The 35th Limited Overs Royal – Thomian Cricket Match is due to be played on March 20, 2010. The Venue for both Matches will be the S. S. C. Old Boys outside Sri Lanka are making their travel plans well in advance in relation to the above matches. Please feel free to forward this and future Circular E-mails to
any other Old Thomians and Well Wishers who may be interested in
receiving same. Warm Regards, No. 23, 1st Lane, Kirillapone,
November 26, 2009 Dear Fellow Thomian, Warm Regards, No. 23, 1st Lane, Kirillapone,
Dear Fellow Thomian, 1. I write to you once again with the latest updates etc done on November 17, 2009, on our Web Site- www.stcg62group.org
2. The Ex-Co of the STCG-OBA had a Meeting on October 31, 2009 at Guru. Those attending were able to see for themselves the Development Efforts in the Infrastructure. Images have been uploaded in the link “Gallery of Events”. - http://www.stcg62group.org/GE_Exco_Meeting_Sept_2009.htm
3. In continuation of our practise and as the 43rd in the series,which commenced in 2007 the last Circular Mail of November 13, 2009 sent out to Old Boys and Well Wishers of Guru as regards the last updates, etc has been placed in the link “News Letters & Circulars”. - http://www.stcg62group.org/circulars.htm
4. The Annual Fellowship Dinner organised by the STCG-OBA will be on Saturday November 28th 2009 at the Palm Beach Hotel, De Saram Road, Mount Lavinia starting at 7.30 p.m. Tickets are priced at Rs. 2500 and can be purchased from; · Prabhath Jayasundara – 0777343064 · S. Rajmohan – 0777396655 · M. Thirumurugamoorthi – 0773290192 · Shervon Fernando – 0777746221 · Krishantha Weerawardena – 0727622075 · Nihal Wanniarachchi – 0712786877 · Dinusha De Costa - 0773312131
5. The Calendar of Events on the “Home Page” is updated with all Thomian Events world wide. We continue to receive Flyers, Notices, etc etc from Old Thomian Branches in Sri Lanka & elsewhere from time to time which are placed on our Home page for the easy reference of all those browsing our site. - http://www.stcg62group.org/index.htm
6. Amongst the Local Events scheduled are, Beach Paduru Party organized by the STC Bandarawela OBA at the Shelton Sea Food Restaurant (Mount Lavinia Beach) on Saturday November 28, 2009 starting at 7.30 p.m; The Fellowship Dinner Organized by the STCG Old Boy’s Association at the Palm Beach Hotel, Mount Lavinia , on Saturday November 28, 2009 starting at 7.30 p.m.
7. Come Christmas Season the Traditional Festivals of Carols and Nine Lessons are scheduled in most Thomian Theatres of Activity across the Globe; At the Chapel of Transfiguration in STC Mount Lavinia on December 06, 2009; At the Chapel of the Good Shepherd in STC Bandarawela on Decmber 06, 2009; At the St. David’s Anglican Church, 4 Redholme Street Moorabin, VIC 3189 organized by the STC OBA (Australia Branch) on December 12, 2009 from 6 p.m. onwards; At the St. Anne’s Anglican Church, 42 Church, St Top Ryde, organized by the STC OBA NSW on Saturday 28th November 2009, starting at 6.30p.m.
8. Letters & E-mails received by us are placed in the link LETTER BOX > INWARD LETTERS for the information of all interested. – http://www.stcg62group.org/PDF/Letterbox/Inward_Letters_02.pdf
9. The 4th issue of the Members’ Directory of the Guru OBA has been revised, updated and issued on August 23, 2009, priced at Rs. 500. It could be purchased from, · Moorthy – 0773290192 · Dinusha – 0773312131 · Dhayabaran - 0777778443
10. We recorded the Death of Mr. Rukshan Perera, who manned the STC Mount Lavinia OBA Secretariat with dedication and great commitment. His funeral was on Novemebr 16, 2009. We convey our sympathies to all his loved ones.
11. The 131st Battle of the Blues (Royal-Thomian 03 Day Cricket Match) is due to be played on March 11, 12, & 13, 2010. The 35th Limited Overs Royal – Thomian Cricket Match is due to be played on March 20, 2010. The Venue for both Matches will be the S. S. C. Old Boys outside Sri Lanka are making their travel plans well in advance in relation to the above matches.
12. We have on November 16, 2009 uploaded images of the last Guru Prize Giving and last Guru OBA Ex-Co Meeting (held at Guru) on the Guru Support Group – Facebook
Please feel free to forward this and future Circular E-mails to any other Old Thomians and well wishers who may be interested in receiving same.
Please also inform us the Contact Details of any of your friends who would like to be on our Mailing List, inter alia to be kept informed of Guru News and Developments etc. Please inform us in the event of a change in your Contact Details. Your comments and observations are most welcome.
Warm Regards,
Lakshman Jayatilaka
November 13, 2009 Dear Fellow Thomian,
2. The Ex-Co of the STCG-OBA had a Meeting on September 26, 2009. Images have been uploaded in the link “Gallery of Events”. - http://www.stcg62group.org/GE_Exco_Meeting_Sept_2009.htm
3. At the above meeting a Letter of Resignation (due to urgent personal commitments in the UK) was tabled from Mr. Mahen Ranasinghe, the Lively- Go-Getter-Work-Horse, Senior Vice- President of the STCG-OBA. All those who were regularly in touch with Guru will recall that, we witnessed an unprecedented era of development activity, in which the OBA played a pro-active role in complete harmony with Headmaster Rev. Marc Billimoria during Mahen’s stewardship.
4. At the same meeting, Vice-President Prabhath Jayasundera was elected as Mahen’s Successor. Prabhath was Head Prefect in College in 1985 during the Headmastership of Mr. Patrick Gunewardena. The Roll of Students during this period reached an all time high of 1247 resulting in the Board of Governors crying halt. Guru witnessed success in every sphere of activity during this era. Prabhath is a worthy successor to Mahen. If his period of Head Prefectship and the 06 weeks which have already elapsed of his tenure as Senior Vice President is considered a yardstick, then both the OBA and Guru can look forward to a very Productive, Committed and Responsible Leadership from Prabhath. Our Good Wishes are extended to this worthy Product of Guru.
5. A Mega Development Plan is afoot in relation to the Swimming Pool. Headmaster Rev. Marc Billimoria together with the OBA are putting the final touches to the Paper Work and Fund Raising Activities.
6. At this point of time it may be relevant to note an In-depth Article in relation to the Swimming pool written by no less a person than Dr. R.L. Hayman, the Donor of the pool and which appeared in the September 1953 issue of the College Magazine. This is reproduced and placed in the link “Articles”. http://www.stcg62group.org/PDF/Articles/54_Swimming_Pool_at_Gurut.pdf
7. The last Circular Mail sent out to Old Boys and Well Wishers of Guru as regards the last updates done on September 14 and October 23rd 2009 has been placed in the link “News Letters & Circulars”. - http://www.stcg62group.org/circulars.htm
8. The Annual Fellowship Dinner organised by the STCG-OBA will be on Saturday November 28th 2009 at the Palm Beach Hotel, De Saram Road, Mount Lavinia starting at 7.30 p.m.
9. The Calendar of Events on the “Home Page” is updated with all Thomian Events world wide. - http://www.stcg62group.org/index.htm
10. The 131st Battle of the Blues (Royal-Thomian 03 Day Cricket Match) is due to be played on March 11, 12, & 13, 2010. The 35th Limited Overs Royal – Thomian Cricket Match is due to be played on March 20, 2010. The Venue for both Matches will be the S. S. C. Old Boys outside Sri Lanka are making their travel plans well in advance in relation to the above matches.
Please inform us in the event of a change in your Contact Details. Please also inform us the Contact Details of any of your friends who would like to be on our Mailing List, inter alia to be kept informed of Guru News and Developments etc. Your comments and observations are most welcome.
Warm Regards,
Lakshman Jayatilaka
October 27, 2009 Dear Fellow Thomian, I write to you once again with the latest updates done on our website on September 14th & October 23rd 2009. Copies of the emails sent to those on our mailing list have been
placed in the Link News Letters & Circulars. http://www.stcg62group.org/circulars.htm
Flyers re various events organized by the STC OBA Austraila Branch i.e. "The Thora Roti Night 09" which was scheduled for October 24th 2009, "The STC OBA Golf Open Day 2009" on November 8th 2009 at Waverley (Private) Golf Course, Burgins Road, Rowville, and "The Outback Nite" on November 28th 2009 at Hungarian Community Centre, 760, Boronia Road, Wantirna, Victoria, 3152 are also placed on the Home Page. http://www.stcg62group.org/index.htm A Royal Thomian Event still to take place in the current season in Colombo is Tennis on October 31st 2009. Rowing took place on October 24th with victory for the Thomians. The Thomian World Wide Calendar of Evevnts has also been updated. Minutes of the Meeting No. 3 of the Ex-Co of the Guru OBA have been placed on the site. http://www.stcg62group.org/PDF/OBA/Ex_Co_Minutes/38_Ex_co_Mts_26_06_09.pdf An Article by Clifford Ratwatte titled "S. Thomas at Gurutalawa - Reminiscences" - which appears in "The First 50 years - A history of STCG 1942 - 1992" has been placed in the link Articles. http://www.stcg62group.org/PDF/Articles/53_Reminiscences.pdf Also placed in the same link is an Article titled "The History of the Boy Scout Movement and unforgettable reminiscences in STCG" by Mr. George Pillai who taught at Guru from 1954 - 1964. http://www.stcg62group.org/PDF/Articles/54_History_of_Boy_Scouts_Movement.pdf Mr. George Pillai was felicitated on his recent visit to Colombo by the STC Guru OBA. http://www.stcg62group.org/GE_Felicitation_Dinner_for_George_Pillai_Dec_2008.htm A Report submitted by S. Prabaharan & S. Balaramesh of the current Ex-Co with to regard to Developing Sports at Guru has been uploaded under the link OBA. http://www.stcg62group.org/PDF/OBA/Sub_Committees/Report_Sub-Committee_for_Sports_Development.pdf You could also view the images of the STC OBA Transfiguration Service 2009. http://picasaweb.google.com.au/stcobaaust.webmaster/STCOBATransfigurationService2009?feat=email# Fr. Marc Billimoria, the Headmaster at Gurutalawa, who is a Mount Thomian himself, strongly believes that Guru has a Character of its own. He pays much attention to Thomian Traditions and is making every effort to restore at Gurutalawa at least what is humanly possible in these difficult times. We Salute him. http://www.stcguru.com Please inform us in the event of a change in your Contact Details. Please also inform us the Contact Details of any of your friends who would like to be on our Mailing List, inter alia to be kept informed of Guru News and Developments etc. Your comments and observations are most welcome. Warm Regards,
Dear Fellow Thomian, Copies of the emails sent to those on our mailing list have been placed in the Link News Letters & Circulars. The postponed Guru Inter - House Swimming Meet for the Dr. R.L. Hayman Memorial Shield is to be held on Friday, September 18, 2009 at 8.30 a.m. The Chief Gueat will be Dr. Harsha Perera who captained the Guru Swimming Team in 1985 and the Winner of the Bronze Medal for Life Saving. It is hoped that Old Boys will be present in their numbers to lend suopport to the College and by their presence encourage the present Thomians to greater heights. This day is also Open Day for Parents to meet the Teachers re the Progress Reports of their children. Yet another Thomian of the Hayman era has departed. We wish to
inform all Thomians of the death of CAPT. D A WICKRAMASINGHE (Chairman,
Streamline Services). Beloved husband of Neetha, loving father of
Shani and Navin and much loved grandfather of Marlon. Capt. Wickramasinghe,
was at Guru during 1947/52 was the Cadet Battalion Sergeant in 1951/
52, and was also a Branch Prefect. His Remains lie at A.F. Raymonds
Funeral Parlour. Cortege leaves at 3.00 p.m. on Tuesday 15th September.
Cremation will be at the General Cemetery, Borella at 3.30 p.m. Your comments and observations are most welcome. Warm Regards,
September 10, 2009 Dear Fellow Thomian, I write to you once again with the latest updates done on our web site on September 08, 2009. Copies of the emails sent to those on our mailing list have been placed in the Link News Letters & Circulars.http://www.stcg62group.org/circulars.htm Guru has re-opened for the Third Term on September 07,2009. The postponed Swimming Meet has been re fixed for September 18, 2009 – which is also Open Day for parents to meet the Teachers re the progress reports of their children. The College web site, now under the administration of the Headmaster is progressing reasonably well with Improvements and Adjustments being made to the Architecture from time to time. A new Link has been established for The Chapel, which is a significant Icon at Gurutalawa. The Headmaster has also placed a detailed Calendar of Events with regard to the happenings at Gurutalawa. http://www.stcguru.com/ The Thomian Worldwide Calendar of Events has been updated. The Headmaster has been kind enough to send us a comprehensive list of Events scheduled for the 3rd Term at Gurutalawa. The Hewisi Band Concert titled 'Kinnara 09' on the steps of the Chapel at Mt.Lavinia takes place on September 12th from 7.00 p.m onwards. Students from Gurutalawa are also participating with a Unique Act. It is hoped that all Guru Old Boys who can make it to the venue will lend their support by their presence to encourage these deserving students from Guru. This Event will also feature the Hewisi Bands and Dance Troupes of Bishop's College; Asian International School, Girl's High School, Musaeus College, Trinity College, D S Senanayake College and the Old Boys of STC. Also entered in the Calendar Events are The Country and Western Night presented by the STC OBA of Canada on October 17,2009; 'Maestoso' presented by the Thomian Chamber Orchestra featuring the Orchestras of Ladies College and STC Mt Lavinia on September 11th & 13th at the Russian Cultural Center; The Thomian Paan Party organised by the STC Mt. OBA on September 12th at Mount Beach next to Golden Mile from 8.30 p.m onwards; the Annual Sri Lanka Schools Rugby Sevens Tournament presented by the OBA's of Trinity and S' Thomas's in Canada on September 27th, the Members Night organised by the STC OBA Australia Branch on September 19th from 6.30 p.m etc, etc. www.stcg62group.org/index.htm We have also placed under the link 'Articles' two Articles which had appeared in ' A History of S'Thomas College Gurutalawa 1942-1992', namely 'Growing up in Gurutalawa' - by Shamindri Marasinghe (daughter of Dr.Hayman's faithful aide who was fondly referred to as "Bull Mara" ) the first Thomian Girl to have completed her entire school education at Guru. http://www.stcg62group.org/PDF/Articles/52_Growing_Up_in_Guru.pdf The other article being an Appreciation of J De S Jayasinghe by Mr.Oliver J De Zoysa, both respected and revered masters who fashioned hundreds of Guru Thomians. http://www.stcg62group.org/PDF/Articles/51_J_De_S_Jayasinghe_An_Appreciation.pdf Also placed on the Home Page is a Write Up of Jayakumar Thangavelu - Gem of a Boxer by Maxie Kariyawasam. Thanga is a retired Police Officer and a Lawyer. www.stcg62group.org/index.htm Please inform us in the event of a change in your Contact Details. Please also inform us the Contact Details of any of your friends who would like to be on our Mailing List, inter alia to be kept informed of Guru News and Developments etc. Your comments and observations are most welcome. Warm Regards,
August 07, 2009 Dear Fellow Thomian, I write to you once again with the latest updates done on our web site yesterday, August 06, 2009. We have updated the Link News of Old Boys http://www.stcg62group.org/PDF/News_of_Old_Boys_July_2009.pdf We have also updated the Link Contact details of Old Boys http://www.stcg62group.org/Noticeboard.htm
Copies of the emails sent to those on our mailing list have been placed in the Link News Letters & Circulars. http://www.stcg62group.org/circulars.htm
Guru Closes for the August Vacation today. The postponed Swimming Meet has been re fixed for September 18, 2009 – which is also Open Day for parents to meet the teachers re the progress reports of their children.
The College web site, now under the administration of the Headmaster is progressing reasonably well. A new Link has been established for The Farm, which was in existence before the school moved in. It would be nostalgic for Old Boys of those vintage years and up to the 1960's who were lucky to be boarders at that time, when The Farm consisted of inter alia sheep; cattle; that massive stud bull (who had an argument with the Bursar's small car & punched holes in it); that Orchard inclusive of Persimmon; Loquat; and other rare fruit trees to go down memory lane and view what is left to be seen now. Some of these images have been made available in the Links relating to The Farm and Our Campus. The Horses who formed part of The Farm are now a part of the Riding Club. Images relating to the Horses grazing & being exercised in the Riding Ring, participating in Ceremonies connected with welcoming The Chief Guests at Prize Giving’s and Sports Meets etc. are novel features strikingly obvious in this unique Up Country Boarding School. Fr. Marc Billimoria, the Headmaster at Gurutalawa, who is a Mount Thomian himself, strongly believes that Guru has a Character of its own. He pays much attention to Thomian Traditions and is making every effort to restore at Gurutalawa at least what is humanly possible in these difficult times. We Salute him.
Please inform us in the event of a change in your Contact Details. Please also inform us the Contact Details of any of your friends who would like to be on our Mailing List, inter alia to be kept informed of Guru News and Developments etc. Your comments and observations are most welcome. Warm Regards,
July 30, 2009 Dear Fellow Thomian,
I write to you once again with the latest updates done on our web site today, July 30, 2009. According to the latest Usage Statistics on the website up to July 30, 2009.
The Daily Average Visits to our site for June & July 2009 (to date) have been 26 & 44 respectively.
The Daily Average Hits for June & July 2009 (to date) have been 466 & 1416 respectively.
The Monthly Total Number of Visits for June & July 2009 (to date) have been 793 & 1119 respectively.
The Monthly Total Number of Hits for June & July 2009 (to date) have been 13985 & 35423 respectively. We have updated the Link News of Old Boys http://www.stcg62group.org/PDF/News_of_Old_Boys_July_2009.pdf
We have also updated the Contact details of Old Boys http://www.stcg62group.org/Noticeboard.htm
Copies of the emails sent to those on our mailing list have been placed in the Link News Letters & Circulars. http://www.stcg62group.org/circulars.htm
Letters received by us from Old Boys are placed in the Link Letter Box <Inward Letters> http://www.stcg62group.org/PDF/Letterbox/Inward_Letters_02.pdf
The Headmaster at Gurutalawa informs us that due to unforeseen circumstances caused by the severe drought and resulting scarcity of water on the campus the cleaning of the pool has been halted as there is insufficient water to replenish what goes out in the brushing process. As a result it had been decided to reluctantly postpone the Swimming Meet which was fixed for August 06, 2009 to Friday September 18, 2009 – which is also Open Day for parents to meet the teachers re the progress reports of their children.
Please inform us in the event of a change in your Contact Details. Please also inform us the Contact Details of any of your friends who would like to be on our Mailing List, interalia to be kept informed of Guru News and Developments etc. Your comments and observations are most welcome.
Warm Regards,
July 28, 2009 Dear Fellow Thomian,
I write to you once again with the latest updates done on our web site on July 20 & 21, 2009.
Additional Direct Links for Events relating to STC Mount Lavinia have been provided as follows on the Home Page.
Thomian Walk '09 - 11th July, 2009 Inter Batch 6 a side Cricket Tournament The installation of the Rev. John Charles Puddefoot, the 17th Warden of S. Thomas' College
The Guru Swimming Meet previously fixed for August 07, has been advanced to August 06, 2009. School will also close on August 06, 2009. These dates were advanced as the Uva Provincial Council Election are on August 08, 2009.
The following items have been placed under the Link Articles.
A Report of a Speech made by Old Boy & the then Defence Minister Tilak Marapana at the STC Mount Lavinia Prize Giving in September 2002. Thomian Culture Shaped Us for the Future - Speech of Defence Minister Tilak Marapana at STC Mount Prize Giving
Another Report of the same speech
The Speech made by Old Boy Bradman Weerakoon at the STC Mount Lavinia-Prize
Giving on July 06 2007
A Tribute to Warden Neville de Alwis written by Guru Headmaster
Rev. Marc Billimoria
The latest Contact Details of Old Boys and Well wishers are placed on the Notice Board of our Site. http://www.stcg62group.org/Noticeboard.htm This is updated regularly.
We would be happy to receive News of Old boys, particularly those of our vintage. This Link too is updated regularly. http://www.stcg62group.org/PDF/News_of_Old_Boys_Sept_2008.pdf
Please inform us in the event of a change in your Contact Details. Please also inform us the Contact Details of any of your friends who would like to be on our Mailing List, interalia to be kept informed of Guru News and Developments etc.
Mails of Interest received from Old Boys are placed in our Letter Box > Inward Letters http://www.stcg62group.org/PDF/Letterbox/Inward_Letters_02.pdf .
Your comments and observations are most welcome.
Warm Regards,
Lakshman Jayatilaka
July 16, 2009 Dear Fellow Thomian, I write to you once again with the latest (July 07, 10 & 14 2009) updates on our website.
The most important item of news that would interest all Old Boys is that the Official Web Site of the College has been revived since end of June 2009 and is now administered by the Headmaster at Gurutalawa. Already over 10 updates have been done. Regular updates are ongoing. Please visit the site http://www.stcguru.com
An extract of the speech of Mr. P S Duleepkumar -a pioneer Old boy of Guru, as the Chief Guest at a Guru Prize Giving in August 1977 on the subject “The Thomian Tradition" has been up-loaded under the link-"Articles". http://www.stcg62group.org/PDF/Articles/45_The_Thomian_Tradition_by_Duleep_Kumar.pdf
Also uploaded under the same link is an interview given by the Headmaster Rev. Marc Billimoria to Wijith de Chickera and which appeared in the Ceylon Churchman April – June 2009 http://www.stcg62group.org/PDF/Articles/46_STC_Guru_Uniquely_Thomian.pdf
An extract from the Memoirs of Charles Ponnuthurai Sarvan who was at Guru from 1950 – 1953 (then known as Charles S Ponnuthurai) and which appeared in the Sunday Island News Paper of July 05, 2009. Titled Recollections of Guru written for his sons and their children has been placed under the link Articles. http://www.stcg62group.org/PDF/Articles/44_Recollections_of_STCG_by_Charles.pdf
The latest Contact Details of Old Boys and Well wishers are placed on the Notice Board of our Site. http://www.stcg62group.org/Noticeboard.htm
The Guru OBA has set up several Sub Committees. The Faculty and Education Sub Committee chaired by Wansapriya Gunaseela has already submitted its Action Plan with a Priority List. They have already found Sponsors for some Projects. http://www.stcg62group.org/OBA_Sub_Committees.htm
The S. Thomas’ College Bandarawela OBA has its 22nd Annual General Meeting on August 15, 2009 at the Keble Memorial Hall at Bandarawela. Those of our vintage would find it Rewarding and Nostalgic to go down Memory Lane by visiting the school particularly during the Old Boy's Re-Union week-end. http://www.stcg62group.org/index.htm
The Thomian Society of Colombo have organised a Dinner Theater on July 25 2009, at the Galadari Hotel Ball Room. " Koluu' and "Indu" are billed to perform.
The Guru Inter-House Swimming Meet is schedule for the morning of August 07, 2009. School closes for the August vacation, the same day.
The New Warden at STC Mount Lavinia Rev. John Puddefoot assumed duties on July 01, 2009. On July 2nd College had a Special Assembly in the morning to introduce the new Warden to the students. The Board of Governors were present. The Bishop of Colombo Rt Rev Duleep De Chickera in his speech introduced the new Warden as Rev. John. He went on to explain that Thomians were quite adept at giving nick names and therefore he will avoid using the surname of the new Warden to introduce him. In fact, he mentioned that he had been honoured with no less than 03 nicknames whilst he was in College as Sub Warden; he was aware of only 02 of the nicknames whilst he was in College. A Tri lingual Service of Induction was held on July 10, 2009, at the Chapel of the Transfiguration in Mount Lavinia, presided over by the Bishop who is also the Chairman of the Board of Governors of the College. Two unexpected and surprise participants were H.E. The President and the First Lady.
Special mention must be made of the valuable contribution made by Hon. Prof G.L.Peiris, one of the illustrious sons of S.T.C and a member of the Board of Governors who personally obtained the recommendation of the President for a five year visa for the New Warden and ensured that it was obtained.
Direct Links for matters relating to STC Mount Lavinia have been provided as follows on the Home Page:- New Warden of S. Thomas' College New Warden's Visit to the Lower School The Special Assembly to Welcome the 17th Warden of STC Appeal Re Rukshan Perera who was running the OBA Secretariat. Special Assembly to Mark Heroes Day
The Class of 90' of STC Mount organized the Annual Old Boys Inter - Collegiate Batch Cricket Sixes Carnival at the Big Club Grounds on July 11, 2009.
Also on the same day was the Thomian Walk 2009 starting from St. Paul’s Milagiriya and terminating at the Big Club Grounds.
The Guru O/L Batch Cricket Sixes Carnival has been arranged for August 23, 2009 at the NCC Grounds. This Event is organized by the Guru-OBA in lieu of the Annual Family Outing. http://www.stcg62group.org/index.htm
The Guru Prize Giving was held on July 03, 2009. Mrs. Nirmalie Wickremasinghe the Principal of Ladies College was the Chief Guest. http://www.stcg62group.org/GE_Prize_Giving_2009.htm
A Science Exhibition followed the Prize Giving in the Tradition of years gone by when Dr. Hayman presided over the destinies of the College. http://www.stcg62group.org/GE_Science_Exhibition_July_2009.htm
The post of Manager Administration at Guru has been filled. Ananda Gallearachchi who is a regular and popular personality in all events not only at Guru but also at STC Bandarawela has been selected by the Board of Governors. He assumed duties on July 01, 2009. With the experience he has gained Managing State & Private Sector Plantations and also in the Mercantile Sector, it is hoped that he will be a great source of strength and support to Headmaster Rev. Marc Billimoria at Guru. We wish him well. According to the Headmaster, Ananda has already taken a great load off the shoulders of the Headmaster.
The Worldwide Calendar of Events continues to be updated regularly to keep Thomians Near and Far informed of Thomian Functions and Events all over the world. We continue to receive News and Information from our Friends and the Branches at Bandarawela, Gurutalawa, Australia, USA, United Kingdom and Canada and other Associations, Unions and Groups about their respective Events etc.
These can be viewed at www.stcg62group.org/index.htm
You could access the New STC Mt. Lavinia OBA site at the following address. www.stcmloba.info
We have also provided the following additional Links. Old Thomians' Rugby Football Union - http://www.otrfu.com Old Thomian Swimming Club - http://www.otscml.com The Musical "Nickleby" based on Charles Dickens' "Nicholas Nickleby" is due to go on the Boards at the Lionel Wendt Theatre on 17th,18th,19th July from 7.30 pm onwards. http://www.stcg62group.org/index.htm A copy of the July “Thomiana" of the STC OBA Australia Branch of Victoria has been placed on our Site for those interested in reading same. http://www.stcg62group.org/PDF/Thomiana_Newsletter_July_2009.pdf
We would be happy to receive News of Old boys, particularly those of our vintage. Please inform us in the event of a change in your contact details. Please also inform us the contact details of any of your friends who would like to be on our Mailing List, inter alia to be kept informed of Guru News and Developments etc.
We continue to receive mails from Old Boys some of whom have had no contact what so ever with the College or each other for almost 45 yrs. We place these mails in our Letter Box > Inward Letters http://www.stcg62group.org/PDF/Letterbox/Inward_Letters_02.pdf . There have been several instances of friendships of decades gone by which had blossomed as "school Boys" now being renewed and rekindled albeit as " grandpas".
Your comments and observations are most welcome.
Warm Regards,
Lakshman Jayatilaka
June 12, 2009 Dear Fellow Thomian, June 05, 2009 Dear Fellow Thomian, June 04, 2009
I write to you once again with the latest (June 01, 2009) updates on our website.
We were deeply saddened to receive news of the death a few weeks ago, of Mr. Nagalingam Ratnasingham (Ratus) who was on the staff at Guru. He was living in Australia at the time of his death. Old boys of Guru of the late 50’s and early 60’s will recall Ratus vividly. He was very much involved in Cadetting & Basketball. Unfortunately we had no further details about him or his family. www.stcg62group.org/index.htm
The Worldwide Calendar of Events continues to be updated regularly to keep Thomians Near and Far informed of Thomian Functions and Events all over the world. We continue to receive News and Information from our Friends and the Branches at Bandarawela, Gurutalawa, Australia, USA, United Kingdom and Canada and other Associations, Unions and Groups about their respective Events etc.
Many of the Current Seasons Rugby Fixtures of STC Mount have been entered in the Calendar of Events.
Most Thomian Web Sites Worldwide have provided a Link to our Web Site.
We have provided a link to Eton College in UK considered as the Mother School of S.Thomas' www.etoncollege.com
We have also provided a link to Gordonstoun School in Moray, Scotland - a Public School with special emphasis on outdoor life and inculcation of the spirit of adventure - the vision which Dr.Hayman had for Guru. www.gordonstoun.org.uk
Apart from these two we have also set apart a link for Sherborne School in UK,Dr Hayman's Alma Mater with which Fr Marc Billimoria, the Headmaster at Guru proposes to build up a close relationship. www.sherborne.org/home
Due to unavoidable circumstances, the STC Mt. Lavinia OBA site
is not accessible at present.
We have on June 01, 2009 placed the following New Material on the site:-
1. An Article titled, “The Thomian Grit is not a myth” by Sri Sangabo Corea. www.stcg62group.org/PDF/Articles/43_Thomian_Grit_was_not_a_myth.pdf
2. A Flyer re “ STC Inter Collegiate Batch Cricket 6’s on Saturday, July 11, 2009 at the Big Club Ground STC Mt. Lavinia. www.stcg62group.org/index.htm
3. A Flyer re “STC Gurutalawa OBA O/L Batch Cricket Sixes Carnival on August 09, 2009 at the NCC Grounds. www.stcg62group.org/index.htm
We would be happy to receive News of Old boys, particularly those of our vintage. Please inform us in the event of a change in your contact details. Please also inform us the contact details of any of your friends who would like to be on our Mailing List, inter alia to be kept informed of Guru News and Developments etc.
Your comments and observations are most welcome
Warm Regards,
Lakshman Jayatilaka
May 14, 2009 Dear Fellow Thomian, I write to you once again with the latest updates on our website.
According to the latest Usage Statistics on the website up to May 14 , 2009.
The Daily Average Visits to our site for February, March, April & May 2009 (to date) have been 50 , 59, 44 & 39 respectively.
The Daily Average Hits for February, March, April & May 2009 (to date) have been 1222, 2169, 1146 & 556 respectively.
The Monthly Total Number of Visits for February, March, April & May 2009 (to date) have been 1424, 1839 , 1336 & 559 respectively.
The Monthly Total Number of Hits for February, March, April & May 2009 (to date) have been 34217, 67242 , 34402 & 7793 respectively.
To facilitate browsing our site, we provide below the different links for easy access
HOME http://www.stcg62group.org/ ABOUT US http://www.stcg62group.org/aboutusfinal.htm REPORTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS http://www.stcg62group.org/reports_and_recommendations.htm MEMBERS http://www.stcg62group.org/members.htm COLLEGE http://www.stcg62group.org/college.htm NEWSLETTERS & CIRCULARS http://www.stcg62group.org/newsletter_and_circulars.htm OBA http://www.stcg62group.org/oba.htm LETTER BOX http://www.stcg62group.org/Letterbox.htm ARTICLES/MEMOIRS/REFLECTIONS http://www.stcg62group.org/Articles_Memoirs_Reflections.htm NEWS OF OLD BOYS http://www.stcg62group.org/news_of_old_boys.htm GALLERY OF EVENTS http://www.stcg62group.org/Gallery_of_Events.htm NOTICE BOARD/CALENDAR http://www.stcg62group.org/Noticeboard.htm LINKS http://www.stcg62group.org/Links.htm CONTACT US 62groupstcg@gmail.com <62groupstcg@gmail.com>
The Worldwide Calendar of Events continues to be updated regularly to keep Thomians Near and Far informed of Thomian Functions and Events all over the world. We continue to receive News and Information from our Friends and the Branches at Bandarawela, Gurutalawa, Australia, USA, United Kingdom and Canada and other Associations, Unions and Groups about their respective Events etc.
Many of the Current Seasons Rugby Fixtures of STC Mount have been entered in the Calendar of Events.
The Uva Battle of the Blues, the Annual Cricket Encounter between STC Bandarawela & STC Gurutalawa for the S.L.A. Ratnayake and Patrick Gunawardena Trophy has been revived after 17 years & is scheduled to be played on May 23rd, 2009 at the Bandarawela Esplanade.
The Thomian - Trinity Rugby Dinner is scheduled to be held on May 16, 2009 commencing 8.00 p.m. at the Anilanka Resorts , Park Street Hotel 20, Park Street, Colombo - 02.
The following Thomian & Associated Links have been enabled on our site for convenient browsing :-
STC Gurutalawa S. Thomas College, Gurutalawa – http://www.stcguru.com Guru Support Group – http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=20573160207 STC Mount Lavinia S. Thomas College. Mt Lavinia – http://www.stcmount.sch.lk S. Thomas College Mt Lavinia OBA – http://www.stcmloba.org S.Thomas' College PTA - http://www.stcpta.org Class of 1971 - http://www.stc-class-of-1971.com Class of 1972 - http://www.stcmloba.org/class_of_72new.htm Class of 1974 - http://www.stcoba.org Class of 1975 - http://www.stcmloba.org/html/Class75/75 Class1.htm The Class of 1983 - http://www.sthomascollege.com Thomian Class of '87 - www.stc87batch.org Thomian Batch of 1988 - 2001 - www.thomians.4t.com Class of 1990 - http://www.stcmlclassof1990.org The Class of '92 - http://www.stc-class92.org/ Class of 1993 - www.geocities.com/stc_classof93 STC Class of 1994 - www.stcclassof94.com STC Bandarawela S. Thomas’ College Bandarawela - http://www.stcb.sch.lk/ S. Thomas College Bandarawela OBA – http://www.stcbwoba.wb.gs/ STPS Kollupitiya S. Thomas’ Preparatory School - OBU – http://www.prepobu.lk USA East Coast Thomians Association, USA – http://www.thomians.org Old Thomians Association of California - http://www.thomians.com Canada STC OBA of Canada - http://www.stcoba-canada.com Australia STC OBA Sydney, NSW, Australia - http://www.stcobasydney.com STC OBA (Australia Branch), Victoria - http://www.stcobaaust.org.au/ United Kingdom The Old Thomians Association in the UK - http://otauk.co.uk Old Thomians' Association (UK) - http://www.otauk.org UAE STC OBA United Arab Emirates Chapter - http://www.geocities.com/thouae/index.html General Eton-Our 'Mother School' - www.etoncollege.com St. Thomas' Sri Lanka - http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=4756031708 Battle of the Blues - http://www.royalthomian.info Dr R L Hayman's Alma Mater - Sherborne - http://www.sherborne.org/home Dr R L Hayman's Vision for Guru -Gordonstoun School - http://www.gordonstoun.org.uk/
Most Thomian Web Sites Worldwide have provided a Link to our Web Site.
We have provided a link to Eton College in UK considered as the Mother School of S.Thomas' .
We have also provided a link to Gordonstoun School in Moray, Scotland - a Public School with special emphasis on outdoor life and inculcation of the spirit of adventure - the vision which Dr.Hayman had for Guru.
Apart from these two we have also set apart a link for Sherborne School in UK,Dr Hayman's Alma Mater with which Fr Marc Billimoria, the Headmaster at Guru proposes to build up a close relationship.
We have on May 11, 2009 placed the following New Material on the site:-
1. An Article titled, The Essence of Being a Thomian which appeared in their April issue, was sent to us by the Editor of "Thomiana". www.stcg62group.org/PDF/Articles/42_The_Essence_of_being_a_Thomian.pdf
2. The Minutes of the First Meeting of the New Ex-Co of the STCG OBA. http://www.stcg62group.org/PDF/OBA/Ex_Co_Minutes/35_Ex_co_Mts_06_02_09.pdf
3. The Detailed Accounts (Audited) of the Junior Dorm Toilets and Washrooms, and, Read Junior Dorm Roof, Project . http://www.stcg62group.org/index.htm
4. Contact details of the Headmaster et al at Gurutalawa. http://www.stcg62group.org/index.htm
5. Images of Senior members of the Staff of the Early Years at Guru sent to us by Brig. B. Munasinghe ( B Muna) http://www.stcg62group.org/GE_Old_Images_of_Guru.htm
We would be happy to receive News of Old boys, particularly those of our vintage. Please inform us in the event of a change in your contact details. Please also inform us the contact details of any of your friends who would like to be on our Mailing List, inter alia to be kept informed of Guru News and Developments etc.
Your comments and observations are most welcome
April 30, 2009 Dear Fellow Thomian,
According to the latest Usage Statistics on the website up to April 30, 2009.
The Daily Average Visits to our site for January, February, March & April 2009 (to date) have been 49, 50 , 59 & 44 respectively.
The Daily Average Hits for January, February, March & April 2009 (to date) have been 1666 , 1222, 2169 & 1172 respectively.
The Monthly Total Number of Visits for January, February, March & April 2009 (to date) have been 1540 , 1424, 1839 & 1253 respectively.
The Monthly Total Number of Hits for January, February, March & April 2009 (to date) have been 51660 , 34217, 67242 & 32843 respectively.
HOME http://www.stcg62group.org/ ABOUT US http://www.stcg62group.org/aboutusfinal.htm REPORTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS http://www.stcg62group.org/reports_and_recommendations.htm MEMBERS http://www.stcg62group.org/members.htm COLLEGE http://www.stcg62group.org/college.htm NEWSLETTERS & CIRCULARS http://www.stcg62group.org/newsletter_and_circulars.htm OBA http://www.stcg62group.org/oba.htm LETTER BOX http://www.stcg62group.org/Letterbox.htm ARTICLES/MEMOIRS/REFLECTIONS http://www.stcg62group.org/Articles_Memoirs_Reflections.htm NEWS OF OLD BOYS http://www.stcg62group.org/news_of_old_boys.htm GALLERY OF EVENTS http://www.stcg62group.org/Gallery_of_Events.htm NOTICE BOARD/CALENDAR http://www.stcg62group.org/Noticeboard.htm LINKS http://www.stcg62group.org/Links.htm CONTACT US 62groupstcg@gmail.com <62groupstcg@gmail.com>
The Worldwide Calendar of Events continues to be updated regularly to keep Thomians Near and Far informed of Thomian Functions and Events all over the world. We continue to receive News and Information from our Friends and the Branches at Bandarawela, Gurutalawa, Australia,USA, United Kingdom and Canada and other Associations, Unions and Groups about their respective Events etc.
The following Thomian & Associated Links have been enabled on our site for convenient browsing :-
STC Gurutalawa S. Thomas College, Gurutalawa – http://www.stcguru.com Guru Support Group – http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=20573160207
S. Thomas College. Mt Lavinia – http://www.stcmount.sch.lk S. Thomas College Mt Lavinia OBA – http://www.stcmloba.org S.Thomas' College PTA - http://www.stcpta.org Class of 1971 - http://www.stc-class-of-1971.com Class of 1972 - http://www.stcmloba.org/class_of_72new.htm Class of 1974 - http://www.stcoba.org Class of 1975 - http://www.stcmloba.org/html/Class75/75 Class1.htm The Class of 1983 - http://www.sthomascollege.com Thomian Class of '87 - www.stc87batch.org Thomian Batch of 1988 - 2001 - www.thomians.4t.com Class of 1990 - http://www.stcmlclassof1990.org The Class of '92 - http://www.stc-class92.org/ Class of 1993 - www.geocities.com/stc_classof93 STC Class of 1994 - www.stcclassof94.com STC Bandarawela
S. Thomas College Bandarawela OBA – http://www.stcbwoba.wb.gs/
S. Thomas’ Preparatory School - OBU – http://www.prepobu.lk
East Coast Thomians Association, USA – http://www.thomians.org Old Thomians Association of California - http://www.thomians.com
STC OBA of Canada - http://www.stcoba-canada.com
STC OBA Sydney, NSW, Australia - http://www.stcobasydney.com STC OBA (Australia Branch), Victoria - http://www.stcobaaust.org.au/
The Old Thomians Association in the UK - http://otauk.co.uk Old Thomians' Association (UK) - http://www.otauk.org
STC OBA United Arab Emirates Chapter - http://www.geocities.com/thouae/index.html General Eton-Our 'Mother School' - www.etoncollege.com St. Thomas' Sri Lanka - http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=4756031708 Battle of the Blues - http://www.royalthomian.info Dr R L Hayman's Alma Mater - Sherborne - http://www.sherborne.org/home Dr R L Hayman's Vision for Guru -Gordonstoun School - http://www.gordonstoun.org.uk/ Most Thomian Web Sites Worldwide have provided a Link to our Web Site.
We have provided a link to Eton College in UK considered as the Mother School of S.Thomas' .
We have also provided a link to Gordonstoun School in Moray, Scotland - a Public School with special emphasis on outdoor life and inculcation of the spirit of adventure - the vision which Dr.Hayman had for Guru.
Apart from these two we have also set apart a link for Sherborne School in UK,Dr Hayman's Alma Mater with which Fr Marc Billimoria, the Headmaster at Guru proposes to build up a close relationship.
We have on April 09, 2009 placed the following material on the site:-
1. An update from the Headmaster at Gurutalawa regarding the results of the GCE O/L Examination. http://www.stcg62group.org/index.htm
2. The latest Contact Details of 204 Old Boys (and Well wishers ) on our Mailing List. http://www.stcg62group.org/Noticeboard.htm
3. Contact Details of Members of the STCG OBA New Ex-Co for 2009 / 2010. http://www.stcg62group.org/PDF/OBA/New_Ex-Co_2009_2010.pdf
4. An Article "Thomians Age Better in NSW, Australia" written by Darell Liversz (who captained Royal in 1969) on the Royal Thomian Cricket Match played at the Thornton Oval. Our own Ana Amaranath (Formerly A A De Silva) Captained the Thomian Team. Our 1962 contemporaries at Guru & thereafter at Mount will recall that Ana was a Total All- Rounder who excelled in every conceivable Sports activity & Academia.He was a much respected College Prefect in Dr Hayman's last completed year.He continues to dazzle & bring credit to his Alma Mater & Sri Lanka.Having completed his Law Degree and taken his Oath as an Attorney at Law he joined the Attorney General's Department where he made his mark.He later joined the State Prosecution Department in Seychelles and thereafter a similar capacity in NSW Australia.He is held in high regard in Society,and apart from leading the STC OBA was also a prominent figure in the Sri Lankan Association Down Under. http://www.stcg62group.org/PDF/Articles/42_Thomians_Age_Better_in_NSW.pdf
I would also like to make use of this communication to convey some news, particularly to all our 1962 contemporaries in College as well as all Thomians, relating to our very own Sunil Watawala.He has launched his campaign for the post of International Director in Lions Clubs International.Sunil was the Head Prefect in 1962, our final year at Guru and was reported to have been held in high esteem by Dr Hayman. He Captained the Uva Schools Hockey Team at the Nationals and the First Team from Guru to play Overseas. He was the Secretary of the Guru OBA from 1978 – 1981 and a Vice President from 2002 to 2005.He Chaired the Organizing Committee of the Guru OBA Dinner Dance in November 2002, which was a Mega Event and a phenomenal success. He has proven leadership skills. He Chaired the Committee of the 50th Anniversary celebrations of Lionism in Sri Lanka having been a member of the Lion’s Club of Negombo since 1969; has achieved 100% attendance for 37 years!!! He is the only Lion to have served as Cabinet Secretary for two successive terms. He built a Cancer Ward at Batticaloa General Hospital with Korean assistance. He also built a Lion’s village with 25 houses for the poor with assistance from Norway. He was recognized by the Government as the most outstanding D/C Miller in Sri Lanka in 1982 , 1985 ,and 1986. He is the recipient of the “Most Outstanding Citizen Award” for his contribution to Community Welfare and Development in the field of Industrial & Business Management at the Annual District Convention of Lion District 306A. Sunil has truly distinguished himself as an old Guru Thomian and brought credit and lustre to us all.
Ana and Sunil are but Two of that Galaxy of Thomians of whom not only Dr Hayman but all of us of that Golden Era can be justly proud of, for having projected Guru not only as the Best and Most Sought After School in Sri Lanka but arguably in the entirety of South East Asia.
We would be happy to receive News of Old boys, particularly those of our vintage.Every now and then one of them makes contact with us, even after 46 long years, generally thanks to this Web Site.This includes the few surviving members of the staff.Mr George Pillai and Mr N Ratnasingham being two of the latter category.Mr Nimal Bhareti and Mr LM Fernando of the staff continue to keep in touch with us.
Please inform us in the event of a change in your contact details. Please also inform us the contact details of any of your friends who would like to be on our Mailing List, inter alia to be kept informed of Guru News and Developments etc.
Your comments and observations are most welcome.
Warm Regards,
Lakshman Jayatilaka April 01, 2009 Dear Fellow Thomian,
According to the latest Usage Statistics on the website up to March 31,2009.
The Daily Average Visits to our site for January, February & March 2009 (to date) have been 49, 50 & 59 respectively.
The Daily Average Hits for January, February & March 2009 (to date) have been 1666 , 1222 & 2156 respectively.
The Monthly Total Number of Visits for January, February & March 2009 (to date) have been 1540 , 1424 & 1774 respectively.
The Monthly Total Number of Hits for January, February & March 2009 (to date) have been 51660 , 34217 & 64694 respectively.
To facilitate browsing our site, we provide below the different links for easy access
HOME http://www.stcg62group.org/ ABOUT US http://www.stcg62group.org/aboutusfinal.htm REPORTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS http://www.stcg62group.org/reports_and_recommendations.htm MEMBERS http://www.stcg62group.org/members.htm COLLEGE http://www.stcg62group.org/college.htm NEWSLETTERS & CIRCULARS http://www.stcg62group.org/newsletter_and_circulars.htm OBA http://www.stcg62group.org/oba.htm LETTER BOX http://www.stcg62group.org/Letterbox.htm ARTICLES/MEMOIRS/REFLECTIONS http://www.stcg62group.org/Articles_Memoirs_Reflections.htm NEWS OF OLD BOYS http://www.stcg62group.org/news_of_old_boys.htm GALLERY OF EVENTS http://www.stcg62group.org/Gallery_of_Events.htm NOTICE BOARD/CALENDAR http://www.stcg62group.org/Noticeboard.htm LINKS http://www.stcg62group.org/Links.htm CONTACT US 62groupstcg@gmail.com <62groupstcg@gmail.com>
The Worldwide Calendar of Events continues to be updated regularly to keep Thomians Near and Far informed of Thomian Functions and Events all over the world. We continue to receive information from the Branches at Bandarawela, Gurutalawa, Australia, United Kingdom and Canada and other Association, unions and groups about their respective Events. The Headmaster at Gurutalawa, Rev. Marc Billimoria arranged a Thanksgiving Service on Saturday March 07 2009, at the Chapel of the Transfiguration at STC Mount Lavinia, in celebration of the 50th Anniversary of the STCG OBA. Images relating to this event can be viewed at : http://www.stcg62group.org/GE_STCG_OBA_Golden_Jubilee_Thanksgiving_Service_Mar_2009.htm
This was followed by Fellowship and The Launching of The Hayman Foundation, with the Funds received from Mrs. Hayman's Will, for Infrastructure Development, Staff Welfare and Scholarships. Images relating to these two events can be viewed at : http://www.stcg62group.org/GE_Launch_of_Hayman_Foundation_2009.htm
A New Site of Old Thomians in the United Kingdom has been created. i.e http://www.otauk.org Our site has been provided a link therein. We have reciprocated.
We have included a link for the website of S. Thomas’ Preparatory School, Kollupitiya – Old Boys Union http://www.prepobu.lk
We have also provided links for two Thomian Groups on Facebook namely Guru Support Group http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=20573160207 & St. Thomas' Sri Lanka http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=4756031708
The link we had hitherto for Old Thomians in Australia has been removed. We have also removed the link for STC OBA of California USA . These two sites were not available.
We have however included the following links for Old Thomians in New South Wales http://www.stcobasydney.com and Old Thomians in Victoria http://www.stcobaaust.org.au.
Most Thomian Web Sites Worldwide have provided a Link to our Web Site.
1. Images of the 50th Anniversary of the STCG OBA AGM & Re- union Celebrations held at Guru during the weekend February 27, 2009 to March 1, 2009. http://www.stcg62group.org/GE_STCG_OBA_AGM_ReUnion_2009_P1.htm
2. The Headmaster's Report presented at the STCG OBA AGM on February 28, 2009. http://www.stcg62group.org/PDF/OBA/AGM_Minutes/50th_AGM_HMs_Report_2009.pdf
3. A few Images taken & made available to us by Mahen Ranasinghe - Senior Vice President of the STCG OBA of the "Tree Planting" in the morning of March 01, 2009 at Gurutalawa immediately before bringing to a close the 50th Anniversary Celebrations of the STCG OBA. http://www.stcg62group.org/GE_STCG_OBA_AGM_ReUnion_2009_P8.htm
4. Contact Details of Members of the STCG OBA New Ex-Co for 2009 / 2010. http://www.stcg62group.org/PDF/OBA/New_Ex-Co_2009_2010.pdf
5. Press Release relating to the STCG OBA AGM & Re- Union Celebrations. http://www.stcg62group.org/PDF/STCG_OBA_Press_Release.pdf
6. Minutes of the 49th AGM of the STCG OBA held in February 2008 and which were adopted at the AGM on February 28, 2009. http://www.stcg62group.org/PDF/OBA/AGM_Minutes/49th_AGM_Minutes_2008.pdf
7. Minutes of Meeting No. 10 (310th) of the STCG OBA Ex-Co held on February 06, 2009. http://www.stcg62group.org/OBA_Ex_Co_Minutes.htm
8. The Headmaster's Report placed under Updates from the Headmaster at Gurutalawa presented at the STCG OBA Ex- Co Meeting of February 06, 2009. http://www.stcg62group.org/college.htm
9. The Project undertaken by the STCG OBA to built New Toilets and Washrooms for the Junior Dorms & Changing Rooms for Visitors using the Swimming Pool was completed in record time and at a cost below that which was estimated. A Presentation of the finished product together with the images of the Opening and Handing over have also been placed on the site. Both could be accessed at http://www.stcg62group.org/index.htm.
10. Images taken by us of the Toilets / Washrooms etc. during the STCG OBA Re-Union Celebrations have also been uploaded by us. http://www.stcg62group.org/GE_STCG_OBA_AGM_ReUnion_2009_P1.htm
11. We have also included an Article by Arun Dias Bandaranaike on the recent Get-Together of the STC Mount Lavinia Class of 1959 (Jubilee Anniversary) during the Annual “Battle of Blues-2009” http://www.stcg62group.org/PDF/Articles/41_Thomians_Near_and_Far.pdf
12. An E Newsletter Titled " The Wave" of the Thomian Aquatic Sports Union (TASU) has been included as the last item inside the Box Titled Quick Links - Articles on the Home Page for your information. http://www.stcg62group.org/index.htm
13. The Calendar of Events on the Home Page has been updated to include the Beach Party "2Xtreme" at the La Voile Blanche Beach Lounge, Mount Lavinia Beach. This event has been organised by TASU IN AID OF THE S.THOMAS AQUATICS FUND. Tickets are priced at Rs. 1000/- & for Ladies it will be free. http://www.stcg62group.org/index.htm
Guru Old Boys particularly of our vintage, with whom we had lost contact and who have not kept in touch with College or the Guru OBA, continue to make contact with us through our Website. Most of them have offered to help in the development work at Guru.
Contact details of around 200 Old Boys who have email facilities have been placed on our Website. Those interested in making contact with their contemporaries should find this information useful.
Please inform us in the event of a change in your contact details. Please also inform us the contact details of any of your friends who would like to be on our Mailing List, inter alia to be kept informed of Guru News and Development etc.
Your comments and observations are most welcome.
Warm Regards,
Lakshman Jayatilaka
March 09, 2009 Dear Fellow Thomian, March 04, 2009 Dear Fellow Thomian,
According to the latest Usage Statistics on the website up to March 04,2009.
The Daily Average Visits to our site for December 2008, January, February & March 2009 (to date) have been 51, 49, 50 & 50 respectively.
The Daily Average Hits for December 2008, January, February & March 2009 (to date) have been 1248 ,1666 , 1222 & 1667 respectively.
The Monthly Total Number of Visits for December 2008, January, February & March 2009 (to date) have been 1606 ,1540 , 1424 & 1050 respectively.
The Monthly Total Number of Hits for December 2008, January, February & March 2009 (to date) have been 38709, 51660 , 34217 & 5001 respectively.
To facilitate browsing our site, we provide below the different links for easy access
HOME http://www.stcg62group.org/ ABOUT US http://www.stcg62group.org/aboutusfinal.htm REPORTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS http://www.stcg62group.org/reports_and_recommendations.htm MEMBERS http://www.stcg62group.org/members.htm COLLEGE http://www.stcg62group.org/college.htm NEWSLETTERS & CIRCULARS http://www.stcg62group.org/newsletter_and_circulars.htm OBA http://www.stcg62group.org/oba.htm LETTER BOX http://www.stcg62group.org/Letterbox.htm ARTICLES/MEMOIRS/REFLECTIONS http://www.stcg62group.org/Articles_Memoirs_Reflections.htm NEWS OF OLD BOYS http://www.stcg62group.org/news_of_old_boys.htm GALLERY OF EVENTS http://www.stcg62group.org/Gallery_of_Events.htm NOTICE BOARD/CALENDAR http://www.stcg62group.org/Noticeboard.htm LINKS http://www.stcg62group.org/Links.htm CONTACT US 62groupstcg@gmail.com <62groupstcg@gmail.com>
The Worldwide Calendar of Events continues to be updated regularly to keep Thomians Near and Far informed of Thomian Functions and Events all over the world. We continue to receive information from the Branches at Bandarawela, Gurutalawa, Australia, United Kingdom and Canada about their respective Events.
The Headmaster at Gurutalawa, Rev. Marc Billimoria has arranged a Thanksgiving Service at 9.30 a.m. on Saturday March 07 2009, at the Chapel of the Transfiguration at STC Mount Lavinia, followed by Fellowship and The Launching of The Hayman Foundation, with the Funds received from Mrs. Hayman's Will, for Infrastructure Development, Staff Welfare and Scholarships. These three events are in Celebration of the 50th Anniversary of the STCG OBA. - http://www.stcg62group.org/index.htm
A New Site of Old Thomians in the United Kingdom has been created. i.e http://www.otauk.org/ Our site has been provided a link therein. We have reciprocated.
The link we had hitherto for Old Thomians in Australia has been removed. In place thereof have been included the following links for Old Thomians in New South Wales http://www.stcobasydney.com/ and in Victoria http://www.stcobaaust.org.au/.
Most Thomian Web Sites Worldwide have provided a Link to our Web Site.
1. Images of the 50th Anniversary of the Guru OBA AGM & Re- union Celebrations held during the weekend February 27, 2009 to March 1, 2009. http://www.stcg62group.org/GE_STCG_OBA_AGM_ReUnion_2009_P1.htm
2. The Headmaster's Report presented at the AGM on February 28, 2009. http://www.stcg62group.org/PDF/OBA/AGM_Minutes/50th_AGM_HMs_Report_2009.pdf
3. Contact Details of Members of the New Ex-Co for 2009 / 2010. http://www.stcg62group.org/PDF/OBA/New_Ex-Co_2009_2010.pdf
4. Press Release relating to the OBA AGM & Re- Union Celebrations. http://www.stcg62group.org/PDF/STCG_OBA_Press_Release.pdf
5. Minutes of the 49th AGM held in February 2008 and which were adopted on February 28, 2009. http://www.stcg62group.org/PDF/OBA/AGM_Minutes/49th_AGM_Minutes_2008.pdf
The Project undertaken by the OBA to built New Toilets and Washrooms for the Junior Dorms & Changing Rooms for Visitors using the Swimming Pool has been completed in record time and at a cost below that which was estimated. A Presentation of the finished product together with the images of the Opening and Handing over have also been placed on the site. Both could be accessed at http://www.stcg62group.org/index.htm. Images taken by us of the Toilets / Washrooms etc. during the OBA Re-Union Celebrations have also been uploaded by us. http://www.stcg62group.org/GE_STCG_OBA_AGM_ReUnion_2009_P1.htm
Please inform us in the event of a change in your contact details. Please also inform us the contact details of any of your friends who would like to be on our Mailing List, inter alia to be kept informed of Guru News and Development etc.
Your comments and observations are most welcome.
Lakshman Jayatilaka February 26, 2009 Dear Fellow Thomian, The Secretary of the STCG OBA has made available to us your email address so that we could keep you updated with the News and Developments etc at Gurutalawa. We however, do not appear to have your following particulars:
Full Name or Name with Initials: Occupation/ ( or if retired): Residential Address: Telephone No: Office Address: Telephone No: Period in College: Confirmation of this and any other email Address/s:
On receipt of the above information we will transmit same to the Secretary of the STCG-OBA for his Records and also update our Records and the Contact Details etc on the Notice Board Link of our Web Site. http://www.stcg62group.org/Noticeboard.htm
I now write to you once again with the latest updates on our website.
According to the latest Usage Statistics on the website up to February 25,2009,
The Daily Average Visits to our site for December 2008, January & February 2009 (to date) have been 51, 49, and 48 respectively.
The Daily Average Hits for December 2008, January & February 2009 (to date) have been 1248 ,1666 and 1080 respectively.
The Monthly Total Number of Visits for December 2008, January & February 2009 (to date) have been 1606 ,1540 & 1158 respectively.
The Monthly Total Number of Hits for December 2008, January & February 2009 (to date) have been 38709, 51660 & 25934 respectively.
To facilitate browsing our site, we provide below the different links for easy access
HOME http://www.stcg62group.org/ ABOUT US http://www.stcg62group.org/aboutusfinal.htm REPORTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS http://www.stcg62group.org/reports_and_recommendations.htm MEMBERS http://www.stcg62group.org/members.htm COLLEGE http://www.stcg62group.org/college.htm NEWSLETTERS & CIRCULARS http://www.stcg62group.org/newsletter_and_circulars.htm OBA http://www.stcg62group.org/oba.htm LETTER BOX http://www.stcg62group.org/Letterbox.htm ARTICLES/MEMOIRS/REFLECTIONS http://www.stcg62group.org/Articles_Memoirs_Reflections.htm NEWS OF OLD BOYS http://www.stcg62group.org/news_of_old_boys.htm GALLERY OF EVENTS http://www.stcg62group.org/Gallery_of_Events.htm NOTICE BOARD/CALENDAR http://www.stcg62group.org/Noticeboard.htm LINKS http://www.stcg62group.org/Links.htm CONTACT US 62groupstcg@gmail.com <62groupstcg@gmail.com>
Incidentally we would like to point out that our site is that belonging to the Most Senior group/class of Old Thomians i.e those that left Guru at the end of 1962 and who commenced their schooling/education at S.Thomas's Prep School in Bandarawela or Kollupitiya in 1952 in the Keble era. THIS IS SOMETHING THAT WE CAN BE PROUD OF.
The Worldwide Calendar of Events continues to be updated regularly to keep Thomians Near and Far informed of Thomian Functions and Events all over the world. We continue to receive information from the Branches at Bandarawela, Gurutalawa, Australia, United Kingdom and Canada about their respective Events. New Events which have been placed on the Calendar are the 130th Royal Thomian Celebration Dinner at the Box Hill Town Hall on February 27, 2009 from 7.30 p.m. to 1.00 a.m. ; the AGM at the Mount Waverly Youth Centre on February 28, 2009 from 6.45 p.m. onwards and the Royal Thomian (over 40's) Twenty 20 Cricket Match on March 01, 2009 at 9.30 a.m and the Open Twenty 20 Cricket Match at 1.00 p.m. (both matches at the Mulgrave Cricket Club). All these Events are of the STC OBA in Victoria, Australia. http://www.stcg62group.org/index.htm
The Headmaster at Gurutalawa, Rev. Marc Billimoria has arranged a Thanksgiving Service at 9.30 a.m. on Saturday March 07 2009, at the Chapel of the Transfiguration at STC Mount Lavinia, followed by Fellowship and The Launching of The Hayman Foundation, with the Funds received from Mrs. Hayman's Will, for Infrastructure Development, Staff Welfare and Scholarships. These three events are in Celebration of the 50th Anniversary of the STCG OBA. - http://www.stcg62group.org/index.htm
A New Site of Old Thomians in the United Kingdom has been created. i.e http://www.otauk.org/ Our site has been provided a link therein. We have reciprocated.
The link we had hitherto for Old Thomians in Australia has been removed. In place thereof have been included the following links for Old Thomians in New South Wales http://www.stcobasydney.com/ and in Victoria http://www.stcobaaust.org.au/.
Most Thomian Web Sites Worldwide have provided a Link to our Web Site.
It is our hope that the cordial relations we maintain with the Administrators and Webmasters of the various Thomian sites will assist in maintaining the Hallowed Traditions of S.Thomas' and will continue to foster same between the various branches of the school and the Associations of their Alumni flung all over the world and also assist in the maintenance and renewal of friendships amongst Old Boys which originated in their school days. We are aware of the far reaching effect this has had on the Old Boys of Guru who continue to renew friendships even after more than 45 years.
We have at the Uploading done last evening placed an Article "Golden Jubilee Celebrations of S.Thomas’ College Gurutalawa OBA - THE SCHOOL IN THE HILLS" . written by Gerald de Alwis and which appeared in the Sunday Times Plus of February 22,2009, http://www.stcg62group.org/PDF/Articles/40_Golden_Jubilee_Celebrations_STCG_OBA.pdf
This February marks the 50th Anniversary of the inauguration of the OBA at Gurutalawa. The Notice / Agenda of the AGM, the Programme of Events at this Special Re-Union Celebrations, http://www.stcg62group.org/PDF/STCG_OBA_AGM_and_Reunion_2009.pdf and the Secretary's report http://www.stcg62group.org/PDF/OBA/AGM_Minutes/50th_AGM_Secretarys_Report_2009.pdf (an Advance Draft Copy) to be tabled at this AGM have been placed on the site.
Minutes of the last Ex-Co Meeting of the Guru OBA held on November 29, 2008 have as usual been uploaded. http://www.stcg62group.org/PDF/OBA/Ex_Co_Minutes/34_Ex_co_Mts_29_11_08.pdf
The draft Minutes of the last AGM in February 2008 which have been circulated and are to be adopted at the next AGM on February 28,2009 have also been uploaded. http://www.stcg62group.org/PDF/OBA/AGM_Minutes/49th_AGM_Minutes_2008.pdf
We have learnt that Old Boys residing in other countries have arranged to make the Pilgrimage to Guru at the end of February, and that amongst the large number expected are some of the Old Boys of the Pioneer Group of 1942. The Headmaster Rev. Marc Billimoria who is the President of the STCG OBA together with the Ex- Co led by the indefatigable Senior Vice President Mahen Ranasinghe are making every effort to make this year's Celebrations very special. They deserve to be so.
If the manner in which the Headmaster has tried to steer the Ship of Guru out of Troubled Waters is any indication of his capacity for innovative solutions, those visiting Gurutalawa are sure to find great satisfaction, and consolation that Guru is in safe hands.
A Project to build New Toilets for the Junior Dorms was undertaken by the OBA led by its tireless Senior Vice President Mahen Ranasinghe. We placed a Presentation of the progress of the Project on our site a few weeks ago. The Project has been completed in record time and at a cost below that which was estimated. A further Presentation of the finished product together with the images of the Opening and Handing over have also been placed on the site. Both could be accessed at http://www.stcg62group.org/index.htm.
Please inform us in the event of a change in your contact details. Please also inform us the contact details of any of your friends who would like to be on our Mailing List, inter alia to be kept informed of Guru News and Development etc.
Your comments and observations are most welcome.
Lakshman Jayatilaka February 25, 2009 Dear Fellow Thomian, I write to you once again with the latest updates on our website.
According to the latest Usage Statistics on the website up to February 25,2009,
The Daily Average Visits to our site for December 2008, January & February 2009 (to date) have been 51, 49, and 48 respectively.
The Daily Average Hits for December 2008, January & February 2009 (to date) have been 1248 ,1666 and 1080 respectively.
The Monthly Total Number of Visits for December 2008, January & February 2009 (to date) have been 1606 ,1540 & 1158 respectively.
The Monthly Total Number of Hits for December 2008, January & February 2009 (to date) have been 38709, 51660 & 25934 respectively.
To facilitate browsing our site, we provide below the different links for easy access
HOME http://www.stcg62group.org/ ABOUT US http://www.stcg62group.org/aboutusfinal.htm REPORTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS http://www.stcg62group.org/reports_and_recommendations.htm MEMBERS http://www.stcg62group.org/members.htm COLLEGE http://www.stcg62group.org/college.htm NEWSLETTERS & CIRCULARS http://www.stcg62group.org/newsletter_and_circulars.htm OBA http://www.stcg62group.org/oba.htm LETTER BOX http://www.stcg62group.org/Letterbox.htm ARTICLES/MEMOIRS/REFLECTIONS http://www.stcg62group.org/Articles_Memoirs_Reflections.htm NEWS OF OLD BOYS http://www.stcg62group.org/news_of_old_boys.htm GALLERY OF EVENTS http://www.stcg62group.org/Gallery_of_Events.htm NOTICE BOARD/CALENDAR http://www.stcg62group.org/Noticeboard.htm LINKS http://www.stcg62group.org/Links.htm CONTACT US 62groupstcg@gmail.com <62groupstcg@gmail.com>
Incidentally we would like to point out that our site is that belonging to the Most Senior group/class of Old Thomians i.e those that left Guru at the end of 1962 and who commenced their schooling/education at S.Thomas's Prep School in Bandarawela or Kollupitiya in 1952 in the Keble era. THIS IS SOMETHING THAT WE CAN BE PROUD OF.
The Worldwide Calendar of Events continues to be updated regularly to keep Thomians Near and Far informed of Thomian Functions and Events all over the world. We continue to receive information from the Branches at Bandarawela, Gurutalawa, Australia, United Kingdom and Canada about their respective Events. New Events which have been placed on the Calendar are the 130th Royal Thomian Celebration Dinner at the Box Hill Town Hall on February 27, 2009 from 7.30 p.m. to 1.00 a.m. ; the AGM at the Mount Waverly Youth Centre on February 28, 2009 from 6.45 p.m. onwards and the Royal Thomian (over 40's) Twenty 20 Cricket Match on March 01, 2009 at 9.30 a.m and the Open Twenty 20 Cricket Match at 1.00 p.m. (both matches at the Mulgrave Cricket Club). All these Events are of the STC OBA in Victoria, Australia. http://www.stcg62group.org/index.htm
The Headmaster at Gurutalawa, Rev. Marc Billimoria has arranged a Thanksgiving Service at 9.30 a.m. on Saturday March 07 2009, at the Chapel of the Transfiguration at STC Mount Lavinia, followed by Fellowship and The Launching of The Hayman Foundation, with the Funds received from Mrs. Hayman's Will, for Infrastructure Development, Staff Welfare and Scholarships. These three events are in Celebration of the 50th Anniversary of the STCG OBA. - http://www.stcg62group.org/index.htm
A New Site of Old Thomians in the United Kingdom has been created. i.e http://www.otauk.org/ Our site has been provided a link therein. We have reciprocated.
The link we had hitherto for Old Thomians in Australia has been removed. In place thereof have been included the following links for Old Thomians in New South Wales http://www.stcobasydney.com/ and in Victoria http://www.stcobaaust.org.au/.
Most Thomian Web Sites Worldwide have provided a Link to our Web Site.
It is our hope that the cordial relations we maintain with the Administrators and Webmasters of the various Thomian sites will assist in maintaining the Hallowed Traditions of S.Thomas' and will continue to foster same between the various branches of the school and the Associations of their Alumni flung all over the world and also assist in the maintenance and renewal of friendships amongst Old Boys which originated in their school days. We are aware of the far reaching effect this has had on the Old Boys of Guru who continue to renew friendships even after more than 45 years.
We have at the Uploading done last evening placed an Article "Golden Jubilee Celebrations of S.Thomas’ College Gurutalawa OBA - THE SCHOOL IN THE HILLS" . written by Gerald de Alwis and which appeared in the Sunday Times Plus of February 22,2009, http://www.stcg62group.org/PDF/Articles/40_Golden_Jubilee_Celebrations_STCG_OBA.pdf
This February marks the 50th Anniversary of the inauguration of the OBA at Gurutalawa. The Notice / Agenda of the AGM, the Programme of Events at this Special Re-Union Celebrations, http://www.stcg62group.org/PDF/STCG_OBA_AGM_and_Reunion_2009.pdf and the Secretary's report http://www.stcg62group.org/PDF/OBA/AGM_Minutes/50th_AGM_Secretarys_Report_2009.pdf (an Advance Draft Copy) to be tabled at this AGM have been placed on the site.
Minutes of the last Ex-Co Meeting of the Guru OBA held on November 29, 2008 have as usual been uploaded. http://www.stcg62group.org/PDF/OBA/Ex_Co_Minutes/34_Ex_co_Mts_29_11_08.pdf
The draft Minutes of the last AGM in February 2008 which have been circulated and are to be adopted at the next AGM on February 28,2009 have also been uploaded. http://www.stcg62group.org/PDF/OBA/AGM_Minutes/49th_AGM_Minutes_2008.pdf
We have learnt that Old Boys residing in other countries have arranged to make the Pilgrimage to Guru at the end of February, and that amongst the large number expected are some of the Old Boys of the Pioneer Group of 1942. The Headmaster Rev. Marc Billimoria who is the President of the STCG OBA together with the Ex- Co led by the indefatigable Senior Vice President Mahen Ranasinghe are making every effort to make this year's Celebrations very special. They deserve to be so.
If the manner in which the Headmaster has tried to steer the Ship of Guru out of Troubled Waters is any indication of his capacity for innovative solutions, those visiting Gurutalawa are sure to find great satisfaction, and consolation that Guru is in safe hands.
A Project to build New Toilets for the Junior Dorms was undertaken by the OBA led by its tireless Senior Vice President Mahen Ranasinghe. We placed a Presentation of the progress of the Project on our site a few weeks ago. The Project has been completed in record time and at a cost below that which was estimated. A further Presentation of the finished product together with the images of the Opening and Handing over have also been placed on the site. Both could be accessed at http://www.stcg62group.org/index.htm.
Please inform us in the event of a change in your contact details. Please also inform us the contact details of any of your friends who would like to be on our Mailing List, inter alia to be kept informed of Guru News and Development etc.
Your comments and observations are most welcome.
Lakshman Jayatilaka February 19, 2009 Hello Every body, I write to you once again with the latest updates on our website.
According to the latest Usage Statistics up to February 18,2009,
The Daily Average Visits to our site for November, December 2008, January & February 2009 (to date) have been 49,51, 49, and 45 respectively.
The Daily Average Hits for November, December 2008, January & February 2009 (to date) have been 1053,1248 ,1666 and 1110 respectively.
The Monthly Total Number of Visits for November, December 2008, January & February 2009 (to date) have been 1487, 1606 ,1540 & 768 respectively.
The Monthly Total Number of Hits for November, December 2008, January & February 2009 (to date) have been 31590, 38709, 51660 & 18885 respectively.
HOME http://www.stcg62group.org/ ABOUT US http://www.stcg62group.org/aboutusfinal.htm REPORTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS http://www.stcg62group.org/reports_and_recommendations.htm MEMBERS http://www.stcg62group.org/members.htm COLLEGE http://www.stcg62group.org/college.htm NEWSLETTERS & CIRCULARS http://www.stcg62group.org/newsletter_and_circulars.htm OBA http://www.stcg62group.org/oba.htm LETTER BOX http://www.stcg62group.org/Letterbox.htm ARTICLES/MEMOIRS/REFLECTIONS http://www.stcg62group.org/Articles_Memoirs_Reflections.htm NEWS OF OLD BOYS http://www.stcg62group.org/news_of_old_boys.htm GALLERY OF EVENTS http://www.stcg62group.org/Gallery_of_Events.htm NOTICE BOARD/CALENDAR http://www.stcg62group.org/Noticeboard.htm LINKS http://www.stcg62group.org/Links.htm CONTACT US 62groupstcg@gmail.com <62groupstcg@gmail.com>
Incidentally we would like to point out that our site is that belonging to the Most Senior group/class of Old Thomians i.e those that left Guru at the end of 1962 and who commenced their schooling/education at S.Thomas's Prep School in Bandarawela or Kollupitiya in 1952 in the Keble era. THIS is something that we can be proud of.
The Worldwide Calendar of Events continues to be updated regularly to keep Thomians Near and Far informed of Functions and Events. We continue to receive information from the Branches at Bandarawela, Gurutalawa, Australia, United Kingdom and Canada about their respective Events. New Events placed on the Calendar are the Blue Black and Blue Ball 2009 of the STC OBA - Sydney, Australia - and the Annual Dinner Dance of the Old Thomians' Association (UK) (OTAUK) - http://www.stcg62group.org/index.htm
A New Site of Old Thomians in the United Kingdom has been created. i.e http://otauk.org/. Our site has been provided a link therein. We have reciprocated.
The link we had hitherto for Old Thomians in Australia has been removed. In place thereof have been included the following links for Old Thomians in New South Wales http://www.stcobasydney.com/ and in Victoria http://www.stcobaaust.org.au/.
It is our hope that the cordial relations we maintain with the Administrators and Webmasters of the various Thomian sites will assist in maintaining the Hallowed Traditions of S.Thomas' and will continue to foster same between the various branches of the school and the Associations of their Alumni flung all over the world and also assist in the maintenance and renewal of friendships amongst Old Boys which originated in their school days. We are aware of the far reaching effect this has had on the Old Boys who continued to renew friendships even after more than 45 years.
We have at the uploading done last evening placed an Appreciation "Goodbye George" relating to Mr.George Arndt who was closely associated with STC Mt.Lavinia. http://www.stcg62group.org/PDF/Articles/38_Goodbye_George_by_A_C.De_Silva.pdf
We have also placed the Article "Romancing Gurutalawa" written by Sharm De Alwis and which appeared in the Sunday Island of February 08,2009, http://www.stcg62group.org/PDF/Articles/39_Romancing_Gurutalawa_by_Sharm_de_Alwis.pdf
This February marks the 50th Anniversary of the inauguration of the OBA at Gurutalawa. The Agenda of the AGM as well as the Programme of Events at this special Re-Union Celebrations have been placed on the site.The Headmaster at Gurutalawa, Rev. Marc Billimoria has also arranged on Saturday March 07 2009, a Thanksgiving Service at the Chapel of The Transfiguration at STC Mount Lavinia, followed by Fellowship and The Launching of The Hayman Foundation, with the Funds received from Mrs. Hayman's Will, for Infrastucture Development,Staff Welfare and Scholarships. http://www.stcg62group.org/index.htm
Minutes of the last Ex-Co Meeting on November 29, 2008 of the Guru OBA have as usual been uploaded http://www.stcg62group.org/OBA_Ex_Co_Minutes.htm together with the draft Minutes of the last AGM in February 2008 which have been circulated and are to be adopted at the next AGM on February 28,2009. http://www.stcg62group.org/OBA_AGM_Minutes.htm
We have learnt that Old Boys residing in other countries have arranged to make the Pilgrimage to Guru at the end of February, and that amongst the large number expected are some of the Old Boys of the Pioneer Group of 1942. The New Headmaster Rev.Marc Billimoria is making every effort to make this year's celebrations very special. They deserve to be so. And if the manner in which he has tried to steer the Ship of Guru out of Troubled Waters is any indication of his capacity for innovative solutions, those visiting Gurutalawa are sure to find great satisfaction, and consolation that Guru is in safe hands.
A Project to build New Toilets for the Junior Dorms was undertaken by the OBA led by its tireless Senior Vice President Mahen Ranasinghe. We placed a Presentation of the progress of the Project on our site a few weeks ago. The Project has been completed in record time and at a cost below that which was estimated. A further Presentation of the finished product together with the images of the Opening and Handing over have also been placed on the site. Both could be accessed at http://www.stcg62group.org/index.htm.
Please inform us in the event of a change in your contact details. Please also inform us the contact details of any of your friends who would like to be on our Mailing List.
Your comments and observations are most welcome.
Warm regards,
Lakshman Jayatilaka February 06, 2009 Hello Every body, I write to you once again with the latest updates on our website.
According to the latest Usage Statistics up to January 31,2009,
The Daily Average Visits to our site for October, November December 2008, January & February 2009 (to date) have been 56, 49, and 35 respectively.
The Daily Average Hits for October, November December 2008, January & February 2009 (to date) have been 2028,1053,1248 ,1666 and 609 respectively.
The Monthly Total Number of Visits for October, November, December 2008, January & February 2009 (to date) have been 1758, 1487, 1606 ,1540 & 179 respectively.
The Monthly Total Number of Hits for October, November December 2008, January & February 2009 (to date) have been 62872, 31590, 38709, 51660 & 3045 respectively.
A Felicitation dinner was held at the Palm Beach Hotel in Mt.Lavinia for Mr.George Pillai who was the Master in Charge of Boxing, Scouting and Football and also taught Mathematics and who is presently residing in Lake Forest, L A, USA and who was in Sri Lanka in December with his wife and daughter. Images of the Dinner and a recent letter sent by him thanking the Organizers have been placed on the web site. http://www.stcg62group.org/Gallery_of_Events.htm
The Worldwide Calendar of Events continues to be updated regularly to keep Thomians near and far informed of functions and events. We continue to receive information from the branches at Bandarawela, Gurutalawa, Australia, and Canada about their respective events. http://www.stcg62group.org/index.htm
Snippets from various Articles etc, re members of the Staff at STCG under the caption Men who Touched our lives have also been placed under the link Articles. We have relied and borrowed heavily from the College History Book i.e The First Fifty Years, College Magazines etc. etc. and other sources to compile this collection which is by no means exhaustive. We welcome any further Articles, Notes or Comments on this subject from Old Boys, particularly those written with a touch of humour. http://www.stcg62group.org/Articles_Memoirs_Reflections.htm
For the information of interested Old Boys we have placed a fair amount of relevant material on our web site, viz-a-viz
Rules of STCG OBA - http://www.stcg62group.org/OBA_Rules.htm
The Guru OBA celebrates its 50th Anniversary at the end of February 2009, and it is hoped to have a Re-Union Celebration befitting the occasion. The OBA and the Organizers are sparing no pains and making much effort to put up a good show. It is hoped that Old Boys from Near and Far would Rally Round. Already some Pioneer Old Boys belonging to the 1942 Group have confirmed their attendance.
Please inform us in the event of a change in your contact details. Please also inform us the contact details of any of your friends who would like to be on our Mailing List.
Your comments and observations are welcome.
Warm regards,
Lakshman Jayatilaka January 07, 2009 Hello Every body,
I write to you once again with the latest updates on our website.
According to the latest Usage Statistics up to January 07,2009,
The Daily Average Visits to our site for October, November December 2008 January 2009 have been 56, 49, 51 and 45 respectively.
The Daily Average Hits for October, November December 2008 and January 2009 have been 2028,1053,1248 and 1598 respectively.
The Monthly Total Number of Visits for October, November, December 2008 and January 2009 have been 1758, 1487, 1606 and 274 respectively.
The Monthly Total Number of Hits for October, November December 2008 and Janaury 2009 have been 62872, 31590, 38709 and 9591 respecetively.
Images of the Felicitation Dinner for Mr.George Pillai who was the Master in Charge of Boxing, Scouting and Football and also taught Mathematics and who is presently residing in Lake Forest, L A, USA was in Sri Lanka recently with his wife and daughter. Mahen Ranasinghe organized a get-together on December 26,2008 to enable his students to meet him and also felicitate him. The venue was Palm Beach Hotel in Mt.Lavinia. Nihal Wanniarachchi is also has sent us some images which have been cropped re-sized and uploaded. http://www.stcg62group.org/Gallery_of_Events.htm
The Sing a long Organised by Gerald de Alwis to collect funds for Sports in general and the Turf Wickets in particular at Guru was a tremendous success.Images of this event sent to us by the organiser have been uploaded. http://www.stcg62group.org/Gallery_of_Events.htm
The Worldwide Calendar of Events continues to be updated regularly to keep Thomians near and far informed of functions and events. We contiue to receive information from the branches at Bandarawela, Gurutalawa, Australia, and Canada about their respective events. http://www.stcg62group.org/index.htm
Snippets from various Articles etc, re members of the Staff at STCG under the caption Men who Touched our lives have also been placed under the link Articles. We welcome any further Articles, Notes or Comments on this subject from Old Boys. Particularly those written with a touch of humour. http://www.stcg62group.org/Articles_Memoirs_Reflections.htm
Please inform us in the event of a change in your contact details. Please also inform us the contact details of any of your friends who would like to be on our Mailing List.
Your comments and observations are welcome.
Warm regards,
Lakshman Jayatilaka
Here I am writing to you once again with the following latest updates on our website. 1. An Urgent Appeal from Mahen Ranasinghe, Senior Vice-President of the STCG OBA for funds for a Very Essential Project http://www.stcg62group.org/index.htm 2. Thomian Worldwide Calendar. http://www.stcg62group.org/index.htm 3. Write up and Images of the STCG OBA Ex- Co Meeting held on November 29, 2008 - http://www.stcg62group.org/Gallery_of_Events.htm 4. Esto Perpetua - A Powerpoint Presentaion - http://www.stcg62group.org/ 5. Valedictory Service and Special Assembly for Final Year O' Level Class -A Video presentation by the Grade 10 IT Students of Guru under the guidance of Mr. S.Kaviharan, IT Instructor - http://www.stcg62group.org/index.htm 6. Notice re 2009 Admissions to Guru - http://www.stcg62group.org/index.htm 7. Notice re Admission to Advanced Level at Guru in 2009 - http://www.stcg62group.org/index.htm 8. Notice re Warden STC Mt.Lavinia http://www.stcg62group.org/Links.htm 9. Swimming Pool at STC Bandarawela - The Memoirs of Brig. B. Muna etc - http://www.stcg62group.org/PDF/Articles/35_Swimming_Pool_At_STCB.pdf 10. New Members of STCG OBA - http://www.stcg62group.org/PDF/OBA/New_Members_OBA.pdf 11. Minutes of the 07 th and 08 th Meetings of the STCG OBA Ex-Co - http://www.stcg62group.org/OBA_Ex_Co_Minutes.htm According to the latest Usage Statistics up to December 04, 2008 :- * The Daily Average Visits to our site for September, October, November and December 2008 have been 45, 56, 49 and 50 respectively. * The Daily Average Hits for September, October , November and December have been 1829, 2028, 1053 & 1815 respectively. * The Monthly Total Number of Visits for September, October, November and December have been 1375, 1758, 1487 & 202 respectively. * The Monthly Total Number of Hits for September, October, November and December have been 54877, 62872, 31590 & 7261 respecetively. According to Mahen Ranasinghe the Senior Vice President of the STCG OBA 74 New Members have been admitted to the OBA during the current year. The STCG OBA celebrates its 50th Anniversary in February 2009. The Annual Re-Union and AGM will take place as usual at Guru during the week-end February 27 to March 01, 2009. Mr.George Pillai who was the Master in Charge of Boxing, Scouting and Football and also taught Mathematics and who is presently residing in Lake Forest, LA, USA is due in Sri Lanka shortly. Mahen Ranasinghe, is arranging a get-together to enable his students to meet him. The tentative date is 26th December 2008. The venue has not been finalized as yet. Those interested in attending this event are requested to contact Mahen. http://www.stcg62group.org/GE_Mahens_visit_to_Mr_George_Pillai_Aug_2008.htm A Thanksgiving Service to Celebrate the Successful Renovation of
the Chapel of the Transfiguration at S. Thomas’ College, Mt.
Lavinia was held on December 7, 2008 at the College Chapel at Mt.Lavinia. Please inform us in the event of a change in your contact details. Please also inform us the contact details of any of your friends who would like to be on our Mailing List. Your comments and observations are welcome. Warm regards,
23rd October 2008 Hello Everybody, I am writing to you once again with the latest updates on our website.
According to the latest Usage Statistics up to October 22, 2008, The Daily Average Visits to our site for August, September and thus far for October 2008 have been 29, 45 and 50 respectively. The Daily Average Hits for Aug, Sep & for October thus far have been 1094, 1829 & 1315 respectively.
The Monthly Total Number of Visits for Aug, Sep & for October thus far have been 921, 1375 & 1061 respectively. The Monthly Total Number of Hits for Aug, Sep & for October thus far have been 33923, 54877 & 27630 respecetively.
1. Images and Commentary on STC Guru Fellowship Dinner at the Empire Ballroom Mt. Lavania Hotel on October 17, 2008 http://www.stcg62group.org/GE_STCG_OBA_Fellowship_Dinner_Oct_2008.htm
2. Images and Commentary on STC Guru Prize Giving at the Foster Memorial Hall on October 8, 2008 http://www.stcg62group.org/GE_Prize_Giving_Oct_2008.htm
3. Old Images of The School by the Sea sent by Upali Jayatilaka & Ms. Astrid Chapman http://www.stcg62group.org/GE_Old_Images_of_Mount.htm
4. Old Images of Guru - Class of 1956 sent by Brig. Bandu Munasinghe http://www.stcg62group.org/GE_Old_Images_of_Guru.htm
5. New Members of STCG OBA. http://www.stcg62group.org/PDF/OBA/New_Members_OBA.pdf
6. Thomian Worldwide Calendar. http://www.stcg62group.org/index.htm
Please inform us in the event of a change in your contact details. Please also inform us the contact details of any of your friends who would like to be on our Mailing List.
Your comments and observations are welcome.
Warm regards,
29th September 2008 Notices, News Bulletins, and other useful information sent to us
by the STC OBA branches of Canada, UK, East Coast of USA, Australia
as well as STC Bandarawela OBA are placed on our site regularly.
Once again a short message to let you know that our Web Site >stcg62group.org<
has just been updated, with the latest news and images from Guru.
Some of the latest items placed are:- Some of our friends who have not visited College since their departure
in or around 1962 informed us that they are able to visit College
from the comfort of their homes flung as far away as Ontario, New
Jersey, Los Angeles, London, Scotland, Cambodia, Japan, Perth, Brisbane,
Melbourne and Sydney. These long distance visits must surely bring
back pleasant memories. If you are aware of the email addresses of any other Guru Old Boys
who may be interested in our Web Site or receiving News of Guru
please inform us of same so that we may add such persons to our
Mailing List. Please let us have News of Yourself, Your Current Contact Details,
E-mail Address etc. etc. so that we may update our records and also
keep others informed, through the Web Site. Your Feedback, Observations and Comments are welcome. It is hoped that the efforts of our Site will continue to assist
the Revival Process at Guru. Warm regards, Residence : No. 23, First Lane, Kirillapone, Colombo - 05, Sri
Lanka. Circular No. 3 Hello Everybody, Lakshman Jayatilaka Circular No. 4 These are sent for your information and as an update on Guru. Your Comments and Observations are welcome.
Attachment 2
The current situation at Guru and its Past, present a complex picture. Complex Firstly because conditions and the situation of the country have changed so much since the Hayman-Foster Era. Secondly because due to a chain reaction arising from the first and also independently of that, Guru itself has been through so many vicissitudes and changes mostly inevitable. I note that you had visited Guru about 10 years ago. You have obviously not failed to notice these changes. The feelings you express thereafter are shared by me, and by so many others of our era, and those who were at Guru before us and thereafter, for some time. I was at Guru during 1958-1962. Having been at S.Thomas’ Prep School at Bandarawela from 1952- 1957 under Mr. Keble’s Headmastership. We had Hayman, Foster, Chapman, J De S Jayasinghe, Chinniah, F L Amarasinghe, Oliver De Soysa, L M Fernando, John Marasinghe, Laffir and others of the Hayman Army. You would have had to contend with an infrastructure of dorms, classrooms, sports facilities etc, slightly less appealing than what we had. Yet the quality of education , the standard of sports and discipline was good. The finished product that came out, I feel, was much more cultured and gentlemanly in outlook. It is a fact that in our time we did not have the comforts that students of today have. The classroom and dining hall furniture that is available now and the tiled toilets of today were then non-existent. But these are standard requirement of today when you compare other Schools and Home. Yet this did not prevent the production of Thomians in the mould you refer to by name by the hundred. Then what went wrong ? Over the years of Stewardship of different Headmasters, (all of whom definitely made some positive contribution in different areas), the main fabric of the College, the Thomian Traditions and production of Men and Cultured Gentleman underwent a change. Inter-alia, the ‘socio-economic’ changes in the country; the neglect of English; over emphasis on Sinhala; the entry to the College of students from a totally different social background; deterioration in the quality of the Tutorial Staff brought about a marked difference. To compound the situation, during the last decade or so, delay, neglect and failure on the part of the student to pay their School Fees on time; the consequent problems in not having the means for the maintenance, upkeep improvement of the infrastructure; the funds necessary to pay salaries and wages; such that by numbers which had peeked at 1200 some years ago had come down to around 240 and kept going down. Overdraft to the banks stood at millions and each month the deficit was around Rs.600, 000. It was not possible to go on. By December 2006 the Board decided to close down the school. Other factors too had contributed to this malaise:- 1. STC Bandarawela started classes for students from standard 6
to O/ Level and A/ Level. Thus the intake from a Thomian branch
school effectively dried up. Thanks very much once again for taking the trouble to express your
views on a subject which is very dear to us all. Attachment 3
Hi Laksman, Attachment 4
Hi Lukshman, CIRUCLAR OF 12th NOVEMBER 2001 CIRCULAR LETTERS WRITTEN TO MEMBERS OF GROUP An Invitation to 62' Group Members for Fellowship Dinner
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CIRUCLAR OF 26TH NOVEMBER 2001 A Note of Appreciation to 62' Group Members for attending Fellowship
Dinner
A stamped receipt for your contribution of Rs.2,000/- is enclosed. Once again a Big Thank you for your support. Please keep in touch.
An Invitation to 62' Group Members to attend AGM on March 02,2002 " Dear As you are no doubt fully aware, College is going through a severe
crisis financial and otherwise. Just consider the following facts; CIRUCLAR OF 18TH FEBRUARY 2002
Dear Member, IN ORDER THAT THIS SCHEME OF THINGS OR ANY OTHER SCHEME OR PROPOSALS
THAT ARE FOUND TO BE ACCEPTABLE IS PUT IN PLACE, THE EX-CO, APPOINTED
SHOULD BE A DYNAMIC ONE, HARNESSING ALL THE EXPERTISE AND TECHNICAL
KNOW-HOW AVAILABLE AMONGST THE OLD BOYS IN SRI LANKA AND ABROAD
AND FROM OUTSIDE THE OBA. The last few years have seen a lethargic
and lackadaisical Ex-Co putting the OBA to sleep, and sending the
College to the land of no return. CIRUCLAR OF 16TH MAY 2002
Dear Mr.
CIRUCLAR OF 16TH MAY 2002
k.Work on the bio-gas project using the facilities available on
the farm to enable the kitchen in the new dining hall building to
function has commenced and should be commissioned shortly.
CIRUCLAR OF 25TH JUNE 2002
3. Mr.Lakshman Jayatilaka With kind regards,"
CIRUCLAR 07TH AUGUST 2002
August 07,2002
The Senior Dorms have been completely renovated by a single Old
Boy of our Group spending over a Million Rupees. We have also painted
and repaired the Junior Dorms. We have supplied individual desks
and chairs for 2 class rooms of the Upper 6th in the old class Room
Block. We have also donated a large volume of books etc, for the
library and equipment for Basket Ball, Life Saving and Swimming
and also the Swimming Pool. Assistance to the farm and Accounts
Department of the office have also been given. The Basketball Court
has been rehabilitated. Work on the Squash Court is to commence
this week. Arrangements are being made to set up the Diving Boards.
An assessment of unutilized, and underutilized buildings and facilities
is now going on; measures for the welfare of all the residents on
the campus were executed. As such some work has been completed.
Much more remains to be done.
You have always been a strong supporter of the College and OBA
and made very generous contributions towards improvement of College.
I have no doubt all concerned will appreciate your commitment. The food served for all meals from Friday Dinner till Sunday lunch
saw a huge improvement both in quality and quantity. In addition
to the usual Pol Sambol and Fried Egg and other traditional Thomian
Fare, we had prepared Ambul Thiyal in Colombo and taken it up to
Guru, both Beef and Chicken were served with almost all meals in
addition to unlimited Eggs for those who wanted to have a "go"
in the absence of restricted diets by nagging wives at home. There
was also Strings and Milk Rice which had not been served for over
a decade. Every meal had caramel or Wattalapan or Ice Cream plus
Pine and Plantains. Salads were also made part of the meal. Last
year we had witnessed an Old Boy compelled to eat Rice with only
tempered beans. There was nothing else. The Minor Staff had finished
eating and a good part of the food prepared for Old Boys had by
that time been spirited away to the Village. Precautions were taken
to prevent this wholesale "theft" this time. The charges
levied for the Re-Union week end remained at Rs.500/. There was
a young old boy who when requested to purchase a ticket of Rs.500/-
responded that he did not have the money as he had only Rs.60/-
in his pocket to get back to Balangoda!!!. This is the crowd that
has been coming to College for the past several years and enjoying
free accommodation, food, use of the swimming pool etc, etc for
a week-end of fun totally uninterested in College and departing
thanks to the generosity of the OBA to all and sundry or bad organisation.
We eliminated this obnoxious practice this time. All were made to
pay. |
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