A cracker of a night on Saturday 16th April.

A big thank you to Life Member Ian Hales for organising and co-ordinating the event from start to finish. Ian's efforts ensured that this significant milestone was celebrated in the most appropriate manner. The celebratory best wishes messages from such dignitaries as Debbie Flintoff-King, Kathy Watt, Steve Monaghetti, Tony Jones and the Honourable Tony Abbot (sans budgie smugglers) were especially well received and to have our clubs best ever performing triathlete, Steve Foster share his experiences with us all just added that final spit and polish to a fantastic night.

Ian, Julie, Brian and John where there early to assist with the preparations and after several hours of hanging T shirts, blowing up balloons, prepping drinks and chips, video and audio and setting up tables and chairs the scene was set for a great night. At about 6.00pm some of the 80 or so people who attended on the night starting trickling in and it was terrific to see so many members both past and present including foundation members and the first club president Graham White and Shirley and Digger Elrick.

Speeches were both short and long and some remarkably funny and informative. The food from Ambience Catering was plentiful and first class. A special toast to birthday boys Greg and Gary.

It was left to Ian to arrange – amongst other things – entertainment and audio and video – and he let no one down. He had mentioned the ‘wow factor’ and he certainly delivered on this with the best wishes video including Debbie- Flintoff King, Kathy Watt, Tony Abbot, Mona, Tony Jones – all that was missing was Barack Obama! Notoriously an early to bed bunch most triathletes attendees stayed until late chatting and reminiscing about past performances and planning future get togethers.

All MC’d by former club president and race director from the 2006 Commonwealth Games Bob Newman. Thanks Bob and again thanks Ian for a memorable night crowned with an impromptu speech from Steve Foster who gave us age groupers some stories about racing in the pro ranks.

Thanks to Greg and Romana, Steve and Robyn, Brian and all others who stayed back to assist with dismantling and cleaning.

We look forward to the 50th !