OQ Reunion in Australia

Sunday, 14th June 2009

Old school friends reunite Down Under for the first time in over fourty years!

Henry Finnis (1960 - 1966) and Gerry van de Linde (1960 - 1967) last saw each other in 1964 when they were both at Queens. Gerry runs a successful business on the Gold Coast in Queensland while Henry runs his business from Hobart in Tasmania. Both emigrated to Australia in the early 1980’s.

Until recently both Gerry and Henry were completely unaware of the fact that the other lived in Australia. In March this year Henry and his family visited northern New South Wales on holiday and, assisted by Kim Boalch from Queens, managed to meet up for the first time since leaving the School.

After leaving Queens Gerry qualified then practised in England as a furniture designer before emigrating to Australia where he has built up a successful professional kitchen design business. Henry spent fourteen years in the Royal Navy as a pilot then a submarinerobart in Tasmania before moving permanently to Sydney and joining the Royal Australian Navy.

It was great for the two old friends to get togther again after so many years. Despite the length of time without any contact both instantly recognised the other, had an enjoyable lunch togther reminiscing over old times and bringing each other up to date vowing to keep in touch “on a somewhat more regular basis” in future!

Please email Kim at kmb@queenscollege.org.uk if you would like to attend an Australian Event.

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