The 55th Anniversary Back-to-Burg Weekend on 19–20 September was a joyful occasion, bringing together alumni, friends, and residents across generations. It was particularly special to welcome back those who had not returned in many years, and to witness the warmth of reunions between people who had not crossed paths since their Burgmann days.
Tours led by BRA President Euan Maclean, Resident Council Member Kalara Pringgoharjono, Advancement Intern Jasper Lee, and other current residents gave returning alumni the chance to walk the halls, buildings, and grounds, rediscovering what had changed and what had remained the same.
Photographs below, from left (click on image for full view): Advancement Intern Jasper Lee with alumni on a College tour; Robyn Byrne OAM, Boni Maywald, and Judy Middlebrook; Edna Dundas and Gillian Pereira.
The BCAA Electoral General Meeting was also held over the weekend, welcoming new and returning committee members for 2027–2028. We look forward to announcing the new Members in our Summer newsletter.
Photographs below, from left (click on image for full view): BCAA Committee Members, alumni and guests; Jillian McSpedden, 2026 BRA President Euan Maclean, Honorary Fellow and Council Member Robin Brown; BCAA President Matthew Lobb and attendees.
The highlight was undoubtedly the Gala Dinner on Saturday evening. An inspiring speech by 2026 Ian Darling Scholar Amelia Wallis-Hughes reminded us all to say yes to opportunities as they arise, to allow for new opportunities and experiences. We were also delighted to present the 2026 Outstanding Alumni Award to economist, policy adviser, and strategist Jennifer Kerr. You can read more about Jennifer and her remarkable achievements here.
Photographs below, from left (click on image for full view): Residential Fellow Mat Stasak receiving the Outstanding Alumni Award on behalf of Jennifer Kerr from BCAA President Matthew Lobb; Jennifer Kerr's Outstanding Alumni Award certificate; 2026 Ian Darling Scholar Amelia Wallis-Hughes.
One of the most moving moments of the evening was the recognition of the 1996 Rugby Team, with nine players travelling from Queensland, New South Wales, and the ACT to be together again. Each was presented with an embroidered Burgmann jersey bearing their surname and '1996' on the back, a fitting tribute to their historic grand final win in 1996.
Photographs of the 1996 Rugby Team members, from left (click on image for full view): Damien Hamwood; Group photograph, clockwise from left: Dale Beswick, Joshua Marley, Chris Adams, Damien Hamwood, Colin Bienke, Mathew Wells, Arran Curll, Andrew Hunter, and Michael Pisasle; Andrew Hunter.
Sunday brought a relaxed close to the weekend: a morning tea of scones, jam, and cream in true Luigi's style, followed by lunch with current residents. It was the perfect ending to a weekend that reminded us all why Back-to-Burg matters.
Photograph gallery – click on image for full view.
