THOMIAN FAMILY NIGHT 2026

Where Heritage Embraced Tomorrow

Celebrating 175 Years of S. Thomas’ College, Mount Lavinia

Some occasions entertain, there are occasions that reconnect, and then there are occasions that remind a community who they are and what they aspire to become.

The S. Thomas’ College Old Boys’ Association of NSW and the ACT once again demonstrated why it occupies a unique place within the Sri Lankan-Australian community when it hosted the Thomian Family Night 2026, a special celebration held in honour of the 175th Anniversary of S. Thomas’ College, Mount Lavinia with over 300 guests, of which 20 were kids making it truly a “Family Night” .

More than a social gathering, the evening became a living expression of a legacy that began in 1851 when Bishop James Chapman established a school whose mission extended beyond academic excellence to the formation of character, faith, leadership and service.

One hundred and seventy-five years later, thousands of kilometres from Mount Lavinia, that same spirit was alive and flourishing in Sydney.

The significance of the occasion was not lost on those who gathered. Alumni from multiple generations stood shoulder to shoulder with spouses, children, grandchildren, family friends and supporters of the College. It was a deliberate and thoughtful reflection of the Association's evolving vision: honouring the past while actively investing in the future. We were honoured by the presence of our centenarian: Thissa Gunathilaka and past presidents: Ananda Amaranath, Lal Wimalaratne, Duke Ramachadran, Richie de Silva, Panchan Ratneser, Eksath Perera, Indrajith Gunawardhana, Kulasiri Jayasinghe, Sanjiv Vivekanandan.

In an era where many alumni organisations naturally focus on nostalgia, the Thomian community in Sydney continues to chart a different course. Its events are intentionally designed not merely to celebrate history but to cultivate continuity. Family Night 2026 was a powerful example of that philosophy in action.

The Association's leadership has long recognised that the future strength of any alumni body depends not only on its existing membership but also on the generations that follow. Consequently, this year's celebration placed families at the very centre of the experience.

Children ran freely among old friendships renewed. Young adults gained a deeper appreciation of the institution that shaped their parents and grandparents. Partners and friends, many without direct links to the College, were welcomed as valued members of the wider Thomian family.

In doing so, the OBA reaffirmed an enduring truth: communities thrive not through exclusivity but through inclusion.

The evening also reflected the distinctive reputation the Association has earned over many years.

Across Sydney's vibrant multicultural landscape, community organisations regularly stage social gatherings and annual dinners. Yet the S. Thomas’ College OBA NSW/ACT has consistently demonstrated an ability to elevate the standard, introducing fresh ideas, embracing innovation and creating experiences that remain relevant to changing times while preserving cherished traditions.

This balance is not easily achieved.

The Thomian community continues to navigate this challenge with remarkable success.

Throughout the evening, guests experienced that philosophy firsthand.

The atmosphere was vibrant from the moment attendees entered the venue. Warm fellowship, animated conversation and genuine connection filled the room as old classmates reunited and new friendships emerged.

Providing the soundtrack for the celebration was the immensely popular live band Legacy, whose energetic performance transformed the evening into a joyous festival of music and dance.

Their repertoire bridged generations, ensuring that everyone, from the youngest guests to the most senior Thomians present, found themselves drawn to the dance floor.

As the music flowed, so too did the spirit of camaraderie that has long characterised the Thomian fraternity.

Complementing the entertainment was a culinary experience delivered by the emerging Sri Lankan catering specialists Zerandib, whose menu showcased the rich flavours and hospitality traditions of Sri Lanka.

Their contribution reflected another hallmark of the Association's approach: providing opportunities for emerging community enterprises while maintaining the high standards expected of a flagship event.

The evening's excitement was further enhanced by an impressive array of raffle prizes that captured the imagination of attendees.

Travel vouchers, luxury accommodation experiences and stays at some of Sri Lanka's premier five-star hotels generated considerable anticipation and enthusiasm throughout the night, adding yet another dimension to an already memorable celebration.

Cinnamon Grand Hotel
Hilton Colombo
Mount Lavinia Hotel
Mahaweli Reach Hotel
Galle Face Hotel
Cinnamon Lakeside
Taj Bentota Resort and Spa
Barberyn Sands Ayurvedic Resort
Sigiriya Jungles
Transco Travels
Commonwealth Bank of Australia

Yet beyond the music, food and festivities lay something deeper.

At its heart, S. Thomas’ College remains an educational institution founded upon enduring values.

The College's motto, Esto Perpetua, is not merely a statement of longevity but an aspiration that what is good, noble and true might endure across generations.

From its earliest days, the College sought to nurture young men who would combine intellectual achievement with integrity, leadership with humility, and success with service.

Those values have travelled remarkably well.

They have crossed oceans and generations, finding expression in the lives of Thomians who have settled in Australia and around the world.

Family Night 2026 became a celebration not simply of an institution's age but of the continuing relevance of its founding ideals.

What unfolded was precisely that, a passing of the torch. Stories were shared. Memories were relived. Lessons were remembered. New generations were introduced to a tradition larger than themselves.

As the evening progressed and the dance floor remained full, it became increasingly evident that the celebration represented more than a milestone anniversary.

It was a declaration of confidence. Confidence in the future of the Association. Confidence that the values established in 1851 continue to shape lives in 2026.

Most importantly, it was a reminder that while buildings, generations and circumstances may change, the essence of the Thomian spirit remains constant. The success of Family Night 2026 stands as a tribute to the organising committee, volunteers, sponsors and supporters whose dedication transformed a vision into reality.

Their efforts ensured that the celebration was not merely remembered as another event on a calendar, but as a significant chapter in the continuing story of Thomians in Australia.

As the Association looks ahead to future initiatives, one thing remains abundantly clear.

The Thomian story in Sydney is not merely preserving a legacy, It is building one.

Whilst we thank everyone who attended the evening, we appreciate all the support from Thomians and partners in the background that helped made this event a success! Looking forward to all of your presence and continuous support at our upcoming events: https://www.stcobasydney.org/calendar

Esto Perpetua.

*************************************************************************

Photo Gallery link (unedited version): https://www.stcobasydney.org/2026-pictures/#fam2026

Video highlight link: https://www.stcobasydney.org/thoratube

Acknowledgements

The Association acknowledges the generous support of sponsors, volunteers, partners, donors, entertainers, caterers and all guests whose participation contributed to the success of this special 175th Anniversary celebration.

Platinum Sponsor