Tony Britton

From the Schol. I had four great years at Cairns (72-5) and then two more at Maitland (76-7).

After I left at the end of '77 I worked at Bankstown for 18 years at Nazareth, a senior girls' college. I kept in contact with Mick Prest who worked next door at Benilde (the senior boys' school). I really enjoyed my long time there and left at the end of 95 when the CEO decided the college would close at the end of 99. I have since been Head of History at Moriah College at Queens Park - an orthodox Jewish school, so it was (and at times still is) a real culture shock and a very steep learning curve. However, it is handy to home (Coogee) and I suppose now I have become almost part of the furniture.

I met my wife Sue through playing tennis at Coogee in the 80s. We married in 1990 and have 2 children - Stephen (12.5 going on 9) and Jacinta (11 going on 25). They have both been in OC classes at Woollahra PS. Stephen is now in Year 7 at Rose Bay Secondary College, an amalgamation of 2 high schools in the area. He enjoys secondary school much more than primary. Most of my Saturdays are taken up with the kids' cricket, soccer and hockey. They also have tennis lessons with Sue's father (who is the Australian singles champion in the 80s bracket - he turns 80 in November and has played vets for NSW and Australia for many years since his retirement). I have been manager and occasional coach of the cricket and soccer teams.

I am still enjoying teaching although I'd have to say I'm happier and do my best work with the older students (10-12). I have become involved with the HSC subject Society & Culture and have been on its HSC exam committee for the past 2 years. I have also been treasurer of its association for over 5 years. However, history remains my first love.

I have basically no involvement with the Church beyond very occasional attendance. I suppose I drifted away over time and now don't see a lot to return to. Parish Catholicism does not inspire me; it cannot offer what the community life and liturgies used to. My mother makes up for all the family as at the age of 82 she still attends mass at least 3-4 times weekly. She is in good health apart from a weakening knee. Dad died of cancer several years ago. My brother is a grandfather before me through his step-daughter!

Regards,

Tony