First class teachers gather for reunion

From left: Kevin Bradley, Guy Turvey, Ian Hughes, and David Hunt who attended the college 1962-63. Photo / Supplied

Almost 60 years ago, Hamilton Teachers College celebrated its first intake of student teachers to its Melville campus.

Just four years later the teachers' training college moved to the University of Waikato campus, where it remains today.

Reminiscing on their studies at the Melville campus, the now retired teachers gathered in Hamilton recently to share stories of what they have done since their studies ended.

One of the reunion organisers, Bruce Rosemergy of Hamilton, a member of the first student intake, said the event drew almost 100 attendees and created enthusiasm for a 60th reunion next year.

He said the oldest attendee was 90-year-old 'Mr Music Man' Bruce Borthwick, a former lecturer at the teachers' college who still plays cornet in a band in Auckland.

Some of those at the reunion had travelled from as far away as England, Canada, the United States and Australia.

The celebration at the Waikato Commerce Club on a Thursday evening was followed by a morning exploring a changed Hamilton, including a visit to their old college — now Melville High School — before meeting for one last get together.

Already plans are under way for next year's reunion, the diamond jubilee, which promises to be an even bigger affair, Mr Rosemergy said.