OSCA ’ s great strength is in its community connections , and as the lockdown continues we are working to keep our alumni connected through OSCA Live , a series of interesting interviews with members of the community . The webinars have been attracting audiences of more than 200 attendees , and the topics covered have been varied and interesting .
The series began in May with our first guest , Russel Howcroft (‘ 83 ), Old Boy , past parent and ABC ’ s The Gruen Transfer panellist , interviewd by OSCA Executive Director , Scott Montgomery (' 85 ). Russel reflected on his time at Scotch and the impact of COVID-19 on the business environment . Next , Dr Miles Beeny (’ 95 ), Old Boy , current parent , anaesthetist and COVID-19 Intensive Care Clinical Lead , discussed the influence of his Scotch education on his career , his journey into medicine and Melbourne ’ s early medical response to the pandemic .
In a changing format , James Douglas (’ 84 ), OSCA President , interviewed the Hon . Dr David Kemp AC (’ 59 ), School Council Chairman , on his time in politics and Scotch ’ s resilience in managing adversity during difficult times throughout the School ’ s history . Dr Kemp ’ s interest in history and Indigenous connections was revealed .
Ed ‘ Woody ’ Whitelaw , 2008 School Captain , and Will McMahon are two of OSCA ’ s Young Old Boys from the Class of 2007 . The entertaining hosts of KIIS FM ’ s drive radio show spoke about their time at Scotch and the ups and downs of breaking into national radio . Woody and Will revealed their journey since graduating from Scotch , and imparted some sound advice to our Young Old Boys .
The Hon . Dan Tehan MP , Federal Minister for Education , joined Scott Montgomery on OSCA Live in July . Dan , an Old Xaverian who was a boarder during his schooldays , talked about his early life , growing up on the family farm in rural Victoria , the value of boarding , and his journey into federal politics . Dan has covered a number of portfolios in politics , and he shared some insights with the audience .
In an enlightening interview during the series , Tom Batty , School Principal , sat down with Scott Montgomery (’ 85 ) and reflected on his early life in the UK , his love of football – the round ball game – and the journey that led him to Scotch College . Tom ’ s open and honest discussion around his educational views , the importance of building relationships , and encouraging boys to try many things and find a passion was insightful .
OSCA Live conversations have been diverse , with personal insights exposed . Future OSCA Live events will be advertised on the OSCANet site at www . oscanet . com . au . Past OSCA Live recordings can be found on the same site , under the ‘ Stay connected ’ tab .