OLD FRIENDS GATHER ROUND

One of the printing industry’s oldest and most respected print societies, the Australian Society of Old Friends, is on an outreach and growth trajectory to increase membership.

Gathering around the table are : Paul Richardson, Philip Anderson, Scott Telfer and Emmanuel Buhagier.

 The social and friendship group is a spin-off from the century old British society of the same name, which was founded in 1909. The Australian society was founded in 1969.

Under new President, Angus Scott, a vigorous campaign is underway to breath new life into the group. Most, but not all, of the current membership are retired, but the aim is to expand the reach to include more active, as well as retired, industry participants.

The Old Friends has a well-founded tradition of hospitality, bringing members together at entertaining events and gatherings. The most recent was on Tuesday at the Liu Rose Restaurant where over 20 members were treated to a slap-up dinner that was hard to beat. Your correspondent was invited along as a guest.

Enjoying good company: Jean Kropper, Stephanus Peters, Bob Lockley and Steve Kyd.

Apart from the food and the relaxed conviviality, members were entertained by industry notable, Jim Richardson, who regaled the company with tales of a long life spent in the Sydney printing industry. From a six-year apprenticeship at W E Smith to numerous directorships and managerial positions at different companies, notably MacArthur Press, it was a picaresque journey through the ups and downs of the industry, not least for the spotlight he shone on some hard asset stripping of businesses that fell to bad takeovers. He also detailed the entry of offset printing into the industry, with Jim being involved in importing Komori, Timson and Heidelberg presses.

Good to meet old friends: John Stimson, Jim Richardson, Peter Munro and Angus Scott.

The Australian Old Friends provides a valuable conduit for people who are no longer engaged in the day-to-day industry to stay in touch. Members always attempt to provide transport to events for those who may require it. It provides a much-needed space for the industry to gather and build friendships and rapport outside the hurly burly of competitive business.

Industry identities, Scott Telfer and Peter Munro, are part of the organising committee and look forward to fielding inquiries for membership.