Wesley Times – September’12

Newsletter of Wesley College Colombo Old Boys Union Australia Branch Inc.

Message from the President IN THIS ISSUE From the Editor’s desk 2 Condolences 4 I trust that all of you have been well this winter. This Tributes time of the year brings sniffles, coughs and colds  Abu Fuard 5 and I thought of bringing you some news and  Saybhan Samat 6 developments that the OBU has in store to help you A grand Old Lady of Wesley 7 Student loses battle with through those winter blues. 7 cancer Pirncipal’s Report – Prize 8 Those who were able to make it to the Winter Giving 2012 Warm-up in May enjoyed themselves and a Where are they now? 10 successful night was had by all. Over 250 patrons Athula Wickramasinghe attended with a notable presence of alumni and the A tribute to Wilfred & Elna 10 return of old boys that we haven’t seen in some time Wickramasinghe as well as some first timers. The committee was Double Blue Ball 2012 11 most encouraged by the success of the event and we are hoping this is a First Wesleyite to skipper a good precursor to the Annual ‘Double Blue Ball’ to be held on the 6th League Champion Rugby 11 Team – Henry Terrence October 2012. If anyone is still requiring tickets please contact one of the  Your Committee committee members listed. Tickets are limited so I would encourage you  Membership renewals to hurry!  Cedric Oorloff Golf Tournament 12 For those avid golfers or those that prefer army golf (left, right, left, right)  Dates for your diary there will be the Annual Cedric Oorloff Golf Tournament between Trinity  Snippets of news from College and Wesley College to be held on the 21st October at the Morack Wesley Golf Club (refer page ?). It would be nice for those skilled golfers to get Winter Warm-up 2012 13 Advert for book - Wesley some practice in so that we can regain the trophy that has been won by 14 Cricket History 1892 - 2012 Trinity for many years. Memories of Wesley cricket 15 Wesley Rugby 2012 20 Mr Peter Christie from the UK and former Teacher Mr Fred Abeysekera Around the traps 21 from Sri Lanka were in Melbourne and graced us with their presence. UK Branch Report 21 Friends of the pair hosted them around town and a dinner was held in  List of Old Wesleyites 22 Fred’s honour and a good time had by all. in Australia OWSC Rugby 24 A number of members are leaving for Sri Lanka in the next week to attend the Cricketers Re-Union on 8th September and the reunion of the classes E-mail correspondence th of 1968-72 celebrating 50 years of friendship which is being held on 15 All members who prefer to receive September. We wish all those attending from across the world a most OBU correspondence by email are enjoyable and safe time. In this issue we have featured some memories invited to inform the Editor on of Wesley’s cricketers of the past. I hope you enjoy reminiscing. [email protected] Your email address will then be included on our data base. This means that I hope to see many of you present at the Double Blue Ball to share a time future OBU Bulletins will also be of fellowship and a few laughs. The committee has worked hard and is sent to you email, not by POST. very excited about the upcoming event. Your co-operation is appreciated. The Editor ORA ET LABORA New Facebook page the address is http://www.facebook.com/pages/ Ben Nathanielsz Wesley-College-Colombo-OBU- Australia/296647643739345

Wesley Times September 2012 page 1/24 From the Editor’s Desk

The sustainability of our alma mater The source of this comment is a 4. To do all things necessary has been a matter of concern to new player on the scene whose to preserve the honour and alumni across the world for many interest in Wesley College came dignity of the College. years. Two issues come to mind long after the formation of the which were prompted by a recent OBUA, the first overseas branch of Since our formation in 1979 we cheap shot by an Old Wesleyite of the College. The ill founded have served our charter with wealth and privilege, one might say commentary is based from his diligence and honour. We have not a member of the nouveau riche. privileged position in life and from shied away from our duty and as The two points I wish to address in the wealth he has acquired by his expressed in our objectives, this editorial are: hard work. Therefore he sees fit to assisting the College ranks as our 1. The effectiveness of the be judgemental on how much funds third priority when we have had the OBU Australia and assistance we give the College funds to do so. Over the years our Branch(OBUA) in that would meet his expectations of contribution to the College has been supporting the College, and what is “reasonable”. significant and it is not a matter of 2. The “cap in hand” mentality being judged on the quantum of that the College relies on The membership of the OBUA is dollars given but what we could for sustainability. predominantly based in the State of afford at the time and the need that Victoria. The individual concerned had to be met. We have given So serious is the accusation, that I has no idea of the facts and the  A ride on mower for the believe the members of the OBUA difficulty in raising funds particularly grounds should be made aware of its in Melbourne where there are over  The erection of the contents and to refute such 60 Sri Lankan organisations scoreboard based on the unfounded remarks with the facts. I competing for a slice of the same Tamil Union Scoreboard do not apologies for the length of pie from alumni associations of design which is located at this editorial as it is necessary to set every College from Sri Lanka to the far end of the ground the record straight and to remind various charities both local and opposite the pavilion which the membership of what the OBUA those in Sri Lankan. The ill advised is still being used today stands for. commentator poses the notion that  College Ties for the 125th we are in some way obligated to Jubilee celebrations which Recently I had an audacious and ill support the College regardless of has now been adopted as founded comment made to me in whether we are in a position to the tie of choice by Old one of many emails I receive. It was afford it or whether it is considered Wesleyites. Proceeds from about the OBUA and its to be a priority. The OBUA’s the sales went to the ineffectiveness to help the College, discretionary funds available for College. to quote directly from the email such support may not be as  Blazer fabric for the College “There is a lot of hot air significant as that of our critic. Striped Blazers emanating from you guys but in Furthermore it is his choice who he  Funds for clothing, the context of what could have wishes to support and the quantum equipment and been done for College, the of support that he is prepared to consumables for Cricket performance of the OBU in give be it to Wesley College or any and Rugby Australia has been pathetic.” He other deserving organisation.  Funds towards the Chapel concludes by stating “The support  Funds for the Cartman the Australia OBU gives Wesley From the outset when we first Library is a joke.” formed, our objectives were quite  Funds for the Swimming clear, and it is appropriate to re- Pool It is a slur on the efforts of the many iterate them for the record.  Funds for a sick student Committee Members that have The objects of the Branch shall be: served the OBUA with distinction 1. To unite in one fraternal  Funds for a PA system since 1979, I might add that it is band those who were  Funds for computers also a voluntary role. Also a quick educated at Wesley College  Plus individual donations by check of the definition of pathetic Colombo and/or who have members of money states – “miserably or contemptibly had a direct association The list goes on. inadequate”. with the College, 2. To afford an opportunity of Our critic may wish to support the The question is: “Has the OBUA bringing together past and constant “cap in hand” mentality been so miserable and present students of Wesley, that has evolved at Wesley College contemptible in its endeavours to 3. To assist in meeting the over the past five decades. Any support our alma mater and are we needs of the College as form of philanthropy is to be a joke?” they arise admired and we do. However, that does not mean that the OBUA and

Wesley Times September 2012 page 2/24 its Members are worthy of the also provided an opportunity for expects others to either match his criticism levelled at them. unscrupulous individuals with efforts or even better them. influence to abuse the system. On the second point, the Church These characters must be exposed The Church and its hierarchy need and its hierarchy in their wisdom and kicked out from any to decide as a matter of urgency elected to take Wesley College involvement with monetary matters whether to return Wesley to a fee down the pathway of being a non- or other with the College. One of paying school. It is clinging to fee levying school when Mr Harold the other negative aspects was that Wesley College and Methodist Nonis was Principal. Since then the Old Wesleyites who wished to enrol College the last two jewels in its College has struggled to sustain their sons had to meet the same crown as the other schools that itself and meet the standards it rigid criteria where they were were a part of their education once enjoyed due to the reduced expected to pay the current market portfolio that saw the Church revenue streams coming in. Over rates to get their son in to Wesley operate schools across the island the years and as a consequence, and in many instances their inability have all (including Kingswood and the infrastructure has deteriorated, to pay the fee meant that they Richmond) been handed over to the upgrades of equipment and facilities elected to enrol their son Government. If it is their wish to to meet the basic demands of elsewhere. If you had the money perpetuate this wonderful legacy modern education such as teaching your son was in. A long standing the time is right under the aides diminished or were non- tradition of generational family stewardship of Dr McLelland as existent, the ability to attract quality enrolment ceased where the Principal for the Church( particularly teachers and for them to be student population now came from the Moratuwa Junta) to take a firm remunerated appropriately diverse backgrounds pre- stance. With a solid business plan decreased. Overall Wesley’s dominantly non-Christian with no and a strategy for sustainability, the standards and position as a leading intrinsic link to Wesley College or appointment of a Principal must not academic institution was in a empathy with its values and be a token appointment of one the downward spiral and there was no traditions. The fabric of the College Church’s or Moratuwa Junta’s obvious strategy to sustain the and her traditions were in tatters favourite sons but rather a person College and maintain its once proud and eroded along the way by all of with the skill sets to manage the standards. this. school as a business and as an academic institution, The proof is Soon after the introduction of the The OBUA does not believe this the current Principal who has turned non-fee levying regime, the Church “cap in hand” mentality is Wesley around. Wesley College in its wisdom had a great fire-sale necessarily good for Wesley as has should be able to meet the by selling the small park for housing been proven over the last fifty demands of the students for a development and selling the three years. Wesley College is a business holistic quality education on a fee cottages(Spring, Summer & and has to be able to sustain itself for service basis and therefore Autumn) in Baseline Road. The and not shift the responsibility of eliminate this constant “cap in hand“ funds realized gave only temporary sustainability all the time on the mentality it has relied on for fifty relief to meeting the many alumni, parents and business to years. This is not to say, that from challenges and expenses the provide the fundamental time to time there will be “special College faced. Since then with no requirements for operating the needs” that can only be met by business plan or strategy for College. Under the stewardship of seeking assistance from external sustainability it has relied on the Dr Shanti McClelland he has sources such as the parents, alumni goodwill and generosity of the miraculously turned the College and business, e.g. the swimming parents, alumni, business and well around and that under severe pool. wishers in meeting the widening financial constraints. He has had gap between revenue and the creativity and initiative to The OBUA has taken a pragmatic expenses whilst endeavouring to perpetuate the “cap in hand” approach on how it raises funds maintain standards. It is a culture approach and the parents, alumni and manages its business. We are that has prevailed for almost half a and business have responded not a wealthy organisation but have century. The appointment of a accordingly and we have witnessed been prudent on how we spend our succession of Principals with no the significant improvements, the money. It was not that long ago business acumen or appreciation “renaissance of Wesley” in the past when Committee Members for the critical nature of running “the two years after the College was advanced the funds for making business” did not help in addressing languishing for so many years. bookings for halls, bands, caterers the gravity of Wesley’s situation. However there comes a time for etc. We have learnt from our whatever the reasons might be that experience. The OBUA has moved The advent of charging exorbitant imposes restrictions on what on and has consolidated its enrolment fees from the 1970’s was parents, alumni and business can position. All requests from the seen as a way of bridging this give due to their changing personal College are treated on merit and hiatus and it is still in practice today. circumstances. This salient point whether we can afford it at the time. However, this was not unique to has been missed by our critic who If individuals of their own accord Wesley but at many Colleges. It wish to support any requests that is

Wesley Times September 2012 page 3/24 their choice and from time to time As our beloved College song states but rather to keep the spirit of the such requests have been sent to “We will do our best in mart and Double Blues alive in our adopted the members for consideration. If hall” and I can proudly state as a country Australia. That is our that means we are not meeting the founding member, the OBUA has priority. expectations of those better off than done its best over the past 33 years the OBUA or its members so be it. It under difficult constraints at times. Ora et labora is their prerogative to do as they We are comfortable with our see fit. To deem the OBUA efforts achievements “and when Wesley’s “pathetic” and that we are “a bunch call shall sound” we will respond as of hot air” and a “joke” echoes the best we can “in duty and in honour views of someone who has quite bound”. We are not here to seek Keith de Kretser simply lost touch with what matters accolades or prominence or garner [email protected] to the average person. the reputation of being a “White Knight” that saves Wesley College

WILLIAMS - Noel Thornton (Retired Station Master C.G.R. Control Office). Beloved husband of Olga, loving father of Stewart & Peter, father-in-law of CONDOLENCES Ben (Roslyn) and Sonia. Passed away peacefully on Saturday 5th May 2012. “Safe in the Arms of Jesus”. We extend our sincere sympathy to the family and friends. de KRETSER. - Ivor Rienzi Vere (former Teacher). Passed away peacefully July 3, 2012. Dearly loved husband of Patricia, father of OVERSEAS In Sri Lanka - Abu Fuard famous Sri Lankan Christopher and father-in-law of Larraine (nee cricketer and Saybhan Samat well known Jazz Barrow), grandfather of Straun. Beloved brother of musician. May they enjoy eternal rest. We extend our the late Douglas, Lorenz, Neville and Maureen and sincere sympathy to the family and friends. their spouses Deanna (dec.), Dawn, Barbara and Jasper (dec.). Now in God's car. We extend our sincere sympathy to the family and friends. A Message of Thanks FERDINANDS. - Cyril John Hugh Better known as 'Chris' or 'Jim' Passed away suddenly on Hi Friends Thursday, July 5, 2012. Jim was the eldest son of Hugh and Flossie (both dec.) and brother to Patrick Thanks to all those who inquired after Valerie's health (dec.), Richard, Cecil, Nina, Charles and Douglas, and wellbeing. It was a very enjoyable night(Winter Forever In Our Hearts. All the Ferdinands boys were Warm-up Curry Nite) with great music complimented at Wesley. We extend our sincere sympathy to the by some good food. Not forgetting the war cry at the family and friends. end of our rendition.

KOELMEYER. - Eric. Passed Away On Apr. 16, Val is a very positive person which has helped her 2012 Husband of Doreen (dec.). Father of Charmaine battle with Pancreatic Cancer. The last year has been (dec.), Eric and Tamara. Grandfather to Karen. a real challenge for her and the family. I have been Reunited With His Loved Ones. We extend our quite devastated, gutted, and at times lost in my own sincere sympathy to the family and friends. world, but with divine help and surrounded by sincere inspiring Friends and family the battle is somewhat easier. NILES. - Angeline Kirupaimalar Passed away peacefully on May 19, 2012 Loving wife of late Daniel Ariaratnam Niles, mother of Rajini, Indran and late Val and I felt a sense of release to be doing what we Sunita. Mother-in-law of Vijaya Hoole, Kumu and late loved and letting our hair loose (what hair?) Thanks Godwin Roberts. Grandmother of Gehan, Dilip and once again, and to all those having their own battles Lauren. We extend our sincere sympathy to the trust in God. "It is better to trust in the LORD than to family and friends. put confidence in man".

Wesley to the fore! PRINS. - Nathaniel “Natty” James Passed away peacefullyOn Aug. 26, 2012Aged 84 yearsLoved husband of Margot (nee Cameron). Dearly loved Ray de Run father of Elaine, Colin and Tina. Rest In Peace. We extend our sincere sympathy to the family and friends.

Wesley Times September 2012 page 4/24 A b u F u a r d by Premasara Epasinghe (legendary Cricketer and cricket administrator Abu Fuard passed away on July 28th at the age of 75.This article written in 2010 is reproduced here in honour of his memory)

He was a man for all seasons. His life is woven around cricket. In early 1950s, he was one of the best schoolboy cricketers representing Wesley College, Colombo. Later, he joined the club circuit, played for Colts CC.

In short, he is the best off-spinner Sri Lanka produced before she gained Test status. He was one time Asia’s Best off-spinner and one of the finest cricket administrators that Sri Lanka ever produced. He is Abu Fuard.

His big break came, when he mesmerised Australians at the Colombo Oval, with his wily off-spinners. They were all at sea against his bowling. After the “Whistle stop match” Ritchie Benaud said “We like to take this bloke to Australia. He is one of the best off-spinners in Asia today.” This compliment was paid by Ritchie Benaud to Abu Fuard. What a compliment!

Abu, was a marvellous man a workaholic. He was a strict disciplinarian. He was a man who called a spade a spade. Therefore, some misunderstood him. At times, he was a “Tough Guy”. With my long association with Abu, I can state, although, he is harsh at times, when he sees injustice his heart melts. He possess a Golden Heart. One thing I have seen in him is that he always fought for the rights of the so called Non Elites, and Outstation schools. This was one reason, he became somewhat unpopular among the so- called Elite Society.

As a Nalandian, my happiest moment was the day that one of my students at Nalanda, Bandula Warnapura was selected as the first Test captain. When I was the Master-in-charge in 1968/1969 and Prefect of Games, Warnapura was the Nalanda opener with Palitha Seneviratne. I personally know, that Abu Fuard and late K. M. T. Perera, backed Warnapura to the hilt, in the race for the Sri Lanka’s First Test captaincy. If not for the untiring efforts of these two gentlemen, I am sure, Warnapura would not have got the opportunity of captaining the first Sri Lanka Test Team. I presume this history now. But facts are stubborn.

One of the greatest achievements of Abu Fuard was introducing, Minister Gamini Dissanayake to cricket administration. At that time, in 1970s – 1980s. The Minister of Lands, Land Development and the Mahaveli Development Project Mr Gamini Dissanayake was living at 5th Lane, Colpetty, opposite Abu’s house. It was Abu, who invited and motivated Dissanayake to get involved in cricket administration. Gamini Dissanayake was a gentleman par excellence and was undoubtedly the “Yuga Purusha” (Man of the Era of Sri Lanka Cricket).

“The greatest achievements in my life is the fulfilment of one of my ambitions – to take the game of cricket and open doors to outstation schools and the so called “Non Elite” schools. There was a time that certain schools dominated Sri Lanka cricket. I took up the challenge. In those early days, a few cricketers like Dhanasiri Weerasinghe (Ananda), W. Premaratne (St. Anthony’ College, Katugastota) backed me. I knew I became unpopular among the Old Boys of some of the so-called Elite schools. But, I fought hard for Justice. Ultimately it paid dividends.”

The great cricketer Abu Fuard was born on 6th December 1936 in Colombo.. Abu Fuard hails from a cricketing family. His father too captained and represented Wesley in 1915. His brother late Ansar Fuard captained and played for Wesley. Incidently, I opened batting for the Education Department with Ansar when I was a Graduate Teacher at Nalanda. This unassuming gutsy cricketer Abu Fuard, was one of the best cricketers produced by Wesley College. This fine all-rounder, in 1953 stroked a chanceless century against Richmond College, partnering Brian Claessen, another brilliant product of Wesley. Later, both won their “Ceylon Cap” for cricket.

As a schoolboy, in 1953, Abu captured 6 for 76 against St Thomas’ College and annihilated the Royalists by capturing 8 (eight) wickets. Then, against Prince of Wales, Abu Fuard returned the amazing figures of 9 for 53. Abu’s story is fascinating like a fairy tale. Many do not know that he was a fine schoolboy athlete. He represented Wesley College in public schools and competed with late Lalith Athulathmudali in the100 metres hurdles.

He took up cricket at the age of 12 as a fast-bowler. It was his first coach Alban Fernando, who turned Abu, to be an off-spinner. After leaving school, Abu, played for Moors, Colts and CCC. He represented Ceylon (Sri Lanka) from 1956-1971 with distinction. Undoubtedly, he was the number one off-spinner during his time.

Wesley Times September 2012 page 5/24 “Premasara, I am a self-made cricketer. Those days, I used to walk all the way from 5th lane, Colpetty, to Colts ground Havelock Town. I start practise on my own at about 3.00 p.m. I would keep a coin in the matting and do “Spot Bowling”. I improved my flight, length and direction through this exercise. We were committed, disciplined and worked hard. That was the secret behind my success as a cricketer.”

Abu Fuard after representing Ceylon in 1961 against the Australians, in 1962 played against Ted Dexter’s England side. His moment of glory was when Abu captured six (6) for 31 (thirty one) in a fine-spell of wily off-spin bowling against Joe Lister’s International XI. I still remember in the early 1960s, in the first unofficial test against India at Ahmedabad, he played a key-role in defeating India. “We, had to chase a victory target of 112 runs. I opened batting in the second innings. The Ahmedabad wicket was a nightmare. I scored a quick fire 40. We won the match with 45 minutes to spare.

Abu Fuard was an Insurance man. He joined De Soysa and Company Colombo 2. who were the principal agents of major projects like Gal Oya, Inginiyagala, Kelanitissa, Victoria Bridge. They did the secretariat work. Abu Fuard handled the Insurance sector.

A special chapter should be written on Abu Fuard, – the Cricket Administrator. In 1973, during Robert Senanayake’s tenure of office, Abu became a cricket administrator after retiring from cricket. The peerless Gamini Dissanayake a true lover of cricket, had the knack of selecting the correct man for the correct position. Abu was his able Lieutenant. Dissanayake improved the cricket infrastructure. He hand-picked Abu Fuard to handle the re- vamping of Asgiriya Stadium, constructor of the Indoor Nets at Maitland Place and the present headquarters of the Sri Lanka Cricket Board.

Abu Fuard functioned as a successful cricket manager, a selector and chairman of the selection committee. He was a qualified coach. Under his able guidance, Sri Lanka recorded her first Test victory against India on 11th September, 1985 at the Colombo Oval (Present Saravanamuttu Stadium). Sri Lanka beat India by 149 runs.

In 1979, Abu Fuard, functioned as the Manager of Sri Lankan team. He was the 1979 World Cup manager and manager for Pakistan Tour in 1985 and England Tour 1999.

In Memoriam - Saybhan Samat From the Sunday Times 31st January 2010 Saybhan and the Society band : good work in his new chosen Saybhan Samat is a A 'revelation' in music by Karel vocation. musician different Roberts Ratnaweera In May 2001, he formed Saybhan from many others in Saybhan Samat needs no and the Society Band - a clever his trade. His band introduction to light music lovers in name because it is not the kind of which calls itself the island - but perhaps he needs a society he once entertained, ‘Saybhan and the reintroduction to them and to a new although some may think his Society Band’ plays a special brand audience; Saybhan, this time Tempo band has gone upmarket of therapeutic music designed to around, is using his talents as a and is playing for high society! provide relief to mental patients, musician in a good cause. Saybhan and the Society Band play sickly people, depressed prisoners, This of course does not by any for the joy of society's marginalised injured soldiers and alcoholics. means mean that his earlier music folk - those in prisons, homes for The band plays especially for was not in a good cause. As an the mentally depressed, sunshine children living in orphanages, entertainer, his earlier dance band homes and the like. residents in elder’s homes, school was top of the pops with those children and also at social whose tripped the light fantastic. This turn of mind in Saybhan came occasions such as weddings and But Saybhan is a deeply religious like a flash from the Almighty he so get together. man; as a devout Muslim he fervently believes in, and he The band includes Louise disbanded his group, Saybhan and decided to try therapy through Anandappa, daughter of the the Tempo and went into a period of music to try to make life less dreary inimitable and immortal Gerry Crake contemplation that lasted for some and less of a burden for these herself a very talented musician, years while all the while he was people.Since the formation of his Roy De Silva, a very talented holding down a responsible job by new, conscience-raising band, musician and a key board specialist which he looked after his wife and Saybhan has accepted several and guitar specialist as well as the young family. invitations to play for the socially outstanding Darlen Perera on guitar Now Saybhan is back - not to deprived, the sick, the depressed and vocals. entertain partygoers but to bring and the lonely clapped in prisons some joy into the lives of those who with little to look forward to. One do not party. He came back into this such engagement was at the fresh field last year and is doing Sumithrayo Drug Demand Wesley Times September 2012 page 6/24 Reduction Program at Mel Medura, Future plans include adding To commemorate the occasion of Colombo 07.Last July the band trumpets to the Society Band to the Holy Prophet's Birthday, the played at a sing-along session at give the authentic Latin sounds, group played at the Muslim the Cancer Society gathering and at while popularising Ricky Martin's Orphanage, Ratmalana. Himself the Friend-in-Need Society in singing style in Sri Lanka.Saybhan once a victim of depression, Kandy. hopes to start work on an ambitious Saybhan attributes his recovery to From June this year they have been fusion of Arabic, Sinhala and Tamil his faith in his religion. 'Music,' he featured every Poya morning to music, with Western music as well, says,' can in some cases can do play at the Sumithrayo Drug on the occasion of Women's Day to what medicine cannot.' Programme at Mel Medura. celebrate the birthday of the Lady Fatima. This will be at the BMICH. From Dallas Achilles Saybhan and his band provide Saybhan was very much senior to musical therapy every two months The group will also be playing at us. He was with Mike Siebel in at what is described as Sri Lanka's Prison Day at Bogambara Prison Thurstan and they both joined best-known Halfway House, Kandy, and at the Pallekelle Open Wesley at the same time. They Sahanaya. In July of this year, the Prison. started Boxing together and he was group presented 'On Wings of A one time member of the Mike's sparring partner. They Song,' part proceeds of which went legendary Jetliners, Saybhan's new represented College at several to the oppressed people of band comprises Johar Mustafa, Stubbs tournaments. My Palestine - a cause very close to his who is a trained vocalist, Darlen associaltion with Saybhan started heart. For this year, the band's Perera, (guitar), Azeeza Samat post College days when he and engagements include playing at the (organist and pianist) and Saybhan Sam (Nihal Samarasinghe) invited 5th anniversary Sing Along of the 'Y' himself switching between clarinet me to join Sam the man, & the Men's Club at the BMICH in and saxophone. Gaylords. October.

A GRAND OLD LADY OF WESLEY HELEN BARTHOLOMEUSZ Birthday. It was a very happy Student loses his battle with occasion - which I feel certain she Cancer too enjoyed. ‘Old timers’ of Wesley – boys and girls – one girl in particular, Beryl Robertson, who was present at the celebration, remembers Helen as her 2nd. Standard Class Teacher, and Music Teacher. Helen’s valued contribution as a Church Organist, will always be remembered.

Truly, a member of the Old School Like our revered Mother, Music was – our loved Wesley College. And Helen’s forte and, as an accomplished that, I feel, is one of the sincerest pianist, she was awarded her gold ways to remember Helen medals as a Licentiate of the Trinity Bartholomeusz – my big sister! Of College of Music, and the Royal School course, in that context. we can of Music, England respectively. never forget the other family Coupled with these choice member of the Old School – our achievements, she was invited, as the Guest Pianist, to provide the Item of Mother, Mrs. Netta Joseph, who will Music, at the Awards Night, presided be remembered, with love and Last year we facilitated an appeal over by the Governor of Ceylon, Sir affection, not only for grooming for a young student Maleesh Teenal Reginald Stubbs - indeed, a much Helen as a School Teacher, but aged 9 who had Leukaemia who coveted honour! also for her dedication to her was seeking treatment in India. The

Students, several of whom shone in response to the appeal was terrific. We congratulate her on this milestone their post-School careers, in the Young Maleesh passed away on Public and Diplomatic services, and occasion, and wish her God’s choicest th 27 August 2012 after a Blessings as time moves on. were a credit to their alma mater. courageous battle.

Some of Helen’s family and friends Langston Joseph th Our sympathies and prayers have met on Sunday, 24 . June 2012, at been conveyed to his family. Allambie Nursing Centre, Kingston, nd to join her in celebrating her 92

Wesley Times September 2012 page 7/24

Principal’s Report - Prize Giving 2012 22 June 2012 “An education system isn’t worth a great deal if it teaches young people how to make a living but doesn’t teach them how to make a life” …… Mark Twain

The Chief Guest, Prof. Sudath in 1994. Thesis title “Leakage three of our Students qualified to Kalingamudali, Members of the effects in AIGaAs/GaAs enter University and 18 were called Governing Board, Welfare Society, heterojunction bipolar transistors”. for University Entry. Parent Teacher Association, Old Last year we introduced the Boys Union, Past Teachers, and In his illustrious career, in 2010/11 monthly tests, first term exams and Well Wishers. On behalf of the staff he served as a Visiting Professor at more focused parents meeting and students of Wesley College, I the Department of Electrical and supported by formative monthly extend a warm welcome to you all computer Engineering, Louisiana assessments, subject seminars by to our Annual Prize Giving of the State University, USA on a Fulbright experts in the field, learning to learn 138th Anniversary, especially to our Fellowship. Previously he was the programs and motivational Chief Guest Prof. Sudath Head of the Department of Physics, meetings. Records show that Kalingamudali. University of Kelaniya and attached Teacher-Student ratios are more to the university of Kelaniya from favourable than in the previous Professor Kalingamudali, we thank 1997 onwards. In 2002, he had the years. you for accepting our invitation and distinction of being selected for a honouring us with your presence Senior Fulbright Fellowship and In the field of sports Wesley today. We thank all of the other served as a Visiting Professor at the excelled in hockey to become distinguished guests who have Department of Physics and unofficial champions with an accepted our invitation to grace this Astronomy, Georgia State exampalry record throught the year. occasion. We thank all parents for University, USA. Four players were selected to the their presence today. Honoured Invitation tournament in Bangkok, guests, your presence are an Wesley College has embarked on Thailand. In soccer we did encouragement to all our Award an exciting new journey that would extremely well beating some of the winners who will walk up to the give teachers, students, and more fancied teams. The Rugby stage this evening. parents a better environment to team fared well in the Inter School impart, receive, and celebrate “A” division league championships. I wish to share a few hallmarks of success at examinations and extra- We have significantly done better your illustrious career as an curricular activities. Students enjoy than last year in Cricket, Table example, especially for the young the freedom and study in a kind Tennis, Badminton, Tennis, and and curious minds. Professor environment without heavy Athletics. Our Juniors did well in Sudath Kalingamudali was a corporate punishment. Now we Table Tennis to be ranked number student at Wesley from 1968 to follow a no punishment no tolerance one. We continue perform well in 1981 and qualified to proceed for policy to maintain discipline. We Basket Ball, Chess, and Aesthetics university education. Currently, Dr. have teamed to help students who studies. Kalingamudali is a Professor at the need counselling and financial Department of Physics, University assistance. We reach out to parents After starting the work on the of Kelaniya joining the university in to help them in time of need. At swimming pool development 2007. In his path to the prestigious Wesley, with the help of parents, project, swimming, is becoming a position, he initially, he passed the old boys and teachers we believe in preferred sport with the help of National Cetificate in Electrical helping students who are less qualified and dedicated coaches. Engineering while completing a fortunate as well those with learning Our boys have consistently certificate course in Modern disabilities to excel. performed excellently well in Art, Languages specializing in French Music, and Dancing in all three and Technical English Examination In 2010, our GCE (Ordinary Level) media, specializing in Eastern, at University of Kelaniya. Professor results showed an extraordinary Western and Karantic sections. Our Kalingamudali excelled at the BSc improvement from the 69% in 2009 Hewisi Band and the Brass Bands, (Special) Degree program gaining a to 93%. English Language pass junior and senior were invited by First Class Honours to pass out rate surpassed expectations with many schools and organizations from the same university in 1990. 97% success, along with 86% due to their high standard of The Dissertation titled “Fabrication success rate mathematics. performance. We are proud of our and characterization of p-CuxS/n- Comparatively, the results were College Band and College Choir Cu2O junction diode”. He quickly significantly the same in 2011. One who emerged Second at the Winter finished the PhD program at the student obtained distinctions in all Carols Competition. The school Department of Electronic & subjects and 10 students obtained 8 debating team excelled at the Inter- Electrical Engineering at the distinctions. At the GCE Advanced school debating championships and University of Sheffield passing out Level Examination in 2011, Eighty- took the initiative to train many

Wesley Times September 2012 page 8/24 other schools to upgrade their “Scholarships and Awards Trust teaching and learning. Wesley standards. Our team captain was Fund”. Wesley boys who perform College will continue this journey of selected to participate at the World on stage and electrify the new discovery with comfortable debating championships in South audiences, outperform their classrooms, better teaching and Africa. The Drama group did well at opponents in debating and public learning facilities have been the Shakespeare Drama speaking contests, as well as upgraded to give a completely new Competition. Three of the debaters students who excel in Mart or Hall, look and feel to the experience of participated at the prestigious Asian or in Art, Dance, Music, and Drama learning at Wesley College, which Championships in Philippines. The will proudly don the “College aims to be one of the best in the Junior Speech-craft program for the Colours”. The winners of “College region. development of public speaking Colours” will have the honour of At this moment, I wish to refresh the skills in English proved to be a total displaying Wesley’s iconic crest of memories of all those who are success. The Partnership with twelve shells and the rugged cross. interested in the success of Wesley, Rotrac Club of Colombo North was The modern pedagogy of tutorial the words of former Principal, Mr. a successful venture helping all staff of Wesley will promote a proud A.S. Wirasinha on 15th January students in the primary school to sense of excellence, efficiency and 1962. “This is the moment of develop speech and language skills loyalty with a kinder and warmer rededication in my life. It is my hope in English. smile replacing the unpleasant and prayer that this school will be “Corporate Punishment” of the past allowed to function by the state in As in the past, at the “Proud to be a decades. an atmosphere of freedom. Wesleyite” event, a select number Education does not end with the of Past and Present Wesleyites was The effectiveness, efficiency, gaining of jobs; it is much more than given the privilege of experiencing elegance and grace of the Double that. Education is the training and the rich tradition of Wesley in the Blue will be accentuated and discipline of the entire person”. past 138 years guided by the traditions will be preserved by connotation of our motto “Ora et hundreds of empathetic teachers Going forward after 138 years, Labora”. Wesley College has now and illustrious students at Wesley innovative changes at Wesley are introduced a totally refreshing who will be “Ready when the Call geared to combine to evoke experience of teaching and learning shall Sound” to endure this Wesley’s time-tested values to at Karlsruhe. Wesley is continuing transformation in the 138th year of reminisce the nostalgia of a bygone to provide new opportunities in Wesley’s tradition for excellence in era and the tradition of excellence “Mart or Hall”, on the playing fields education. The Wesley students in education, yet portraying a of Campbell Park, inside the discipline is at its best surpassing vibrant school with a proud but hallowed halls of Wesley and the all other schools portraying the humble brand identity. Indeed … we Cartman Library, and even at the “Best of Men of Grit”. The Double are changing the way we teach, “Park in The City” environment of Blue colour palette with the elegant learn and play! Undeniably the aim Wesley’s lush green sports turquoise light blue blended with of the holistic education at Wesley grounds. The magnificent hostel iridescent shade of dark blue is to churn out great citizens who buildings decked with Burma Teak splashed in the centre on the robust could be outstanding leaders in and high ceilings with polished “College Crest” glorifying the vision their chosen fields. timber, along with state of the art of “Rev. John Wesley” the founder washrooms upgraded having a of Methodism in 1814, and of “Rev. distinctive modern appeal and D. H. Pereira” the founder of “Ora et Labora” contemporary outlook to promote Wesley College in 1874. holistic and healthy life styles. These teaching and learning Echoing the sentiments of Rev. Dr. Shanti McLelland opportunities give hope and Henry Higfield Principal (1895- Principal, Wesley College promise to those who love and 1925), Colleges like Wesley stand cherish the rich traditions of for an English education under Wesley. Wesley College gives the religious influence, which we are teachers and students the convinced cannot be beaten Quote of the day! assurance of a total “Teaching, anywhere, if both these elements Learning, and Performing” are true and vigorous. At Wesley WIFE ASKS HUSBAND, experience at the Double Blue! we believe strongly in the “HOW MANY WOMEN HAVE Today, at the 138th Annual Prize usefulness of strenuous and friendly Giving, Wesleyites who have been rivalry. Now, with new strategies YOU SLEPT WITH?” persistent, determined and and sweeping changes Wesley is consistently desire to exceed certainly back to basics and to our HUSBAND REPLIES “ONLY academic achievement will be traditional focus. We are changing YOU, WITH THE OTHERS I awarded the converted “Hill Medal” the teaching and learning WAS WIDE AWAKE.” and the class and special prizes experience in a new-dimensional honoured by the Wesley manner and stretching the Community through the boundaries of excellence in

Wesley Times September 2012 page 9/24

Where are they now?

Recent emails about the Class of 68 -72 Re-union has brought together many Old Boys of that era via the internet. Some had not communicated with their friends for over 40 years. One name that popped up is the featured guest in “Where are they now?” He is Athula Wickramasinghe the son of the late Wilfred Wickramasinghe( Junior School Head Master , Teacher, Book Shop Master and the list of duties are too numerous to mention and Mrs Elna Wickramasinghe who was also a teacher at Wesley.

Athula is married to Shanthi and has 2 daughters and lives in Saskatoon, SK /Canada. He migrated to Canada 19 years ago(1993) and works as a Manager in retail and warehousing.

Athula joined Wesley in the same year as myself in 1959 and finished at Wesley in 1973. In his junior years he was a member of Lemphers House and in Senior School in Wilkin. He played Cricket – U14, U16 and 1st Eleven, Hockey – U16 and 1st Eleven and Badminton – Senior’s. He was awarded Colours in Cricket and Hockey and won the award for All-round Sportsman for years 1972/1973. His extra curricular activities included Cubs, SCM and junior Choir.

When asked about who his favourite Teachers and Friends were at Wesley, he very diplomatically avoided naming names. “There were many good ones.”

His fondest memories of his time at Wesley include scoring a century against Trinity at Asgiriya, Kandy, receiving the award for all-round Sportsman for the year in 1972/1973 and the day he was appointed a Prefect.

After leaving school Athula joined the Sri Lankan Navy as an Officer Cadet in 1973 and retired as a Lieutenant Commander in 1987. He then joined Air Lanka as an Executive in 1987 and migrated to Canada in 1993 where he has worked as a Manager in Retail and Warehouse.

I would like to thank Athula for sparing the time to fill us in on his whereabouts in between organising his daughters wedding. We wish him the very best for the future and hopefully one day we may meet again.

A tribute to my Parents by Athula Wickramasinghe

Wlfred Wickramasinghe

My father joined Wesley College as a teacher in the primary school and later on he became the Head Master. He was the Master in Charge of Lemphers House in the Primary School before he became the Head Master. He was also the Master in Charge of Cubs, Badminton and was in charge of the college book store before he handed over to Mr.E.L.Rodrigo. (Editor - Who could ever forget his reference to Square Ruled Books as “Kota Rule Books”.)

For many years he was the chief organizer of the Primary School annual concert, prize giving and sports meet. He used to very often go and watch Wesley at play in Cricket – Hockey - Badminton and would take me along when I was small and that is how I became interested in sports.

He obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree around 1961-1962 and there after his favourite subject was Geography. During his latter stages at College he taught Geography in grades 9 -12. He was so devoted that he hardly took any time off during the time the school was in session and I cannot recall him taking a sick day until he got a serous heart attack in 1972. Even then the doctor recommended 3 months rest, but he went back after 2 months as he could not stay at home.

After he retired in December of 1981 he became the Treasurer of the Wesley College Welfare Society. He was very happy to be involved with the school once again that every time he came to the Welfare Office he used to go around the class rooms talking to the teaches and his students.

He always wore a white shirt and pants right throughout his career and even after retiring he wore the same when ever he came for any Welfare Board work.

He married Elna Pinto Jayawardene, who was a teacher in the Primary School in December of 1952.

Wesley Times September 2012 page 10/24 He passed away on 30 May 1985, and even on that day he came to school for his Welfare Board work, went around as usual and spoke to the staff and students.

Elna Wickramasinghe Joined Wesley College as a teacher in the primary school and after serving for a few years she left to join the Teachers Training College at Maharagama. During her brief period at Wesley College she took a very keen interest in the primary school annual concert, prize giving and the sports meet. Even after leaving Wesley College she was very much involved in the school activities due to my father and also because I was a student. After retiring she came and worked in the school Welfare Office from 1984 to 1988.

Probably the first Wesleyite to skipper a league champion team???? Skipper Henry Terrence elated with team’s performance Edited from ThePapare.com

Havelock’s Sports Club made it to the top of the League after an elongated 30 year wait to clinch the title after playing second fiddle to Kandy, CR&FC and Navy during the recent past. This year however the Park club boys, managed to make amends winning 9 out of 10 games thus claiming their rightful place at the top of the league table. ThePapare managed to speak to the captain of Havelock’s SC, ‘colossal front row forward’, Henry Terrence who was elated at the team’s achievement. “This is the first time I have been a part of a league winning side, and I think it is the first for most of my team mates as well”, said the Havelock’s skipper.

Wesley Times September 2012 page 11/24 YOUR COMMITTEE FOR 2012 CEDRIC OORLOFF GOLF TOURNAMENT

President Ben Nathanielsz 9799 0365 Vice President Bryan Wijeyekoon 9763 7783 Secretary Brian Azoor 9799 1026 The Annual Cedric Oorloff Golf Day will be held on Sunday 21 October 2012 at Morack Golf Course Treasurer Tony Careem 8751 3031 between Trinity College OBA and Wesley College Editor Keith de Kretser 9560 0074 OBUA. Committee Nelson de Silva 9704 8971 Trevor Collette 9706 1084 All players interested in participating are requested to contact: Darryl Koch 9795 1581 Vernon Weerappah 9764 4086 George Siebel 0410 658 551 Public Officer George Robertson 97824789 Reg Bartholomeusz 9877 1689 or 0421 057 708

As both these gentlemen will be in Sri lanka for the Subscription Reminder! Cricketers Re-Union, please call them after 20th Your membership subscription is now due and September 2012. payable. The annual fee is $20 and if you have not paid for this year - 2012, please make payment as Hit-off is 8:30 a.m. and players are required to be soon as possible. All cheques should be made out registered and ready by 8:00 a.m. the latest. in favour of Wesley College Colombo OBUA and posted to The Treasurer Wesley College Colombo OBUA EVENTS FOR P O Box 123 Glenway MDC YOUR DIARY

Mulgrave, VIC 3170 DATE MONTH EVENT

6th October Annual Double Blue Ball Or Cedric Oorloff Golf 21st October BY ELECTRONIC BANK TRANSFER Tournament nd Combined Colleges of Sri Please send an email to this address when you have 2 December completed the transaction so that we can acknowledge Lanka Carol Service receipt. SNIPPETS OF NEWS FROM WESLEY Bank details  The London A/L classes have started and about 30 BANK: National Australia Bank students have enrolled. BSB: 083323  In April 35 students, the VP and Chaplain were sent Account Name: WESLEY COLLEGE for a Team building and motivational training camp COLOMBO OLD BOYS UNION to Bangalore, India for a week, partly sponsored by the school. Account No.: 622965907  The OBU held a one leadership program for all Prefects. An important message for Members  The long awaited sound system was installed at the The Annual Membership Subscription is $20. The College Hall with Stereo sound and Mixer. Training Pensioner rate is $10 and those pensioners over 75 a team to handle this sensitive equipment. years of age there is no membership fee. All funds  GCE O/L results were excellent, 97% passes in received from those in the last category are treated as a English compared to 44% nationally, and 86% donation to the OBUA. Membership fees for each year overall compared to 61% nationally. 10 students are due and payable by the 31st day of December of obtained 8 A's. that year.  Out of 181 who sat for the exam only three left the school for GCE A/L's. Eligibility to vote at an Annual General Meeting or a  TT - U10 champion sets off to Bangkok for Asian Special General Meeting or be nominated for an Office Championships, on the Committee or to propose or second such a  U21 > Hockey, One leaves to Malaysia to represent nomination requires that you are financial in the the National Team. preceding year.

Wesley Times September 2012 page 12/24 Winter-Warm –up Curry Nite was Hot! Hot! Hot!

It is a nice position to be in when you can put up the “SOLD OUT” sign as an organiser of any event. So it was by popular demand and the quality of previous functions of this nature resulted in the Winter Warm up having sold out before the function. Three critical elements will guarantee such a success, being Good Music, Good Food and Good Value for your money. The OBU Australia Branch were the pioneers in organising a separate informal social for its members and friends from its inception and have become proficient in providing a memorable night to the patrons each year.

The Annual Winter Warm-up Curry Nite held on Saturday 26th May was a great success. Tickets sales leading up to the event were good and after past experiences of too large a crowd, the full house sign went after 250 tickets were sold. The hall was beautifully decorated with a yellow and black colour scheme for the evening to brighten up the dreary winter blues and warm blue and red hues washed the walls to create a night club atmosphere. As patrons arrived they soon warmed up to the occasion as the band The Clan set a cracking pace from the very first bracket to lure the patrons on to the floor. As the evening moved along there was a great buzz around the place . A sumptuous dinner by Cha’s Cabin where a selection of dishes fed the hungry diners. After a welcoming speech by the president, Ben Nathanielsz and the usual raffle draw, the pace picked up as the revellers danced the night away. The singing of the College Song was a revelation as almost 40 old Wesleyites attended the function and proudly sang the College Song and chanted the War Cry “Zum, Zum, Zake”…

Time simply slipped bye as the revellers continued past mid-night. It was a wonderful evening with many old Wesleyites and their friends in attendance. There were many compliments to the organizing committee for a great night, one that was full of fun and fellowship and warmed up the patrons in the spirit of “Winter Warm-up 2012”.

Braden Koch Eardley Johnson Nihal Obeysekera Cecil Wjesinghe

Ben Nathanielsz Arden Joseph Revellers

Sanjeev Wijayasingha Revellers The Buffet Table

George Robertson & Robert Coburn Ray de Run The Hall

Wesley Times September 2012 page 13/24 Launch of book titled “ Wesley’s Cricket History 1892 -2012”

It’s a hard cover, attractive “coffee table top” book. With the intention of many having a copy, it is priced at a concession of Rs 2500/ per copy (limited edition) Any payments above this price will be most welcome

Sale of this book will be on first come first serve basis. Reservations can be made with

Lalith Wijesinghe +94-772 849949 [email protected] Jeremy Brohier +94-777 393264 [email protected]

This book painstakingly compiled and edited by Jeremy Brohier a past cricketer and a past President of the Old Wesleyites Sports Club It is a milestone in the annals of the school’s history. It will be launched at this event and will be available for sale at Rs 2500 per copy. It certainly will be a keepsake for the Cricket enthusiast and historians of the game.

Wesley Times September 2012 page 14/24 When Sathasivam bowled Wesley to victory! Island Newspaper, May 28, 2012 by Sharm de Alwis

Wesley College has produced some following his first innings cameo of swirled through his mind ... eminently fine cricketers, with 19 runs. accident, hospitalization, even Mahadevan Sathasivam being in a death...calamity… catastrophe… league of his own. The most number of centuries by Wesley wielders of the willow have On the sward at Mount the Wesley Other distinguished men of the been four with honours shared team battled valiantly and the boys willow and red cherry have been R. equally by Brian Claessen, Lou by the sea were all at sea with six L. Kannangara, C. E. Perera, Eric Adhihetty and Navin de Silva and wickets down for a paltry 60 runs Gunasekera, Henry Van Buuren, Edmund Dissanayake’s son and the Wesley captain Henry Duckworth, Lalith Danesh topping the bill, with four threateningly at short leg devouring Wijesinghe, Abu Fuard, Radley and centuries. chances. Brian Claessen, Lucky Goonetilleke and Navin de Silva. Into this Edmund Dissanayake played Then it happened! N. S. category can be fitted Edmund cricket for Wesley in 1944, ‘45 and Jayasundera, who had bowling an Dissanayake, for his all-round captained in ‘46 and ‘47. He had immaculate line and length sent a capabilities, as well as his astute cameos in all the games and delivery that slipped off his palm for cricketing acumen. scored 65 Vs Ananda in 1945 and Ronnie Weerakoon, the STC vice- 107 against Royal in his first year captain to clobber it, full toss. The Satha, of course, is universally of captaincy. In his second year of ball struck Edmund on the head accepted as the priceless Kohinoor captaincy, he played only in two with a resounding thud and he fell in the head gear of our own cricket. games due to injury, but snared 6 right where he was. As a batsman he has had no peer for 14 against STC before disaster but few will know that he turned the struck at Mount. Rev. Cartman was the first at tide against Trinity in the inter- Edmund’s side and he carried the school game of 1935. In the earlier game against Royal, fallen hero to great cheer amidst he had bagged 3 for 47, but it was the gloom. Edmund was kept at Opening bowling for Wesley, he W. P. Abeywardena who had done Durdans for one and a half months captured 4 wickets for 47 in the first much of the spoiling. Edmund was and in the meanwhile, another E. innings and 5 for 30 in the second considered an astute captain who Dissanayake’s death had been innings when Trinity collapsed for a turned the tide against even published in the Obits column of sensationally low 66 runs. O. L. superior protagonists. the newspapers. The cricket teams Izadeen, who scored 34, was the of Royal and STC rushed to only Trinitian to register double Edmund was living in 1947 with the Durdans and when the rumour of figures. parents of Lucky Goonetilleke, who ‘death’ spread to Galle, a sister had bowled Ted Dexter neck, crop school held a special Memorial It was a melodramatic collapse, and skittle for 0 in the game at the Service. indeed, because Trinity were Oval. Two weeks prior to the equipped with some blue-eyed Wesley-STC game, he had a It is worthy of report that the last boys of cricket in captain Willie premonition. He felt in the very time Wesley beat STC at Mount Winter, Sammy David, O. L. marrow of his bones that he would Lavinia was in 1947 under Izadeen, Hubert Ratwatte, S. G. be hospitalized for a lengthy period Edmund’s captaincy and at Perera, John Halangoda (Jnr), with a head injury. It was a Campbell Park, in 1972, when Duncan Reith, Rex Breckenridge haunting fear that was known by all Edmund Dissanayake was the and H. Bandaranayake. The one and sundry and the story had cricket coach. man who would have been elated leaked to Rev. James Cartman, the as much as the Wesley skipper Principal of Wesley. Henry Van Buuren (39 runs), Emil Othen (55), Ohlmus (22 and 2 for The Principal broke with protocol 9) and Walbeoff (3 for 21) would and took Edmund in his car to Mt. have been the Wesley coach, John Lavinia. but they had barely Halangoda (Snr), who had proceeded a hundred yards before decamped from Trinity after the car stalled for no apparent producing a galaxy of stars, never reason. With heavy, black smoke equalled by any other school, billowing ominously, the Principal before or since. lay flat under the car remedying the fault, but the captain’s mind was Wesley won the match by nine not at ease with the sinister “SATHA” wickets with Satha unbeaten on 31, developments. Weird thoughts

Wesley Times September 2012 page 15/24 There'll not be another 'Satha' Richard Dwight

It was on one of those days many flower undisturbed, to remain on the St Thomas' - accepting the years ago, as I stood at the then stalk, without falling. He was an challenge from this point, he burst famous, Fort Chatham Street - that I unconventional type, both on and forth in an innings of sparkling couldn't help but keep my eyes off the field, a versed to his style brilliance without compare for 142 focussed on a man, who did seem being cramped by rules and runs, to take the score well over extraordinary to be special. regulations. Extraordinary as he 300 and save the day for the was, lack of practice or the latest of school. Indeed Wesley's gain was He was tall, clad in a three quarter nights, did not bother him at all. Thomian's loss. long sleeved silken shirt (with half of his shirt collar up) a pair of white There were times, when he was Decades later the Principal of trousers and his feet shod, in a pair getting ready to bat, he would Wesley College was, Rev James of moccasins. Conscious that many request the ground boy to strap his Cartman, who played for the CCC were noticing him, he with superior ordered to measure slim air of pads and was President of the Ceylon delight and a spring in his step on his legs - the ground boy apart, Schools Cricket Association. Satha walked into 'Dianas'. After being the slim pair of pads were to his was almost synonymous with there a while, he walked out liking to move quickly on his feet. Wesley. Cartman requested Satha sprightly in the very same casual to come on an evening and see the but attractive way to enter 'Chands' Out there in the middle, he was team at practice. and he left that as well to enter his completely different to score runs in car. his familiar accustomed way. His Satha saw Wesley's senior batsman devil may care arrogance, disdain Ansar, was being tentative and He had his left hand on the wheel, and contempt with which he treated hesitant against the fast bouncers his right elbow on the right window, bowlers and, a measure of cheeky of the opening bowler Radley with cigarette between his fingers, cynicism thrown in, was a draw Claessen. This found Satha telling to drive off with a twinkle in his eye - bringing spectators from all other Ansar to step aside and give him That man was none other, than the cricket venues to just see him bat. the bat, and that he will show him one and only 'Mahadevan how. Satha sans pads, gloves and Sathasivam,' who was affectionately He was appropriately attired, be it other protectives rocked up and known as debonair 'Satha'. for a cricket match or at public down on the crease and hooked occasions, to earn the sobriquet Radley's bouncer onto the road, the His uniqueness lay as a right 'cynosure'. Some do say, that the next on the off, he square drove handed stylish batsman, with an swiftness of his feet, was partly due onto the gravel foot path. His words attractive flamboyancy. Satha who to his frequenting the dance floor to Ansar were that for a fast bowler was the wayward genius, was a and, that he kept his eyes alert by you have got to keep your feet batsman par excellence, who playing billiards. moving, and not allow them to get through his artistic wizardry with the stuck to the crease. Needless to willow lent enchantment to the Satha was born on October 18, say, Ansar Fuard was one amongst game, in a way that on one else, 1916 and passed away at the age many others, to whom Satha was a but only he could. In his inimitable of 61 on July 9, 1977. He grew up in hero. way of cricket, he was beyond the vicinity of all Saints Church compare to be peerless in that class Borella and attended the nearby Satha's cricket career spanned a of batsmanship. Wesley College, as a student. period of 19 years commencing Representing Wesley at cricket from 1934 - it did suffer What was so distinctive about from 1934 - 1936 he was interruptions to an extent by the2nd Satha was, that he brought to his impressive as a prodigious batsman world war and a long drawn out batting a lackadaisical approach and turned out to be a prolific domestic problem. and an air of nonchalance, that was scorer. But the match that is etched Significant was Satha's so deceptive to leave fielders, in the memory is the 1936 Wesley characteristic commandeering entry bowlers and wicket keepers vs S' Thomas' cricket encounter. to the wicket, with the cap at a confused. For on the contrary he jaunty angle and the bat firmly in his was always alert, fleet of foot with The invincible Thomian star hand. If he did get out cheaply, he supple wrists and hands and feet studded side led by Donald undaunted would make his exit, moving in obedience to the ticking Fairweather made 260 or so and, with that 'coco-hoop' look, as if to of his mind while at the crease. then made shambles of the Wesley say well you got me this time but His very delicate late cut to the slips batting, reducing it to 70 for 5 in no you'll pay for it next time. with much finesse, was likened to time. But Satha was still there, and the elegance of a swordsman, for reasons best known to some, The first time I saw Satha play, was slicing through a stalk leaving the Satha had something to settle with when we met the Australian Wesley Times September 2012 page 16/24 Services team in 1945, led by On being aware of this, one with In a premier league match, Colts Lindsay Hassette, with that authority in the CCA despite the batting first on Saturday made 210 - handsome brute, as ladies wont to heavy rains, went up to Satha and Satha having to meet his friend in say, in Keith Miller the others being with anger said, "Satha you're Bandarawela, walked up in mufti to, Cecil Pepper Roper, Pettiford', dropped for tomorrow's match" Tita Nathaniel, and said that he Whittington and Carmody. Miller Satha's reply in that merry mood would not be batting that evening as made a belligerent 132 and the was "you'd better drop me only at he was heading for Bandarawela. hand he had in dismissing Satha in 6.00 pm tomorrow". The next day Early next morning, he at 5.30 am both innings is worth recounting. turned out to be gloomy with rushed to the Tamil Union, had a Noticing Sathasivam batting his overcast grey skies and intermittent net, a shower, breakfast of bacon own characteristic stylish flourish thin drizzle. and eggs and attired for the and the evident flair to hook, Miller matched dashed for the Colts alerted Pettiford on the line and Satha was up against bowlers like ground. deliberately bounced a little out of George Pope, Fred Freer and Geo There was panic in the Colts camp, the leg stump, Satha instinctively Tribe, on a pitch that was soggy when the night watchman was went for the shot. The ball soared spoken of as a mud larker's wicket. walking back - that led to a sigh of high in the fine leg region and Satha's strategy on a treacherous relief to see Satha in his usual way lodged in the safe hands of pitch was to be meticulous in cutting walking towards the wicket to make Pettiford, who hadn't to move. The off the flourishes and frills and play 09 and win the match. next was when Satha in grand out of character to be subdued and elegance, cut a ball from Cecil punish the bad deliveries with sheer The BRC, soon after the 'Battle of Pepper towards Miller in the 2nd elegance. The outcome was that at the Blues' had co-opted one of the slip, the ball sped in a flash with 6.00 pm he was unbeaten on 96 captains of the two sides who was a lightening speed, almost along the and the match I presume ended in pace bowler to open bowling. He ground, quick indeed for the eye to draw. There were any fifties scored bounced the ball which Satha let it follow and the crowd roared in like this by Satha, who was to the wicket keeper, whilst Satha applause for a certain four and reluctant to run his singles, but slowly walked to the youngster and looked towards the boundary - rather walked them, and on the field said "Sonny I am an old man, but Miller too, to keep it up, from his he proved to be lethargic. Against don't do it again". The youngster not bent position turned towards the the West Indies, he cut Trim to gully to be outdone did it again and had line, as if to beckon the ball back. over the outstretched arm of the dismay of seeing the ball soar Walcott, which made Jeff onto the Havelock's Rubby grounds Then it happened, there was a Stollmeyer ask Walcott to move and Satha went merrily on. hushed silence, everybody kept still further away - Satha the maestro of and Miller from the point of his the delicate late cut, seeing the gap It was quite evident that Satha ankle tossed the ball for all to see he had fashioned between Walcott enjoyed his batting with a gimmick and up went the umpire's finger. It's and Weekes, he came down on the or two. He drew a few matches for not only cricket but other mutual ball in a flash to send the ball Tamil Union by bagging the batting interest made Satha, Miller, Worrell, through the gap to the boundary. from the last man by changing for Walcott, Sobers, Weekers and yet There is also the incident of Worell the last ball. He would cut into gully others from other countries, firm deliberately dropping Satha, in twice, only to be fielded, the third friends. order to see him bat. time he would make the motions of cutting, but at the very last moment Then came Bradman's all Satha in his cricket career scored he would withdraw his bat to fox the conquering side in 1948. It was a 40 centuries and 4 double renowned Ben, wicket keeper for 4 whistle stop half-a-day match, with centuries. It is not the intention to byes. Sathasivam captaining all Ceylon analyze all the 40 centuries made If close in fielders are set for Satha, and, having the rare distinction of by him in cavalier, though which is rare, he would walk up to leading Malaysia as well later on. committed to the side's cause. But the level of the close in fielders and Skippering two countries does we will just dwell on two - India had bat from there. This did have the speak much for this entertaining a very strong side under the great desired effect for the close in batsman. In that whistle stop match, batsman Vijay Merchant, and fielders to be moved away. Australia hurriedly scored 184 for 8, vicious spin bowler, Vino Mankad. Satha when into his stride would whilst Ceylon replied with 46 for 2. Ceylon batting on the Oval wicket in yell 'boy!' and the ground boy would Satha made quite a number of 1945 was dismissed for 107 with come running out with his cap. fifties, too many to touch upon here, India enjoying a lead of 72. Ceylon Batting ever so attractively Satha but we will just dwell on two. The sent into bat again had barely wiped would walk down the pitch and evening prior to the Commonwealth out the deficit with 5 wickets down shout "i want that car off", a nervous match, Satha was making merry for 75, when Satha curbing his umpire will go down to the line and late into the night at a leading hotel natural instincts in the interest of his get the car moved away - that was with some friends. team, scored a pleasing 111 in a Satha. total score of 225 for 7 to earn a Apart from the numerous fifties, he highly meritorious draw. also scored 40 centuries and an

Wesley Times September 2012 page 17/24 additional four double centuries, at bowled to - Ahmed's reply was "you gathered "my boss (that is Worrell) the progressive age of 43 years. might have not heard him, M says Satha is the greatest batsman However, the innings that lingers Sathasivam of Ceylon". he had seen", Praise indeed. and still spoken of even today in The journalist continues asking, He is truly a great son of Wesley India and Sri Lanka with much "after bowling to all the greats of the College, and the Old Wesleyite enthusiasm - is when Sathasivam time, as to how he picked u a Sports Club, has done well to with much finesse and elegance relative unknown and gave him perpetuate the memory of Satha by scored 215 to break Joe Hardstaff's pride of place". Ghulanm Ahmed holding the annual Thomian vs record at the Chepauk Stadium said "he did not allow me to land the Wesley cricket encounter for the Madras, where all Ceylon in 1947 ball most of the time during his Mahadevan Sathasivam challenge played South India. In appreciation double century against South India". Trophy. spontaneous cheers rent the air Sobers on a holiday here as a guest I have been following cricket for from all over the grounds and, those of Satha, were on a pub crawl and many years, but I have yet to see a in the Pavilion to a man gave him a ended up at the colts where a batsman like Satha coming up. standing ovation. It is difficult to match was being played. A small The mould in which he was cast, is follow or describe Satha's stroke crowd had gathered around them. no more and the like of him we will play, it has to be seen to be relished Satha was goading Sobers by not see again. - a pity that there was no TV saying he would even today thrash (The writer is indebted to the late coverage then. him over the trees around the Park Chana Gunasekera from some When Ghulam Ahamed a former and Sobers good naturedly kept it facts culled from his book "The Indian Captain and a great spin up by saying "yes maan, I know Willow Quartet" which he left bowler was asked by an Indian maan, yes maan". After a while behind). Journalist as to whom he regarded Satha went to ease himself, Sobers as the best batsman, he had sought the opportunity to tell those

MEMORIES THAT LINGER…… OF HAPPY DAYS AT WESLEY Fred Abeyesekera. August 2012 World War II had ended, and the This article is essentially one on special cricket half holiday. On the focus was on our return to Wesley cricket, as the great reunion stroke of the bell (sometimes Kalrshrue after our sojourn in planned is one of past cricketers- in mischievously rung about ten to Kittiyakkara in the war years. The particular those who gave of their twelve by ‘Ranis the great”), all Wesley buildings as well as best to usher what has been termed roads led to Campbell Park. Campbell Park had been “ the golden era of Wesley cricket”, Over five hundred of us moved like commandeered by the British Army! motivated by the Rev James an army of ants to spread out about The school buildings served as a Cartman more than any other ten feet behind the boundary lines. military hospital with concrete Principal of Wesley since 1874. The Double blue pennants fluttered structures- accommodation for momentum was so great that these from over a hundred bicycles…..It British military personnel, studding magical years overflowed into the was an ocean of double blue- a our playing field. Oorloff era- and beyond! throbbing pulsating crowd watching every delivery, hawk eyed, with It was at this time that the Revd During the entirety of the cricket great elation. James Cartman arrived as Principal season- which commenced officially Wesley has produced a dazzling of Wesley, taking over from the in the third term of the school year galaxy of talented cricketers. acting Principal – Mr Eric A Fridays were dedicated to cricket. Names keep flowing down the river Gunasekera (1946). Affectionately They were days of great of memory. C.E. Perera (long called ‘Carty’, we soon came to expectations with the entire school before our time), was considered know him as a charismatic leader, population consolidated into ONE – Ceylon’s best left hand batsman. M an idealist, as well as a to support our teams to the hilt. Sathasivam – a great batsman perfectionist. The Wesley fraternity Cartman himself taught us our ‘war captained Ceylon as well as was forged into a dynamic body- cry’ which he introduced to Wesley Malaysia. N. S. Jayasundera (my Old Boys, parents, students and all – something akin to the All-Blacks classmate) bowled brilliantly- his categories of staff – so that they ‘hakka’. Zam zam zake…….. best being 5 for 5 against St could be more than equal to the ‘Carty’ led the singing at General Benedict’s (1947). Harold task. A Herculean task! assembly. The rendition of the war Matthysz – one of the most elegant The restoration of Campbell Park cry had to be vociferous, dynamic batsmen produced by Wesley- was one of Cartman’s priorities, and effective like a bolt of lightning! scored 119 not out versus Royal believing firmly in the concept that Psychologically nothing could have and a mercurial 71 against St ones personality and character been better. Joseph’s at Darley Road. He were moulded not only in the Once the team was announced, excelled as a wicket keeper as well. classroom but to a greater extent, and ‘zam zam zake’sung, it was Edmund Dissanayakes courageous on the playing field. announced that Friday would be a 107 against Royal, on the Railway Wesley Times September 2012 page 18/24 ground, Mt Mary (in a Wesley first His Chemistry teacher (and mine) I would like to make special mention innings total of 167). In the match mysteriously called him ‘Lagarp’ of the brothers who made a great against S. Thomas’ at Mt Lavinia More and more great names of contribution to cricket at Wesley – the following year Edmund had Wesley Cricket pop up! Navin De The Macks - Derrick and Spencer; taken 6 for 14 when he was hit on Silva, who Captained Sri Lanka The Pereras - Bertus and Neville; the head and carried out of the field Schools Cricketers on their tour of The Claessens - Radley, Bryan and unconscious! He was rushed to England- with Arjuna Ranatunga as Herman; The Abeywardenes - W P Durdans- and his condition his Vice Captain. Derrick Mack S and L; The Juranpathys - S and announced at every general (another classmate) who was a M N; M N Samsudeen and M H M assembly Monday through Friday, great Captain as well as a Mihilar; The Mayes -Tyronne and for several months…..His son dependable batsman. His two Darrel; The Rajasinghams - L R and Dahesh excelled as a batsman, with centuries were against St Peter’s S M (identical twins); The Fuards - centuries against Royal in (105) and Zahira (135). Radley Abu , Ansar and Bacha; The consecutive years. Claessen excelled as a paceman Adihettys - Lou and Vincent; The Mahendra Dissanayake bowled L Abeywardene’s 101 against St Janszs – Ray and Tyrone; The brilliantly and would have been a Joseph’s. W P S Abeywardene’s Jeganathans - Sridharan and great asset to Sri Lanka Cricket had all– round performance. The Haridaran; The Reimers – Glenn selection procedures been above Wesley greats – Abu and Ansar and Robin; The Rajaratnams - board and entirely on merit. Fuard . Ansar in particular was a Amaresh and Dinesh; The Farveez Mahroof plays for Sri delightful person to know Wickramaratnes - Sarath and Lanka- a great bowler. L. R Some of the others I recall are V R Rohan; The Schoormans – Everard Goonetilleke, left arm paceman, Dias, Robin Van Twest( who earned and Francis; The Eberts- Dennis made a tremendous impact on the epithet of ‘Thattu’), Patrick and Lorensz; The Hamers- Russell, schools’ cricket to be adjudged the Schokman who scored fast with Mervyn and Granville, Russell ‘Best Schoolboy Bowler’, in 1957. swashbuckling exuberance. played for Ceylon…… He played for Ceylon as well. And then there were those Alfred I would like to also pay a M.N Samsudeen excelled as a Hitchcock like moments….. posthumous tribute to Wesley’s spinner- his very best effort being Trinity declared their second innings indefatigable, Mr J L F De Mel against Trinity at Campbell Park. closed at Campbell Park giving us (master-in-charge) and Wilbert, our Bryan Claessen ‘spinned’ his way to 12 minutes of play ( the match groundsman, for their selfless and great fame and was selected to ended at 6 o’clock) to score 67 runs totally dedicated services for the represent Ceylon whilst still in his for victory. We did it! Lou Adihetty betterment of Wesley Cricket at a tender teens! C.T Rodrigo a bowler and Warwick De Kretser in time in history when great things par excellence annihilated Ananda. particular better than excelled in this were expected of us! Bertus Perera, one of the best stupendous run chase! In concluding this article, I would fielders produced by Wesley- Then there were Clive like you to consider the award of a another classmate, scored a Bartholemeusz’s rapid-fire sixes – trophy- ‘The Revd James Cartman magnificent 111 against S. Thomas’ three of them consecutively- One Memorial Trophy for Wesley’s at Campbell Park (1948). His on to Darley Road, the second on to outstanding Sportsman of the brother Neville, years later also the rooftop of Bonjean Hall, and the Year”, and also the setting up of a excelled in the game as an all third zooming on to the roof of the Panel, preferably in the carriage rounder. S Musafer was a great Josephian Chapel, with a broken area of the Old Wesleyites’ Sports wicket keeper. Herbie Felsinger, tile trickling down on to the Club, on which would be inscribed Neil Gallahar, Kenneth De Silva, D spectators below! the names of all Wesleyites- 1874 Kodithuwakku, L C R Wijesinghe, Upali Samararatne’s plundering of to date- who have represented their Senthil Sinniah, Sarath 22 runs in a single over versus St Country in any recognised game. Wickremaratne, Harold Juriansz Peter’s at Campbell and Milroy Muthuvaloe, all Park…..Amresh Rajaratnam’s jewel "Ora et Labora" cricketers of the highest calibre. of a very last ball of the match to Alan Rantnarajah excelled as a defeat Royal and give us great joy! batsman, perhaps as elegant as Then there was that match against Harold Matthysz. His 126 not out Royal played at the University of Just a thought! against Richmond, was a Ceylon grounds at Thurstan Road magnificent innings. He was a most (probably in 1947). Edmund loveable personality! Dissanayaka Captain called upon Norman De La Harpe was a legend. his Vice Captain (wicket-keeper Standing six feet tall, many a batsman) Harold Matthysz to open batsman was pulverised by his bowling for Wesley in Royal’s speed and devastating grin after a second innings. In his very first wicket had tumbled.-actually cart over, Harold captured two top-notch wheeled towards the boundary line! Royal wickets….and was requested (He was another of my classmates) to go back and keep wickets! Royal were two down for nought.

Wesley Times September 2012 page 19/24

Wesley Rugby 1st XV have a stellar season – promoted to A Division in 2013

The Wesley First XV had a stellar season in the B Division of the Singer Schools Rugby league 2012. It finished second to Dharmaraja College , Kandy who beat them in the last round of competition. Their performance secured a promotion to A Division in 2013.

The 1st XV was captained by No 8, 4the year coloursman and under 19 youth player Kokila 'Marco" Sammandaperuma. The Vice Captain was 3rd year player, scrum half Rahul De Silva. ( son of Capt Navin de Silva former College Cricket captain (81&82) and a former college rugby player

The coach Jeevan Goonathilake is a former Thomian captain and Sri Lanka Youth Team skipper, he coached St Thomas’ College in 2009 and was Assistant coach of CR & FC in 2011.

Congratulations to the players and coaching staff for a wonderful season

View the “Wesley Haka” http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jq0S3KOkknw&feature=share

RESULTS Wesley in superb win over Nalanda 42- 0 Wesley College beat Nalanda College by 42 (five tries, two goals and a penalty) points to nil in the under-20 "B" division Singer Rugby League Tournament match played at Air Force Grounds Ratmalana.

Wesley trounces St Sylvester’s 51/7 Wesley College put up a splendid performance to trounce St. Sylvester’s College Kandy by 51 points to 7 points in their Singer inter-school under 20 division two league rugby tournament match worked off at Ratmalana

Wesley in easy 45-7 win over Mahanama Wesley coasted to their third successive win of the Singer Under 20 Division 1B rugby tournament with an easy 45- 7 victory over Mahanama played at the Air Force ground in Ratmalana

Wesley outclass Thurstan 38-0 Wesley College coasted to their fourth successive win of the Singer Under 20 Division 1B rugby tournament when they outclassed Thurstan 38-0 in the match played at the Air Force ground in Ratmalana.

Wesley College in huge win 88-3 Wesley College recorded a splendid 88 points (nine goals, five tries) to three points (a penalty) win at the Singer under-19 league division ‘B’ rugby match against Carey College played at Air Force Grounds Ratmalana.

Wesley in 48-6 win over Lumbini Wesley College trounced Lumbini MV (four goals, four tries) by 48 points to six (two penalties) in their Singer Schools Segment One ‘B’ Division rugby match played at Air Force Grounds, Ratmalana yesterday.

Wesely v CWW Kannangara MV Wesley won but no report published

Wesley record eighth successive victory by beating St Thomas’ 17-10 Wesley overcame the stiff opposition put in by S. Thomas’ whom they beat 17-10 to record their eight successive win of the Singer Under 20 Division 1B inter-school rugby encounter played at Mt Lavinia yesterday.

Rajans win segment 'B' Schools Singer Shield beat Wesley 35 - 7 Dharmaraja College, Kandy, won the Segment 'B' of the Schools Singer Shield division one schools under 20 rugby tournament when they scored a convincing 35 points (3 goals, 1 try, 3 penalties) 7 (1 goal) win over Wesley College in the final game of the league championship played at the Bogambara Stadium, Kandy.

Wesley Times September 2012 page 20/24

Around the traps UK Branch Report By Azahim Mohammed Peter Christie in Australia The United Kingdom has been experiencing the wettest summer since records began. The largest Sri Lankan event in the UK, the 24th Annual Festival of Cricket 2012 had to be called off without a ball being bowled. This is the second time this event had to cancelled. The last time this happened was in 2000. Even with the rains the event was attended by more than 2500 people. This year we also had a fire in one of the trade marquees which soon spread to four other trade marquees. The next year the Festival of Cricket will be celebrating its 25th year. For the first time since 1997 two sides consisting of North and East OBA's were to have participated in the Festival this year. It is expected that a further two OBA's will be included for the next year taking the number of teams in the tournament

from 26 to 28. Peter Casiechetty or as he was known at College as Peter Christie was on a whirl wind tour of Australia. Sri Lankan School's Touch Rugby Carnival 2012 - Peter who has been domiciled in the UK has always Wesley OBA participated in the tournament for the 7th wanted to visit OZ and he began his tour in WA where year. Wesley fared well in this year's tournament. and he caught up with friends and then stopped along the came top of group D beating Ananda 6/0 Trinity B 2/0 way in Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane doing the and drew with Kingswood 2/2. Cup winners Trophy same before returning to the UK via Colombo after Wesley lost to Lumbini 1/2..Wesley scored first but lost attending the Cricketers Re-Union. The wily off-spinner in extra time. Lumbini went on to win the tournament. In has grown a beard and no longer looks like the “Hungry the Plate tournament we lost to Zahira 0/1 again in Cow Poke” he once was. Trevor Collette and Keith de extra time. The Wesley team was lead by Ashley Kretser joined Peter and his cousin Raj Gnanamuttu for Milroy. dinner when he was in Melbourne. The annual Cricket Match Wesley versus Isipathana for Fred Abeysekera the M H Mohamed Challenge Trophy was cancelled due to severe weather conditions.

The Principal of Wesley College Colombo, Dr Shanthi Maclland during his short visit to UK met the Wesley OBU UK committee and many members of the Union at a Lunch hosted by the Union on Saturday 12 May 2012.

Wesley OBU UK Lunch: will be held on Sunday 21 October 2012 and it will be at Rising Sun Hotel, Sudbury Hill, Harrow, Middlesex.

Wesley Walk: which was to be held in August was called off due to bad weather and will now be held on Sunday 28 October 2012.

Carol Service: The 17th annual joint Wesley/Methodist

Carol Service will be held on Sunday 2 December The OBUA organised a dinner to fete former Teacher 2012 at Wesley Chapel Moorgate. and old Wesleyite Fred Abeysekera and his wife

Indrani in Melbourne on 23 August 2012. In attendance AGM:The 20th Annual General Meeting of the Wesley were Beverley de Niese, Reg Bartholomeusz, Trevor College OBU UK will be held on Sunday 27January Collette and Keith de Kretser. Severe storms that 2013. evening prevented some from attending. However it was good to catch up with Fred and reminisce about Contacts: the good times at Wesley. Website: www.wesleycollege.org/obuk

Facebook: wesleycollegeOBU UK

Wesley Times September 2012 page 21/24 Old Wesleyites in Australia In alphabetic order by State Deceased members are indicated with an *

AUSTRALIAB CAPITAL Russell Lewis, NSW Christopher Harvie, QLD TERRITORY Jeremy Lewis, NSW Neil Harvie, QLD Fred Koelmeyer*, ACT Krishan Lye, NSW Bertram Henderling, QLD Derrick Mack, NSW Kingsley Henderling,, QLD NEW SOUTH WALES Zeshan Mantara, NSW Ron Henderling, QLD Daniel Abel, NSW Darrell Maye, NSW Dion Herft, QLD Godfrey Abel, NSW Heshan Miskin, NSW Jan Hommerson, QLD Reginald Abel, NSW Elmo Mortier, NSW Chris Joseph, QLD Shiraz Ahlip, NSW Melville Mottau, NSW Colin Kellar, QLD J.C. Aldons*, NSW Bashur Musafer, NSW Dion Lewis, QLD Ernie Algama, NSW Iqbal Musafer, NSW Leon Lewis, QLD Sam Ambalavaner*, NSW Russell Nugara, NSW Terrence Loos, QLD Renuke Amerasekera, NSW Garrick O’Neill, NSW Roy Oorloff, QLD Harris Anthonisz, NSW Suren Rasiah, NSW Wavell Pereira, QLD Kenneth Anthonisz, NSW Monroe Reimers, NSW Jeffrey Poulier, QLD Tye Anthonisz, NSW Keith Rozairo, NSW Langdon Poulier, QLD Franklin Baptist, NSW Nizar Sappideen, NSW Marlon Poulier, QLD John Buultjens, NSW Razeen Sappideen, NSW Michael Poulier, QLD Michael Christofelsz, NSW Seenar Sappideen, NSW Manfred Redlich, QLD Jeremy Claessen, NSW Ponna Sivasubramaniam, NSW Devon Thiagalingham, QLD Billy Colin –Thome*, NSW Puru Sivasubramaniam, NSW Carlyle Wells-Peiris, QLD Ajith Cooray, NSW Arthur Swan, NSW Gerald Wells-Peiris, QLD Charles David, NSW Christopher Swan, NSW Gerald Wijetunge, QLD Maxim De Kretser, NSW Jeremy Swan, NSW Ivan Wijetunge, QLD Roshan Devendra, NSW Peter Swan*, NSW Randolph Wijetunge, QLD Anwar Dole, NSW Kumar Thevarajah, NSW Geoffrey Ebenezer, NSW Roshan Thevarajah, NSW SOUTH AUSTRALIA Lorensz Ebert, NSW Kugan Thirunavukarassu, NSW Rehaz Ahlip, SA Douglas Ferdinands, NSW Mugunthan Vaithilingham, NSW Ranjith Alwis, SA Roger Foenander, NSW Ian Vanden Driesen, NSW Chiron Bartholomeusz, SA Mylvaganam Ganesh, NSW Errol Vanheer, NSW Dylan Bartholomeusz, SA Carlyle Ginger, NSW Ranjith Vethacan, NSW Risien Bartholomeusz, SA Derrick Ginger, NSW Ivan Walbeoff*, NSW Bryan Claessen *, SA Chris Goonewardene, NSW Glen Wambeek, NSW Doug Claessen, SA Keith Grenier, NSW Nimal Weerasinghe, NSW Radley Claessen, SA Jeganathan Harishankar, NSW Marlon Willenberg, NSW Warwick De Kretser, SA Christopher Harmer, NSW Jay Winslow, NSW Christopher Nell, SA Neil Harmer, NSW Gerald Wright, NSW Rex Robertson, SA Rodney(Buster) Harvie, NSW Humphrey Wright, NSW Everard Walker, SA Robin Herft, NSW Leonard Wright, NSW Hugh Walker, SA Roger Hesse, NSW Ahmed Yoosef, NSW Allan Jansz, NSW VICTORIA Chris(Emile) Jansz, NSW NORTHERN TERRITORY Tissa Abeydeera, VIC Ray Jansz, NSW Hector Claessen*, NT Prasanna Abeysiri, VIC Tyrone Jansz, NSW Mohan Abraham, VIC Subra Jayahanthan, NSW QUEENSLAND Rajan Abraham,VIC Jayantha Jayaweera, NSW Ralph Altendorff, QLD Dallas Achilles, VIC Neil Joseph, NSW Ron Altendorff*, QLD Delmer Achilles, VIC Ramesh Kanagasabapathy, NSW Desmond Anthonisz, QLD Vernon Achilles*,VIC Zamar Kitchilan, NSW Nigel Anthonisz, QLD Lassath Algama, VIC Braden Koch, NSW Ray Anthonisz, QLD Dello Anderson, VIC Johan Koch, NSW Robin Claessen, QLD Jude Anthonypillai, VIC Roger Koch, NSW Norman De La Harpe, QLD D. Ariyarajah, VIC Johan Kokularaj, NSW Arthur De Silva, QLD Nirmalan Ariyarajah, VIC Michael Kreltszheim*, NSW Bill Deutrom, QLD T. Ariyarajah, VIC Asoka Kularatne, NSW Trevor Ebert, QLD Brian Azoor, VIC Shanta Kulasingham, NSW Charles Ferdinands, QLD Jehan Azoor, VIC Gamini Kulasuriya, NSW Rodney Foster, QLD Sharill Azoor, VIC

Wesley Times September 2012 page 22/24 Adrian Bartholomeusz, VIC Lister Fernando*, VIC Bonny Mutaliph, VIC Allister Bartholomeusz, VIC Lucien Fernando, VIC Ben Nathanielsz, VIC Bryan Bartholomeusz, VIC Tissa Fernando, VIC Elmo Nathanielsz*, VIC Ravenal Bartholomeusz, VIC Maxwell Fernando*, VIC Howard Nathanielsz, VIC Reg Bartholomeusz, VIC Mervyn Fernando*, VIC Russel Nathanielsz, VIC Clive Bartholomeusz* VIC Neil Gamage, VIC Tyrone Nathanielsz, VIC Frank Benjamin, VIC Tyrone George, VIC David Nell, VIC Felix Berman, VIC Raj Gnanamuttu, VIC Indran Niles, VIC Anton Blacker, VIC Brian Jacotine*, VIC Duminda Nissanka, VIC Noel Blacker, VIC Adrian Jansz, VIC Evie Nugara*, VIC Duleep Boteju, VIC Leroy Jansz VIC Vernon Nugara*, VIC Udara Boteju, VIC Ram Jayasinghe, VIC Manoj Obeyesekera, VIC Lyndon Boustead, VIC Leonard Jayaweera, VIC Nihal Obeyesekera, VIC Richard Burke, VIC Arden Joseph, VIC Niroj Obeyesekera, VIC Yousuf Cader, VIC Langston Joseph, VIC Viraj Obeyesekera, VIC Tony Careem, VIC Willard Joseph, VIC Bertie Ohlmus*, VIC Hilary Carnie, VIC Christopher Joseph*, VIC Rohan Ousmand, VIC Jackie Carnie, VIC Harold Juriansz, VIC Ralph Pereira, VIC Nithi Chanmugam, VIC Maurice Juriansz, VIC Rommel Pereira, VIC Arthlow Chapman, VIC Lloyd Juriansz*, VIC Aloy Perera, VIC Roger Chelvarajah, VIC Sridhar Kanagasabapathy, VIC Ananda Perera, VIC Ronald Collette, VIC Ramesh Kanak, VIC Gamini Perera, VIC Trevor Collette, VIC Patrick Kellar, VIC Rehan Perera, VIC Ron Colomb, VIC Roger Kellar, VIC Sunil(Akasa) Perera, VIC Ralph Cooray, VIC Russell Keyt, VIC Upali Perera, VIC Linden Crutchley, VIC Miki Kitchilan, VIC Nandu Perumal, VIC Cecil D’With-Barbut*, VIC Alston Koch, VIC Godwin Phillips, VIC Sam Daniel*, VIC Darryl Koch, VIC M Pillai, VIC Keith De Kretser, VIC Gavin Koch, VIC Natty Prins*, VIC Rodney De Kretser, VIC Jeffrey Koch, VIC Lloyd Ranaweera, VIC Ronald De Kretser, VIC Eric Koelmeyer*, VIC Glen Reimers, VIC Bertie De Kretser*, VIC Jeremy Kreltszheim, VIC Robin Reimers*, VIC Cecil De Kretser*, VIC Kumudu Kumarasiri, VIC Godwin Roberts*, VIC Christopher De Kretser*, VIC Michael Labrooy, VIC George Robertson, VIC Beltram De la Harpe*, VIC Carl Labrooy*, VIC Ronald Robertson*, VIC Beverley De Niese, VIC Glyn Lappen, VIC Terence Robertson*, ,VIC Ray De Run, VIC Michael Lindsay, VIC Tyrone Rode, VIC Dylan De Silva, VIC Neville Lodewyke, VIC Brinsley Rosairo, VIC Fred De Silva, VIC Noel Lodewyke, VIC Jerome Rulach, VIC Nelson De Silva, VIC Winston Lodewyke, VIC Hussein Sadakally, VIC Raymond De Silva, VIC Humphrey Lourensz, VIC Anwar Sappideen*, VIC Tyrone De Silva, VIC Ralph Maas, VIC Binhur Sappideen, VIC Harry De Vos, VIC Douglas Mack, VIC Noel Saravanamuthu, VIC Joy De Vos VIC Lorensz Mack, VIC Rienzie Scharenguivel*, VIC Hilary De Vos*, VIC Spencer Mack, VIC Patrick Schokman, VIC Gerald De Zilwa, VIC Vivian Mack, VIC David Schokman*, VIC Joe Devendran, VIC Kenneth Mahamooth, VIC Rodney Schokman*, VIC Errol Dickman, VIC Rienzie Mahamooth, VIC Everard Schoorman, VIC Jeremy Dickson, VIC Dayantha Makalanda, VIC Phillip Schoorman, VIC Ricardo Dickson, VIC Brian Maloney, VIC Francis Schoorman*, VIC Stuart Dickson, VIC Haig Maloney, VIC Kurt Schubert, VIC Kenneth Dickson*, VIC Senaka Mapa, VIC Anton Selvadurai, VIC Edrich Dole, VIC Eustace Mathuranayagam, VIC Len Senaris*, VIC Henry Duckworth*, VIC Henry Mathuranayagam, VIC Mohammed Sheriffdeen, VIC Arthur D'With-Barbut, VIC Harold Matthysz, VIC George Siebel, VIC Denis Ebert, VIC Desmond Melder, VIC Michael Siebel, VIC Jeremy Ebert, VIC Mahen Menon, VIC Edjoy Sinnen, VIC Ryan Ebert, VIC Brian Miller*, VIC Chris Siriweera, VIC Tyrone Ephraims, VIC Ramsay Miller*, VIC Yoga Sivaram, VIC Cecil Ferdinands, VIC Jeremy(Trevi) Morrison, VIC Jackie Smith, VIC Richard Ferdinands, VIC Richie Morrison, VIC Rodney Smith, VIC Chris Ferdinands*,VIC Maurice Mortier, VIC Curklan Solomons, VIC Patrick Ferdinands*, VIC Faslie Munas, VIC Eric Solomons, VIC

Wesley Times September 2012 page 23/24 Errol Solomons, VIC Lauren Van Buuren, VIC Ransil Wijayasinghe, VIC Fredrick Solomons, VIC Neil Van Buuren, VIC Sanjeev Wijayasinghe, VIC Gerard Solomons, VIC Denver Van Buuren*, VIC Hilary Wijeratne, VIC M Spencer, VIC Oswin Van Buuren*, VIC Cecil Wijesinghe, VIC Lorenz Stork, VIC Ivan Van Dort, VIC Bryan Wijeyekoon, VIC Chris Stork*, VIC Gavin Van Langenberg, VIC Peter Williams, VIC Franz Stronach, VIC Jeremy Van Langenberg, VIC Stewart Williams, VIC Marcel Stronach, VIC Stewart Van Langenberg, VIC Annesley Young, VIC Brian Stronach*, VIC Harry Vanden Driesen, VIC Charles Swan, VIC Harold Vanden Driesen*, VIC WESTERN AUSTRALIA Gordon Taylor,VIC Brindley Vanderwert, VIC Faisal Adjie, WA Hillary Taylor, VIC Ivan Velupillai, VIC Nigel Christofelsz*, WA Milroy Taylor, VIC Horace Walker, VIC Haig Claessen, WA Kumar(Adam) Thevapalan, VIC Dunstan Wanigesekera*, VIC Sheriff Falil, WA Donald Thurairatnam*, VIC Rohan Wanigesekera*, VIC Lalith Fernando, WA Ivan Van Buren, VIC Roy Wanigesekera, VIC Stanley Karangoda, WA Ronald Van Buren, VIC Vernon Weerappah, VIC Trevor Van Rooyen, WA Kruger Van Buren*, VIC Asitha Wickremaratne, VIC

If you detect any omission of names or if there are any errors, please advise Keith de Kretser by email on [email protected] or by phone on 0401 140 411. Thanks.

SLRFU Club "C" Div Rugby Season begins for OWSC

Shield Champs of SLRFU 2011 Rugby League, OWSC Rugby has put forward a formidable team to take part in this year's Dialog C Division Rugby League tournament(Rugby Union) is currently in progress. The team is captained by the 4th year player Danushka Jayamaha and assisted by Vice Captain and 3rd year player Haqiq Haddat. The team is coached by Shantha Dharmaratne and this year the OWSC Rugby team is managed by Shifaz Najimudin - a well known old boy of the fraternity. Come and cheer your colleagues at matches which are happening during weekends in Colombo. The target for 2012 is the C Division championship and nothing less.

Wave Riders RFC Trinco, Colombo Black hawks, Police Cavaliers, Peterson SC, SL IIT, maroons SC and Four Wings Homagama are their competing teams in C Division.

Wesley Times September 2012 page 24/24