Marie McFaul (Elmar) (YHS 1947) Wrote with the following news and memories, which I'm sure she won't mind sharing with you: "I did enjoy the barbeque at Mr & Mrs Esler's property at Nicholson once again. My friend, Ann Roughead (Griffiths) from Leongatha was able to come with me for the day. We only attended YHS for the Leaving and Matriculation years in 1947 & 1948, but found the Principal, Mr Menadue, and staff and the people of Yallourn just so friendly that we have very happy memories of our time there. I would also like to send best wishes to Bev James; Kath Fitzpatrick (Hayes) of Cowarr; Margaret Reid; Claire Gratton and Gwynneth Griffiths (whereabouts unknown to me). I remember the mixed-breed dog who took up residence in the quadrangle in spite of the daily voice of Mr Menadue booming out to - "get that dog out of here!" I came across a cutting from the paper giving details of 1948 Speech Night at which Mr Mee (English teacher) had organised a play, presented by the Matriculation students. I wonder if the audience enjoyed watching as much as we enjoyed participating. John Barnes and Gwynneth Griffiths really starred. Marion Dawson - Mrs Trigg gave many students a great love for hockey and our sports trips to Sale, Traralgon and Warragul were always an event of the year. We always remember also Fae Lawson playing Rustle of Spring on the piano and our great arguments with Mr Menadue in Geography class over the merits of Yallourn vs Horsham. Leon Melbourne was a great stirrer and kept our spirits up when exams were nigh. Best wishes too to Sonja Ostlund - she was a great house captain. Elsie & Betty were great friends who came from Moe - their surname escapes me. Then there were the Moller twins, Mr & Mrs Jack Vinall, Arthur Webb, Gavin Edmondson, Diana Thomas, Allan Turnbull and so many names come to mind. The school building may be gone but the memories will last forever. Keep up the good work and I hope ex-students continue to support you (YOGA).
