On Sunday, 5 October 2025, the spirit of Kotahena came alive in Wantirna South as alumni from Good Shepherd Convent and St. Benedict’s College gathered for the very first Cathedral Rendezvous. Hosted at the charming Café 108, the luncheon was much more than just a meal. It was a vibrant celebration of shared history, enduring friendships, and community spirit.
With 70 guests in attendance, the atmosphere was electric from the moment the doors opened. The afternoon was a perfect blend of reconnecting, reminiscing, and rejoicing.
The event was defined by high energy and typical Kotahena fashion, featuring a mix of traditional fun and heartfelt storytelling. The talented EJ Rhythms provided the perfect soundtrack for the day, keeping the energy high and the dance floor occupied.
Between the music and games, the room was filled with the sound of old friends swapping stories and catching up on years gone by. In addition to the reminiscing, the competitive spirit was alive with several activities:
Games of Skill: Guests tested their precision in a spirited bottle toss game with gold coins.
The Paper Dance: A crowd favorite, the paper dancing competition saw couples, mothers and sons, and sisters teaming up in a display of balance and laughter.
Reminiscing: Guests shared cherished stories from their school days, bringing the history of both institutions to life.
The buffet lunch was a standout feature of the afternoon. While the variety of dishes impressed the guests, the Devilled Chicken was the undisputed crowd-pleaser. The food was absolutely delicious and served as the perfect fuel for an afternoon of dancing.
The venue, Café 108, proved to be the ideal setting for such an intimate yet lively gathering. Combined with the fine weather, the ambiance was exactly what was needed for an event of this nature.
As the afternoon drew to a close, it was clear that the first Cathedral Rendezvous had achieved its goal. The 70 attendees left with full stomachs and even fuller hearts, having rekindled bonds that began years ago in the school halls of Kotahena. It was a day where the past met the present, proving that no matter how much time passes, the connection between these two historic institutions remains as strong as ever.
This event was an awesome collaboration between the Good Shepherd Convent PPA Victoria of and St Benedict's College OBU Victoria. The two teams worked their magic to make this event a reality and couldn't have done it without the active participation of Old Bens and Old Shepherians alike!