CELEBRATING 140 YEARS

What is 140 years? It is a span of time marked by immense global transformation; the founding of the United Nations in 1945, a moment of unity and peacebuilding after the devastation of war; the wonder of 1969 as humankind set foot on the Moon; the powerful fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989, opening hearts and borders; and the triumph of justice in 1994 with the end of apartheid in South Africa. These defining milestones have shaped the world we live in, just as, in our own corner of the world, Scotch Oakburn College has quietly shaped history too. Over the past 140 years, tens of thousands of students, staff, and families have walked through our gates, each leaving a mark, each carrying the spirit of growth, courage and curiosity into communities near and far.
In 2026, we proudly celebrate 140 years of excellence in education, innovation, and community, a remarkable milestone in our College’s story. Born from the amalgamation of Methodist Ladies’ College, Oakburn College, and Scotch College, Scotch Oakburn College stands as a testament to shared values, enduring traditions, and a progressive spirit. This landmark anniversary is more than a number, it reflects a legacy of shaping generations of learners and leaders, a journey marked by resilience, vision, and a deep commitment to nurturing young people who go on to make a meaningful difference in the world.

In true Scotch Oakburn spirit, our 140th anniversary will be student and community led, with a dedicated group of staff, students, and community members already workshopping, brainstorming, and imagining what meaningful moments could look like. Together, they are crafting a celebration that will reflect who we are, where we have come from, and the values that continue to guide us.

Introducing our140 Year Ambassadors

As we prepare to celebrate this milestone, we’ve chosen to tell the story of our 140th year not through institutional words, but through the voices of those who know us best – our Collegians and wider community. Rather than the College telling its own story, we have challenged ourselves to step back and listen. At the heart of this approach are our two 140th Anniversary Ambassadors: Richard Gee (’89) and Emily Sanzaro (née Husband, ’99).

Richard brings the perspective of a proud rural family with deep intergenerational ties to the College — as a former boarder, a Collegian, and a father to four children who have and continue to share in the journey. Emily, equally connected, represents a family whose support of and belief in the College spans decades. A current parent and proud Collegian, Emily carries forward a legacy shaped by community involvement and a love of learning.

Together, Richard and Emily reflect the enduring spirit of Scotch Oakburn, past, present and future, and will help us share our story in a way that is heartfelt, authentic, and community led. As ambassadors, Richard and Emily will play a key role in bringing our 140th celebrations to life. They will help us capture and share the stories that matter. Those quiet, powerful moments that reflect the heart of our College. Through conversations, reflections, and community engagement, they will help shine a light on the people, places, and experiences that have shaped Scotch Oakburn over the decades.

Their role is not ceremonial, but deeply participatory; a chance to honour the past while championing the values that continue to guide us into the future. At the time of writing this article, there are just 140 days until we officially launch our 140th year in 2026. It is a fitting coincidence that reminds us how close we are to what promises to be a truly special chapter in our College’s story. While much of the planning continues behind the scenes, we are delighted to share a glimpse of what is to come. From student-led celebrations to community gatherings, the year will be filled with moments of pride and reflection. One of the centrepieces will be a black-tie event, launching a dedicated exhibition at QVMAG that will celebrate our 140-year history. A rich, evolving story that reflects not only the growth of our College, but our deep and enduring connection to Launceston and the Tasmanian community.

Joel Brewer
Director of Marketing, Communications and Community

We know the strength of Scotch Oakburn lies in its people, and we invite you to be part of this milestone year. Whether you are a Collegian, current family, staff member or friend of the College, there will be many ways to get involved – from sharing memories and memorabilia to joining us at events. If you would like to contribute, please contact our Community and Events Manager, Nicole Willcox at Nicole.willcox@soc.tas.edu.au. This is a celebration for us all.