A special Arts Showcase was held in the JCR before dinner, which recapped some of the achievements of the year. Those who were a part of the winning ICAC Battle of the Bands, Arts and Writing, Musical Soiree, Public Speaking and Theatre Sports teams were spooned in to Hall.
The Warden of »ÆÉ«app, Professor Andrew McGowan, officially opened the Hall and welcomed students, reminding them that the Dining Hall is much more than a place to eat.
You may think there are many interesting faces on the wall – the truth is that while there are extraordinary faces on the walls – Governors general, prize-winning scientists, leaders of church and state – and that they were created by Australia's leading artists – Boyd, Pugh, Olsen and others, they would all say the most interesting and exciting faces were yours; they were once you, and one day you will be them. Take them in, by all means; but those faces closer to you matter even more.
You may think this is a place to eat; dining together is indeed an ancient tradition, but its value lies not in its mere antiquity, but in its deeper reality. The truth is, this is a place to hear things you have never heard, to meet people unlike those you have ever met, to say things you never thought yourself able to – to change your mind, make and break your heart, and inspire your soul. Eat and drink here, by all means; but what you absorb with eyes and ears and mind will be more enduring.
You may think we have brought you to the Hall – the truth is, you brought the Hall with you. Those with whom we break bread are those who matter to us; and over dining tables ancient and modern, near and far, lasting friendships, great hopes and transformative plans have been made. Welcome to Hall – some of us worked hard to bring you what you see, but what you have brought tonight matters most of all.
Benedic, Domine, nos cenationem nostram et dona tua,
quae de largitate tua sumas sumpturi,
et concede, ut illis salubriter nutriti
tibi debitum obsequium praestare valeamus,
per Christum Dominum nostrum. Amen.
Musical performances from Tom Li and Ben Clark, as well as the Trinity Gents were enjoyed by all.
The TCAC also took the opportunity to pay special mention to those who have made a special contribution to the Arts. Congratulations to Felicity Martin (3rd year Science), Nathan Van As (3rd year Arts) and Bel Willder (3rd year Environments). Congratulations are also extended to Adelaide Myer (ICAC Representative 2012, 3rd year Arts) and David Parncutt (TCAC Arts Representative 2012, 4th year Arts), for their organistion throughout the year.
