At a mess function 1963

A range of mess functions run at Portsea provided not only a social outlet for the students, but also an oblique means of out-of-syllabus training in formal and semi-formal social behaviour, and an opportunity for the staff to have a party as well.

The cadets mess was operated along the lines of an officers mess both as an amenity and a means of preparing graduates for their later lifestyle and obligations in regimental postings. When on demonstration and cultural tours students were accommodated in officers messes wherever this was possible.

OCS Scrapbook 1963

 

Supper at the graduation ball
11 December 1958

Catering staff became adept at reproducing the OCS badge on cakes and hams to give the supper tables distinctive centrepieces.

Graduating cadets brought family and friends from far afield to their graduation ceremonies, some of them travelling from the extremities of the continent and from overseas to be present at such a signal event in a young man's life. During the previous week there was the opportunity to attend a cocktail party and dinners with other graduates' families.

D.J. Brian and N.S. Kidd with their partners were at the centre of the festivities. The former became the first fatal operational casualty from the School, killed in action in Malaya 1964.

Photo: R.L. Bricknell

 

Lunch after Church Parade 1959

In order to make an occasion of church services, a preliminary parade and a luncheon for family and friends in the mess afterwards were added.

This provided an opportunity for married cadets – a rare one at this time – to see their family officially, and for others the chance to return hospitality to families in the area. For all of the ever-hungry cadets it was a chance for a buffet meal which might come close to satisfying their bodily needs after the spiritual had been taken care of.

Food was a preoccupation. Although the ration scale was generous. it was insufficient to meet the continuous consumption of energy required by the programme. Commandants authorised the arduous duty supplement to provide the extra beverages and in-betweens necessary to sustain overworked bodies.

Photo: R.L. Bricknell

Social Functions