A Night Where Legacy Danced with the Future – The 2025 Thomian Gala Dinner Dance Shines in Sydney

“Esto Perpetua” — May it be perpetual. On June 14, 2025, the Thomian spirit did more than endure — it soared.

Under the shimmering chandeliers of the Grand Ballroom at the Epping Club, the S. Thomas’ College Old Boys’ Association NSW/ACT delivered an event that will be spoken of for years to come: the 2025 Thomian Gala Dinner Dance, a black-tie affair where tradition met trend, and generations united on a single dance floor.

This wasn’t merely a gala — it was a statement of the unbreakable Thomian bond, steeped in a heritage dating back to 1851, when S. Thomas’ College, first opened its doors. The event captured that same ethos: excellence, camaraderie, and the pursuit of greatness.

Elegance in Every Detail

The Grand Ballroom was transformed into a sea of blue, black, and silver — a respectful nod to the College colours and crest that inspired the night’s décor. The service was flawless, the menu par excellence: from the delicate canapés that welcomed guests, to the three-course gourmet feast that left palates delighted. Wines, premium spirits, and fine ales flowed freely, matched only by the warmth of Thomian hospitality that greeted each guest at the door.

In the words of STCOBA President, Hemal Wickramasinghe, “This night is not just about celebration; it is about reaffirming our shared legacy and ensuring that the torch we carry burns brighter for generations to come.”

When the Band Took the Stage — The Room Came Alive

Sydney witnessed a first: the high-octane debut of Melbourne’s The Batterii, who delivered an electric set that catered to every generation. From timeless old-school anthems that had seniors swaying in memory, to pulsating beats that saw Gen Z Thomians light up the floor, The Batterii ensured no one left without having danced their heart out.

“It’s rare to see a band that can bridge generations like this — but The Batterii nailed it tonight,” shared one guest, breathless between songs.

The People Who Made It Possible

No event of such calibre unfolds without tireless effort behind the scenes. The STCOBA NSW/ACT Committee — headed by  Hemal Wickramasinghe, worked for months to curate this masterpiece. The Emcees for the night, Duke and Kavishan, charmed the audience, ensuring seamless flow and spirited energy throughout.

Equally pivotal were the plethora of Sponsors, who deserve resounding applause. Their generosity powered this gala, enabling not just a spectacular night but the OBA’s continued mission of supporting S. Thomas’ College. Our heartfelt gratitude goes to every individual, family, and business that lent their support.

And above all, this event owed its magic to the wider community — the Thomians, friends, families, and well-wishers whose loyalty and support make it all possible. It is through this collective spirit that our events flourish, and our legacy endures.

More than a Dance — A Legacy in Motion

The 2025 Gala wasn’t just an event. It was the living embodiment of what it means to be a Thomian: to celebrate the past, revel in the present, and invest in the future. Raffle prizes added sparkle to the night, while the rousing rendition of the College Song brought a tear to many eyes — a reminder that, no matter where we go, the bonds forged at Mount Lavinia, Kollupitiya, Guruthalawa and Bandarawela remain unbroken.

As the final notes echoed and guests lingered, reluctant for the night to end, one sentiment rang clear: “This was a night where we didn’t just remember our legacy — we lived it.”

And so, as the OBA looks ahead, this gala sets a new bar — a trendsetter in bringing together the traditional and the contemporary, proving that Thomian fellowship is timeless.

A Grateful Salute

To the committee, the sponsors, the volunteers, the performers, the Epping Club team, and every guest who graced this magical night: Gratias agimus — we give thanks.

Here’s to the next chapter of the Thomian story — and many more nights where tradition and togetherness light up the world.

Esto Perpetua.

The Sponsors

We wish to make special mention of the Sponsors who supported us in making this event a success; (in no particular order)

• SriLankan Airlines

• Wisemen Finance Brokers

• Commonwealth Bank

• The Hilton Colombo

• Peninsula Motor Group

• Cinnamon Grand Hotel

• The Galle Face Hotel

• Mahaweli Reach Hotel, Kandy

• Mount Lavinia Hotel

• Cinnamon Lakeside

• Amaya Beach Hotel

• Businessfocus360

• Shall we Cactus

• Tania Jayasinghe

Image gallery: Click here

The STCOBA NSW/ACT Committee  2024/2025

Hemal Wickramasinghe, Sanjiv Vivekanandan, Gopi Sathiacama, Lesley Manickam, Eksath Perera, Kumar Rasiah, Duke Ramachandran, Anuk Silva, Rishantha Rajakaruna, Anuk Palihawadana, Lakmal Rathnayake, Nihal Ramanayake, Harry Gunathilake, Chamindra de Silva