2026 marks 170 years of St Paul’s College.
In 1856, a proclamation by the Governor of New South Wales officially brought the College into existence. This was quickly followed by approval of the building plans by the University Senate and the laying of the foundation stone in the presence of many of the Colony’s most prominent citizens.
On 28 March 2026, many of the College’s present-day Paulines gathered once more—this time for a special dinner at the College—to celebrate 170 years of scholarship, leadership and service. The evening honoured the vibrant, multigenerational community of men and women from Australia and around the world who continue to bring energy, curiosity and purpose to their academic lives at the University of Sydney and their residential lives at St Paul’s College.
The 200 guests and residents in attendance represented every living generation of Paulines, from those who joined the College in the 1950s through to current undergraduate and postgraduate students. Terry Clark AM (in College 1952–55), now aged 91, represented the oldest generation and is pictured below with Professor Frank Nicholas AM (1967–71). The Warden (1999) welcomed guests and introduced James Cowper (2003–06) to speak on behalf of the Union, and Scott Wharton (1997–2000) to speak on behalf of the Foundation.
The dinner was generously hosted by the St Paul’s College Union, the incorporated body representing alumni and current residents. Many guests attended with partners, and the celebrations continued late into the night with dancing in a marquee set in the centre of the Quadrangle. One of the evening’s highlights was a magnificent fireworks display at which, together with a post-prandial sorbet, made the occasion truly memorable.
To mark this milestone, a special range of 170th anniversary jewellery has been released and is now available for purchase here.
