On Sunday 6 October, Kingswood College, formerly known as Box Hill Grammar School and New College, honoured its past students since 1890 with the unveiling of the Trees of Alumni.
Each year, a new plaque will be revealed to the graduating class on their final day of Year 12, placed adjacent to the century prior, creating a tangible link to the generations of students before them.
Using our magnificent grounds and heritage-listed trees, this unique tradition serves as a permanent reminder of each graduating class’s contributions and legacy in the school’s history.
The celebration was a vibrant reunion, marked by joy, nostalgia, and heartfelt reconnections between alumni. For many past students, Kingswood remains a place of transformation and growth, and returning to the familiar campus rekindled memories of achievements and friendships. With the specially designed Trees of Alumni map, attendees were encouraged to explore the grounds, locate their plaques, and share their stories.
In his address, College Chaplain Grant Exon shared reflections on the symbolic connection between roots and wings, inspired by the intricate network of tree roots that share nutrients, communicate, and cooperate, forming what he called a “wood-wide web.”
He explained that trees, like alumni, thrive through connection and support, drawing strength from one another, noting that trees in a forest work as a community to share resources rather than compete.
Recently, our Class of 2024 commenced this annual tradition with the placement of their own plaque on their final day, adjacent to the Class of 1924’s plaque. Our Year 12 students were reminded that even after graduating, they will always remain an integral part of the community.
As Kingswood College approaches its 135th anniversary in 2025, this tradition plays a vital role in celebrating the school’s history and inspiring future generations. This milestone stands as a testament to Kingswood’s resilience, commitment to excellence, and the enduring spirit of its students and alumni.
“The map of our Trees of Alumni has the trees lined up next to the generation of students before and the generation after – and the science tells us those trees, when you stand and walk beside them, know their neighbour trees and their neighbour trees, and their neighbour trees. They are a community, just like we are a community,” Mr Exon said.
Designed to continue in perpetuity, the Trees of Alumni is a living reminder of the deep-rooted connection between past, present, and future students of Kingswood College.
