1 Nov 2024

Foundation Day celebrates the founding of Tocal College. It will be held on Friday 1 November 2024 at Tocal Homestead, 957 Tocal Road Paterson.

Program of activities

1pm Meet at the Fairy Ring (front of reception), Tocal College, 815 Tocal Road, Paterson

2.15pm Official proceedings:

  • Acknowledgement of Country
  • Introduction

2.30pm Keynote

2.45pm Presentation of the Cameron Archer Medal

3.00pm Presentation of Staff Service Awards

3.10pm Vote of Thanks from President of Tocal Students Association

3.15pm Close and afternoon tea

3.40pm Transport back to Tocal College

The meaning of Foundation Day

Foundation Day marks the opening of the College and the establishment of the CB Alexander Foundation. It is a day to reflect upon the wonderful bequest of CB Alexander; the vision and drive of the late EA Hunt and the achievements of the College and Foundation. CB Alexander died on 26 June 1947, bequeathing his large Tocal estate and other properties for charitable purposes.

The Presbyterian Church, through the efforts of the late EA Hunt, secured Tocal to establish an agricultural college. The College was officially opened on 5 November 1965 by the then Prime Minister, Sir Robert Menzies. On 1 January 1970, the College was transferred to the NSW Department of Agriculture through the CB Alexander Foundation Act 1969. This Act established the CB Alexander Foundation as a Statutory Authority.