50 years on: UNSW medicine alumni reunite to celebrate their golden jubilee

On a warm February evening at Q Station Manly, nearly 80 members of the UNSW Medicine Class of 1976 gathered to celebrate their Golden Jubilee – 50 years since the start of their medical journey.

For many, it was the first time in decades they had seen one another. As one of the early cohorts of UNSW Medical School, the Class of 1976 helped shape UNSW Medicine & Health into what it is today. Over the past five decades, its graduates built distinguished careers across clinical practice, research, education, and leadership. They served communities locally and around the world, leaving a lasting mark on the profession.

The evening was as much about reflection as it was about celebration. An updated yearbook, compiled for the occasion, offered a moving glimpse into the lives behind the names — capturing personal milestones, professional achievements, and the many different paths taken since those early university days.

Reunion co-organiser and alumna, Dr Rosa Criniti, said it was wonderful to come together for the weekend and celebrate their shared journeys. While decades have passed, the cohort’s adventurous spirit was alive and well, and on full display when fellow graduate Con Costa took a dip in Middle Harbour despite recent reports of shark attacks.

“As Con Costa reminded us, our class may be ageing in body, but certainly not in spirit. It was a perfect example of the courage, humour and adventurous nature that still defines the Class of 1976,” she said.

Fifty years on, the spirit of the Class of 1976 remains strong — defined by curiosity, resilience and a lifelong commitment to making a difference. 

Thinking of bringing your cohort back together?

To keep things simple (and a lot more enjoyable), we recommend forming a Reunion Committee of 3–5 former medical school classmates to share the load – covering venue, timing, catering, RSVPs, and payment collection, as well as helping reconnect with any lost alumni contact details.

From there, nominate a reunion organiser to take the lead as the main point of contact. This person will help coordinate the key essentials and keep everything running smoothly.

Once your group is in place, get in touch with us at medalumni@unsw.edu.au and we’ll help bring it all together - including sending invitations on your cohort’s behalf.

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