Ninety-two attended the reunion at Gunnedah Golf Club, with 66 direct descendants present.

Jim and Flo were born in the district and were married in 1937, raising eight children in Gunnedah. 

Jim was a successful farmer on the Pullaming plain over many years. He died of a heart condition in 1978 at age 63, while Flo lived for another 30 years, dying in 2005 at the age of 92.  

Of the eight children, four still live in Gunnedah, one in Toowoomba and one in Deception Bay. Sadly, Michael died in 1995, aged 56, of an aneurism.  

All seven children of Flo and Jim attended the reunion as did 21 of the 28 grandchildren still alive. Three have died young while the other six were unable to attend. 

At last count there are 58 great-grandchildren – with another two expected – 33 of which attended the reunion. None of the three great, great grandchildren were present, although one of the great grandchildren present was expecting a fourth. 

Family members travelled from Launceston, Canberra, Toowoomba, Brisbane, Deception Bay, Scott’s Head, Central Coast, Thirroul, Newcastle, Toormina, Lennox Head, Alstonville, Gold Coast, Attunga and Tamworth to join up with the local ones.

Everyone met at the golf club, where a photo session was organised in the afternoon. A jumping castle kept the younger one amused, while the others caught up with or met many of their cousins, second cousins and partners. A barbeque dinner was enjoyed by all.  

It was also a special occasion for the oldest child, Pat, who will turn 80 next month. His sister Kay made him a cake and everyone sang happy birthday. 

On Sunday, most congregated at Lisa Steele’s house for breakfast and lots more talk. A backyard game of cricket kept young and not so young people amused.