On 11th October a number of members joined together with the West Country branch of the Britain -Australia Society at St Nicholas Church in Bathampton for a commemorative service to celebrate the birthday of Admiral Arthur Philip ( 1738-1814) the founding governor of New South Wales and at one time resident of the city. Joined by pupils from the local primary school the service included an address by the Australian High Commissioner, The Honourable George Brandis and a reading used in the first service held in Sydney on February 3rd 1788. The event was attended by the Right Worshipful The Mayor of Bath Councillor June Player, the National Chair of the Britain-Australia Society Damian Walsh and Sir Roger Carrick KCMG LVO (High Commissioner to Australia ,1994-97) A wreath was laid by the High Commissioner and Kay Pavitt the president of the West Country Branch.
The service was followed by a reception and lunch at Bailbrook House and included a fascinating talk on Bath by the retiring Head of Bath Heritage Services Mr Stephen Bird.