SPC Melbourne

5 months ago

CHRIS GREET -FROM ST PETERS TO THE WORLD STAGE

Christopher Arthur Greet, fondly known as Chris Greet, was born in Colombo in 1932. He received his early education at St. Peter’s College, Colombo 4, one of Sri Lanka’s premier Catholic schools.

During his school years, Chris showed a remarkable flair for English literature, drama, and public speaking. He was an active participant in school plays, debating, and elocution contests, where his strong voice and expressive delivery set him apart. His time at St. Peter’s played a vital role in shaping his love for the arts and communication ,qualities that would later define his professional life.

After completing his schooling, Chris joined Radio Ceylon, Asia’s oldest broadcasting station and a cultural hub for English-language entertainment in the 1950s. His rich voice and clear diction made him one of the most recognizable announcers on air.

He also became involved in Colombo’s vibrant English theatre scene, performing with the Colombo Amateur Dramatic Club (CADC) and other drama groups. Through these early experiences, Chris built the confidence, discipline, and professionalism that would carry him far beyond Sri Lanka’s shores.

In the late 1950s, Chris Greet moved to London, England, to pursue further opportunities in broadcasting and acting. Over the following decades, he established himself as a talented character actor in British theatre, television, and film.

He appeared in numerous productions, often playing roles that drew on his refined accent and international background. His versatility earned him respect among his peers in the British performing arts community.

Chris achieved international recognition with his appearance in the 1987 Hollywood film Good Morning, Vietnam, directed by Barry Levinson and starring Robin Williams. He played a British officer stationed in Saigon, a role that showcased his calm authority and screen presence. The film remains one of his most memorable performances, introducing his talent to a global audience.

He also took part in Sri lankas first English language movie “Rampage” starring opposite legend Gamini Fonseka.

Though he lived most of his later life in the United Kingdom, Chris Greet never forgot his Sri Lankan roots or his beginnings at St. Peter’s College. He often spoke fondly of his childhood in Colombo and his early years at Radio Ceylon.

He passed away in London on 30 December 2020, aged 88, leaving behind a legacy of professionalism, humility, and artistic excellence.

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SPC Melbourne

5 months ago

THE RACE THAT STOPS A NATION

The Melbourne Cup is Australia’s most famous horse race and one of the world’s most prestigious handicap events. First run on Thursday, 7 November 1861, at Flemington Racecourse in Melbourne, the race was created by the Victorian Turf Club as a way to attract public interest and unify racing competitions in the colony. The inaugural winner was Archer, a New South Wales horse who famously travelled by ship to Melbourne and went on to win again the following year in 1862.

The early Cups were modest affairs, with a small crowd and limited prize money. However, the race quickly grew in popularity. By the late 1800s, the Melbourne Cup had become a highlight of the Australian sporting calendar, attracting thousands of spectators. It was also one of the first major sporting events in Australia to welcome women as attendees, contributing to its reputation as a social as well as sporting occasion.

The race’s importance only increased over time. During the 20th century, the Melbourne Cup became known as “the race that stops a nation” — a phrase that reflects how workplaces, schools, and households across Australia pause to watch or listen to the event. It is now held every year on the first Tuesday in November and is run over a distance of 3,200 metres.

Memorable champions include Phar Lap, the legendary horse whose 1930 victory lifted the nation during the Great Depression, and Makybe Diva, who became the only horse ever to win the Cup three times (2003–2005). The race has also become increasingly international, with winners from Ireland, Japan, and France in recent years, reflecting its global prestige.

Beyond racing, the Melbourne Cup is a major cultural event — a celebration of sport, fashion, and Australian identity. It forms the centrepiece of the Spring Racing Carnival, drawing crowds of more than 100,000 to Flemington and millions more watching worldwide. With over 160 years of tradition, the Melbourne Cup continues to unite Australians in excitement, pride, and a touch of glamour every November.

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SPC Melbourne

5 months ago

ROGER MENEZES - A PETERITE MUSICIAN

Born into a musical family with a legacy tracing back to Goa, Roger’s journey began at St. Peter’s College, Bambalapitiya, where music was a natural calling.He started his musical journey as a drummer in school and moved onto play saxaphone , guitar and other instruments.

He was active in bands in Sri Lanka in the 1960s and 70s and later moved to Sydney, Australia in 1973.

Part of the 1960s 70s Colombo music scene he performed with well-known bands (The Jetliners, Savages, Thunderbirds, Fireflies) and led his own group (“Roger and the Webs”). 

In Australia, Roger formed “Stay Tuned”, a band that became a popular choice for events, and they even played for all the corporate functions organised by the Sydney 2000 Olympic Committee. For five consecutive years, the group headlined the New Year’s Eve celebrations at Sydney’s iconic Centre Point Tower. Roger’s ability to effortlessly navigate the guitar, keyboards, drums, and the saxophone, has made him a standout in any ensemble.

Despite building a life and career abroad, Sri Lanka has always remained close to his heart. Roger, who describes his music style as, “hits and memories”, has returned regularly to perform at major venues such as the Galadari Hotel, where his shows have become a highlight for both locals and visitors. “Coming back to Sri Lanka is coming home to your roots,” Roger says. “I am blessed for all that I have achieved as a musician and grateful to everyone who supports me and enjoys my music.”

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SPC Melbourne

5 months ago

A TRIBUTE TO ARCHIEBALD PERERA BY FRANK HUBERT ON HIS 70TH BIRTHDAY ... See MoreSee Less