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The year 2006 was a significant one for the School of Psychology at UWA. It marked the 75th anniversary of the first intake of students to the newly established Department of Psychology, and also the 50th year since the commencement of the Master of Psychology (Clinical) degree.

On 6th October the School held a day-long celebration of these events at the University Club, to which past students and staff were invited. It kicked off with a conference: "Standing on the shoulders of giants: Celebrating 75 Years of the School of Psychology", which was run by the School's graduate students and provided a showcase of their research. Attendees enjoyed impressive research papers and posters and the opportunity to talk with the researchers during refreshment breaks. They also enjoyed the post-lunch diversion – PhD Idol – a professionally produced parody of Australian Idol. There is clearly a future in the entertainment business for some staff and students if they ever tire of psychology!

After post-conference drinks a reunion dinner was held in the banquet hall. Past and current staff and students enjoyed the opportunity to catch up and reminisce over an excellent meal. To help jog memories, there were displays of old laboratory equipment, early research papers and photos of staff and students across the years. There was a lot of laughter around the photo boards at the metamorphosis of current senior staff members from the hip young tutors of the 70's. Another highlight of the evening was an entertaining address by Emeritus Professor John Ross in which he provided stories of some of the past School members who helped shape the School in its growth into one of the foremost schools of psychology in the country.

On 17th December 2006 a happy, interactive and moderately noisy crowd of nearly 400 graduates gathered to celebrate the School of Human Movement and Exercise Science's homecoming reunion.

Staff and graduates enjoyed one another's company, launched the Human Movement Alumni Association and celebrated the conclusion of Professor Brian Blanksby's role as Head of School, which encompassed approximately 15 years. Professor Blanksby addressed those present, noting the importance to graduates and the School of an active Alumni Association, and expressing his appreciation of such a large attendance on his retirement as Head of School. Following his address, members of the Alumni Association's Steering Committee spoke to graduates individually, enlisting their support for the fledgling Association. A large number of those present signed up, and the Association is enthusiastically planning its first event for the year.

The graduates mingled, listened to music and enjoyed a spit roast. Some even took to the dance floor to show their firm belief in exercise as a social modality!