Just shot this picture last evening (Monday), albeit from a distance and amid some lingering smoke. I find it somewhat prophetic that of the few things which remain of our “old SOSS”, it is perhaps the most important one which embodies the spirit and emotions of all those with fond memories of so many images of our lives – our flag.

Although it flew less than 20 metres from the final inferno, our Frank Venables Auditorium, it remained defiant and proud. The pole is charred but the flag somehow withstood the heat and still dauntingly flies in the breeze. Hopefully this will be a symbol of the courage, faith and support we all have that a “new SOSS” will emerge in the years to come and begin a new history full of memorabilia and heritage all of its own.

photo and story by John Chapman